Running Without Briefs: Is It Okay? Risks, Benefits, and Best Practices

Is it OK to run without briefs?

Running without briefs, or "going commando," can be acceptable for some individuals depending on their outer garment choice, individual anatomy, and the specific running conditions, but it carries inherent risks related to support, chafing, and hygiene.

Understanding the Role of Undergarments in Running

Undergarments, specifically briefs or athletic underwear, serve several critical functions for runners:

• Support: For male runners, briefs provide essential support for the scrotum and testicles, minimizing movement and reducing the risk of discomfort or injury during high-impact activities. For female runners, appropriate underwear can offer labial support and prevent excessive movement of sensitive tissues.
• Moisture Management: High-performance athletic briefs are typically made from moisture-wicking fabrics (e.g., polyester, nylon blends) that draw sweat away from the skin, promoting evaporation and keeping the area dry. This is crucial for comfort and preventing skin irritation.
• Chafing Prevention: Underwear acts as a barrier, preventing skin-on-skin friction (e.g., inner thighs, groin) and skin-on-outerwear friction. Smooth, seamless designs are particularly effective in reducing abrasive rubbing.

The Case for "Going Commando" While Running (Potential Benefits)

While not universally recommended, some runners choose to forgo traditional briefs, often citing specific perceived advantages:

• Enhanced Breathability: Eliminating an extra layer of fabric can increase airflow to the groin area, potentially reducing heat and humidity build-up, which some find more comfortable, especially in hot conditions.
• Reduced Compression/Restriction: For those who find briefs constricting, running without them can offer a feeling of greater freedom of movement and less compression around the hips and groin.
• Potentially Less Chafing (in specific scenarios): If the outer layer (e.g., running shorts with a smooth, integrated liner) is designed to be worn commando, it can theoretically reduce the number of fabric layers and seams, thereby minimizing potential friction points.
• Simplified Laundry: One less item to wash, though this is a minor consideration.

The Risks and Downsides of Running Without Underwear

Despite potential perceived benefits, running without appropriate undergarments carries significant risks that runners should be aware of:

• Increased Chafing Risk: This is the most common and significant downside. Without a protective layer, the sensitive skin of the inner thighs, groin, and genitals can rub directly against itself or against the seams and fabric of the outer shorts. This friction, exacerbated by sweat and repetitive motion, can lead to severe chafing, skin irritation, rashes, and even open sores.
• Lack of Support: For male runners, the absence of support can lead to excessive testicular movement, causing discomfort, pain, and in rare cases, increasing the risk of conditions like testicular torsion. For female runners, lack of support can result in labial irritation and discomfort.
• Hygiene Concerns: Without an absorbent barrier, sweat and bacteria from the groin area can directly saturate the outer garment. If the outer garment is not washed immediately and thoroughly after each run, this can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, leading to skin infections, folliculitis, or fungal issues like jock itch.
• Outerwear Fabric Becomes Critical: If running commando, the outer shorts must have an integrated, high-quality, seamless, moisture-wicking liner designed for direct skin contact. Standard shorts without such a liner are ill-suited for this purpose and will almost certainly cause chafing and discomfort.

Who Might Consider It (And When)?

Running without briefs is primarily considered by individuals who:

• Utilize Shorts with Built-in Liners: Many high-quality running shorts come with an integrated brief or compression short liner specifically designed to be worn without additional underwear. These liners are typically seamless, moisture-wicking, and provide adequate support.
• Prioritize Maximum Airflow: In very hot and humid conditions, some runners prioritize the feeling of maximum ventilation, provided their outer layer is suitable.
• Engage in Shorter, Lower-Intensity Runs: The risks of chafing and discomfort generally increase with duration and intensity. For very short, low-impact runs, the risks might be less pronounced, though still present.

Key Considerations for Optimal Comfort and Health

If you are considering running without traditional briefs, or if you prefer shorts with built-in liners, keep the following in mind:

• Outerwear Fabric and Fit are Paramount: Your outer running shorts must be made of high-quality, moisture-wicking, breathable fabric. If they have a built-in liner, ensure it is smooth, seamless, and fits comfortably without bunching or restricting movement. The liner should provide adequate support.
• Prioritize Hygiene: Always wash your running shorts (especially those with liners) immediately after each use. Do not re-wear sweaty gear, as this significantly increases the risk of skin infections and odor.
• Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to any signs of discomfort, rubbing, or irritation during and after your run. If you experience chafing, pain, or skin issues, running commando is likely not suitable for you.
• Trial and Error: If unsure, experiment on shorter, less intense runs first to gauge your comfort and susceptibility to chafing before committing to longer distances or races.
• Environmental Factors: Hot, humid conditions increase sweat production and friction, making chafing more likely. Consider your environment when making your choice.

The Verdict: Informed Choice for Runners

Ultimately, whether it's "OK" to run without briefs is not a simple yes or no answer. It depends heavily on the type of running shorts you wear, your individual physiological responses, and your tolerance for potential risks.

For most runners, especially those engaging in longer distances or higher intensities, wearing a dedicated pair of moisture-wicking, supportive, and anti-chafing athletic briefs, or high-quality running shorts with an integrated liner designed for this purpose, remains the most prudent choice for comfort, support, and hygiene. An informed decision, grounded in understanding the biomechanics of movement and the properties of athletic fabrics, is key to optimizing your running experience.