Moisture wicking underwear in practice

Short answer: Moisture wicking means that the moisture is moved away from the skin and out into the fabric, where it can evaporate. That is the property that decides whether the underwear feels clammy.

What happens

The fibre takes the moisture up from the skin and passes it on. The skin is kept dry even when the fabric is not.

Cotton does not do it

Cotton soaks up and lies there wet. That is why it turns cold when you stand still.

Synthetics do it differently

Polyester moves the water on the surface rather than in the fibre. That dries fast but smells sooner.

Where it matters most

In underwear, socks and base layers, which lie directly against the skin. See bamboo underwear for men.

For women

See the corresponding items in bamboo underwear for women.

Washing

Fabric softener leaves a film and reduces exactly this property. See the washing guide.

See also

More on the subject in moisture transport.

How many sets it takes

If the underwear is to be changed daily and you wash once a week, seven sets are needed. With fewer, you wash midweek, and the pieces wear out faster. See bamboo underwear for women.

Frequently asked questions

What does moisture wicking mean?

That the moisture is moved away from the skin and out into the fabric, where it can evaporate.

Why is cotton worse?

Because it soaks up and lies there wet against the skin.

Does fabric softener ruin the effect?

Yes. It leaves a film that reduces the moisture transport.