BEST Hiking Underwear for Men and Women
Proper hiking underwear is an article of clothing every hiker should invest in. Hiking underwear ensures that you are comfortable on the trail. It’s a technical piece of clothing often overlooked when picking out hiking gear, but it’s essential.
The best hiking underwear fits snugly around the skin, dries fast, is comfortable, and is breathable. You should be able to wear trekking underwear all day without even noticing it is there. Still, buying proper hiking underwear can be challenging, so we narrowed down the best hiking underwear for men and women here.
Best Hiking Underwear for Men
SAXX Hyperdrive
Designed for hardcore adventurists and heavy exercise, the SAXX Hyperdrive is supportive and comfortable. If you’re used to sweaty thighs and chafing after you’ve been out hiking for a day, it might be time to upgrade to the Hyperdrive underwear. These are essential to a men’s hiking outfit.
Features of the SAXX brand include Flat Out Seams, meaning that the stitching has been reversed to put the flatter and softer side of the seam against your body. This helps prevent itching and discomfort, particularly when hiking and moving around.
Everything is kept in its place with the Ballpark Pouch design, ending any skin-on-skin friction you might have been dealing with. Plus, the moisture-wicking material keeps you cool and dry even when hiking in hot weather.
SAXX Hyperdrive
SAXX Quest
There are a variety of SAXX Quest boxers and underwear to pick from, each with a great design meant for heavy exercise. Like other SAXX underwear models, the Quest has flat-out seams to keep the flatter side against your body and moisture-wicking material to prevent sweat from building up.
If you prefer more coverage, there are longer-leg varieties of the Quest model, which might be better if you wear long pants or for winter hiking. Shorter versions are perfect to go underneath exercise shorts and keep you cooler during hot weather.
There are also tight-fitting and looser-fitting variations of the Quest underwear. Since they all feature the Ballpark Pouch design, they each provide support, and it comes down to personal preference about how you like your men’s hiking underwear to fit!
SAXX Quest
Odlo Active Dry Eco
Made from a recycled material fabric, not only are the Odlo Active Dry underwear durable and practical, but they’re also eco-friendly! They have a tight-fitting but comfortable design and a wide elastic waistband, making them a great option for hiking underwear.
The fabric is also fast-drying, which prevents sweat from building up during long hikes and maintains its breathability when you’re out on the trails. In the front, a paneled pouch prevents skin-against-skin friction, so you stay comfortable while hiking.
Odlo Eco underwear is the way to go if you’re looking for a sustainable clothing brand. Although designed for exercise and outdoor activities, they are comfortable enough to wear daily if you want extra support and prefer a breathable material.
Odlo Active Dry Eco
Kuhl Boxer Brief
Made from a breathable Adventure Mesh fabric designed to stay cool and fresh even with rigorous outdoor exercise, the Kuhl Boxer Briefs are a perfect fit for any hiker. This underwear for hiking is form-fitting for maximum support but not constricting to allow for ease of movement while exercising.
Depending on your preference, you can pick boxer briefs with or without a fly and select from various colors and sizes. All models have an anti-itch microfiber waistband for a comfortable fit underneath hiking pants or exercise shorts.
This trekking underwear is 92% Adventure Mesh and 8% Nylon, creating a breathable yet very durable piece of clothing. Air-drying this underwear is advisable to keep the fabric in top condition for the longest time possible.
Kuhl Boxer Brief
Patagonia Hydro
Patagonia is well known for its adventure clothing and equipment, and the Hydro men’s hiking underwear meets the brand’s high standards. Not only are these underwear great for outdoor exercise and sports, but they are also Fair Trade Certified sewn if you like to be mindful about clothing purchases.
As the name might suggest, the Hydro underwear holds up well to wet conditions. In addition to hiking and trekking, they are also the perfect underwear for surfing and other water sports. The moisture-wicking material combination of recycled nylon and stretchy spandex gives you breathability and ease of movement.
The Hydro is also designed to be tight enough to stay in place and not ride up but not become constrictive. All the seams are flat to be chafe-free even after use in the water or on long hikes. Thanks to the anti-rolling waistband, you can wear the Hydro underwear comfortably under almost any shorts, swim trunks, or hiking pants. Even on days when you’re not hitting the surf or hiking mountains, the underwear also makes for a great casual wear option, thanks to their comfortable fit.
Patagonia Hydro
Icebreakers Anatomica
The slim fit of the Icebreakers Anatomica underwear gives you support and keeps everything in place, while the stretchy material still offers a full range of motion. These boxers also feature a contoured pouch and fly.
Since they are incredibly soft and lightweight, the Anatomica boxers will dry out quickly and remain comfortable in warm and cold weather, meaning they are great backpacking underwear. You can also easily wear them for everyday boxers, outdoor sports, and hiking trips.
Anatomica boxers come in various sizes and colors, so whether you like neutral greys or fun, bright colors, there’s an option. Since they are lightweight and easily packable, they are also the perfect underwear to bring when traveling. They can easily be washed and dried overnight and ready for whatever hikes or trips you have planned for the next day.
Icebreakers Anatomica
ExOfficio Give N Go
The Give N Go boxers come in various lengths so that you can pick the most comfortable size for hiking, traveling, or day-to-day use. Each pair is made from a super breathable mesh that is quick-drying and soft to maximize comfort. Since it’s also very durable, this underwear can withstand the rough conditions of an adventurous lifestyle. The Give N Go’s are an ideal underwear choice for working out at the gym to international traveling.
To help with motion, the fabric of each pair has a 4-way stretch and a wide waistband, which helps the boxers maintain their shape and prevent odor from building up. All the seams are of Flatlock design to prevent chafing and allow for a more comfortable fit with the seams flat against your skin. ExOfficio products are some of the best quick dry underwear on the market, and caring for them is incredibly simple.
ExOfficio Give N Go
Give-N-Go Sport Mesh 2.0
The ExOfficio Give N Go Sport Mesh model is just like the Give N Go’s mentioned above, only a slightly enhanced version. This style of hiking underwear for men is four times more breathable, 50% more moisture-wicking, and 24% more quick-drying than the original Give N Go.
It’s all in the durable sport mesh fabric with chafe-reducing flatlock seams and improved anti-odor treatment. This underwear isn’t just ideal for hiking outside but will also take you to the gym and back comfortably. ExOfficio is quick-drying, meaning they are some of the best underwear for backpacking.
Give-N-Go Sport Mesh 2.0
Boody Men’s Boxer
Featuring a double-layer pouch and elastic waistband, the Boody boxers provide an excellent range of motion, score points for style, and are a great boxer brief for hiking. The boxers are longer than briefs but shorter than trunks, giving you a perfect middle-ground option. Another unique feature of the Boody boxers is the sustainable material choice. Bamboo constitutes the primary material of the fabric, blended with some nylon and spandex for comfort and stretch.
Not only does bamboo make a super soft and comfortable fabric choice, but it’s also eco-friendly if you are conscientious about where you’re putting your money. The side seams are flat and slightly offset to provide more comfort. Thanks to the bamboo and spandex combination, the boxers are also very stretchy, perfect for long days of hiking or just relaxing on a lazy day off.
Boody Men’s Boxer
Best Hiking Underwear for Women
REI Co-op Active Bikini Underwear
REI is always a good bet for comfortable and durable outdoor activewear. REI has continued to upgrade its brand with new and better materials, producing consistently high-performing clothing products. These activewear bikini underwear are made from a polyester-spandex mesh that is lightweight and highly breathable. It also features “barely-there” seams to prevent discomfort while wearing them.
The fabric is also treated with an antimicrobial product to keep the underwear fresher longer. This, along with the moisture-wicking quality of the material, keeps the fabric fresh even after day-long hikes.
REI Co-op Active Bikini Underwear
Odlo Active F-Dry Light Underwear
Combining comfort and style, these Odlo lightweight boy short-cut underwear give you secure coverage for any hike or outdoor activity and are some of the best hiking underwear for women. The fabric is extra soft and highly stretchable to provide a full range of motion while on the trails.
The underwear features a “Push-Pull Effect” to take care of the moisture by quickly drawing sweat away from the skin to keep you cool and dry. Besides the anti-odor treatment given to each pair, this ensures you stay fresh and dry throughout the day.
Thanks to the lightweight material and moisture-wicking qualities, the Odlo active underwear is excellent for any weather – from chilly mountains to tropical rainforests. Since they’re so fast drying, these also make excellent travel underwear, as you can easily wash them and dry them out overnight.
Odlo Active F-Dry Light Underwear
Kuhl Bikini Underwear
The Kuhl bikini is the perfect solution for long sweaty hikes, made from an Adventure Mesh fabric blended with nylon and spandex for stretch and breathability. In addition to the superior material, this hiking underwear for women is also treated with an ionic solution to keep them fresh longer.
This women’s hiking underwear won’t ride up on you even during long treks, and the light and breathable waistband keeps the underwear secure and incredibly comfortable. If you’re traveling, the lightweight and easy-dry material makes the Kuhl underwear simple to pack and wash in the backcountry. You can choose a few color schemes, whether you want something plain and black or with a bit of color to change things up.
Kuhl Bikini Underwear
Smartwool Seamless Bikini
There’s nothing more annoying than an itchy seam on your undergarments, particularly when you’re out on the trails for a long hike. As the name suggests, this seamless bikini is the perfect comfort solution for outdoor activities. The interior lining is 77% merino wool for ultimate softness, blended with nylon to create a more durable pair of underwear. The elastic waistband is also covered to prevent any chafing or discomfort.
Merino wool is a popular material for hiking due to its comfort in various climates. It helps keep you warm in cold temperatures, while in hot and humid weather, it helps prevent moisture and sweat from building up. Thanks to their versatility, these make a great selection of underwear for strenuous activities and daily use to stay comfortable and fresh regardless of the outdoor temperature.
Smartwool Seamless Bikini
Patagonia Active
These are a go-to women’s hiking outfit staple for me. These excellent women’s hiking briefs strengthen Patagonia’s reputation for high-quality athletic wear. The perfect solution for hiking, working out at the gym, or simply lounging around, this underwear is simple, durable, and stylish all at the same time.
The seamless design ensures you won’t have to deal with itching or scratching while on the trail, and the moisture-wicking material keeps you cool and fresh all day. In addition to being lightweight and stretchy, Patagonia makes Fair Trade Certified products, so you can rest assured that you support a reputable brand.
You can also pick from various solid colors, prints, and stripes, depending on your preference. Since the material is so easy to wash and dry, you only need a pair or two if you want to travel light; simply wash and let them dry overnight, and you’ll be set to go the next day.
Patagonia Active
Icebreakers Siren
If you prefer an activewear hiking thong, the Icebreaker Siren model is the way to go. Both comfortable and stylish, the Siren is simple and made for a minimalist style, perfect for hiking, sports, or just day-to-day use.
Made from a merino wool blend, you can comfortably wear this hiking underwear for women any time of year and count on breathability and freshness in any weather. Since the material is also highly durable, with proper washing and care, one pair can last for years before needing to be replaced.
Unfortunately, the Siren doesn’t come in too many color varieties, but for how comfortable they are, this is a negligible downside to their overall comfort and performance quality.
Icebreakers Siren
ExOfficio Give-N-Go
Available in both a hipster and a bikini model, the Give N Go hiking underwear women are great for outdoor activity and relaxing. Each pair is made of a Sport Mesh material to ensure maximum breathability to keep you cool and comfortable for any exercise.
The seams feature a flatlock design to keep the fabric smooth against your skin, preventing chafing and itchiness. The wide waistband helps retain shape and prevents the underwear from rolling or twisting when you’re hiking.
The bikini and hipster varieties can be used in any climate, and all pairs are treated with an anti-odor solution to keep them fresher, even in hot, tropical weather. Since they are quick-drying, they’re also a great underwear option for travelers because they pack small and can dry overnight. Seeing the label, ExOfficio means you can also expect quick dry underwear for women!
ExOfficio Give-N-Go
Give-N-Go Sport Mesh 2.0
These are among some of the best women’s hiking underwear for hot weather. The ExOfficio Give N Go Sport Mesh model is just like the Give N Go’s mentioned above, only a slightly enhanced version. This style of hiking underwear for women is three times more breathable, 50% more moisture-wicking, and quick-drying than the original Give N Go.
It’s all in the durable sport mesh fabric with chafe-reducing flatlock seams and improved anti-odor treatment. This underwear isn’t just ideal for hiking outside but will also take you to the gym and back comfortably.
Give-N-Go Sport Mesh 2.0
Boody Classic
Comfort, practicality, style, and eco-friendliness combined may seem like a tall order, but not for Boody Bikini underwear! Primarily made out of bamboo-based material, these underwear are a sustainable option and super comfy – whether you’re hiking or just going about your day-to-day routine.
Each pair has seamless sides to maximize comfort and an anti-rolling waistband to keep the underwear from bunching or sagging even when exercising. Bamboo is also a highly breathable material, so even when you’re sweating, this underwear will help keep you dry.
You can pick from a selection of natural, earthy tones, which can be ordered as singles or multi-packs if you discover you love them.
Boody Classic
Hiking Underwear Terms
- Antimicrobial: The property that prevents the spread of bacteria while hiking.
- Fly Opening: Some men like to have a fly in their underwear, so it’s easier to pee in the backcountry.
- Merino Wool: A common component of hiking underwear.
- Odor Resistant: Hiking means you’ll get sweaty, so it’s important to pick clothing items that won’t stink. Merino wool is a natural odor-resistant material and won’t break down over time.
- Moisture Wicking: Properties that get rid of moisture when sweating.
- Tagless Underwear: Many hiking underwear options are tagless so you don’t have something itchy always against your skin. It’s a great aspect to look for when shopping. Of course, you can always cut the tags off yourself if you prefer.
- Flatlock seams: Wide seams that won’t cut into you or scratch you are important. The best ones are flat and wide seams (in other words, “flatlock seams.”
Hiking Underwear for Women’s Styles
Briefs
Women’s briefs offer solid all-around coverage and sit above the hips. If you want full coverage, go for a pair of women’s briefs.
Bikinis
Bikini-style underwear is just what you may imagine – like a bikini! They provide coverage in the back and front, just not as much as the briefs. They often have a lower waistline and less rear coverage.
Boy shorts
Women’s boxer briefs have a longer cut on the leg that extends to the top of the thigh. They are incredibly comfortable and reduce inner thigh chaffing with the extended cut.
Thongs
Thongs provide the least amount of coverage but are lightweight and very small. Because of this, they are quick drying.
Hiking Underwear for Men’s Styles
Boxers
The loosest fit for men is boxers. Boxers provide a loose fit while hiking, often leading to scrunching, which isn’t comfortable. I would strongly recommend against ever hiking in boxers.
Briefs
It has good support that sits snugly against the legs. They are shorter than boxers and boxer briefs, so they may cause chafing.
Boxer briefs
Boxer briefs blend the best of boxers and briefs into one product! They are longer than traditional briefs, providing more coverage and a snug feel.
What to Look for When Buying Hiking Underwear
Material
The material that goes into a good pair of hiking underwear is essential. You’re engaging in an outdoor activity that is often very strenuous. That means sweat and discomfort can build up if you don’t have the proper materials. Hiking in a lacy thong or undergarments too tight will only worsen your day. This could even mean redness, swollenness, or chaffing – which are never good signs.
You’ll want to invest in breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying underwear. Good hiking underwear is often made out of merino wool and nylon or lycra, and they are words you’ll see mentioned a lot throughout this article.
Cotton, though inexpensive, does not dry quickly and can cause chaffing. Products made with lycra are ultralight and breathable, have anti-odor technology, and reduce chafing. They are also easy to care for and wash if you are in the backcountry.
Cut and Style
Pay attention to the cut and style of the underwear for hiking that you buy. There are many different offerings for both men and women, and it’s all up to you and what is comfortable.
It’s important to remember that you are hiking and engaging in physical activity and should pick a style that will fit nicely underneath hiking pants and won’t ride up. For men, different options include briefs, boxer briefs, and boxers. For women, different styles typically include thongs, hipsters, or bikini briefs. Many of the hiking underwear included here come in many different styles.
Antimicrobial
When you’re hiking, you’re probably going to sweat down there. Even more so than you normally would. It’s important to find hiking underwear that is antimicrobial so that you keep fresher longer.
Durability
For most of these products listed, you’ll pay much more for underwear than you would regular underwear. $20-$30 is the average price to pay for hiking underwear. While it may sound expensive, it’s important to note that hiking underwear is made with durability in mind.
They are designed to hold up well to the natural elements and keep you comfortable for days on the trail. Things like Flatlock seams to reduce chaffing and antimicrobial are built for hiking.
Fit
When choosing hiking underwear for men and women, look for a fit that is snug but not too tight. Underwear for hiking should conform to your body but not cause discomfort because it is too tight. If the hiking underwear is too large, it can cause bunching and rubbing. Pay attention to the fit guides when purchasing hiking underwear.
Care
If you plan on making multi-day hiking trips, it’s important to pay attention to the care instructions for your hiking underwear. You won’t have access to a washer and dryer and should be prepared to wash your clothes by hand. This is where hiking underwear with quick-dry capabilities comes in handy.
I hope This Hiking Underwear Guide Helped You. Happy Hiking!
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