Running Undergarments: Options, Benefits, and Care for Men

What Do Guys Wear Under Running Shorts?

For optimal comfort, support, and hygiene during runs, most guys wear either the built-in liner that comes with running shorts, dedicated athletic compression shorts, or specialized athletic briefs/jockstraps. The choice depends on individual preferences, desired support, and the specific demands of the run.

The Purpose of Undergarments in Running

The selection of appropriate undergarments for running is not merely a matter of personal preference; it's a critical component of exercise physiology and personal comfort. Proper undergarments address several key issues inherent to dynamic, repetitive movements like running.

• Chafing Prevention: Friction is a primary enemy of the runner. Skin-on-skin contact (e.g., inner thighs) or skin-on-fabric friction can lead to painful chafing, blisters, and skin irritation. Undergarments create a protective barrier.
• Support and Stability: The repetitive impact and movement during running can cause discomfort or even injury without adequate support for the male anatomy. Proper undergarments provide essential containment and reduce excessive movement.
• Moisture Management: Running generates significant sweat. Effective undergarments are designed to wick moisture away from the skin, preventing saturation, reducing friction, and maintaining a more comfortable microclimate. This also helps regulate body temperature.
• Hygiene: By managing sweat and providing a barrier, appropriate undergarments contribute to better personal hygiene during and after runs, potentially reducing the risk of bacterial or fungal growth in warm, moist environments.
• Comfort: Ultimately, the right undergarment enhances the overall running experience by minimizing distractions, discomfort, and the need to adjust clothing mid-run.

Common Undergarment Options

Runners have a variety of choices when it comes to what to wear under their shorts, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.

• Built-in Liners:
  • Description: Many running shorts come equipped with an integrated liner, typically made of a mesh or moisture-wicking fabric. These can be brief-style (like a traditional brief) or boxer-brief style (extending further down the thigh).
  • Pros: Convenience, seamless integration with the shorts, often lightweight and breathable, designed specifically for running.
  • Cons: The level of support can vary significantly, the fit may not be ideal for all body types, and they may not offer sufficient thigh chafing protection for longer runs or certain anatomies.
• Compression Shorts / Spats:
  • Description: These are snug-fitting shorts, usually mid-thigh to knee-length, made from a blend of synthetic fabrics (e.g., polyester, spandex) that provide mild to moderate compression.
  • Pros: Excellent support and containment, superior chafing prevention for the inner thighs, effective moisture-wicking, and potential benefits in reducing muscle oscillation (vibration) during impact, which some athletes believe aids in recovery or reduces fatigue.
  • Cons: Can feel restrictive for some, may be warmer in hot weather, and generally have a higher cost than other options.
• Athletic Briefs / Jockstraps:
  • Description: Athletic briefs are designed with moisture-wicking fabrics and a supportive pouch, similar to traditional briefs but optimized for sport. Jockstraps offer minimal fabric coverage with a supportive pouch and waist/leg straps.
  • Pros: Provide focused support for the male anatomy, allow for maximum ventilation due to minimal fabric, and are very effective at preventing specific types of chafing in the groin area.
  • Cons: Athletic briefs may not prevent inner thigh chafing, and jockstraps, while providing excellent support, are not preferred by all due to their unique design and lack of full coverage.
• Regular Underwear (Cotton Briefs / Boxers):
  • Description: Everyday cotton underwear.
  • Pros: Readily available.
  • Cons: Strongly discouraged for running. Cotton absorbs moisture and holds it against the skin, leading to rapid saturation, increased friction, chafing, and a clammy, uncomfortable feeling. It also offers little to no support.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

The ideal undergarment choice is highly individual and can depend on several variables.

• Distance and Intensity: For short, casual runs, a built-in liner might suffice. For long distances or high-intensity workouts, greater support and comprehensive chafing prevention (e.g., compression shorts) become more critical.
• Weather Conditions: In hot, humid conditions, lighter, more breathable options like built-in mesh liners or athletic briefs that maximize airflow are preferred. In cooler weather, compression shorts can offer an extra layer of warmth.
• Personal Comfort and Preference: This is paramount. Some runners prefer a feeling of maximum support and compression, while others prioritize minimal restriction. Experimentation is key.
• Support Needs: Individuals requiring more substantial support for their anatomy will benefit from compression shorts or athletic briefs/jockstraps specifically designed for this purpose.
• Chafing History: If you're prone to chafing on your inner thighs or groin, compression shorts or boxer-brief style liners offer the most protection by creating a continuous barrier.
• Fabric Technology: Always prioritize synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex blends. These materials are engineered for:
  • Moisture-wicking: Moving sweat away from the skin to the fabric's surface for evaporation.
  • Breathability: Allowing air circulation to keep you cool.
  • Stretch and recovery: Providing freedom of movement without losing shape.

Dispelling Common Misconceptions

There are a few myths about running undergarments that need to be addressed.

• "Going Commando" (No Underwear):
  • Pros: Maximum ventilation.
  • Cons: High risk of chafing, especially on the inner thighs and groin, lack of support for the male anatomy, and potential hygiene concerns (sweat and bacteria directly on the shorts and skin). While some runners with specific shorts (e.g., very loose split shorts) might try this for short distances, it's generally not recommended for optimal comfort or skin health.
• "Cotton is Fine": As mentioned, cotton is detrimental for running. Its absorbent nature guarantees a wet, heavy, and friction-prone environment, leading to discomfort and skin irritation. Always opt for moisture-wicking synthetics.

Best Practices for Undergarment Care

Proper care extends the life of your athletic wear and maintains its performance properties.

• Wash Immediately: Rinse or wash your running undergarments soon after use to prevent sweat and bacteria from setting in and degrading the fabric.
• Cold Water Wash: Use cold water and a gentle cycle to protect the elastic fibers and moisture-wicking properties.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can clog the pores of technical fabrics, reducing their ability to wick moisture.
• Air Dry or Low Heat: High heat from dryers can damage elastic and synthetic fibers. Air drying is ideal, or use the lowest heat setting if machine drying.
• Replace When Worn: Compression shorts or liners that have lost their elasticity, show signs of thinning, or no longer provide adequate support should be replaced.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Comfort and Performance

The right undergarment choice is a cornerstone of comfortable, high-performance running. By understanding the functional benefits of different options – from integrated liners to full compression shorts – and considering factors like run distance, weather, and personal needs, male runners can make informed decisions. Prioritizing moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics and ensuring adequate support and chafing protection will significantly enhance your running experience, allowing you to focus on your stride and enjoy the miles. Don't be afraid to experiment to find what works best for your body and your running style.