Gynos Swear These Panties Literally Absorb Sweat

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

Us women (and men!) have all experienced a sweat stain down there while working out, and we can probs all relate to frantically trying to cover it up, too. Look, nobody wants to sport a crotch stain. But if your compression leggings are usually soaked down there after you work out, that's totally normal and you're absolutely not alone. Thankfully, moisture-wicking underwear works, and it'll do more than just wick away sweat in hot, humid weather.

"This underwear, in theory, could help pull that moisture away and could dry faster than regular underwear," says Kate White, MD, a gynecologist, associate professor of OB/GYN at Boston University, and WH advisory board member.

Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear

According to gynecologists and dermatologists we spoke with, moisture-wicking underwear is a must, and some can even boost your vaginal health and protect you from yeast infections, inflammation, and itching, too. But does moisture-wicking underwear actually work? Below, experts weigh in on how they work, and how to find the best moisture-wicking underwear for you, from the best cotton underwear to the best underwear for runners.

One thing to note, though: You should "choose your undies based on what problem you're trying to solve or what symptoms you're trying to address," Dr. White says. For instance, if you struggle with increased discharge and vaginal odor, moisture-wicking underwear might not be the best choice for you, due to the fabric. (More on that below!) If you're just trying to deal with a sweat stain though, go for it.

What to consider

Materials

When shopping for moisture-wicking underwear, look for materials like polyester, nylon, bamboo, and wool. The science is simple—those fabrics pull moisture away from the skin and out to the fabric’s exterior to evaporate. In other words, the fabrics dry faster. They also regulate your body temperature, according to research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology. (Cool, right?)

But, if you have trouble with increased discharge and vaginal odor, moisture-wicking underwear isn't probably ideal since they can restrict air flow more than cotton underwear, possibly making those symptoms worse, Dr. White explains. If you're in doubt, she recommends chatting with your gynecologist first before pressing adding to-cart.

Fit

Finding the right underwear fit will make all the difference in terms of comfort. My personal preference is to always to size up when I'm ordering underwear online, as I despise the feeling of being constricted. Also, on days where I'm extra bloated or it's that time of the month, a looser pair of undies is a welcome plus. But, when you want a little more compression at the gym, it's always good to have a smaller pair in your collection. Having a few size options in your drawer is a solid idea so you can dress for the occasion and based on how you feel.

And, rise is also a factor in the fit category. On this list, there are low, mid, and high-rise options. So, depending on how much coverage you're looking for, there's something for every preference.

How we chose

For the past year, Women’s Health editors, including our editorial assistant Addison Aloian, associate e-commerce editor Lily Wohlner, and contributer Neha Tandon, researched the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated moisture-wicking underwear. Our team consulted Kate White, MD, Ann Cabeca, MD, Geeta Yadav, MD, Christine Greves, MD, and Beth Rackow, MD, and then sought our team of anonymous testers to narrow down the best moisture-wicking underwear for a wide range of preferences and sizes.

So, are you ready to finally ditch your crotch stains at the gym? See below for the 17 best pairs of sweat and moisture-wicking underwear in 2024.

Moisture Wicking Panties

Stay totally cool and comfortable with Fruit of the Loom's moisture-wicking and luxuriously soft underwear. They work wonders at keeping sweat away without being too tight or clingy.

Testers rave about how comfortable these breathable panties are (they're totally re-orderable!) and they don't ride up. They also don't feel too tight or create too much pressure around the stomach, which is another plus. One tester even told us that these are the softest panties she's ever worn. After she's tried a bunch of different styles (including thongs, briefs, and boxer briefs), these are her all-time favorite for comfort and wicking away moisture.

Read more: Best Breathable Underwear

High-Rise Silky Mesh Briefs

Not only is this mesh underwear super cute, it's also made out of high-stretch silky mesh, making them a mega fan favorite. People love wearing these briefs on their period because of how lightweight, breathable, and comfy they are.

To make matters even better, the brand is also eco-conscious and the briefs are made with superfine recycled fibers. Aaand this pair is made in 17 (!) different colors and patterns, plus sizes range from XS to 3X, making the brand v inclusive and able to be worn by anyone.

Our tester loves that the silky mesh material of these undies is breathable and hot. In terms of colors, she loves the classic black shade (it's currently out of stock), but the brand offers so many other fun shades to try out, too.

Read more: Best Seamless Underwear

Cotton Panties

Our testers love that these undies are soft and gentle on sensitive skin, so they never have to worry about skin irritation or itchiness. And that's all thanks to the high amount of cotton in this pair. Another positive of the high cotton percentage? They're totally moisture-wicking and breathable to help keep skin moisture-free and protected.

In real life, these undies look just like how they do in the online photos, says our tester. And, they don't look like granny panties. Instead, they are slightly cheeky and don't cut into the skin or show through pants.

Read More: Best Cotton Underwear

Seamless Hipster Briefs

These Reebok panties are among Amazon's bestselling underwear because they offer excellent coverage without feeling constricting. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of moisture-wicking underwear and want a non-thong option, this is a great, affordable place to start.

You'll get five pairs for under $35, and you can choose from 16 different color combos. With over 14,000 ratings, reviewers love these briefs for their comfort and stretchiness.

Stretch Thong

This thong is somehow perfectly lightweight and structured, so everything feels held into place without making it difficult to move comfortably. Plus, a portion of its proceeds go toward Johns Hopkins' Kimmel Cancer Center to benefit breast health.

With 11 different color combinations to choose from, this underwear is great for working out, running, and everything in between. They stay put and hidden, and wash well, says our tester. What more could you want?

Our tester, who has previously had a difficult time finding thongs that are comfortable for working out, says this pair is perfect for the gym. She adds that the material is very lightweight and breathable.

Feel Naked G-String

Gynecologist Ann Cabeca, MD, raves about Lorna Jane's fabric, which is 74 percent nylon and 26 percent elastane. And, she's not alone. The made-for-sports G-string has dozens of reviews by runners and HIIT lovers.

They'll give you zero VPL (visible panty lines) and genuinely feel invisible. Aside from Dr. Cabeca, our testers love it, too. After all, they have a great fit, don't fall apart after washes, and won't ride up during any activities.

One tester in particular loves this pair of underwear for every day use, as she says they're great under tights, bike shorts, and they don't move around during pilates.

Merino Siren Thong

Despite wool’s rep for keeping you warm in cold weather, this thong is an all-star when you're sweating. Plus, it's surprisingly thin, soft, breathable, and even odor-resistant. It's more of an investment than some of the other options on this list, but it's made to last with natural fibers.

It's machine-washable—which is a major pro for me—and the fabrics are made for durability, stretch, mobility, and comfort. What do our testers think? Well, they feel great, and the rise is comfy. 'Nuff said.

High-Waist Thong

Skims totally talks the talk and walks the walk. These panties are comfortable, breathable, seamless, and they don’t roll or bunch. The stretchy fabric means they move with you without digging in. Plus, they come in nine different neutral tones to match your skin and come in plus sizes.

Customers love this pair because they're flattering and stretchy, so they're totes worth the money. Consider them the perfect complement to your go-to high-waisted leggings (thanks Kim).

Airbrush Invisible Thong

Thongs get a bad rep for inducing uncomfortable wedgies, but there's a reason these are called the "invisible" thong—the seamless, ultra lightweight fabric literally feels like going commando. If you're a fan of Alo Yoga's Airbrush Leggings ($98), you'll love this panty just as much.

It's odor-resistant, machine-washable, and works under any type of bottoms, from jeans you're rocking at brunch to the leggings you wear to the gym. It's stretchy and comfortable, and one tester even says they work amazing during hot yoga! This undie has one downfall though—they don't come in as many sizes as other panties on this list do.

Super Leakproof swimsuit

If you're on your period, you want a pair of undies that will keep you feeling dry, and these do exactly that. They absorb up to eight teaspoons of blood, pee, or sweat, so if you bleed through your tampon, you have a backup plan (without the need for a pad). The best part is you can't even feel the excess moisture—this underwear literally absorbs it right up.

Testers love that this panty gives them no panty lines, can last overnight while they're in bed, and that it's super comfy. Plus, it's hike-proof—one of our product testers hit the trails and said they didn't have to worry about leaking the whole time.

Read more: Best Period Panties

Breathe Natural Rise Thong

Hands-down, Dr. Cabeca's favorite undie brand is Hanky Panky, and she particularly loves its "BreatheSoft" line that does exactly what its name says. The microfiber fabric will help keep you dry no matter how much you plan on sweating, and it comes in tons of fun, bright colors.

This is now the most comfortable pair of underwear our tester owns, and she adds that it lives up to its name of being very breathable and extremely comfortable. She adds that she plans on purchasing a lot more than these.

Breathable Seamless Thong Panties

Our testers say that their pursuit for the best moisture-wicking underwear ended when they found these, and we have to concur. They don't show under workout clothes (or any clothes for that matter), they wick away moisture in a flash, and they're high-waisted enough to hold you in.

One tester in particular saw all the positive reviews online, which influenced them to buy this pair. After testing them, she gave them a solid five stars, as they're high-waisted, super comfy, they wash well, and they don't lose their elasticity.

The Invisible High-Rise Thong

Made from recycled materials, these super sustainable panties divert waste from landfills. They're also dyed with bluesign-approved dyes, which are safer for workers and much better for Mother Earth. Just when you thought they couldn't get any better, these panties have a slightly wider gusset (the width of the crotch area) than most thongs, which reviewers appreciate because they don't get stuck you know where.

According to our tester, these panties are also lightweight and so comfortable. She notes that she never feels them bunching or riding up (major ups here!!).

InvisiWear Mid-Rise Thong

Hear me out: I know these thongs are pricey. But, they're the only ones I wear (promise). They feel like nothing on your body, but they hug you in all the right places, holding you in right where you need it. Whether you like to run outdoors or on the tread, these underwear stay in place all day without ever accumulating sweat. I like to say they're my invisible workout buddy. And, even when I'm not at the gym or on a jog, these are my go-to underwear at all other times, too.

Comfortstretch Thong

Noticing your underwear stretching after just a few uses? Thirdlove has you covered. This pair of undies has a unique four-way stretch fabric that lays flat on your body and never moves, so no elastic or bulky stitches show through your pants while you sweat.

"These are my go-to workout undies when I want something that hugs me tight and never stretches," says WH associate fashion and commerce editor Lily Wohlner. "You also can't see them through your leggings, which is a welcome bonus point."

Sporty Cotton Underwear

This underwear keeps you cool and dry all day long for a comfortable feeling you deserve. Aside from how dry they stay, testers also say that the fit is nice and snug. One tester in particular likes these cotton panties because they're not saggy like most full-coverage panties. Even after washing them, she says they still fit like a glove.

Leakproof Lace Thong

When it's that time of the month, a solid pair of moisture-wicking panties that hold your tampon or pad in place is essential. This super snug, seamless thong features an invisible leakproof core so you stay comfortable and protected all day (or night!) long.

Our tester has tried many other period underwear brands and says this one is her favorite. She notes that she loves the brand's reward program, which offers discounts on plenty of its products. Overall, the underwear are way softer and more absorbent than other brands.

Meet the experts

• Kate White, MD, is a gynecologist and the associate director of the Fellowship in Complex Family Planning at Boston Medical Center.

• Ann Cabeca, MD, is an obstetrician gynecologist in Dallas, TX.

• Geeta Yadav, MD, is a dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto.

• Christine Greves, MD, is a gynecologist and a fellow of the American Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

• Beth Rackow, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in New York, NY.

How do moisture-wicking underwear work?

According to dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, the wrong underwear choice can provide the perfect environment for bacteria and fungus to grow. "Bacteria thrives in dark, damp areas and when moisture like sweat is trapped against the skin, it can cause bacteria to multiply, " she says. "In the swimsuit area, this is especially important to monitor. When that moisture has nowhere to go due to tight underwear or yoga pants that don't breathe or wick away moisture, it can lead to irritation and superficial fungal or bacterial spread."

Gynecologist Christine Greves, MD, agrees. "Moisture-wicking fabric can be helpful in situations in which there is a lot of warmth and moisture and you aren’t able to change your bottoms or shower immediately (i.e. you're running outside for an extended period of time and it takes you a while to get back home)," she says.

Dr. Greves also notes that yeast infections are often caused by that mixture of extended moisture and warmth, so you'll want to be especially careful if you're prone to them.

Is cotton or moisture-wicking underwear better for sweating?

Underwear, specifically marketed as 'moisture-wicking' can possibly be better. "Wicking fabric has been popularized as an alternative to our standard cotton underwear because cotton will absorb and hold seven percent water, whereas moisture-wicking fabric absorbs less than one percent," says Dr. Cabeca. "That's a serious advantage, especially if you're prone to infections."

Is moisture-wicking underwear healthy?

Dr. Cabeca says the answer is "yes," but that doesn't mean you should be wearing them all the time. Sometimes, the answer is actually to not wear underwear at all. For example, going commando when you sleep can be very helpful. Yup, if you're not planning on sweating or working out, you don't actually need to be wearing underwear, and gynecologist Beth Rackow, MD, agrees.

"The vagina is not meant to be covered by underwear at all times," she says. "For many women—especially those prone to excess vaginal discharge and vaginal infections—wearing loose-fitting bottoms to bed (such as boxers, shorts, or pants) or no underwear at all can allow the vaginal area to air out." She advises against wearing moisture-wicking underwear at night.

Shop more of the best underwear

Wireless Bras | Minimizer Bras | Sticky Bras | High-Impact Sports Bras | Crotchless Panties | Underwear for Workouts | Postpartum Underwear | Moisture-Wicking Shirts

You Might Also Like

• Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream

• These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals