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Whether you’re working up a sweat at the gym, or simply trying to stay dry and cool in hot, humid temperatures, slipping on a pair of moisture-wicking underwear can help keep you comfortable while reducing the risk of skin irritation and chafing. The best sweat-wicking underwear for women will be constructed with materials like polyester and nylon, with a generous amount of spandex or elastane for stretch, so you’ll never feel constricted.
Does Moisture-Wicking Underwear Work?
In short, yes. Something that promises to be “moisture-wicking” might seem gimmicky, but in fact, certain materials actually have properties that help evaporate sweat from the skin (as opposed to other materials that might actually soak up and retain water). When it comes to shopping for the best women’s underwear for sweating, the trick is knowing which materials to look for, and also keeping an eye out for performance fabrics and unique construction features that promote ventilation and breathability (hello, mesh panels). It also doesn’t hurt to scan through reviewer feedback to get a real sense of the sweat-wicking quality.
So What Types Of Fabrics Are Moisture-Wicking?
Nylon and polyester are at the top of the heap when it comes to sweat-wicking capabilities and fast-drying powers, which is while you’ll see those fabrics show up again and again on this list. Cotton, on the other hand, tends to soak up and retain moisture, but don’t count it out completely — it also offers exceptional breathability, which can help prevent sweating in the first place. A blend of these materials is a pretty safe bet, but it’s also worth considering high-tech performance fabrics. While some brands don’t reveal exactly what these proprietary materials are, many of them take things a step further by combining sweat-wicking fibers with odor-eliminating, antibacterial, and temperature-regulating technology — so you can rest assured the next time you work up a sweat, this underwear will help keep you dry.
Available in every style (yes, even thongs), the best sweat-wicking underwear for women will keep you comfortable, whether you’re hitting up the gym or simply living through the hottest days of summer.
1
A 6-Pack Of Hipster Briefs That Are So Comfortable
Tagless, odor-resistant, and of course, sweat-wicking, this value-pack of underwear checks most of the boxes — and they're a seriously good deal, considering that you get six in a pack. They’re made from a blend of nylon and elastane, and sets come in various colors, including packs of all black and a mix of neons.
Glowing review: “These are absolutely my favorite underwear. They fit excellent and have great moisture wicking. Comfortable enough for everyday wear and durable enough for running/hiking/weight lifting when I sweat a lot. I would highly highly recommend these! I like that the rise is a little bit higher as they help hold things in place a little bit more.”
- Available Sizes: X-Small — X-Large
2
These Super Stretchy Thongs With Laser-Cut Edges
This sweat-wicking thong is also designed to fight odors and prevent chafing, thanks to its laser-cut edges, four-way stretch, and microbe-fighting material. It’s extremely soft, stays put, and is nearly invisible under clothes — ideal if you’re looking for something seamless.
Glowing review: “I wear the thong and panty version of these for my workouts and they are incredible! I was having problems with my underwear moving around, bunching, rubbing and sweating! And these take care of all those issues! I don’t even think about it the whole time I’m in the gym bc I’m dry and comfy the whole time!”
- Available Sizes: X-Small — X-Large; 4 — 14
3
This Breathable Micro-Mesh Underwear In Plus Sizes
Made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex with a breathable micro-mesh design, this Fruit Of The Loom women’s wicking underwear will help evaporate moisture to keep you comfortable all day. The polyester-spandex seamless underwear also has a smooth waistband and four-way stretch, so they’ll move with you and feel barely there. Keep in mind the sizing is somewhat confusing (a size 9 is equivalent to 2XL and a size 10 is equivalent to 3XL, etc.) — so be sure to check the chart on the product page. Choose from brief, high-cut, and slipshort styles in assorted colors.
Glowing review: “I have been on the hunt for underwear that are stretchy, soft, & comfortable enough that I'm not yanking on them all the time. The search has been lengthy but has finally reached its end. These are exactly what I was looking for, so soft & comfortable on my plus size frame, I will definitely be buying additional pairs.”
- Available sizes: 9 — 13
4
These Mesh Briefs That Offer Tons Of Ventilation
Made from nylon and Lycra, this breathable mesh underwear was designed to be odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, which means not only is it great for the gym, but it’s ideal for multi-day treks. Pack it on your next overnight hike for a pair of underwear you can easily rinse out and hang dry in no time.
Glowing review: “I have purchased many brands of Bikini Brief but find ExOfficio Women's Give-N-Go Bikini Brief the most comfortable. They are lightweight, dry quickly after a good workout, and provide the best comfort.”
- Available Sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
5
The Low-Rise Hipster Panties Made From Ventilated Mesh
If you’re on the hunt for some low-rise underwear that won’t make you sweat, look no further than this 10-pack of hipster panties with a breathable mesh construction. Made from nylon and spandex, they’re silky soft, so they feel just as good as they perform. Plus, one reviewer raved that they’re “thin, airy, [and] stretchy.” Perfect for low-rise jeans — or anyone who just prefers a little less coverage up top — they come in packs of all black or in multiple colors.
Glowing review: “These are great! I got them for a backpacking trip, but now I’m using them as my everyday underwear. They are light weight, and they pack up really small. They dry fast and they are comfortable. I haven’t washed these too many times yet, so I can’t say what they will look like in a year, but they didn’t fall apart after the first few washes… I will order a second set.”
- Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
6
The Mesh Undies With A Waistband That Doesn’t Dig In
With its flat, double-layer waistband, this women’s moisture-wicking underwear is pretty much guaranteed not to dig in, so you can stay comfortable all day. Each set comes with five panties, all made with a blend of sweat-wicking nylon and highly stretchy spandex. Plus, the ventilated sides help keep things cool and breathable.
Glowing review: “I purchased these especially for my WDW vacation in the middle of July. These were perfect and definitely held up to the heat and humidity and lots of walking and sweating.”
- Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
7
These Comfy & Breathable Briefs With Temperature Control
The Hanes X-Temp underwear has revolutionary temperature control that promises to adapt to your activity level. This means, not only does the underwear wick away sweat when your body heats up, but it also slows evaporation, so your body holds onto heat longer when you're cold. According to the brand page, they’re made from a blend of breathable cotton, combined with moisture-wicking polyester and spandex. These high-tech panties are also super soft and tag-free, so they'll keep you comfy all day.
Glowing review: “I really like this brief because although you see a waistband, it doesn't feel confining like an elastic waistband. It's very comfortable. The fit is great, not too snug.”
- Available Sizes: 6 — 10
8
These Stretchy, Athletic Hipsters That Don’t Ride Up
Reebok's value pack of women’s athletic underwear offers great quality at an incredible price. Made from nylon and spandex, the performance fabric is what you'd expect from one of the world's top athletic brands. The hipster panties are soft, breathable, and keep you dry. The fit offers great coverage and is designed to lay smoothly and reduce ride-up and bunching. They come in a pack of five and are available in a wide range of color combos.
Glowing review: “These underwear are soo comfortable and prevent me from getting skin sores while horse back riding. They stay put and show no lines under clothing. Great price too!”
- Available Sizes: Small — X-Large
9
These Sporty Bamboo Briefs That Are Super Soft
The most comfortable clothes are the ones you don’t feel like you’re wearing — and that's the case with this bamboo underwear. They're super soft, breathable, antibacterial, thermo-regulating, and of course, moisture-wicking.
Glowing review: “I have been so over "panties" for a long time... Boyshorts underwear is awesome and comfortable, and the best are these Boody Body EcoWear. I wish all of my clothes were made out of this material!”
- Available Sizes: X-Small — X-Large
10
A Set Of Tagless, Seamless Thongs That Are Surprisingly Comfortable
For many women, a comfortable thong may seem like an oxymoron but that's not the case with this three-pack of sweat-wicking thong panties. Made from nylon, polyester, and elastane, they offer sweat- and odor-resistance to keep you feeling dry and fresh. They’re tagless and seamless, so you won’t chafe, and they have four-way stretch, so they move with your body.
Glowing review: “I’m a personal trainer and need undies that I don’t need to constantly adjust. I’m jumping, stretching, squatting, etc. with clients up to 12 hours a day. These do the trick. I prefer a thong, but don’t like the front wedgie that comes with some. These stay in place.”
- Available Sizes: X-Small — X-Large
11
This Underwear Made From A Cooling Blend Of Fabrics
Made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, this set of moisture-wicking underwear is designed to keep you cool and comfy. The tag-free underwear also has a soft microfiber waistband and legs for even more comfort. Each pack contains four pairs of bikini briefs in assorted colors, and you can also opt for a high-cut style if that’s more your speed.
Glowing review: “I live in hot, swampy Florida, and underwear that doesn't breathe is not a good thing. These are breathable and soft. And the cut is not too low (or too high). After two kids, I don't like bikini underwear that lets my belly hang out. These are great without looking like full coverage underwear.”
- Available sizes: 5 — 9
12
An Assorted 10-Pack Of Colorful Briefs At A Budget-Friendly Price
Featuring an assortment of colorful styles, this 10-pack of moisture-wicking underwear for women will keep you comfy for a full week of workouts and beyond. They’re made from a blend of polyester and spandex that’s soft, breathable, and stretchy, and are tag-free for all-day comfort. Choose from brief, hipster, and boyshort styles.
Glowing review: “I didn't think I would like the material but actually they are very comfortable and cool to wear. There's no riding up and pulling out wedgies. I generally don't wear underwear to bed but these are comfortable enough to sleep in.”
- Available sizes: 6 — 10
13
This Quick-Drying, Full-Coverage Underwear That Prevents Chafing Under Dresses
If you plan on wearing a skirt or dress in hot weather, this full-coverage underwear will save you from chafing and irritation. It’s made with nylon, spandex, and cotton to help you stay cool and dry, and the cotton gusset works to prevent skin irritation. Plus, the wider waist and leg bands help them stay in place. Choose from black and light tan.
Glowing review: “I use these all summer under skirts and dresses. So comfortable, soft & they do not make noise (that is a major plus for me). Tried to purchase a less expensive pair and they were scratchy and made too much noise. Just pay the extra for jockey, they are worth it. I have 3 other pair that are at least 3 years old and are still in good shape.”
- Available Sizes: Small — 3X
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