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18 Best Pairs Of Moisture-Wicking Underwear For Working Out, Yeast Infections, And More, Per Gynecologists And Reviews

Soggy bottoms, be gone!

By Sabrina Talbert, Emily Shiffer, Neha Tandon and Lily Wohlner
alo yoga moisture and sweat wicking underwear thong
Courtesy

Us women (and men!) have all experienced a sweat stain down there while working out, and we can probs all relate to frantically trying to cover it up, too. Look, nobody wants to sport a crotch stain. But if *everything* is usually soaked after you work out, that's totally normal and you're absolutely not alone. Thankfully, moisture-wicking underwear works, and it'll do more than just wick away moisture and sweat in hot, humid weather.

According to gynecologists and dermatologists, 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 the best moisture-wicking underwear, how they work, and how to find the best pairs for you, from plus-size undies to the best panties for runners.

Peep a few of the best pairs of moisture-wicking underwear, below:

  • 1
    Moisture Wicking Panties

    Best Overall Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Fruit of the Loom Moisture Wicking Panties

    $14 at Amazon
    Read more
  • 2
    Seamless Hipster Briefs

    Best Seamless Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Reebok Seamless Hipster Briefs

    Read more
  • 3
    Give-n-Go Sport Bikini Brief

    Best Moisture-Wicking Briefs

    Exofficio Give-n-Go Sport Bikini Brief

    Read more
  • 4
    Feel Naked Brief

    Best Doctor-Approved Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Lorna Jane Feel Naked Brief

    Read more
  • 5
    Brief Boyshorts

    Best Moisture-Wicking Boyshorts

    Boody Body Brief Boyshorts

    Read more


What is the best fabric for moisture-wicking underwear?

When shopping for moisture-wicking underwear, look for materials like polyester, nylon, bamboo, and wool to whisk sweat away. The science is simple—those fabrics pull moisture away from the skin and out to the fabric’s exterior to evaporate. In other words, the fabric dries faster. It also regulates your body temperature, according to research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology. (Cool, right?)

See below for the 18 best pairs of sweat and moisture-wicking underwear in 2023.

    1
    Best Overall Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Fruit of the Loom Moisture Wicking Panties

    Moisture Wicking Panties
    1
    Best Overall Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Fruit of the Loom Moisture Wicking Panties

    $14 at Amazon
    Pros
    • Super soft
    • Keep you cool
    Cons
    • Visible panty lines

    Stay totally cool and comfortable with Fruit of the Loom's moisture-wicking and luxuriously soft underwear. They work wonders at keeping sweat away without being too tight or clingy.

    Rave Review: "These are the softest panties I've ever worn. After many years of wearing thongs, which are my favorite, I've now switched back to briefs and boxer briefs. These are awesome at wicking away moisture, especially living in the southeast."

    Sizes5-9
    Colors2
    2
    Best Seamless Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Reebok Seamless Hipster Briefs

    Seamless Hipster Briefs
    2
    Best Seamless Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Reebok Seamless Hipster Briefs

    Pros
    • Full-coverage
    • They stay in place
    Cons
    • Fabric is delicate

    These Reebok panties are among Amazon's bestselling underwear because they offer excellent coverage without feeling constricting. 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.

    Rave Review: “Let me tell you how magical these panties are. They do not move, they do not cut into my fat thighs, they don't squeeze my love handles, and they cover my whole butt, which has never been done before."

    SizesS-XL
    Colors19
    3
    Best Moisture-Wicking Briefs

    Exofficio Give-n-Go Sport Bikini Brief

    Give-n-Go Sport Bikini Brief
    3
    Best Moisture-Wicking Briefs

    Exofficio Give-n-Go Sport Bikini Brief

    Pros
    • Super lightweight
    • Anti-odor fabric
    Cons
    • Waistband feels tight

    These nylon-spandex panties come in a variety of colors and are extremely lightweight. But don't let the light fabric fool you—they're super durable and hold up well to all-day wear. Plus, they won’t ride, roll, or bunch, making them perfect for both workouts and overall active lifestyles.

    Rave Review: “I got these panties for an upcoming trip, and they are so wonderful that I'm going to get one pair a month until I replace my entire set with them. They're comfy, hygienic, and awesome. Plus, they never get soggy when I'm working out or just out and about on a hot day."

    SizesXS-XL
    Colors8
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    4
    Best Doctor-Approved Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Lorna Jane Feel Naked Brief

    On Sale
    Feel Naked Brief
    4
    Best Doctor-Approved Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Lorna Jane Feel Naked Brief

    Now 25% Off
    Pros
    • They don't ride up
    • Great for working out
    Cons
    • Fabric is sheer

    Gynecologist Ann Cabeca, MD, raves about Lorna Jane's fabric, which is 74 percent nylon and 26 percent elastane. And, she's not alone. The made-for-sports briefs have dozens of reviews by runners and HIIT lovers.

    Rave Review: "These are the most comfortable sports undies I have ever worn. They feel soft and super breathable. Although they're thin, they don’t ride up as you would expect through the day."

    SizesXXS-2X
    Colors5
    5
    Best Moisture-Wicking Boyshorts

    Boody Body Brief Boyshorts

    Brief Boyshorts
    5
    Best Moisture-Wicking Boyshorts

    Boody Body Brief Boyshorts

    Pros
    • Super comfortable
    • Feels like you're not wearing anything
    Cons
    • Sizing is inconsistent

    These bamboo briefs not only wick moisture, but they do so in a manner that is more eco-friendly than new synthetic materials. If you’re looking for comfortable, full coverage underwear that won’t budge, these are the best of the bunch.

    Rave Review: “This is great underwear. The bamboo fiber is great at wicking moisture and it keeps me dry during my pro-wrestling class. The antimicrobial nature of the fabric is nice since there's a lot of crotch-to-face action in class. I can't recommend this underwear enough.”

    SizesS-M
    Colors1
    6
    Best Moisture-Wicking Thong

    Under Armour Stretch Thong

    Stretch Thong
    6
    Best Moisture-Wicking Thong

    Under Armour Stretch Thong

    Pros
    • Material is lightweight
    • Holds you in
    Cons
    • Fabric feels flimsy

    This thong is somehow perfectly lightweight and structured, so everything feels held into place without making it difficult to move comfortably. Plus, a portion of its proceeds go toward Johns Hopkins' Kimmel Cancer Center to benefit breast health.

    Rave Review: “This thong offers such a comfortable fit for working out! I hate having a panty line in my yoga/running pants, and I've previously had a difficult time finding thongs that are comfortable for these activities. The material is very lightweight and breathable."

    SizesXS-XL
    Colors6
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    7
    Best Mesh Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Parade High-Rise Silky Mesh Briefs

    High-Rise Silky Mesh Briefs
    7
    Best Mesh Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Parade High-Rise Silky Mesh Briefs

    Pros
    • Looks super cute
    • Breathable
    Cons
    • Rise may be too high for petite people

    Not only is this mesh underwear super cute, it's also made out of high-stretch silky mesh, making them a mega fan favorite. People love wearing these briefs on their period because of how lightweight, breathable, and comfy they are. To make matters even better, the brand is also eco-conscious and the briefs are made with superfine recycled fibers.

    Rave Review: "The silky mesh is breathable and sexy. I love when fashion meets function. In terms of colors, I love the classic black, but also love the fun shades. I really just can’t get over how they feel."

    SizesXS-3X
    Colors14
    8
    Best Cooling Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Hanes Sporty Cotton Underwear

    Sporty Cotton Underwear
    8
    Best Cooling Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Hanes Sporty Cotton Underwear

    Now 18% Off
    Pros
    • Snug fit
    • Keeps you cool and dry
    Cons
    • Sizing can be off

    This underwear keeps you cool and dry all day long for a comfortable feeling you deserve. Aside from how dry they stay, reviewers also say that the fit is nice and snug.

    Rave Review: "I like these cotton panties because they fit snugly and they're not saggy like most panties. Even after washing them, they fit good."

    Sizes5-9
    Colors2
    9
    Best Mid-Rise Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Savage X Fenty Microfiber Thong

    Microfiber Thong
    9
    Best Mid-Rise Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Savage X Fenty Microfiber Thong

    Pros
    • Invisible feel
    • Stretchy
    Cons
    • Runs small

    Trust Rihanna to design the perfect everyday thong. Not only does it wick moisture, but the mid-rise fit means it'll hit around the same place as your high-waisted leggings, nixing the chance for awk panty lines.

    Rave Review: "These are the best underwear I've ever worn in my life! They're Incredibly comfortable and you can't even tell that they're there. Comfort, quality, and oh so sexy."

    SizesXS-XL
    Colors13
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    10
    Best Barely-There Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Alo Yoga Airbrush Invisible Thong

    On Sale
    Airbrush Invisible Thong
    10
    Best Barely-There Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Alo Yoga Airbrush Invisible Thong

    Now 22% Off
    Credit: Courtesy
    Pros
    • Great for working out
    • Soft, buttery fabric
    Cons
    • Doesn't come in XL

    Thongs get a bad rep for inducing uncomfortable wedgies, but there's a reason these are called the "invisible" thong—the seamless, ultra lightweight fabric literally feels like going commando. If you're a fan of Alo Yoga's Airbrush Leggings ($98), you'll love these just as much.

    Rave Review: “These are lightweight, airy, and feel like they are barely there. Amazing! I have them in four colors."

    SizesXS-L
    Colors10
    11
    Best Plus-Size Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    SKIMS High-Waist Thong

    High-Waist Thong
    11
    Best Plus-Size Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    SKIMS High-Waist Thong

    Pros
    • Wide range of sizes
    • Holds you in
    Cons
    • They stretch out

    These panties are comfortable, breathable, seamless, and they don’t roll or bunch. The stretchy fabric means they move with you without digging in. Consider them the perfect complement to your go-to high-waisted leggings (thanks Kim).

    Rave Review: "These are perfect under high-waisted leggings. They're also great for working out and they sit perfectly!"

    SizesXXS-4X
    Colors9
    12
    Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Sleeping

    Athelta Ritual Bikini Underwear

    Ritual Bikini Underwear
    12
    Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Sleeping

    Athelta Ritual Bikini Underwear

    Pros
    • Lightweight and comfortable
    • Full-coverage fit
    Cons
    • Reviewers say they wish there were more color options

    Everyone gets a little sweaty in their sleep from time to time, and these moisture-wicking underwear from Athleta are the perfect pair to keep you dry. Plus, reviewers say they feel like nothing on your body so they're not constricting while you snooze.

    Rave Review: "These are so comfortable—you forgot you even have them on!"

    SizesXXS-3X
    Colors7
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    13
    Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Working Out

    Grankee Breathable Seamless Thong Panties

    Breathable Seamless Thong Panties
    13
    Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Working Out

    Grankee Breathable Seamless Thong Panties

    Now 17% Off
    Pros
    • Supportive waistband
    • Super soft
    Cons
    • Some reviewers say they're too high waisted

    Reviewers say that their pursuit for the best moisture-wicking underwear ended when they found these, and we have to concur. They don't show under workout clothes (or any clothes for that matter), they wick away moisture in a flash, and they're high-waisted enough to hold you in.

    Rave Review: "I bought these because of all of the positive reviews, but I tried them and I love them! They are high waisted, very comfy, they wash well, and they don't lose their elasticity. I've had them for a few months and they are still in good condition."

    SizesXS-4X
    Colors9
    14
    Best Microfiber Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Hanky Panky Breathe Natural Rise Thong

    Breathe Natural Rise Thong
    14
    Best Microfiber Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Hanky Panky Breathe Natural Rise Thong

    Pros
    • Sleek under clothes
    • Keeps you totally dry and comfortable
    Cons
    • Pricey

    Hands-down, Dr. Cabeca's favorite undie brand is Hanky Panky, and she particularly loves their "BreatheSoft" line that does exactly what its name says. The microfiber fabric will help keep you dry no matter how much you plan on sweating, and it comes in tons of fun, bright colors.

    Rave Review: "I recently purchased this thong and it’s honestly the most comfortable thing I’ve ever bought! It definitely lives up to its name of being very breathable and extremely comfortable. I am planning on purchasing a lot more of these! They are absolutely perfect."

    SizesXS-L
    Colors4
    15
    Best Leakproof Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Thinx Air Bikini

    Air Bikini
    15
    Best Leakproof Moisture-Wicking Underwear

    Thinx Air Bikini

    Now 30% Off
    Credit: Thinx
    Pros
    • Absorbs up to two tampons worth of your menstrual flow
    • Not prone to panty lines
    Cons
    • Tight waistband

    If you're a little hesitant to try leakproof underwear or you're postpartum, reviewers say these are a game-changer. Not only can they be more comfortable than wearing a pad or tampon, they'll cut down on waste, too. In fact, Thinx's "air" fabric is described as a cooling micro mesh that can absorb up to two tampons worth of your menstrual flow.

    Rave Review: "These are so comfy, and the micro mesh material is thin and not prone to panty lines. They're some of the comfiest undies I have, plus I love the period absorbency!"

    SizesXS-4X
    Colors3
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    16
    Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Runners

    Lululemon InvisiWear Mid-Rise Thong

    InvisiWear Mid-Rise Thong
    16
    Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Runners

    Lululemon InvisiWear Mid-Rise Thong

    Pros
    • Super lightweight
    • Invisible under leggings
    Cons
    • Get loose over time

    Whether you like to run outdoors or on the tread, these underwear stay in place all day without accumulating sweat. I like to say they're my invisible workout buddy.

    Rave Review: "These are so comfortable and smooth, I almost forget I’m wearing them!"

    SizesXS-2X
    Colors3
    17
    Best Moisture-Wicking Wool Underwear

    Icebreaker Merino Siren Thong

    Merino Siren Thong
    17
    Best Moisture-Wicking Wool Underwear

    Icebreaker Merino Siren Thong

    Pros
    • Made to last
    • Super thin and soft
    Cons
    • Pricey

    Despite wool’s rep for keeping you warm in cold weather, this thong is an all-star when you're sweating. Plus, it's surprisingly thin, soft, breathable, and even odor-resistant. It's more of an investment than some of the other options on this list, but it's made to last with natural fibers.

    Rave Review: “Never in a million years would I think I would like wool underwear! After reading an article on the benefits of layering merino wool for cold weather, I thought I would give these a try. I'm so glad I did! The moisture-wicking properties are far superior to cotton.”

    SizesXS-XL
    Colors2
    18
    Best Moisture-Wicking Period Underwear

    Proof Leakproof Thong

    Leakproof Thong
    18
    Best Moisture-Wicking Period Underwear

    Proof Leakproof Thong

    Pros
    • Feels invisible
    • Good for your period
    Cons
    • Some reviewers said it was too high rise

    When it's that time of the month, a solid pair of moisture-wicking panties that hold your tampon or pad in place is essential. This super snug, seamless thong features an invisible leakproof core so you stay comfortable and protected all day (or night!) long.

    Rave Review: "I decided to try the Proof thongs and I'm so happy I did! I felt secure and they were surprisingly comfortable and not bulky in the center. It was as if there was nothing there."

    SizesXS-3X
    Colors2
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    How do moisture-wicking underwear work?

    moisture wicking underwear

    According to dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, the wrong underwear choice can provide the perfect environment for bacteria and fungus to grow. "Bacteria thrives in dark, damp areas and when moisture like sweat is trapped against the skin, it can cause bacteria to multiply, " she says. "In the bikini area, this is especially important to monitor. When that moisture has nowhere to go due to tight underwear or yoga pants that don't breathe or wick away moisture, it can lead to irritation and superficial fungal or bacterial spread."

    Gynecologist Christine Greves, MD, agrees. "Moisture-wicking fabric can be helpful in situations in which there is a lot of warmth and moisture and you aren’t able to change your bottoms or shower immediately (i.e. you're running outside for an extended period of time and it takes you a while to get back home)," she says.

    Dr. Greves also notes that yeast infections are often caused by that mixture of extended moisture and warmth, so you'll want to be especially careful if you're prone to them.

    Is cotton or moisture-wicking underwear better for sweating?

    moisture wicking underwear

    "Wicking fabric has been popularized as an alternative to our standard cotton underwear because cotton will absorb and hold 7 percent water, whereas moisture-wicking fabric absorbs less than 1 percent," says Dr. Cabeca. "That's a serious advantage, especially if you're prone to infections."

    Woman's healthWoman's health Lettermark logo
    Sabrina Talbert

    Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

    Headshot of Emily Shiffer

    Emily Shiffer is a freelance health and wellness writer living in Pennsylvania. 

    Headshot of Neha Tandon
    Senior Commerce Editor

    Neha Tandon is the senior commerce editor of Women's Health—she's an expert in discovering the best products and services you can buy and giving recommendations. She discovered her love for magazines when as a teen, she started stealing her mother's magazines. Determined to see more women who look like her and her family members on the glossy covers of magazines, she was guided by seasoned editors and mentors to write for brands including New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BRIDES, Harper's Bazaar, Business Insider, Byrdie, and Well+Good. When she’s not grilling dermatologists about the latest skincare trends, she’s doing candlelit yoga or watching Humphrey Bogart movies over vegan pizza. Follow her on Instagram

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