Wear in the crotch of trousers
Short answer: Wear in the crotch happens where the thighs rub against each other. It is fastest in close fitting trousers and thin fabrics, but a layer underneath and a few habits can extend their life.
Friction between the thighs
With every step, the fabric on the inner thighs rubs against itself. The closer the trousers fit, the more pressure there is and the faster it thins. It happens gradually, so people often notice only when the fabric turns see through or gets a small hole.
A layer underneath
Inner shorts or underwear with longer legs place a layer between your thighs and your trousers. The layer underneath takes the friction instead, and the outer fabric wears less. It also feels more comfortable on warm days. See the soft styles in bamboo inner shorts.
For men
For men, underwear with longer legs is the simplest solution. The legs cover the area where the thighs meet and stay in place as you walk. Choose a size that fits close without squeezing, so the legs do not ride up. See the longer styles in bamboo underwear for men.
Rotate several pairs
If you wear the same trousers every day, they wear out twice as fast as two pairs you rotate. The fabric also gets time to rest and recover its shape between wears. If you have a pair you really like, consider buying two of the same so each lasts longer.
Repairs
Once the fabric has thinned, a hole usually follows soon. It can be sewn or patched from the inside, but it rarely lasts, because the surrounding fabric is worn too. A repair can still give the trousers some extra time for home use. Sew on the inside.
See the range
Soft trousers for lounging wear the same way as any other trousers. Choose a style with a little room over the thighs if you want them to last longer. See the soft styles in bamboo sweatpants for women, where there are several fits to choose from.
Washing
Wash the trousers inside out so the outside takes the least wear in the machine. Use a gentle programme and skip the tumble dryer, which makes the fibres more fragile. Hang them to dry so they keep their shape. See the washing guide for the rest.
Which trousers wear fastest
Thin jersey trousers and close fitting styles wear fastest, because the fabric is light and the pressure is high. Looser trousers in a heavier quality last longer, since there is more fabric and less rubbing. See the heavier qualities in sweatwear if durability matters most.
Signs of wear
Check the inside of the crotch now and then. If the fabric looks shiny, thin or slightly see through, wear is on its way. If you spot it early, you can add a layer underneath and give the trousers a longer life before a hole appears.
When they are worn out
Once there is a hole and the surrounding fabric is thin, the trousers are no longer fit to wear outside. They can still work at home, for gardening or as sleep trousers. When you buy new ones, think about fit and quality so the next pair lasts longer.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the crotch wear first?
Because the thighs rub the fabric against itself with every step. That is where the friction on the trousers is greatest, so the fabric thins there first.
Can it be prevented?
A layer underneath, such as inner shorts or underwear with longer legs, reduces friction. Rotating several pairs and choosing a looser fit over the thighs also helps.
Can a hole in the crotch be repaired?
It can be sewn or patched from the inside, but it rarely lasts, because the fabric around it is worn too. For home use, a repair can still buy some extra time.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
