Whether or not you wear underwear under your running shorts or tights is definitely a fitting debate.
I’ll be honest- I don’t usually wear them on a run with shorts or tights. On a very un-scientific poll of my running friends, most of them do not wear them either. Why? Most running shorts have built in underwear. It’s one more thing to worry about; one more thing that could chafe or annoy me on a run. Less is more! Let’s go commando!
But there are reasons to wear them. This article in Shape states that wearing sweat-wicking underwear is an effective way to prevent bacteria (which could lead to an unwelcome situation down there.) And there are certain times that you may want to wear them; some of my friends said that they will occasionally wear underwear on a run during that time of the month.
There seems to be pros-and-cons of both sides. I think ultimately it comes down to your personal preference. What’s yours?
If you are one of those with a personal preference to wear underwear when you sweat, I tested out a product you might really like: Knixwear athletic underwear!
“Athletic apparel has evolved, it’s time your underwear did too. Finally, underwear that works as hard as your workout. Made with high performing moisture-wicking LYCRA®freshFX® fabric. These seamless panties are designed to maximize movement and comfort, while providing built-in, leak resistant, moisture-wicking, and odor eradicating technology that keeps you fresh, dry and panty-line free.”
Knixwear offers two different types of underwear:
- The patented, super absorbent and odor eradicating Fresh Fix Technology, which they say is perfect for super sweaty workout sessions.
- They also offer an ultrathin FreshFix Air Technology designed to nip odor and moisture in the butt.
Choose the level of protection that’s right for you, and strut your stuff in confidence.
I snatched up a pair of these the other day at Mill City Running for $22. The pair I purchased are the ultrathin FreshFix Air bikinis in cobalt.
I’m a sucker for cute packaging, so I loved the little cylinder that the panties came in. I also love the bright blue color. The material is light and sleek. Definitely seamless.
I wore them under some capris the other day for a 7 mile run. I didn’t even notice them!
Visible panty line? Not at all! I could not see a line.
But more importantly, I couldn’t feel the panties. I actually never felt them- no chafing or wedgies or any other uncomfortable-ness. Light as air!
Overall, I liked my Fitknix panties. In fact, if I had a closet full of these, I might be a convert from commando to under-wearer!
Knixwear also offers an “8-in-1” evolution bra and “knixy” underwear, which have a bit more of a sexy look (think lace, etc.) while still offering moisture wicking and odor protection. Definitely check Knixwear out and let me know what you think!
*Is there another brand of running/athletic underwear that you would recommend? Please share!
Oh, I will have to give these a try! Not all of my tights/capris have the built in liners so I occasionally have to wear sport underwear. I currently wear the VSX line from Victoria’s Secret, but I’ve found they can move around with each stride which can lead to an unfortunate and uncomfortable situation….
Thanks for sharing!
Oh a few of my friends love the VSX line but I don’t have any- I think I need to remedy that! I have heard their sports bras are great.
Also good luck on your 20 miler this weekend!
I have tried the UnderArmour running underwear and I’m not in love with them. They’re also seamless, and you “can’t see the line,” but they totally wedge themselves up there, you know, like, the instant I start moving. Not cool. These look like they might be worth a try! To be honest, I always wear underwear when I run. When I race, I wear a thong every time. That way my shorts or pants can still wick, but I still feel like I’m protected and wearing something. I like Hanky Panky. 🙂 Great job attacking a subject that many people… Read more »
Hanky Panky’s are the cutest! I love those. I had a few friends who also said they wear thongs under for the same reason…that seems to be a popular option too, but a thong seems like it would be wedgie-central for me 🙂
Ha, yeah, probably not the most crowd-pleasing topic, but hey, it’s a part of running!