A chic workout set can make your gym time more enjoyable, but the real game-changer for an effective sweat sesh is finding the best underwear for working out. Typically defined as a thong or pair of briefs that conforms to the body with little to no panty lines, these multitasking undergarments are designed to provide ultimate breathability while minimizing moisture and friction, all of which are important factors for a comfortable workout. “Wearing the right underwear while working out helps prevent discomfort, irritation, and keeps sweat and bacteria from getting trapped, which is important for vaginal health,” says Tracy Sokat, a New York City-based trainer at Housework. “Underwear made from sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics like nylon or Lycra is ideal, as it keeps you dry and prevents irritation from moisture.”
With so many underwear options, how do you know which is best for your particular needs and workout style? To help, we tested some of the top options, assessing each on breathability and visibility through workout bottoms.
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Why We Love It: To be honest, it’s hard to pick just one reason we’re such big fans of this cheeky hipster from Girlfriend Collective for our workouts. From the just-right amount of coverage that our tester described as “not too high-waisted but still feels like it holds you in” to the bonded waistband that keeps everything in place, we can’t get enough of the moisture-wicking, lightweight style. The raw cut leg opening also minimizes panty lines, ensuring your leggings or bike shorts stay as crease-free as possible. We also appreciate that the fabric is composed of 80 percent recycled plastic bottles, making it a great option for those who want to do something good for the planet while getting their sweat on.
Who It’s For: Anyone looking for a higher-cut (but not too high-cut), seamless pair of underwear that wears well during a variety of workouts would do well to try this silky pair.
Size: XXS-6XL | Material: 80% RPET, 20% spandex| Cut: Cheeky hipster
Joie, tester: “I tried these during hot yoga flow workouts where they actually stayed relatively breathable (for a 100-degree room!), and they were just as comfy and breathable on hot girl walks with any irritation or chafing. BONUS: they washed super well and retained both their silkiness and elasticity.”
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Why We Love It: If you want a fit that holds you in, this wallet-friendly, high-rise bikini from GAP is the way to go. The cotton is breathable but remains stretchy with a touch of elastane, and the backside provides full coverage for days you want a little extra support. The first thing our tester noticed about this pair was “how soft the fabric was,” adding that they “didn’t roll down or ride up at any given time, not after doing squats or knee bend rows.” She also appreciated the comfortable high waist.
Who It’s For: If you’re looking for affordable new underwear that still looks chic, you’ve come to the right pair. Note that the panty line is visible through tight leggings or biker shorts, but if you’re on the hunt for the best cotton underwear to work out in, you’ll enjoy these.
Size: XXS–XXL | Material: 92% organic cotton, 8% elastane | Cut: High-rise bikini
Erickka, tester: “This held up quite well, and the fit was great throughout the testing process. Even after several washes and wears to the gym, they maintained their shape and color.”
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Why We Love It: Listen, we get that these briefs are pricier as far as underwear goes, but trust us, they’re worth the splurge. Crafted from fine-gauge Merino wool, the pair also features a ribbed waistband and front panel for ultimate softness, support, and comfort. InStyle Senior Wellness Editor Summer Cartwright uses these for long runs when she needs comfort. “They aren’t tight or restrictive and don’t show through running shorts,” says Cartwright, who’s an RRCA-certified running coach. “The waistband doesn’t chafe or get uncomfortable, even during faster sprint sessions.”
Who It’s For: Looking to add a touch of luxury to your fashion repertoire that only you know is there? This ultrasoft pair will make your workout feel elevated.
Size: XS–L | Material: 66% wool, 32% nylon, 2% elastane | Cut: Mid-rise full-coverage briefs
Anya, tester: “These easily wash and dry in the machine, and seem to be holding up well so far. I didn’t notice them at all during my workout, which is a great sign.”
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Why We Love It: Breathability is key in keeping your privates comfortable and as dry as possible during a workout (no matter the intensity), and this Alo Yoga thong delivers on that front. Made from an extra-light version of the brand’s signature Airbrush fabric, the raw-edged pair allows for a full range of movement while keeping you comfy and odor-free. Our tester was pleased that she experienced “no rolling or movement” while working out in these, and noted that she didn’t notice “any irritation or chafing” after her intense sessions.
Who It’s For: Tired of tugging on your underwear in the middle of a set or stretch? With this dependable thong, you won’t have to. The one fallback is that the fabric is not entirely moisture-wicking. However, it dries out quickly.
Size: XXS–XL | Material: 87% nylon, 13% elastane | Cut: Thong
Jayne, tester: “The fabric is extremely thin and lightweight. This allows it to hide under my tight workout leggings and bike shorts.”
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Why We Love It: Working up a sweat is hard enough on its own, so we love that the Athleta Ritual Thong is a pro at wicking unwanted moisture away from our bodies. Designed for airflow to move easily through the fabric, it leaves you feeling dry and comfortable. Our tester also appreciated the tighter seams around the top and bottom that keep the panties in place.
Who It’s For: Anyone who ever avoids working out because they hate feeling sweaty down there should try this moisture-eliminating pair. These aren’t exactly seamless, so they’re best worn under looser workout bottoms.
Size: XXS–3X | Material: 67% nylon, 33% spandex | Cut: Thong
Sophia, tester: “Compared to other underwear I’ve worn for workouts, this one is definitely more breathable and doesn’t allow any sweat to seep through to my leggings.”
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Why We Love It: No matter how intense your workout gets (we’re looking at you, burpees), rest assured that Bombas Active No-Show Thongs will keep you supported. Described by our tester as “the most comfortable underwear [she’s] ever worn,” the minimal amount of fabric manages to hold you in while remaining lightweight and breathable. Our tester appreciated that this pair stayed in place, but wasn’t too tight, throughout movement.
Who It’s For: If your workout routine has you working up a sweat more days than not, this no-show thong will move with you while keeping away unwanted moisture.
Size: XS–2X | Material: Body 66% cotton, 34% elastane; Gusset 95% cotton, 5% elastane | Cut: Thong
Essence Wiley, writer (not shown): “I would highlight the moisture-wicking and quick-drying features of this underwear. Overall, these feel much healthier for your private parts, especially if you’re doing extremely sweaty workouts most days out of the week.”
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Why We Love It: If your skin tends to be particularly sensitive down there, it’s a good idea to treat it gently, especially during a sweaty gym session that can introduce bacteria to the area. We love the CSB Seamless Bamboo Thong for its unique bamboo-nylon-spandex fabric blend, which creates a second-skin feel while remaining entirely hypoallergenic. Our tester described this pair as her favorite that she tested and noted that the material was “breathable and moisture-wicking, and felt high-quality.”
Who It’s For: Make your workout a bit gentler by shimmying into this ultrasoft thong. Compared to others, this thong is on the thin side. If you like a larger gusset area, check out another on this list.
Size: XS–XXL | Material: Bamboo/nylon/spandex blend | Cut: Thong
Anya, tester: “I found these to be stretchier, thinner and more moisture-wicking than other underwear I’ve worn while working out. I would happily swap these with my usual cotton thongs, which don’t handle sweat as well.”
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Why We Love It: While cotton is a slightly less common choice for workout-focused underwear, we appreciate this pair for its ultrasoft feel. And though thongs are not always known for being the comfiest, this one breaks the mold. Our tester said she “didn’t feel any rubbing or anything.”
Who It’s For: Those looking for a style that moves as well as they do (and prefer cotton over nylon fabrics) should consider this gym wardrobe staple.
Size: XXS–XXL | Material: Body: 95% cotton, 5% elastane; Gusset:100% cotton | Cut: Thong
Starr, tester: “Compared to other workout underwear I’ve used, these Gymshark ones are way more breathable and stretchy, which made a big difference during my workouts.”
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Why We Love It: Let’s face it: a camel toe is a common problem when it comes to certain workout bottoms, and there’s no shame, but we know how uncomfy it can be. Luckily, this high-rise thong from Jiv Athletics eliminates the issue with a patented insert that offers extra coverage along the crotch area. Beyond that smart detail, the fabric efficiently wicks away moisture. Our tester said she felt “dry, comfortable, and secure while wearing this pair.”
Who It’s For: If camel-toe is your main hangup at the gym, eliminate your anxiety with this camouflaging underwear. Bonus: We appreciate the tagless design of this thong, which helps keep things extra comfortable.
Size: XS–XL | Material: 76% nylon, 24% spandex | Cut: High-rise thong
Alyssa, tester: “The most notable callout here is the thickness of the crotch lining. It felt like one of those thin period pads built into the underwear. I mean that in the best way possible! There is no way anyone, no matter how intense the workout, is going to sweat through these.”
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Why We Love It: The best period underwear can be used during workouts. This pair has you covered with four options to choose from in terms of absorbency levels, absorbing the same amount as roughly nine super tampons or four and a half regular pads’ worth of liquid without risk of leakage. Our tester also liked the waistband of this pair, which “lay very comfortably on (her) stomach and was supportive without being restrictive.”
Who It’s For: When Mother Nature decides to bless you with her presence on leg day, bust out this pair for a workout that’s as comfortable as possible. Keeping these impressive features in mind, it’s worth noting that the bonded edges are quite noticeable under tight clothes.
Size: XS–XXXXL | Material: Body: 70% nylon, 30% spandex; Gusset: multiple blends, depending on chosen absorbency | Cut: Bikini
Chelsea, tester: “These underwear were very comfortable and offered a lot of support during light exercise.”
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Why We Love It: Picture it: you wear your new favorite pair of leggings to the gym, only to catch a glimpse of your panty lines in the wall mirror. Not fun, right? This seamless thong avoids the issue with a smooth, lightweight fabric that keeps your bottom line-free as designed. The firm yet not-too-tight fit also allows things to stay in place without feeling restrictive. Our tester applauded the pair for fitting well and providing enough coverage, even adding that they “give you a little snatched look to your waist.”
Who It’s For: If you love seamless underwear but hate its tendency to stretch out quickly, rest assured that this pair will hold its shape. Note that if you wear a light pair of leggings with a dark-colored thong, it’ll likely show through (a basic assumption, but still worth mentioning).
Size: XS–XXL | Material: Body: 71% nylon, 29% Lycra elastane; Gusset: 100% cotton | Cut: Mid-rise thong
Sophia, tester: “These never rolled down while I was working out or bunched up. They stayed in the same position from when I put them on to when I took them off. They weren’t restrictive at all.”
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Why We Love It: Whether doing a high-intensity workout or going for a light jog, sometimes it’s nice to have a little more support, which this no-show hipster from Under Armour provides in spades. Another feature that sets this pair apart is the laser-cut edges, which help the pair look invisible even under tighter bottoms. For our tester, the fabric was also a standout: She described the undies as “so comfortable to wear.”
Who It’s For: On days when you’re looking for an extra dose of support and coverage, reach for this hipster pair. Keep in mind that these will maintain shape throughout washes but will fade a bit, as our testers experienced.
Size: XS-XL | Material: 76% polyamide; 24% elastane | Cut: Hipster
Mary, tester: “It almost feels like you don’t have anything on with these. These underwear don’t bunch up or slip when doing normal around-the-house activities or cardio workouts.”
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Why We Love It: This five-pack of seamless thongs is proof that a quality pair of workout underwear doesn’t have to break the bank. The breathable style comes in a variety of patterns, but you can still get them in a pack of solid colors depending on your mood. Designed to accommodate multiple body types, we like that this pair stretches with your body. Our tester particularly enjoyed the lightweight feel of this pair, noting that it has “a very giving material that makes you forget you have anything on.”
Who It’s For: If you’re looking to restock your underwear drawer but want to save the majority of your fashion budget for midi skirts and slingback heels, pick up a few packs of this airy style.
Size: XS–XXL | Material: 90% polyamide, 10% elastane | Cut: Midwaist seamless thong
Jaclyn, tester: “Every detail in this thong was handcrafted to perfection. There are no under-lining spots that get too itchy or tug on you. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I fell in love with them.”
Table of Contents
Our Testing Process
To distinguish the subpar workout underwear from the star performers, the InStyle team tested nearly 20 undergarments for 1,156 hours, assessing each pair’s comfort, fit, and overall quality. They also noted the types of workouts they performed while testing the underwear—only the most breathable, high-stretch options made this list.
What to Keep in Mind
- Materials: Workout underwear comes in a variety of fabrics, but the two most common ones are nylon and cotton. Isabel Blumberr, M.D., a New York City-based board-certified OB/GYN, prefers cotton for its barely there weight and breathability. “You want to avoid anything that is too tight or constricting or that can cause chafing while you exercise,” says Dr. Blumberg. Sokat likes nylon and Lycra blends to keep you dry and prevent irritation from moisture.
- Cut: Hipsters, thongs, bikinis—there are so many underwear cuts to choose from, each with a different level of coverage. So, how do you know which one is right for you? “The type of underwear depends on the wearer!” Dr. Blumberg says. “Some people prefer full coverage while other people are more comfortable wearing a thong. It also depends on the activity. If you are running around a lot, full coverage may be more comfortable for some people than a thong.”
Your Questions, Answered
What type of underwear is best for working out?
While selecting the best workout underwear is all about what feels most comfortable to you, as a general rule, many athletes prefer seamless thongs. “Seamless thong styles work best, especially under tight-fitting workout clothes, because they’re comfortable, invisible under clothing, and stay in place,” says Sokat. Miami-based fitness instructor Thalita Pascual advises her clients to choose “whatever feels good on your body.”
What type of underwear is best for sweating?
“Underwear made from sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics like nylon or Lycra is ideal, as it keeps you dry and prevents irritation from moisture,” says Sokat. Pascual adds that gym-goers should also take note of the gusset (the crotch part of the underwear) when choosing their go-to pair. “Prioritize a natural‑fiber gusset—cotton is ideal—because it’s breathable and helps control moisture in sensitive areas,” she says.
Note that if you are especially concerned about excess moisture while you are working out, Dr. Blumberg suggests using a panty liner while you are exercising and changing it afterwards. “I recommend using a liner like Carefree that absorbs moisture and has odor protection to keep you feeling comfortable and confident,” she says.
What is the best material for gym underwear?
Pascual emphasizes that when it comes to the gusset of gym underwear, cotton really is best in terms of achieving ultimate comfort and hygiene. As for the body of the pair, Sokat prefers nylon and Lycra blends because “they’re lightweight, quick-drying, and designed to move with you while pulling moisture away from the skin.”
What is the healthiest underwear to wear?
“Anything that keeps friction low and airflow high,” says Pascual. “For workouts, moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics are healthiest as they keep the area dry and breathable,” Sokat adds.
Can I wear a thong working out?
Short answer: Yes! While thongs might not be the cut of underwear most people jump to (considering their uncomfy reputation), we included options on this list that stretch with you, are breathable, and provide a wide range of motion.
Why Shop With Us
Allison Lax is a writer at InStyle who credits her breathable hipsters for keeping her comfy through a variety of tough workouts. For this story, she compiled tester insights and conducted extensive market research.
The following experts spoke to InStyle for this story:
- Tracy Sokat is a New York City-based fitness instructor at Housework.
- Dr. Isabel Blumberg, M.D., is a New York City-based OB/GYN with over 20 years of experience.
- Thalita Pascual is a Miami-based fitness instructor.
View the original article here.