How to Choose the Right Underwear for Your Workout: Support and Breathability

Quick answer

For most workouts, choose underwear made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabric like TENCEL™ Modal, with minimal seams and a fit that stays in place without digging. Thongs or briefs with low-rise and ample coverage work well for activities like yoga or weightlifting, while high-rise styles offer extra support for running or HIIT. Avoid cotton for intense sessions because it traps sweat, and skip underwear with thick elastic bands that can chafe.

Choosing the right underwear for your workout is as important as picking the right sports bra. The wrong pair can cause chafing, discomfort, and even infections, turning your exercise routine into a painful experience. Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a run, or practicing yoga, your underwear needs to support your movement and keep you dry.

In this guide, we'll break down what makes underwear suitable for exercise: breathable fabrics, moisture-wicking properties, and a fit that stays put. We'll also look at specific styles and how they perform in different activities, so you can make an informed choice that keeps you comfortable from warm-up to cool-down.

Fabric Matters: Breathability and Moisture Wicking

The fabric of your underwear is the first line of defense against discomfort during a workout. Natural fibers like cotton are soft but absorb sweat and stay wet, which can lead to chafing and bacterial growth. Instead, look for synthetic or semi-synthetic fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. TENCEL™ Modal, used in many Stripe & Stare products, is a great example: it's naturally soft, smooth, and breathable, making it ideal for exercise.

Moisture-wicking underwear pulls sweat to the surface where it can evaporate, keeping you dry and reducing friction. This is especially important for high-intensity workouts like running or cycling. When shopping, check the label for terms like 'moisture-wicking' or 'breathable,' and consider the fabric blend. Avoid underwear with non-breathable linings or plastic-based materials that trap heat.

• Look for TENCEL™ Modal or similar breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.
• Avoid 100% cotton for intense workouts; it retains moisture.
• Choose seamless or flat-seam designs to minimize chafing.

Style and Coverage: Matching Underwear to Your Workout

Different workouts demand different levels of coverage and support. For low-impact activities like yoga or Pilates, a thong or a low-rise brief can provide minimal coverage and freedom of movement. Thongs eliminate visible panty lines and stay hidden under tight leggings, making them a popular choice. For higher-impact exercises like running or jumping, you might prefer a brief with more coverage to prevent shifting and provide a secure feel.

High-rise underwear can offer extra support and a smooth silhouette under high-waisted leggings. They also help prevent the 'muffin top' effect and stay in place during dynamic movements. Consider your activity: if you're doing squats or lunges, a style that doesn't ride up is essential. If you're doing spin or running, you might want a thong to avoid wedgies.

• Thongs are great for avoiding panty lines and staying put during cardio.
• Briefs with ample back coverage are ideal for activities with lots of bending.
• High-rise styles provide extra support and a smooth look under high-waisted bottoms.

Fit and Support: What to Look For

The right fit is crucial for workout underwear. It should feel like a second skin—snug but not tight, with no digging or rolling. Look for wide, flat waistbands that distribute pressure evenly, and leg openings that stay in place without leaving marks. The underwear should not shift during movement, so consider styles with a bit of stretch and recovery.

Support in underwear isn't about lift like a bra; it's about keeping everything in place. For women, this means choosing a style that holds without causing discomfort. Some briefs have a wider gusset for better coverage, which can be beneficial during workouts. Always try on underwear and do a few squats to test for movement.

• Opt for a snug but not tight fit.
• Check that the waistband doesn't roll down during movement.
• Do a quick squat test to ensure no riding up.

Decision Rules for Choosing Workout Underwear

• Activity Intensity: For low-impact activities like yoga or Pilates, choose thongs or low-rise briefs for freedom of movement. For high-impact activities like running or HIIT, opt for briefs or high-rise styles that provide more coverage and stay in place. Match coverage to impact level.
• Fabric Choice: Always prioritize breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like TENCEL™ Modal. Avoid cotton for intense workouts because it retains moisture and can cause chafing. Choose synthetic or semi-synthetic fibers over cotton.
• Fit and Comfort: Underwear should fit snugly without digging or rolling. Look for flat waistbands and leg openings that stay put. Test by doing a few squats or lunges before committing. A secure fit prevents distractions.

Stripe & Stare Options for Your Workout

• Thong - Hot Pink: Treat your cheeks to the Thong in Hot Pink - sleek, soft, and designed to disappear. Minimal coverage with a low rise and streamlined silhouette, this style sits smooth across the hips and stays in place without digging or shifting. Might cause mild panic that you’ve gone commando. Made from naturally soft and smooth to the touch TENCEL™ Modal fibers. This thong is perfect for workouts where you want no visible panty lines and minimal fabric. The TENCEL™ Modal fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping you dry during cardio or yoga. Its stay-put design means you won't be adjusting it mid-rep.
• High Rise Brief Four Pack - Botanical Bloom: Treat your cheeks to the High Rise Brief Four Pack in Botanical Bloom, for days when you want a little more coverage, and a lot more confidence. Sitting softly and slightly higher at the waist with generous back coverage, this shape offers a smooth, tucked-in feeling you’ll actually look forward to wearing. Made to stay in place all day without digging, rolling, or riding up. If your workout involves a lot of bending and stretching, this high-rise brief provides extra coverage and support. The higher waist stays put under high-waisted leggings, and the generous back coverage prevents any unwanted movement. The botanical print adds a fun touch to your activewear drawer.

Which Style Should You Choose?

Best for

• Thongs for activities where you want no visible panty lines, like running or cycling.
• High-rise briefs for workouts with lots of bending and stretching, such as weightlifting or yoga.

Not for

• Thongs may not be ideal for those who prefer more coverage or are new to thongs.
• High-rise briefs might be too warm for very hot yoga classes where minimal coverage is preferred.

Choosing the right underwear for your workout comes down to fabric, fit, and activity. Prioritize breathable, moisture-wicking materials like TENCEL™ Modal, and pick a style that matches your exercise intensity. Whether you opt for a thong for seamless movement or a high-rise brief for extra support, the right pair will keep you comfortable and focused. Remember to replace worn-out underwear regularly to maintain support and hygiene.