Briefs that do not ride up and what causes it

Short answer: A brief rides up when the leg opening is tighter than the rest of it. Then it pulls in towards the narrowest point, and size is not the problem.

The leg opening against the rest

If the elastic in the leg opening is tighter than in the waistband, the two work against each other. The edge wins, and the brief is pulled up. A wider or laser cut leg opening removes it. See bamboo briefs.

A larger size rarely helps

Go up a size and the whole brief gets looser, but the relationship between edge and body is the same. That is why the problem repeats.

The cut matters more than the brand

Some cuts ride up by nature, because they cover little at the back. If you want to avoid it entirely, a more covering cut is the answer. See bamboo underwear for women.

Shrinkage can start it

A brief that has shrunk in the tumble dryer is tightest at the edges, where the elastic sits. Wash at 40 degrees and dry on low heat. See washing and care.

Frequently asked questions

Why do my briefs ride up?

Because the leg opening is tighter than the rest. The edge pulls in towards the narrowest point.

Does a larger size help?

Rarely. The relationship between leg opening and body does not change by going up.

Which leg opening is best?

A wide, soft edge or a laser cut edge with no elastic.