Women have all experienced a sweat stain down there while working out at some point, and can probably all relate to frantically trying to cover it up, too. Although embarrassing, if your workout shorts are usually soaked down there after a sweat session, there’s no need to stress. Why? Because, thankfully, moisture-wicking underwear works, and it’ll do more than wick away sweat in hot, humid weather.
“This underwear, in theory, could help pull that moisture away and could dry faster than regular underwear,” says Kate White, MD, a gynecologist, associate professor of OB/GYN at Boston University, and WH advisory board member.
Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear
- Best Overall:Fruit of the Loom Hi Cut-Micro Mesh Underwear
- Best Moisture-Wicking Briefs:Coskefy Cotton Panties
- Best Seamless Option:Reebok Hipster Briefs
- Best for Working Out:Grankee Breathable Seamless Thong Panties
- Best Moisture-Wicking Thong:Under Armour Stretch Thong
According to gynecologists and dermatologists we spoke with, moisture-wicking underwear is a must, and some can even boost your vaginal health and protect you from yeast infections, inflammation, and itching, too. But does moisture-wicking underwear actually work? Below, experts weigh in on how they work, materials, fit, and how to find the best moisture-wicking underwear for you, from the best cotton underwear to the best underwear for runners.
What To Consider
Materials
When shopping for moisture-wicking underwear, some fabrics to look for are polyester, nylon, bamboo, and wool. The science is simple—the fabrics pull moisture away from the skin and out to the fabrics’ exterior to evaporate. In other words, the fabrics dry faster. It also regulates body temperature, according to research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology. (Cool, right?)
But, if you have trouble with increased discharge and vaginal odor, moisture-wicking underwear isn’t probably ideal since it can restrict airflow more than cotton underwear, possibly making those symptoms worse, Dr. White explains. If you’re in doubt, she recommends chatting with your gynecologist before pressing add to cart.
Fit
Finding the right underwear fit will make all the difference in terms of comfort. Our personal preference is to always size up when we’re ordering underwear online, as we despise the feeling of being constricted. Also, on days when we’re extra bloated or it’s that time of the month, a looser pair of undies is a game changer. But, when you want a little more compression at the gym, it’s always good to have a smaller pair in your collection. Having a few size options in your drawer is a solid idea so you can dress for the occasion based on how you feel.
And, rise is also a factor in the fit category. On this list, there are low, mid, and high-rise options. So, depending on how much coverage you’re looking for, there’s something for every preference.
How We Chose
Health AI Expert editors, including our assistant love and life editor Addison Aloian, associate commerce editor Lily Wohlner, and contributor Neha Tandon, researched the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated moisture-wicking underwear. Our team consulted gynecologists, a dermatologist, and anonymous testers to narrow down the best moisture-wicking underwear for a wide range of preferences and sizes.
So, are you ready to finally ditch your crotch stains at the gym? See below for the 22 best pairs of sweat and moisture-wicking underwear in 2024.
Fruit of the Loom Hi Cut-Micro Mesh Underwear
Pros
- Super soft fabric
- Keeps you cool
- Various waist options
- Affordable
- Not constrictive
Cons
- Visible panty lines
After testing dozens of pairs of underwear, our team concluded the Fruit of the Loom Hi Cut-Micro Mesh undies are god-tier in the panty realm. Stay totally cool and comfortable with the moisture-wicking and luxuriously soft fabric that works wonders at keeping sweat away without being too tight or clingy.
Testers love how cozy and breathable it is and how it doesn’t ride up. It also doesn’t feel too tight or constrictive around the stomach, which is another plus. One tester even told us it’s the softest panty she has ever worn. After trying plenty of different styles (including thongs, briefs, and boxer briefs), this model is her all-time favorite for comfort and wicking away moisture.
If a high-rise waist isn’t your fave no worries, it also comes in a bikini, hipster, and regular brief cut. We’re also hooked on its incredible price tag—just under $15 for six pairs! Sweat absorbing, plush, and a hot bargain? We’ll take three packs.
Read more:Best Breathable Underwear
| Sizes | 6-10 |
|---|---|
| Rise | Low, mid, high |
| Colors | 6 |
| Materials | Polyester, spandex |
Pros
- Looks just like the pictures
- Offers full coverage while looking aesthetic
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some testers say the panties are cut too high
Our testers love that the undies are soft and gentle on sensitive skin, so they never have to worry about skin irritation or itchiness. And that’s all thanks to the high amount of cotton in this pair. Another positive of the high cotton percentage? It’s totally moisture-wicking and breathable to help keep skin moisture-free and protected.
In real life, the undies look identical to the online photos, says our tester. And, it doesn’t look like granny panties. Instead, it’s slightly cheeky and doesn’t cut into the skin or show through pants.
Read More: Best Cotton Underwear
| Sizes | XS-2X |
|---|---|
| Fit | Low |
| Colors | 7 |
| Materials | Cotton, spandex |
Pros
- Full-coverage
- Stays in place
- Affordable multi-pack
- Buttery smooth fabric
Cons
- Fabric is delicate, and testers say it rips easily
Reebok panties are among Amazon’s bestselling underwear because of the excellent, seamless coverage without feeling constricted. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of moisture-wicking underwear and want a non-thong option, this is a great, affordable place to start.
Testers love it for its comfort, stretchiness, and buttery sleek fabric. Plus, its seamless and tag-free design means no panty lines when worn with leggings or yoga pants during intense sweaty workouts. You get five pairs for under $35, and you can choose from eight different color combos.
| Sizes | S-XL |
|---|---|
| Fit | Hipster |
| Colors | 8 |
| Material | Nylon, spandex |
Grankee Breathable Seamless Thong Panties
Pros
- Supportive waistband
- Super soft
- Keeps you dry
Cons
- Some reviewers say it’s too high-waisted
Our testers say that their pursuit for the best moisture-wicking underwear ended once they found this holy grail underwear, and we have to concur. It doesn’t show under workout clothes (or any clothes for that matter), wicks away moisture in a flash during high-intensity workouts, and is high-waisted enough to hold you in for slight tummy control.
One tester in particular saw all the positive reviews online, which influenced them to buy this pair for hitting the gym. After testing it she gave it a solid five stars since it’s high-waisted, super comfy, washes well, and doesn’t lose its elasticity. It’s important to note that it’s pretty high-waisted, so if that’s not your desired fit it may not be for you.
| Sizes | XS-4X |
|---|---|
| Fit | High |
| Colors | 9 |
| Materials | Nylon, spandex |
Pros
- Material is lightweight
- Holds you in
- Barely-there feel
Cons
- Fabric feels flimsy after a few washes, per our tester
This thong is perfectly lightweight and structured, so everything feels held into place without making it difficult to move comfortably. Our tester, who has previously had a difficult time finding thongs that are comfortable for working out, says this pair is perfect for the gym. She adds that the material is very minimal, breathable, and washes well.
While the Under Armour Stretch Thong is much more affordable than the Lululemon InvisiWear Mid-Rise Thong, we found the cheaper price tag doesn’t sacrifice its quality. With 20 different color combinations options, what more could you want?
| Sizes | XS-XL |
|---|---|
| Fit | Low rise, seamless |
| Colors | 20 |
| Materials | Nylon, elastane |
Pros
- Great period panties
- Super leakproof
- High absorption
- No panty lines
Cons
- Fabric feels slippery and doesn’t stay in place
If you’re on your period, you want a pair of undies that will keep you feeling dry. The Knix Super Leakproof Bikini does exactly that by absorbing up to eight teaspoons of blood, pee, or sweat. So, if you bleed through your tampon you have a backup plan (without the need for a pad). The best part is you can’t even feel the excess moisture—this underwear literally absorbs it right up.
Testers love that it’s seamless, can last overnight, and is super comfy. Plus, it’s hike-proof—one of our product testers hit the trails and said they didn’t have to worry about leaking the whole time. Any undies that can sustain hiking up mountains are worth snatching.
Read more: Best Period Panties
| Sizes | XS-4X |
|---|---|
| Fit | Low |
| Colors | 9 |
| Materials | Nylon, spandex, modal, seaweed, polyester, and polyurethane |
