Quick answer

Match your underwear to your workout by prioritizing moisture-wicking fabric and a secure fit. For high-impact activities like running, choose a quick-dry thong with minimal seams. For low-impact flexibility workouts like yoga, a soft, breathable high-waisted brief works better.

Why Fabric Matters for Active Underwear

Cotton absorbs sweat and stays damp, which can lead to chafing and discomfort during exercise. Look for underwear made from TENCEL modal or quick-dry synthetics that wick moisture away from the skin and keep you dry for hours.

How to Choose Workout Underwear in 3 Steps

  1. Identify your primary movement type: Separate workouts into high-impact (running, HIIT) and low-impact (yoga, stretching). High-impact demands a secure, no-move fit; low-impact prioritizes softness and breathability. Common mistake: wearing cotton underwear for running. Cotton holds moisture and causes chafing.
  2. Check the fabric and seam construction: Look for quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric and flat or functional seams that stay put. Avoid thick elastic bands that dig in under leggings. Checkpoint: If you can feel the seams while standing still, you will definitely feel them during burpees.
  3. Test the fit with your go-to workout bottoms: Wear the underwear with your tightest leggings or shorts. Do a few lunges and squats to check for visible panty lines (VPL) and riding up. Verdict: A thong like The Workout Thong eliminates VPL, while a high-waisted brief provides coverage without lines if the leg openings stay flat.

Underwear That Works With Your Workout

  • The Workout Thong - Black: Engineered to wear under gym leggings. The Workout Thong's quick-dry fabric is supremely comfortable, with functional seams that stay put, but four-way stretch that moves with you. No chafing, no riding up and minimal VPL. This thong is ideal for running or high-intensity interval training because the quick-dry fabric prevents sweat buildup and the four-way stretch eliminates riding up.
  • The Everyday High Waisted: Twice as soft as cotton, the breathable, micro modal fabric keeps you dry for up to 10 hours. For yoga or Pilates, the high-waisted brief offers full coverage and gentle support without compression, so you can focus on your breath and movement.