A thong with a wide waistband
Short answer: A wide band on a thong spreads the pressure over a larger area, so it digs in less than a narrow string. On the other hand, it shows more clearly under tight clothes, so the choice is a trade-off.
Wide rather than narrow
Wide elastic lies flat against the skin instead of digging in. The pressure is spread over a larger area, so there is no narrow strip that rubs. That makes it more comfortable to wear all day, especially when you sit a lot or move around.
Visibility
A wide band shows more clearly through tight fabric than a narrow string. That is the trade-off: the wider the band, the more comfort, but the more visible it can be. Under loose clothes it makes no difference, but under thin, tight trousers it may show.
Under tight clothes
If nothing should show, a seamless model with a thin, flat edge is the closest you will get. The edge is cut rather than sewn, so it lies smooth against the skin without creating a line. Read more about seamless knickers and when they make sense.
Comfort over time
For long days most people choose the wide band, because it digs in less after many hours. A soft fabric against the skin also makes a difference, especially in the narrow part at the back. Read more about the bamboo thong and how the materials differ.
When the model makes sense
A thong is typically worn under tight trousers and dresses, where every other edge shows. For everyday wear most people choose a model with more coverage. So many keep a few thongs for special occasions and another model for the rest of the week. See bamboo underwear for women.
Size
A thong that is too small digs in whatever the width of the band, because it pulls both at the waist and at the back. One that is too big slips and wrinkles. Choose by hip measurement rather than trouser size. If you are unsure, use the size guide before you order.
Where the waistband sits
Where the waistband sits matters too. A thong that ends at the same place as your trouser waistband creates a double edge. Choose a height that sits above or below the waistband, so the edge does not rest on top of your trousers and become even more visible.
Choosing the colour
Under light clothes a nude thong shows the least, even with a wide band. Black under dark clothes. White under white often glows and shows more clearly than a skin tone. So when your clothes are light, choose a shade close to your own skin.
See the range
The models come with different band widths and in several colours, so you can choose by what you are wearing. Once you have found one that sits well, it is easy to add more of the same. See the models in bamboo knickers.
Washing
Wash thongs at 40 degrees without fabric softener and without the tumble dryer. The wide band is elastic, and elastic is worn by heat and softener, so the band loses its flatness and starts to roll. Use a laundry bag if you like and let them air dry. See the washing guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is a wide band more comfortable?
For most people yes. The pressure is spread over a larger area, so the band digs into the skin less, even after many hours of sitting down.
Does a wide band show under tight clothes?
It can show more clearly than a narrow string under thin, tight trousers. If nothing should show, a seamless model with a thin, flat edge is the best choice.
Why does my thong dig in?
Usually because it is too small, or because the band is narrow. Check your hip measurement and try a model with a wider band, which spreads the pressure better.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
