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These wedgie-preventers will see you through any workout (from squatting to running) Health Protection
We’ve all been there, finally in the zone, to-do list pushed to the back of our minds and then, while moving into downward dog it happens… a wedgie strikes, pulling us right back to the yoga mat and causing any flow to vanish faster than you can say 'ohm'.
But that’s not the only reason why wearing workout-appropriate underwear is almost as essential as having the right sports bra; breathable undies are important for keeping our vaginas and nether regions happy and healthy.
Whether you’re looking for a solution to VPLs or after a way to keep the chafe away while out running, we’ve tested a range of the best underwear for exercise from leading workout brands to find the pairs worth pulling on ASAP.
You don’t need to if your leggings or shorts are breathable and you feel comfortable doing so – but make sure you change straight after the gym so that bacteria doesn’t have time to gather and make life itchy for your vagina. If too much gathers, it can throw things out of whack, impacting your PH level, which can cause irritation and even thrush.
If you prefer the extra layer, leave your lacy numbers in the drawer because they aren't great for ventilation. Instead opt for cotton undies or specific exercise underwear – your health is worth the sacrifice. They should also come straight off as soon as you’ve finished working out, so really no-one ever need see them either (should that be a cause for concern).
To make sure you don’t pull on any pants that just won’t stay up or cause irritation, we recruited a panel of gym bunnies to put exercise underwear from leading workout brands through its paces. Each product is either recommended by one of our editors (who sample a lot of different brands as part of their role) or has been tested by three different readers – and each tester worked out at least three times in their briefs, hipsters or thongs.
We also put the exercise underwear through the washing machine to see how they held their shape and we scored each according to its design, fit, comfort, performance and quality.
Trust us, the only thing you’ll be digging out is your purse to pay for one of these top performers…
Okay, so it might not be the most glam thing in the world to discuss, but we're all about keeping it real – if leaving sweaty groin patches in your wake is a fear that grips you when working out in the gym (I mean, same), then might we suggest trying a pair of period-proof pants?
Our favourite brand, WUKA, have so many great designs but we find their Ultimate Medium Bikini Brief is an excellent all-rounder (without feeling bulky or like you're wearing a nappy). It works hard to wick away sweat, whilst catching any and all bodily fluids, whether Miss Flo is in town or not. They're also super size inclusive, going from XXS up to 6XL. Genius!
Key specs Sizes: XXS to 6XL Colour: Black Material: Organic Cotton
Much like the above leak-proof pants that'll save you from any bloody or sweaty patches whilst working out, WUKA also have briefs designed for a really heavy flow. These knickers are the go-tos for anyone who experiences a heavier blood loss during their period. You really can't go wrong with these bad boys. Key specs Sizes: XXS to 6XL Colour: Black Material: Eco-friendly Tencel™️ fabric
Although the idea of wearing a thong to a fitness class might not instantly sound appealing, we implore you to reconsider - as Lounge's bamboo option is super comfy, breathable and flattering to boot. It didn't dig in at all throughout out editor's PT sesh and felt comfy AF (and fresh) throughout the rest of the day. Top marks all round!
Key specs Sizes: XS to 3XL Colours available: Black, olive, pink, grey or white Material: 93% Bamboo, 7% Spandex
Pantee are a brilliant smaller brand with the planet firmly in mind – and its high rise thong (made from deadstock fabrics) promises no VPL, as well as to move with you as you squat, crunch, jog etc.
Our tester found it super comfortable during her workout, said it was true to size and loves that it's available in five different colour options. Consider us Pantee fans! Key specs Sizes: XS to XXXL Colour: 5 options available - black, white, red, turquoise and navy Material: 95% Cotton, 5% Elastane
When two heavy-hitters join forces, you know you're in for something good. The new Puma x Modibodi activewear range is perfect for working out on your period, with moisture-wicking materials and a comfy wide waistband. Key specs Sizes: XS to XXL Colour: 2 colours, more in the range Material: Recycled polyester, spandex, recycled nylon, merino wool, polyester, polyamide
Soft and stretchy, the Skims Fits Everybody thong is a cult classic for a reason. Coming in a huge range of shades, this thong won't dig in either.
Key specs Sizes: XXS to 4X Colour: 14 shades Material: Polyamide and elastane
Whether you identify as a plod-around-the-blocker or a marathon runner, you’ll know that underwear can make or break a run if it’s digging in or chafing a little too much. Enter these hipsters, which didn’t require any adjusting by our testers and stayed put all run long.
They do give a VPL – their design isn’t seamless – and they came up a tad small due to their snug style. But we wouldn’t rule them out because of this; our testers enjoyed wearing the stretchy style for a range of workouts (even burpees!) and liked their statement look. Key specs Sizes: S to XL Colours available: Black, blue or navy Material: Polyamide and elastane
Made with a breathable fabric and bonded edges to prevent digging (fancy, right?) this thong will see you through leg, arm and back day.
Key specs Sizes: XS-S to 3XL-4XL Colour: Nude and deep nude Material: Polyamide and elastane
The thought of wool underwear may have you ready to scroll on, but hear us out – you might be glad of the warmth during a winter hike. This bikini is also billed as breathable and moisture-wicking, so it's not just for the colder months.
Granted, wool won't work for everyone’s skin, but if you fancy a pair that can be comfortably worn all-year-round these are worth splashing out on.
Key specs Sizes: XS to XL Colour: Black, blue, and pink Material: Merino and tencel
Kit yourself out for leg, arm and core day with this three pack of sleek hipsters. Our testers found them easy to get on and off and rated the fact that you couldn’t see them through leggings thanks to laser-cut edges.
While working out, testers found them cooling and secure, if not entirely stationary – squats brought on a couple of wedgies and the fit was a little bit big. Testers agreed that they are most comfortable for more gentle workouts, but considering their great value for money, the pants impressed
Key specs Sizes: XS to L Colour: Black and brown Material: Nylon and elastane
Designed for yoga, these undies are perfect for when you're trying to perfect your downward dog. Soft, silky and breathable, they move with you - so they're a strong contender for days when you're on the move.
Key specs Sizes: XS to XXL Colour: Black and purple Material: 91% Modal, 9% Elastane
Looking for a fuller cut? These boxers are comfortable, seam-free and soft to the touch.
Key specs Sizes: XS to 2XL Colours available: Black and mahogany Material: Main fabric, 84% Polyester, 16% Elastane Yoke 90% Polyester, 10% Elastane. Gusset, Gusset 100% Cotton
These feather light, wallet-friendly knickers boast perspiration-wicking fabric keeps you dry, even during a tough workout
Sizes: XS to XXL Colours available: Black, sage and qarts Material: 5.0% Elastane, 95.0% Polyamide
If you're looking for something lightweight and seamless with a slightly fuller coverage, Lululemon's boyshorts will keep you cool in even the heaviest of sessions with zero chafing.
Sizes: XS to XXL Colour: 4 shades Material: Cotton, nylon and lycra
Ideal if you want a lightweight, comfortable panty, you can't really go wrong with this Amazon offering. The microfibre material allows for optimal comfort s and will not show through your leggings. It feels like you're wearing nothing at all...
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