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The Best Workout Underwear to Break a Sweat In

The answer is not whatever's at the top of your drawer.

best workout underwear 2020
BestProducts.com

It doesn't matter how high-tech your workout clothes are — if you're not rocking the right underwear beneath them, there's no way you're going to feel comfortable during your workout. No one wants to deal with wedgies or chafing, or stress about visible panty lines and unsightly sweat stains while throwing jabs in a boxing class or lifting heavy weights at the CrossFit box.

So what makes underwear right for a workout? It should be cotton or a moisture-wicking synthetic, since bacteria thrives in moist, dark regions (yes, we're talking about your private parts), and shouldn't be so tight it traps moisture or restricts your movement. These are the best pairs of workout underwear for men and women, no matter how you prefer to break a sweat.

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Under Armour Women's Pure Stretch Thong
Under Armour
Now 25% off

The best workout underwear feels like it’s barely there — which is why you'll want to stock up on these lighter-than-air thongs. Laser-cut edges eliminate bumps under leggings, and the fitted four-way stretch fabric won’t budge while you’re logging miles. Combined with anti-odor tech, you could work out in these for hours.

More: Our Favorite Watches for Tracking a Workout

2 of 10
Saxx Sport Mesh Boxer Brief
Saxx

These briefs hit the trifecta for workout underwear: The mesh-paneled (read: breathable) hammock-shaped pouch keeps everything from jostling; the stitching is reversed on the seams to prevent chafing and itching; the polyester and spandex blend is moisture-wicking to keep your junk from getting clammy.

3 of 10
Areke Women's Bikini Panties Seamless Underwear
Areke
Now 24% off

No one wants to see panty lines showing through skintight leggings. These cheeky hipster briefs are seamlessly knitted to lay flush against your skin. Made from a nylon and spandex blend, they’re super lightweight with a wide waistband that will keep them from rolling down as you move through your workout.

4 of 10
Champion Men's Powerflex 6-Inch Compression Short
Champion

In the words of one Amazon reviewer, "These protected my thighs like ... a Champion." The four-way stretch fabric is compressive enough to support your muscles without restricting motion, and targeted mesh ventilation zones (like under your groin) keep things nice and breezy. Wear these on their own or layer them under looser shorts or joggers.

5 of 10
Amazon Essentials Women's Cotton Stretch Bikini Panty
Amazon Essentials

Despite all the fancy fabrics out there, good ol’ cotton is actually a solid choice to sweat in. That’s because cotton is naturally breathable, which keeps bacteria from settling in and causing an icky stench. The classic bikini cut has a little stretch for comfort, and one reviewer (there are more than 7,961 on Amazon!) described wearing them as “bliss.” 

6 of 10
Lululemon License to Train Boxer 7-Inch
Lululemon

Keep your goods in place no matter how intense your workout gets with a snug fit (and ergonomic pouch) that's still sweat-wicking and breathable. With 7 inches of length, they won't even ride up when you're squatting or deadlifting. 

7 of 10
Women's Give-N-Go Bikini Brief
exofficio

These bikini briefs were made to stand up to the toughest workouts: They’re made from breathable mesh fabric, which allows for airflow to keep you cool, and an antimicrobial treatment helps keep any stink at bay. 

You can wash them in the sink and they’ll be good as new as soon as they dry — which makes them perfect for multiday outdoor adventures.

8 of 10
2XIST Speed Dri No-Show Trunk
2XIST

For those who prefer less coverage but don't want to sacrifice any support, these low-rise, form-fitting trucks are made from moisture-wicking fabric with a contour pouch to give you a little boost. And even though you'll likely be the only one to see them, the contrast panels will make you feel extra sporty.  

9 of 10
Jockey Women's Underwear Sporties Mesh Thong
Jockey

What’s more uncomfortable than a wedgie while deadlifting? The thick waistband on this thong keeps it exactly where it’s supposed to be, while the mesh fabric allows for airflow as you work up a sweat. The fact that you won’t have to worry about panty lines is just a bonus.

10 of 10
adidas Men's Sport Performance Trunk Underwear
adidas

Adidas' Climalite technology — whether it's in a T-shirt or boxers — was created to help regular your body temperature and prevent bacteria from growing in unmentionable places. 

Sweat moves from your body to the surface of the fabric where it evaporates, and you won't have to deal with any of the unpleasant effects of damp, clingy gear.

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