Underwear for sport and long hikes
Short answer: For sport and long hikes, underwear should fit close enough not to chafe, have flat seams and a leg that does not creep up. Choose a size that does not squeeze, and bring a spare pair on long trips.
What underwear has to handle on a hike
On a hike your legs work for hours, and your skin is warmed and dampened by sweat. Your underwear is exposed to rubbing between the thighs and at the waistband. That is why fit matters more than on an ordinary day: the fabric has to stay in place and not twist.
Chafing starts where the fabric moves
Chafing happens when skin rubs against fabric or against itself, especially in warm, humid weather. Underwear with a leg that covers the upper thigh reduces rubbing between the legs. If it fits too loosely, the fabric folds and chafes, so it should sit close but not tight.
Leg and cut for active days
Boxer shorts with a slightly longer leg are a good starting point for long walks, because they cover the spot where the thighs meet. For running and a faster pace some prefer a closer cut that does not flap. Look at our bamboo underpants for men and find the cut that suits your activity.
Seams and waistband
Flat seams and a soft waistband make the difference when you are on the move for many hours. A high, hard seam edge can chafe under a rucksack, where the strap rests on your hip. Check whether the seams lie against the skin, and choose ones you can hardly feel.
Bamboo viscose and moisture
Viscose from bamboo is a soft fabric that feels pleasant on the skin and takes up moisture. That is comfortable on moderate trips, but fabric that stays damp can cause rubbing. On long, sweaty days it helps to change along the way.
Pack a spare pair and change on the way
On trips of several days an extra pair of underwear is worth its weight. A dry pair in the morning and one for after the day's walk give your skin a break. You can rinse the used pair in the evening and hang it up, so it is ready the next day.
Washing after the trip
After sport and hiking, wash your underwear soon so that sweat does not stay in the fabric. Follow the care label, choose a gentle temperature and skip fabric softener, which can make fibres less soft. Then they keep their shape and fit over many trips.
The rest of your clothes as a system
Underwear is the first layer, but it works together with the rest of your clothes. Several pieces of bamboo underwear for men and a bamboo polo for men on top make it easy to adjust through the day when the temperature changes.
Frequently asked questions
Which underwear is best for long hikes?
Choose underwear with a leg that covers the upper thigh, flat seams and a soft waistband. It should fit close without squeezing, so the fabric does not fold or chafe.
How do I avoid chafing on my thighs?
Choose a longer leg and a size that is not too tight. Change into a dry pair if you sweat a lot. If irritation lasts, talk to your doctor.
How many pairs should I take on a trip?
For a trip of several days, two to three pairs are often enough if you can rinse and dry one along the way. Bring an extra pair if the weather is damp and drying takes long.
