Men’s underwear has come a long way in recent years, with a wide range of styles available to suit every preference.
From loose-fit boxers and classic briefs to more snug options like boxer briefs and trunks, there’s something for everyone.
But when it comes to running, your regular everyday underwear just won’t cut it. For peak performance, you really need to get yourself a pair of running underwear that will specifically meet the demands of physical activity.
The right materials, fit, and design can make all the difference in breathability, moisture-wicking, and support, helping you stay comfortable and focused during your run.
We’ll walk you through the key features you should be looking out for as you shop.
Bamboo Ball Pouch
The bamboo ball pouch is a specially designed feature in running underwear that provides extra support and comfort for your most sensitive area.
Made from soft, breathable bamboo fabric, it ensures that everything stays in place without causing any discomfort during movement.
The natural properties of bamboo are highly absorbent, which helps to keep moisture at bay. It goes without saying as to why this is so important.
These are becoming more and more common in not only running underwear but even your everyday men’s boxer shorts, with leading brands jumping on the trend.
Moisture Wicking Properties
Moisture-wicking fabrics are crucial when it comes to running underwear. These materials, such as polyester blends or bamboo, are designed to draw sweat away from the skin, keeping you dry and preventing chafing.
As your body heats up and sweats during a run, moisture-wicking underwear quickly transfers the moisture to the outer layer, allowing it to evaporate, leaving you feeling cool and comfortable throughout your workout.
Seamless vs. Seamed
The choice between seamless and seamed underwear comes down to comfort and performance. Seamless running underwear, as the name suggests, has no stitching or seams that can cause irritation or chafing during your run.
This is especially important for long-distance runners, as seams can rub against the skin and create painful abrasions.
On the other hand, seamed underwear may offer more structure and support but can sometimes lead to discomfort if the seams are not positioned properly. We would recommend seamless, but it is really down to the person.
Supportive Underwear
Underwear should always be supportive, no matter the use. But sadly, this isn’t always the case. Proper underwear should provide extra stability for your muscles and sensitive areas during physical activity.
Features like a contoured pouch or compression fits are ones to look out for as they help reduce unnecessary movement and minimise the risk of chafing.
Durability and Washability
When investing in running underwear, durability and washability are arguably the most important factors. High-performance fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and bamboo are designed to withstand the rigours of intense activity but also remain in top condition after multiple washes.
Quality running underwear will maintain its elasticity, moisture-wicking properties, and overall fit, even after regular use.
Ready, Set, Go: Which Underwear Will You Buy?
Now that you know what to look for in running underwear for men, it’s time to make your choice. It’s worth saying that this can also apply to girl’s running underwear.
So, get ready to run—pick the underwear that works best for you and hit the ground running!