Whether you're lifting weights, training for a race, or doing backbends in hot yoga, there's nothing more distracting than a pair of underwear that, well, gets itself in a wad in the middle of your workout. Equally as annoying and actually unsafe: wearing workout underwear that isn't breathable or quick drying (that's you, cotton) post-sweat sesh. (Hello, yeast infection!)
"If you're sitting in a pair of synthetic pants that will dry fast, but your base layer is cotton, it's not going to dry—and you're opening yourself up to much more bacteria down there," says Stacey Hunter-Harrington, who's spent 25 years in the textile industry and launched her own brand of breathable, antimicrobial underwear called Quo. She recommends sticking to pairs made from nylon or spandex, which help wick away moisture. "I'm not claiming [that it's] going to save every vagina from a yeast infection, but it helps," she notes. (Also if you're wondering, here's an interesting take on working out while commando.)
With that in mind, here are 11 seamless pairs to add to your workout underwear drawer, stat.
A one-size-fits-all thong seems impossible, yet somehow it works in this antimicrobial wicking pair from just-launched Quo, designed specifically for extra-sweaty workouts.
In sizes up to XXXL, this brand's smoothing microfiber boyshort hugs your curves without restricting and has a secret double lining in the front for lower-stomach control.
The pretty hue of these friction-reducing no-show briefs is enough to make you want to hang out around the house in them, sans pants (no judgment)—yet they're designed for high-intensity workouts.
Cheeky name aside, this delicate thong feels like a second skin, so much so that many purchasers report running a marathon in them: the ultimate test. (Always do a test drive during a long run, though. Wearing something new on race day is a rookie mistake.)
No VPLs (visible panty lines) here—the new quick-drying Under Statements thong from Spanx feels light as air, yet boasts serious staying power thanks to "Topnotch Crotch" technology (um, sure!).
Military-inspired stripes on each side of this micro thong will make you feel like a total badass, and bonded edges ensure you won't be tugging them up after each squat.
A high-waisted, no-show thong is the perfect match for high-waisted leggings. It's available in six colors to match your skin tone, with more sizes (16 to 24) launching in January.
No, in this case, we're not talking about going bare down there. One of the lightest in the bunch, the breathable Commando Perfect Stretch thong is made from microfiber that's like memory foam for your vag—plus it comes in pretty non-neutral colors like currant and heather.
Made with Soma's "vanishing edge" technology, these breathable microfiber lace hipsters have silicone around the leg openings to keep them in place without panty lines.
Playful patterns make UA's Pure Stretch printed thongs—which have an ultratight compression fit—a welcome departure from the standard pair of workout underwear.
