The 13 Best Running Underwear For Women To Buy In 2024
Stay comfortable while participating in marathons and prevent chafing around the thighs.
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While you can get away wearing regular or standard underwear in the gym, if you love to run seasonal marathons or even go out for casual running, you need the best running underwear. Running is an intense physical activity that needs support with the right fit. Of course, you may already have your favorite pair of tights, sports bras, and sports T-shirts. But do you have the right underwear? There is a common misconception that running shorts are good enough for a run, but that is not the case.
When you go for long runs, there will be a lot of friction that might cause skin irritation and chafing. Therefore, choosing the right underwear is very important because it is designed seamlessly, made of breathable fabric, and has moisture-wicking and sweat-wicking properties that keep your intimate area dry and fresh. In addition, some fabrics can help control odor and core temperature. Also, the right running underwear will allow you to run longer and better. Keep scrolling to check out our best-selling picks!
In This Article
13 Best Running Underwear To Keep Chafing And Wedgies At Bay
1. Best For Every Day Wear:POKARLA Ladies’ Mid-Rise Cotton Briefs
POKARLA’s women’s running underwear is made of 95% combed cotton with 5% spandex and is pre-shrunk for a snug fit. The leg openings are bind-proof, which not only prevents chafing but also keeps panty lines hidden. With a soft covered waistband, these women’s running briefs feature a wide double-layered crotch that allows your skin to breathe. Many reviewers agree that this underwear offers a non-restrictive fit that gives you freedom of movement, allowing you to run with ease. As the material is given a Pre-Shrinking Treatment, it won’t shrink further in the wash and lose its shape, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
- Pack of 5 briefs
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking crotch
- Retains shape
- Eliminates visible panty lines
- Bind-proof leg openings
- Some may find the waistband to cause digging
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 16,099 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
2. Best Full Rear Coverage:Reebok Women’s Seamless Hipster Briefs
These Reebok running underwear are both tag-free and seamless, allowing you to run for long hours. A blend of nylon and spandex is used to keep the fabric flexible and not restrict your range of motion. With a relaxed waistband, this seamless running supportive lingerie sits gently on the waist and doesn’t slide down or cause any discomfort. Logo detailing is present on the right hip while the rear offers full coverage. Many reviewers have agreed that the underwear provides the best fitting without riding up.
- Seamless leg openings
- Full rear coverage
- Relaxed waistband
- Pack of 5 underwear
- Stretchable
- Tag-free
- The crotch might not be breathable
Pro Tip3. Best Anti-Chaffing:Wealurre Cotton Panties
Wealurre’s anti-chafing running underwear combines 95% combed cotton and 5% spandex. The panty lines are no-show, so you can don this pair confidently under your leggings. This underwear has a floral lace detailing on the waistband that adds a feminine touch. It has a high-rise fit and causes no scratching owing to its softness. Both breathable and stretchable, this is a good running underwear that has received rave reviews for its resistance to fading, shrinking, and irritation.
- Pack of 5 underwear
- No visible panty lines
- No-scratch lace waistband
- Shrink-resistant
- Fade-resistant
- Non-irritating
- The waistband might roll down from time to time
4. Best Odor-Resistant:Balanced Tech Women’s Seamless Hipster Briefs
Balanced Tech offers the best panties for running that come in a pack of 6 made with 92% nylon and 8% elastane. The labeling is tagless to prevent any irritation, while the no-seam construction frees you of any visible panty lines. Wicking moisture away from the body, repelling odor, and drying quickly make these the ideal running underwear to prevent chafing. As highlighted by many reviewers’ experiences, the 4-way stretch fabric of this underwear keeps you moving dynamically without any restrictions.
- Set of 6 underwear
- Tagless
- No-seam construction
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Breathable
- Odor-resistant
- Some may find it to stretch easily
5. Best Lightweight:ExOfficio Women’s Give-N-Go Bikini Brief
ExOfficio’s got the best underwear for running to prevent chafing as it is lightweight and features mesh for enhanced breathability. To keep you smelling fresh, the brand incorporates an odor-reducing Silvadur treatment while the waistband offers a good stretch and retains shape. The 94% nylon and 6% Lycra fabric dries quickly, making it ideal for high-intensity sports and even travel. Made with a diamond knit, this is good underwear for running as it offers optimal stretch.
- Available in 12 colors
- Lightweight
- Odor-resistant
- Breathable mesh
- Quick-drying fabric
- Waistband retains shape
- Might not hide panty lines
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 2,990 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
6. Best Breathable:Ocojoce Women’s Hipster Underwear
Ocojoce’s sports running underwear offers full rear coverage, so you needn’t worry about it riding up. Its breathable mesh construction keeps you cool while you workout and prevents overheating. Ventilated and breathable mesh panels ensure proper airflow, while a supportive waistband and ergonomic design provide a secure fit. A combination of odor-resistant and moisture-wicking technology keeps crotch sweat away to give you a fresh feeling whenever and wherever you may go. Tagless, the spandex leg openings lie gently without causing any irritation on the skin, as attested by multiple reviews.
- Pack of 5 underwear
- Full rear coverage
- Double-layer waistband
- Moisture-wicking
- Odor-resistant
- Tagless
- Not seamless
Quick Tip7. Best Coverage:LALESTE Low-Rise Seamless Boyshorts
LALESTE’s best boxer briefs for running hug your body and provide full coverage with absolutely no seams showing. The waistband is double-layered and stays put with no rolling down or bunching up during your runs. A double-layer crotch is added that is breathable and provides relief when used during your period. For a lasting fit, these tag-free running boxer briefs are pre-shrunk and feature bind-proof leg openings. With features like no ride-up, moisture management, stretchable waistband, and a minimalistic design, this running underwear enhances your running experience.
- Double-layered crotch and waistband
- Full coverage
- Pre-shrunk
- Bind-proof leg openings
- Breathable and moisture-wicking
- Don’t ride up
- Might not be color-fast
8. Best Comfortable Fabric:New Balance Women’s Ultra Comfort Performance Seamless Bikini
New Balance provides the best underwear for running with a composition of 93% nylon and 7% spandex. Showing no lines of seams, this underwear from the trusted brand offers a good stretch to keep performing your best. The seamless construction eliminates any potential irritation points, and the targeted ventilation feature helps regulate core temperature. The lightweight fabric allows the skin to breathe, eliminates any odors, and is tagless, so you can run in absolute comfort. Repelling all moisture, these ladies’ running panties keep you dry of sweat.
- Pack of 3 underwear
- No visible panty lines
- Lightweight and comfortable fabric
- Breathable
- Odor-resistant
- Tagless
- Some may find the waistband to roll
9. Best Moisture-Wicking:Under Armour Women’s Hipster Underwear
This Under Armour running underwear is made with a super soft fabric that stretches optimally to support your run. The edges are laser cut and give you a flattering silhouette owing to the smooth hem-free construction. You can move in an unrestricted manner, the material stretches 4 ways and controls odor with an innovative anti-odor technology. Under Armour’s printed underwear for running tights is a must-have for enhanced performance.
- Soft
- Laser cut edges
- Hem-free design
- Odor-controlling
- 4-way stretch fabric
- Might induce a wedgie
10. Best For Machine Wash: Runderwear Women’s Athletic Underwear
Runderwear’s award-winning boxer briefs are tried and tested in the most adverse climates. They have no tags or seams, so you can wave goodbye to all skin irritation. The fabric is both lightweight and technical, carefully wicking sweat away from skin to keep it dry. Micro-perforations are placed strategically to optimize your core temperature and keep airflow consistent. 92% polyamide and 8% elastane used in Runderwear’s best athletic boxer briefs gives you full coverage.
- Tagless
- Seam-free
- Lightweight
- Moisture-wicking
- Breathable
- Full coverage
- Might not retain shape with prolonged use
11. Best Seamless Edges:Runderwear Women’s Thong
Runderwear offers the best thong for running, which uses a functional flatlock edging finish to minimize chafing. The technical fabric is moisture-wicking and allows the skin to breathe with the micro-perforations placed carefully. Lightweight, this underwear is composed of 92% polyamide and 8% elastane for the right amount of stretch. Machine washable, this piece of clothing is a dream for runners.
- Flatlock seams
- Moisture-wicking
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Machine washable
- Stretchable
- May not be available in any other color
12. Most Durable:New Balance Women’s Hipster Seamless Underwear
This seamless running underwear by New Balance is made of 63% nylon and 37% spandex offering a 4-way stretch. The smooth and lightweight material has enhanced breathability and is moisture-wicking to keep you fresh — no matter how many miles you run. With seamless edges that are laser cut and a tagless construction, these absorbent running underwear keep you comfortable.
- Available in 9 colors
- 4-way stretch
- Lightweight
- Laser cut seamless edges
- No visible panty lines
- Tagless design
- Some might find them to ride up
13. Runderwear Women’s Hipster Underwear For Women
To allow you to run completely chafe-free, Runderwear’s Women’s Hipster is constructed with moisture-wicking and breathable fabric. The waistband is elasticated and stays put to support you through casual and long distance runs. Made with 360° seamless technology that features flatlock edging, the absence of tags and seams will keep your skin irritation-free. Many reviewers agree that the fabric is durable and resistant to fading, giving it a long lifespan.
- Moisture-wicking
- Seam-free
- Tag-free
- Breathable
- Color-fast
- Some may find the waistband slightly tight
Now that we’ve looked at some of the best running underwear on the market, let’s learn how you can choose the right one for you.
What To Look For In Running Underwear
- Fabric
When looking for a pair of underwear, keep in mind that stretchy and ultra-soft materials like polyester and nylon are your best picks as they dry quickly and repel sweat to keep you fresh. These antibacterial fabrics help in staying dry and preventing the growth of odor-causing bacteria. You must avoid materials like cotton as they hold onto moisture and absorb sweat, becoming heavy. Choose underwear that is specifically designed with stay-dry properties for maximum comfort and freshness. The best running underwear is also ultra-soft, anti-bacterial, and stays dry to provide maximum comfort.
- Seams
Keep away from seams that are bulky or thick as they can rub against skin to increase irritation. Flatlock or minimal seams are usually sewn together in such a way that there’s no extra fabric remaining. This will keep you chafe-free by reducing friction.
- Fit
Before purchasing underwear, get your thigh, hip, and waist measurements. When trying them on, ensure that the fit isn’t so restrictive that it cuts off breathing or leaves behind marks. At the same time, your underwear shouldn’t be loose and baggy as it can slide off on your run. Therefore, do a fit assessment when shopping to get the right size of underwear.
The Bottom Line
If you shy away from running because your regular, rough underwear causes chafing, you need to invest in some good-quality underwear made specifically for runners. This kind of underwear will enhance your performance and let you harvest the most from your exercise time. Try the Reebok Women’s Seamless Hipster Briefs for its skin-friendly material and a comfortable and seamless design. The ExOfficio Women’s Give-N-Go Bikini Brief for its moisture-wicking and quick drying properties. And the New Balance Women’s Ultra Comfort Performance Seamless Bikini fior its lightweight, stretchy, and durable fit. They do not irritate your skin and help you stay active for longer hours. With the support and comfort they provide, you’ll be running for miles hassle-free with improved body confidence. They come in a wide variety of styles so that your wardrobe doesn’t get boring. The panties on our list are moisture-wicking, and they retain their shapes, which makes them a very good investment for your skin and your exercise time.
Infographic: Quick Maintenance Tips For Running Underwear
It is crucial for a runner to keep their underwear clean, hygienic, and well-maintained for a comfortable and enjoyable performance. From proper washing techniques to the right storage practices, you can extend the lifespan of your running underwear without investing much time and effort. Check out the infographic below to understand how to maintain your underwear and keep feeling fresh throughout your runs.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article is Priyam Gupta, a fitness fanatic who understands the importance of wearing the right clothes to give you the best support as you run. Running with ill-fitting or uncomfortable underwear can lead to chafing and irritation. Priyam chose these products based on their material, design, ergonomic properties like shrink-resistance and fade-resistance, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you supposed to wear underwear when you run?
Generally, running shorts are specially lined to keep skin safe from chafing. However, this might not be enough for some people so they might need to choose anti-chafe underwear for added comfort.
Are briefs or boxers better for running?
If your main goal is to prevent chafing, boxers might be a better option as they come down the thighs.
Can you wear a thong while running?
As long as you find running in a thong comfortable, you can do so. But keep in mind that this kind of underwear can cause irritation to the clitoris due to the high amount of friction. Thongs designed specially for runners might be more suitable.
Are you supposed to wear underwear with running shorts?
No. Do not wear your underwear under running shorts to prevent chafing. Running shorts usually have a secure inner lining, so another cloth underneath can lead to heavy sweating and irritation.
Do women’s running underwear contain elastic?
Yes. Women’s running underwear has elastic waistbands that provide a proper grip.
How can I keep running underwear clean?
Wash your underwear with mild soap immediately after wearing them to keep them clean and hygienic.
What should I do if my underwear causes chafing?
Put some powder in your underwear to soften the fabric, or apply a teaspoon of petroleum jelly inside your thighs to lubricate the area and prevent chafing. You may also use an anti-chafing cream on your thighs to stop your skin from rubbing harshly against itself.
What underwear should I wear under tights?
G-string underwear or a thong is the best to wear under tights as their seamless borders remain invisible.
Best Anti-Chafe Underwear For Women To Keep Discomfort AwayBest Running Shorts For Women, According To ReviewsBest Underwear For Working Out That Are Seamless & ComfortableBest Boxer Briefs For Women
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