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Our women's travel underwear experts researched 50+ of the best options available today and bought 17 of the finest to test side-by-side. We've used these skivvies all over the west, from Yosemite Valley, California, to Indian Creek, Utah. We explored, hiked, climbed, trekked, went to the gym, and wore them while on planes, trains, and automobiles. A good pair of travel underpants fit well, are so comfortable they go unnoticed throughout the day and are easy to wash by hand. We evaluated each pair comparatively, paying close attention to their fabric and construction. If you're seeking a reliable pair of travel underwear to keep you comfortable, clean, and protected on any adventure, our hands-on review will help you find them.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on November 27, 2024, to highlight new award-winning skivvies from Wooly, Icebreaker, ExOfficio, Patagonia, and others, as well as to update photos and videos for top performers.
More affordable than other Merino wool hipsters, great full coverage fit, no tag, minimalist seams, lightweight construction, breathable fabric, dry quickly
Flattering fit, functional waistband, flatlock seams, quality construction, fast drying, comfortable next to skin, no odor retention
Very comfortable, highly breathable, great waistband for structure, flatlock seams for great durability and reduced chafing, no odor detected, fast drying speed
Soft, affordable, great coverage, no odor, no itch, breathes well
Delicate and minimalist design is comfortable next to the skin, highly breathable, no odor retention, no durability issues
Synthetic fabric breathes well and dries quickly, cute patterns, flatlock seams reduce chafing, durable, affordable
Best waistband, Merino fabric dries quickly, holds shape even when wet, odor free, high quality design
More affordable hipster, flatlock seams, very comfortable next to skin, cute cut and design, no odor
Minimalist waistband, the fabric dries quickly and doesn't retain odor, all-day comfort, high-quality design
Quick drying, minimal seams
More affordable full coverage Merino option, thick and functional waistband, soft next to skin, wool breathes well and resists odor build-up
Relatively affordable by comparison to other Merino thongs, great waistband, soft next to skin, no durability issues, no odor retention
Most affordable Merino bikini, no odor
Highly affordable, great fit, comfortable, breathable
Incredibly affordable, fit is true to size, great breathability, tagless ultralight comfort
Inexpensive, minimal seams, fabric is soft next to skin
Super affordable, fun colors, soft next to skin, breathable, lightweight construction
Cons
Low rise lacks structure
Fabric not compatible with pads, runs slightly large
Expensive, giant tags must be removed, sizing runs slightly small
Minimal waistband, fabric loses shape when wet
Expensive, giant tags must be removed for comfort, lack of waistband limits structure
Holds odor, updated fit runs small, loses structure when wet
Expensive, longer dry time
Fabric loses structure with daily wear, fit runs big
Pricey, fit runs small
Updated fit is smaller, fabric retains odor, seamless design needs structure
Longer drying time, design prone to rolling at leg opening, more of a boxer brief than boyshorts design
Merino wool stretches out, thicker fabric prone to retaining moisture
Fit runs big, thicker waistband doesn't breathe very well, uncomfortable seams
Design lacks lasting quality, prone to retaining odor
Prone to chafing due to tight leg opening, nylon construction results in odor retention, lacks the durability of other top performers
No structure, constant adjustments needed, synthetic fabric holds odor
Loses shape with everyday wear, questionable durability, fit is off
Bottom Line
A favorite hipster brief among our testing team due to the super comfortable, minimally structured Merino wool construction that ensures breathability and an easy fit
The perfect synthetic undergarment for those planning to backpack or travel and require minimal weight in addition to comfy fit that will hold its shape over multiple days of use
One of the best of all designs we tested, with a super lightweight Merino wool construction that sits super comfy next to the skin and offers excellent breathability and durability if you like a thong cut
A more affordable choice for those who want soft, full-coverage boyshorts that effectively release moisture and odor during activity
An ultralight, minimalist design made primarily of Merino wool, this super comfortable thong dries quickly while leaving no room to trap the sweat generated during activity
Light and stretchy with a thin, quick-drying synthetic construction in cute patterns but, unfortunately also holds onto odor and stretches over time
A high quality, full coverage design featuring our favorite waistband along with a lighter, quick drying material that feels comfortable next to skin and retains no detectable odor
The super soft viscose construction, flatlock seams, and flattering fit made these a hit among our testing team for everyday use
A well-made bikini brief featuring soft and stretchy Corespun Merino and nylon fabric that dries quickly, making it a great pick for hot and humid conditions as long as you plan to size up due to the slim fit
Constructed from 91% nylon and 9% spandex, these synthetic hipsters are lacking in structure, coverage, and odor protection
While these boyshorts are more affordable than other Merino wool options, the fit isn't our favorite, and the thicker waistband requires a longer drying time
A structured thong highlighting softness, a functional and thick waistband, and a true-to-size fit but with a thicker waistband and extra lining that holds more moisture than more minimalist designs
This lightweight, full-coverage bikini is constructed from a combination of Merino wool and nylon, with a thicker waistband that offers structure but also retains moisture
Well-priced with a seamless fit, this multi-pack is made out of a relatively quick-drying, breathable material but is also prone to odor retention and has a dubious construction
These affordable bikini briefs sit comfortably against the skin with a true-to-size fit but are prone to stretching with everyday use, and a thick seam at the leg opening can produce chafing during activity
These soft, lightweight, and inexpensive hipsters leave a bit to be desired, such as a waistband to provide structure and prevent constant adjustment
Boyshorts that offer a lightweight, breathable, seamless construction and feel great next to your skin, even if the fit is a bit off, and we preferred other options for everyday wear
Lightweight construction and minimalist seams for extra comfort
REASONS TO AVOID
Low rise lacks structure
SPECIFICATIONS
Material
95% 17.5-micron Merino wool, 5% elastane
Measured Weight
0.96 oz
Air Dry Time
40 min
Flat-lock Seams
Yes
Dryer Safe
Yes
The Woolly Hipster Brief was a high performer in nearly every metric and quickly became an everyday go-to for our testing team. These primarily Merino wool undies include 5% elastane in their lightweight and minimalist design, as well as 17.5-micron wool for extra softness next to the skin. While the fit was perfect for our lead tester, we would recommend sizing up if you find yourself on the cusp, as the fit is slim, and the cut features a lower rise. These hipsters offer a great full-coverage fit without thick seams that create panty lines.
Some might consider the Woolly Hipster Brief a little spendy. However, for a primarily Merino wool construction, the price tag is smaller than most other wool options that we tested. The Ridge Merino Boy Shorts, Icebreaker Sprite Hot Pant, Icebreaker Siren Bikini, and Smartwool Merino Bikini are all pricier — a difference of a few dollars up to nearly 1.5x more — just to name a few. We also didn't experience any durability issues during our testing period, making it easy for us to highlight the quality of these briefs. Our testers appreciate the naturally odor-resistant quality of Merino wool and never noticed these undies taking on any body odor aromas, even after significant use between washes. If the price of Merino wool gives you sticker shock, check out our favorite affordable undies, the Balanced Tech Moisture Wicking Brief Bikini 3-pack. While these synthetic undies don't really compare in terms of overall performance to a high-performing Merino pair, they do offer a great fit and breathe well during activity.
The Wooly Hipster Brief packs small and dries quickly, especially considering it's Merino wool design.
ExOfficio is a brand synonymous with outdoor travel, and the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief is a terrific choice for your next extended trip. Although these synthetic bottoms are rather expensive, the design hits all the marks: they are incredibly breathable and quick-drying, and the lightweight fabric feels good on the skin. After months spent testing these undies day in and day out, we are confident in the odor-resistant performance and the durability and comfort of the flatlock seams. If you prefer a hipster cut, Patagonia's Active Hipster Brief falls just a few points behind the Exofficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh overall and has many similar attributes and a similar cost. ExOfficio's Everyday Hipster delivers an even slightly more comfortable fit, but the viscose jersey fabric is notably less breathable and will take longer to dry than either.
Did we mention the full coverage and flattering bikini brief fit of the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh undies? Well, just be sure you try them on to make sure the sizing is right for you. While our lead tester had success with her usual size, we found the sizing runs noticeably bigger than other models that were tested for this review. That said when you nail the correct size, the flattering fit features a thicker elastic waistband and mid-rise cut that stays in place whether you're swimming in a high alpine lake or pushing your pace on the trail. Caveats aside, our testers regularly found themselves reaching for this pair of quick-drying bottoms when it came to alpine objectives during the heat of summer. Not interested in synthetic? Check out our favorite Merino wool briefs, the Woolly Hipster Brief. These top-scoring bottoms feature a low rise and a lightweight material that's perfect for everyday wear.
Two Exofficio Collections with Many Similarities
In addition to the ultralight Give-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Collection, which touts supreme ventilation and easy care, Exofficio also produces the Give-Go 2.0 Classic line, with a range of cuts that are nearly just as breathable, impressively versatile, and highly durable as the Sport Mesh version. To compare, we ran the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief through testing against the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief and found it to be a comfortable fit built of similarly silky and porous materials with scores coming in only minimally less than what the Sport Mesh version delivered in most metrics. The classic model also required only an extra 5 minutes to dry on the line. So, while ExOfficio's Sport Mesh Bikini Brief has undoubtedly earned its top position in our lineup overall, our testers noted that the classic 2.0 Bikini Brief model would also be a great companion for extended trips into the backcountry or while traveling abroad.
The Give-n-Go brief offered a silky smooth fabric with a full coverage fit that dried quickly both on body and in ambient air.
The Balanced Tech Moisture Wicking Brief Bikini 3-pack is the perfect choice for those seeking performance on a budget. These briefs feature a synthetic construction comprised of nylon and elastane that supplies a stretchy fit and a minimalist waistband that remains functional without feeling restrictive. The design is tagless, and the material feels very lightweight next to your skin. Our testers found the fit true to size and the cut to be more high-waisted than other options that we tested. For the price per pair, we have yet to see another bikini option that delivers equally well. But, if you are open to a thong cut, the Grankee Breathable Seamless Thong 6-Pack delivers a similar total score, with slightly less breathability but better odor control and a faster line-dry time.
Now, we have a few complaints about these affordable undies. First of all, the leg opening on the Balanced Tech Moisture Wicking Brief Bikini felt a little tight and caused some chafing during longer days of activity. We also couldn't help but notice that the design wasn't as durable as other synthetic top performers due to some issues with the seams and some degree of odor retention within the nylon construction. That being said, this is a highly affordable 3-pack that provides comfortable and breathable synthetic options for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday wear. If you're interested in packing a top-performing synthetic option built of better quality within a comfortable and breathable full-coverage design, check out our favorite synthetic brief, the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief.
Our testers love the stretchy high-waisted fit of the Balanced Tech Moisture Wicking Brief Bikini 3-pack, supplying a high value and quick drying design for everyday use.
For those of you who prefer to wear as little as possible, the Icebreaker Siren Thong is an excellent option to consider. Our testers settled on this design as their favorite over the three others that we tested, thanks to the soft and cozy Merino wool, the functional yet discreet waistband, and the flatlock seams for additional comfort and durability. This thong is really the best of all worlds. The wool doesn't retain body odor, is lightweight and super breathable, and feels like you're wearing nothing at all. For a pair that is equally lightweight and high-quality but cut to offer more coverage, the Woolly Hipster Brief is the way to go. Both high Merino-blend options sit at the top of the pack when it comes to total scores, meriting praise no matter which style you prefer.
There are no two ways about it. The Icebreaker Siren Thong undies are expensive, especially considering the lack of material that you are actually purchasing. That being said, we have tested several iterations of the Siren line and have found each to hold up to several years of abuse, often failing due to thinning wool rather than unraveling seams. We also recommend sizing up if you find yourself on the cusp of sizes. We noticed that Icebreaker updated its sizing, reducing the measurements of the Small even more than we'd experienced during previous testing periods. This was particularly noticeable on the Icebreaker Siren Bikini versus the thong, but worth calling attention to. We also highly recommend removing the giant tags after purchase to ensure seamless comfort next to the skin. If you're after an even lighter-weight Merino wool thong, check out the Smartwool Everyday Merino Thong, which has a minimalist design featuring thin, flatlock seams and a non-existent waistband.
The Icebreaker Siren Thong strikes the balance between structure and comfort, supplying a brushed elastic waistband and a slim fit for limited panty lines, especially when wearing tights.
The Patagonia Active Hipster Brief is a great option for those seeking synthetic performance within a full-coverage design. Our testers love the recycled nylon construction that offers a bit of spandex for a stretchy fit that allows a full range of motion during big outdoor objectives. Whether we were spending our days testing these undies while climbing big walls in Yosemite Valley or swimming in the Merced River, their breathability was noticeable. So was their fast drying speed, especially considering the full coverage design. These hipsters are more affordable than other options we tested and supply a higher-quality build that will last for many adventures to come.
These hipsters do have a few downsides. The waistband on Patagonia's Active Hipster Brief is more minimal than other options in the lineup and is prone to stretching out with significant daily use or while swimming in fast-moving water during spring runoff. We also had to return our original size due to a smaller fit than we're used to. So, if you find yourself in between sizes, consider sizing up. And just like most synthetic layers from Patagonia, these undies do start to smell over time. That being said, if you're after a responsibly-made, high-performing synthetic hipster, this one is a favorite of our testing team. If you'd prefer a hipster that prioritizes comfort over a fast-drying, breathable design for everyday use, check out the ExOfficio Everyday Hipster. This was our favorite option for less active days due to the all-around cozy softness of its viscose material, which feels luxurious against the skin.
After exchanging these undies for a bigger size, our testers found the Patagonia Active Hipster to be the overall favorite when it came to synthetic performance of this specific cut.
Our testers were excited to include the more sustainable ExOfficio Everyday Hipster in our latest update. The viscose-heavy jersey construction is more durable than those made of other primarily plant residue materials out there. It also supplies a soft and cozy fit that makes these hipsters stand apart from the competition, no matter the material. Although the sizing runs big, the full coverage fit is super cute and flattering on various body shapes. The high-quality design features flat lock seams for additional comfort and lasting everyday use.
Though the ExOfficio Everyday Hipster is not our top synthetic choice when it comes to performance in breathability and drying speed (if these qualities are a priority, take a look at the Patagonia Active Hipster Brief), these cozy bottoms are perfect for everyday use when you're not working up a sweat. That said, we noticed the material began to stretch after significant wear, even if a quick wash in the machine seemed to restore the structure to the original shape easily. If you're interested in a hipster that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing breathability, check out our favorite Merino wool option, the Woolly Hipster Brief. Or, for exceptional performance in a bikini brief cut, you can't go wrong with the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh or the classic cut from the same Give-N-Go 2.0 line.
The ExOfficio Everyday Hipster features a super cozy viscose construction and a flattering high-waisted fit that's perfect for those seeking more full coverage and everyday use.
Credit: Trish Matheny
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Our testing team traveled far and wide to put these undies to the test, carefully evaluating each pair so that we could report back with helpful considerations.
Credit: Trish Matheny
How We Test Travel Underwear for Women
For this review, we assembled a team of the most well-traveled, adventurous staffers and sent them all over the globe to put these undies to the test. We began this review by spending hours researching the most popular, best-selling women's travel underwear models out there. We then compared specs, investigated new products on the market, and eventually chose a lineup of undergarments for rigorous hands-on testing. Our testers wore each pair nonstop for a week (with washes in between!) to see what each could handle. Our team has run, climbed, swum, slept, and traveled to get to know even the smallest details. We've noted their comfort, assessed their breathability on our runs, conducted a smell test after getting sweaty, examined the construction for signs of wear, and set them all out to air dry. After a few months of travel, we are confident we've found the best products available and offer this comparative assessment to make your shopping experience as easy as possible.
Our women's travel underwear testing is divided across five rating metrics:
Comfort and Fit (35% of total score weighting)
Breathability (20% weighting)
Odor Control (20% weighting)
Durability (15% weighting)
Drying Time (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Back in Oklahoma, lead tester Trish Matheny caught the attention of her co-workers when she was preparing for her first extended backpacking trip out west by researching a single pair of Merino underwear to accompany her. For this review, they might be shocked at how her knowledge has grown now that she's investigated such a wide range of options out there. For recent hands-on testing, she took a whole pile of undies on multiple trail runs throughout the Tetons and the High Sierra, up vertical rock walls in Zion, Red Rock, Tuolumne Meadows, and into a very hot and humid Yosemite Valley. Needless to say, she knows a thing or twelve about selecting the right travel underwear for the job.
The Patagonian wind struggle is real. We swapped in and out of undies frequently to compare products back to back in the same conditions.
From the Wind River Mountains in Wyoming to the High Sierra to Yosemite Valley, our testers took these undies far and wide to decipher the top performers in every metric.
Analysis and Test Results
We determined five crucial metrics to judge each pair of travel underwear throughout our many weeks of testing. We'll describe each metric below, including what we did to measure each category to reach objective conclusions. Because undies come in diverse styles and options suitable to all preferences and needs, you may find that certain metrics are more important to you personally than what we gave them credit for. As you read each description below, note anything that sounds particularly important to you so that you can look for the products with the highest scores in that area.
What's the Best Value?
The products in our review vary quite a bit in price, and we understand that even the most inexpensive undergarments may not be in the budget for some. We consider value to be the intersection of price and performance. Sometimes, a product performs to such a high degree we can justify the higher price. Other times, a product at the lower end of the price spectrum works just fine.
In so many outdoor categories, higher prices allow for more luxurious materials and better construction, and this review is no different. We are confident that you will be satisfied with your investment if you choose to dish out for one of our testing team's overall favorites, the Woolly Hipster Brief or the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief. While both options are more expensive than some of their competitors, they provide knockout performances in all of our testing metrics. For a more affordable price tag, the Balanced Tech Bikini is a comfortable option with adequate breathability. As one of the most affordable garments we tested, the multi-pack is a great buy for shoppers on a tighter budget who are willing to sacrifice a little performance to keep costs down. You can find even lower-cost options, like the RUXIA Women's Boyshort 5-Pack, but their general performance just doesn't compare.
Of all the bargain undies that we tested, our team thought the Balanced Tech Moisture Wicking Brief Bikini 3-pack held the most value and made a great option for those seeking travel or everyday synthetic performance.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Comfort and Fit
If you've spent multiple days in the same pair of underwear or explored the trails in a hot and humid locale, you know that comfort and fit are two of the most important factors when it comes to underwear performance. Because underwear makes such a high level of skin contact and sits at the base of everything layered over the top, comfort is paramount. Fit is also a huge consideration, as it doesn't really matter how comfortable the material is if the fit is completely distracting. To properly evaluate this, we looked less at the materials and more at the cut and seams of each design. While we generally chose bikini briefs or hipster models, many of these products have sister models in other shapes and cuts. In cases when a thong or boy short model stood out as particularly popular, we also included these options for comparative testing to be sure we could provide a well-rounded assessment of the range of options available.
The first thing we noticed and evaluated about each pair of undies was the softness of the material. This may seem like a no-brainer, but after trying multiple pairs, we realized that there's a wide range of material textures, and each product has its own unique feel. In general, we prefer the silky, thinner models to the more textured, thicker ones, as the thickness of the fabric contributes significantly to its breathability. Another significant factor for comfort is the tag. Most travel undies come with an obnoxious tag that provides the size, country of origin, etc. Removing this tag will greatly improve overall comfort and reduce itch.
The tag of the Icebreaker Siren Thong is almost as big as the undergarment itself, therefore, we highly recommend carefully removing the tag for maximum comfort next to skin.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Of the Merino wool options, our testers loved the Woolly Hipster Brief as well as the options from Icebreaker, namely the Siren Thong and Siren Bikini, as well as the Ridge Merino Boy Shorts. The Woolly option is constructed from 95% 17.5-micron Merino wool along with 5% elastane to provide a little stretch and movement within the fabric. These hipsters are soft and thin while featuring a low-profile waistband. Both Siren options also feature a very thin 94% Merino wool construction combined with 12% Nylon and 5% Elastane or Lycra combined with a minimalist yet functional waistband. The Ridge boy shorts are just the layer for lounging around the house, thanks to their softness as well as their no-flip waistband that keeps them in place without feeling restrictive. And while our testing team prefers the no-flip waistband of the Ridge boy short a bit more, the Siren is right up there in performance and comfort with its modest, brushed elastic and reinforced flatlock seams. Perhaps the greatest compliment here is that once we were dressed and headed out the door in any of these pairs, we never thought about them again throughout the entire day -- exactly what you want from your undies.
The Ridge Merino Boy Shorts supply a full coverage fit that is perfect for those days out skiing in the spring when you don't quite need long underwear but prefer the softest of wool between you and your ski bibs.
Credit: Trish Matheny
The Icebreaker Sprite Hot Pant was a close runner-up when considering the full coverage and boy short options. It fits like a glove, with a solid elastic waistband that is bigger, thicker, and more substantial than most other models we tested. We consider it closer to the style of men's underwear, with great coverage and a snug fit that hugs curves. Like the Siren Bikini, it features a blend of Merino wool, nylon, and elastane that allows for some stretch without losing structure. We also love the offset seams that run diagonally across the front, which helped to increase comfort by managing any areas where the material is prone to chafing. And if you're after a barely-there kind of undergarment, the Smartwool Everyday Merino Thong supplies comfort and softness next to the skin with a delicate and lightweight Merino wool and lyocell fabric construction in addition to a soft elastic waistband. Of all the thongs that we tested, the Smartwool Everyday model was the most featherweight. Yet our favorite, above all others in testing, was the Icebreaker Siren Thong, which weighs 0.5 ounces more but is slightly stronger in design and better at managing odor.
The offset seams and thicker waistband made the Icebreaker Sprite Hot Pant one of our favorites for a full coverage option.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Among synthetic undies in our lineup, our overall favorites were the ExOfficio Everyday Hipster and the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief. The Everyday Hipster really stood out from other options due to the remarkable softness of the semi-synthetic viscose jersey they are made of. When combined with a flattering full coverage cut, a minimalist waistband, and thoughtful seams, these undies are hard to beat. The Give-N-Go 2.0 features a porous fabric that's constructed from 90% Nylon and 10% Elastane. The brushed elastic waistband also kept these undies in place without causing any pinching or chafing under our backpacks. They were definitely our go-to for extended travel in the mountains because they provided all-day comfort when moving through cold mornings and hot afternoons.
Although travel undies can be quite expensive, we recommend purchasing a pair or two that you can rotate during your travels. This will give you the option to wash and dry one pair on your backpack while you wear the backup to your next destination.
Credit: Trish Matheny
It is worth mentioning that while evaluating comfort and fit, we dealt with an unfortunately high number of wedgies and learned quickly that this was an instant dealbreaker. We don't know why all wedgies happen, but there is a strong correlation between the fit of the leg openings and the likelihood this will happen. The Patagonia Active Hipster Brief and Patagonia Barely Hipster, for example, have tighter leg openings that do a great job of keeping the garment in place. On the other hand, the Under Armour Pure Stretch Hipster features very loose leg openings that frustratingly cause wedges often and require constant adjustments.
Although our testing team found the sizing to run small, we love the feel of the stretchy and seamless synthetic fabric next to our skin.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Finally, while most of the undies that we tested felt true to size, there were a few standouts in terms of overall sizing, as well as one pair that we had to exchange for a larger size. Our lead tester typically wears a Small US women's size, yet she felt the need to go up in size for the Patagonia Active Hipster specifically. While the seamless waistband wasn't an issue, she simply preferred the full coverage fit of the larger size. On the flip side, she found all the ExOfficio options to run large, even if not enough to compel her to return them for a smaller size. Similarly, while the updated sizing on the Icebreaker Siren series felt smaller than previous iterations, there wasn't a need to exchange for a larger size. That being said, if you find yourself on the cusp of sizes, you may consider sizing up in Patagonia and Icebreaker and sizing down on ExOfficio.
Just remember that sizing can vary from brand to brand; the ExOfficio Give n Go Sport and the Icebreaker Siren are both considered size small, however, the Patagonia Active Hipster in the middle had to be exchanged for a size medium.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Breathability
To properly assess the breathability of each garment, we got sweaty by creating an objective test: a one-hour trail run on the same trail in similar temperatures and humidity readings. Our testing grounds were in and around Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows in California. This terrain pushed us to break a sweat (and run away from the gnats) on the uphill before assessing the dryness of the underwear as we picked up speed on the downhill. Even though some garments feature ultralight material, the waistband and inner thigh tend to collect the most sweat.
When it comes to breathability, we couldn't help but notice that the Merino wool options retained more sweat and moisture than their synthetic counterparts. On the flip side, the synthetic options proved less comfortable when soaked in sweat from intense outdoor activity in humid climates. All that being said, if you are after the most breathable option, our testing team would recommend the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief, which features a thin waistband (that wasn't as prone to holding onto sweat) and a porous synthetic mesh construction that not only increased breathability but supplied a faster drying speed against the body.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Although Merino wool doesn't breathe quite as well as synthetics such as nylon or elastane, our testing team prefers the softness and odor control provided by wool and, therefore, would recommend the Woolly Hipster Brief as the overall top choice for any adventure. These hipsters are built of a thin and lightweight fabric along with a minimal waistband that releases sweat more quickly than other undies with substantial waistbands. Once we realized the thinner 17.5-micron Merino material had become completely dry on the downhill portion of our test run, we noted this garment as one of our highest performers.
When you're dumb enough to climb the Rostrum when Yosemite Valley is forecasted to be in the 90s, you'd better bring some breathable undies like the Wooly Hipster to wick sweat while up against hot and humid conditions.
Credit: Michael O'Connor
Another notable garment that performed well during our hot and humid trail runs was the Patagonia Active Hipster. These moisture-wicking undies feature a miDori bioSoft synthetic blend that supplies breathability without sacrificing softness. While the seamless waistband cuts down on moisture buildup, we couldn't help but notice the tendency to stretch out while taking dips in high alpine lakes.
The Patagonia Active Hipster features a thin and lightweight design that effectively wicks moisture away from the skin and dries quickly after washing.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Perhaps it goes without saying, but thong options such as the Siren Thong, Smartwool Everyday Thong, and the REI Co-op Merino Thong were some of the fastest to dry on the body, simply because they feature the least amount of fabric in their designs. Of all the thong cuts we tested, the Smartwool Everyday was the most breathable due to its lightweight, minimal construction. The REI Merino Thong offered the least breathability comparatively due to all the moisture trapped within the thick waistband and reinforced seams.
The thong cuts typically offered the most breathability due to lack of fabric, however, we found that some hit the sweet spot between supplying enough structure without retaining tons of sweat during our workouts.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Thicker waistbands and more full coverage garments such as the Sprite Hot Pant, Ridge Boy Short, and the Minus33 Woolverino Micro Weight Merino Boyshorts still held their own in testing, but we would recommend these options as considerations for colder temperatures or spring skiing when long underwear is too hot, but you still want the coverage and warmth offered by a boy short.
Thicker wool fabric, as seen here on the Ridge Merino, keeps you warm during the colder months while effectively wicking moisture to provide all day comfort.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Odor Control
First of all, you're welcome. We did the dirty work, so you don't have to. For this smelly metric, we got sweaty, exhausted ourselves throughout our extensive three-month testing period, and took notes on the garments that performed the best (i.e., didn't retain any detectable odor). We'll just reiterate that while synthetic fabrics are often superior in terms of breathability and drying speed, they can't hold a candle to the performance of Merino wool, which is naturally and consistently odor-free without the use of harmful chemicals next to your skin. Perhaps it is obvious at this point that the garments primarily constructed of Merino wool received higher scores. But just in case, here are just a few of our favorites.
The Woolly Hipster, Siren Bikini, and the Siren Thong are all outstanding when it comes to odor control. We did our best to work up a sweat during our trail runs and rock climbs, often going for long periods of time between washes, and this bikini never registered any noticeable odors. Even after several years of consistent daily use, we've never had concern for any embarrassing odors. The Ridge Boy Short is also impressive, as its primarily Merino wool construction would suggest. While the thicker fabric retained more moisture than other Merino wool options that we tested, these undies never retained any odor, even after moisture and sweat built up in the fabric between washes.
Primarily Merino wool options like the Icebreaker Siren cuts are the perfect choice for those seeking the natural odor resistance of wool.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Other top performers include the Smartwool Merino Bikini and Sprite Hot Pant. These feature a predominantly wool construction, and we found no detectable odors even after vigorous activities and extended time between quick washes in the local streams. Great odor protection made the Sprite Hot Pant one of our top choices when considering several days of climbing on El Capitan in Yosemite. While our synthetic base layers retained more body odor than we're comfortable admitting, these Merino undies did not, and we remained odor-free all the way to the summit. Perhaps the most note-worthy in this metric is the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief, which features a synthetic nylon construction and an anti-odor treatment that our testing team found actually worked, effectively keeping the garment odor-free. Many synthetic garments claim to protect against any odor buildup, but the Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh Bikini Brief did, in fact, live up to the anti-odor hype.
When setting off on a three day El Cap adventure, our lead tester chose the Sprite Hot Pant for comfort and odor control.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Durability
Thanks to consistent trail runs, multi-pitch rock climbs, and swims in various streams, rivers, and alpine lakes, our testers put each pair of undies to the ultimate test and noted the most durable options available. We considered the stitching and observed which pairs started to unravel in addition to the fabrics and textiles that showed the most signs of wear and tear. We questioned whether the seamless, flatlock, or bonded seams were the best in terms of long-lasting quality, and finally, we noted which garments were able to keep their shape after multiple swims and wash cycles without a dryer.
Brands like Icebreaker are known for their high-quality construction that often comes with a higher price tag, and our testing team truly believes they are worth the investment. Paying a higher price for designs like the Siren Bikini, the Siren Thong, and the Sprite Hot Pant, which offer superior fabric and construction without noticeable limitations, is worth every penny. Reinforced flatlock seams increase comfort and tend to hold up better to all the wear and tear from outdoor adventures. After several years of testing these garments, we haven't noted any unraveling seams or piled wool. If anything, our testers have noticed the first place of failure is the thinning material just above the gusset. Perhaps this point of failure could be corrected simply by extending the gusset.
While we have yet to experience any durability issues with the current iteration of the Icebreaker Thong, both previously tested pairs of the Siren Thong and Bikini Brief failed just above the gusset.
Credit: Trish Matheny
This same durability can sometimes be achieved at a more affordable price tag. The Ridge Merino Boy Short and ExOfficio Everyday Hipster feature seams that resist failure and have enough structure to offer support even after an afternoon dip in the river. Ridge specifically features (m)Force technology, which enhances the design's strength and helps the wool resist abrasion in high-traffic areas.
The ExOfficio Everday Hipster features a combination of flatlock and merrow stitch seams that are not only flattering and strategically place to reduce friction, but also super durable.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Both Patagonia garments, the Barely Hipster and Active Hipster, offer newly updated fits that hold their shape better than previous versions (although we do recommend sizing up if you find yourself on the cusp of a specific size). Though our testers didn't love the new, tighter fit of these undies, we did appreciate that they kept their shape day in and day out, even with a rather seamless and minimal structure. That being said, we did notice their tendency to stretch while swimming in rivers at the peak of runoff in the spring. We also love that these garments are sewn by Fair Trade Certified manufacturers, meaning those who work to create these undies are paid a fair premium in exchange for their efforts.
The Patagonia Active Hipster design features flatlock seams that combine with a seamless waistband to provide durability and comfort next to skin.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Drying Time
The time needed to air dry is an important factor in the overall score of each pair of travel underwear for two big reasons: sweat and washing. The ability of our base layers to dry quickly on the go is crucial to keeping us comfortable. Similarly, a quick wash in the sink or the river can be the perfect remedy when you're on the run from place to place or have a plane to catch. But if your undies take too long to dry, valuable time could be wasted, or you may be left with no change of underclothes.
To test this metric, we soaked all the undies in water and hung them to dry. We tried various methods, including wringing out the garments by hand and with a towel, and found consistent results across the board. In general, the thinner the material, the quicker the drying time. No big surprise there. The Give-N-Go Sport Mesh 2.0, the Under Armour Pure Stretch, and the Grankee Breathable Seamless Thong 6-Pack received some of the highest scores in this category. And while the Merino wool options are inferior to the drying speed of synthetics, options like the Woolly Hipster, the Siren Thong, and the Smartwool Everyday Thong feature very lightweight and thin Merino wool constructions that dried quickly on the body as well as on the clothesline.
We tested each pair of undies side by side in order to determine the fastest drying speed.
Credit: Trish Matheny
A caveat to thicker, more full coverage garments such as the Icebreaker Sprite Hot Pant and Ridge Boy Shorts is their longer drying times. For such thicker garments, we recommend wringing them in a towel before hanging them on the line, a technique we describe further below.
Credit: Trish Matheny
What's the Deal with Washing?
We've mentioned washing on the go as an integral part of long-term travel, so we thought we'd pause here to add a few tips. Washing your undies in the sink is a great travel option. It is often the case that we run out of underwear before it's time to wash the rest of our clothes. So, while the sink may not work for your jeans and jackets, it will extend the time before you must make a trip to the laundromat. First, find something to plug the drain. Fill the sink with hot water and let the garments soak until fully saturated. Pour in some detergent and scrub each garment, using its own material to scrub dirtier sections. While there are some convenient single-use laundry detergents out there, our testers prefer a more versatile product such as Dr. Bronner's soap, which can be used to wash your clothes and your body. When space is limited, finding products that have multiple purposes helps save room in your pack, especially when every ounce is accounted for.
One of our favorite drying methods is the towel-roll method. We used this consistently during our testing period. Lay your undies on a towel and roll them up. Then, you can wring out the towel, forcing water from the fabric into the towel. Your garment will be considerably drier than if you just wrung it out by hand, cutting down on your drying time so you can get back to your adventures as soon as possible. We're also a fan of strapping our socks and undies to the outside of our pack while backpacking to utilize the fresh air and sunshine for drying on the go.
Hipsters and boy shorts that feature extra fabric in their construction can benefit from a roll inside of a towel to assist with a faster drying speed.
Credit: Trish Matheny
If you're going to wash your clothes in a stream or river, we recommend doing your research and using eco-friendly soaps. Ideally, you can use the water from a river to wash your clothes in a bag or bucket away from the water source itself. A dry bag works great for this purpose, and there are even some new “washing bags” on the market — basically dry bags with scrubby internal nodules. While we haven't tested them ourselves, these could be a great option if you're hitting the road for an extended period without weight as a concern. Additionally, we're often surprised by how well a quick rinse and scrub without detergent gets the sweat out of a garment.
No matter what method you choose for washing, a quick drying time keeps you out there having fun, which is precisely why this metric was an essential part of our testing process. As expected, the undies with the fastest drying time scored the highest in this metric.
No matter what method you choose, please wash responsibly.
Credit: Trish Matheny
How to Choose Women's Travel Underwear
What makes travel underwear different than your everyday variety? Why would any shopper make the extra effort to pick up something special for this purpose? Generally speaking, it comes down to the need to pack light and efficiently when plans take you away from home. On longer or heavily active trips, many people just don't have room in their bags to accommodate a large number of items, and they seek ways to save on space and weight when packing. It then becomes important to think about which activities you will be engaged in during your travels and the type of fit and performance you'll require, as well as what your laundering options may be while on the road. Budget also comes into play here, as high-performance options can sell at heightened costs. So, it is worth considering a few key questions before making your final selections.
Our testing team adventured in everything from thongs to boy shorts and we hope our evaluations and testing perspectives help to inform your next purchase.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Which Fabric Will Serve You Best?
Synthetic blends mainly consist of spandex, Lycra, nylon, elastane, and polyester, materials primarily used for active wear. Synthetic undies are known for their durability as well as their breathable, quick-drying performance. However, they often also retain body odor with significant use (caused by bacteria buildup within the fabric due to saturation from perspiration). Some brands include an odor treatment within their construction. However, we've found those treatments can produce a broad range of results. For those willing to invest in a durable option that will hold its shape even when worn day in and day out on a long journey and stand up to regular handwashing and quick-dry demands, there are some excellent synthetic options that will fit the bill.
Whether hanging your undies on a clothes line or a backpack, it is essential that they dry quickly when you're on the go. We found that synthetic undies typically dry faster than their wool counterparts.
Credit: Trish Matheny
If you are primarily concerned with comfort and looking for something ultra-soft and naturally odor-free, we'd suggest you stick with Merino wool blends. Merino options tend to offer similar performance benefits to synthetics when it comes to their solid construction, quick-dry design, and breathability in use. Generally, they also blend in some percentage of synthetic material to facilitate faster drying speeds and to provide a bit of stretch, ensuring the undies hold their shape well without the rigidity common to 100% wool. All that being said, wool is notoriously less durable than its synthetic counterparts (even if our testers didn't experience any durability issues directly during testing). So, it's worth considering that natural fibers may break down faster than nylon, elastane, or polyester will.
Well-constructed synthetic and Merino blend undies both tend to offer excellent breathability and deliver a quick drying time on the line, making them great choices when packing for a trip.
Credit: Trish Matheny
For the best of both worlds, consider heavily blended merino-synthetic options. These provide soft and stretchy fits while remaining durable and mostly odor-free. Bamboo and cotton options are also available, though we do not recommend them as travel undies. They lack the quick-drying capabilities of wool and synthetic options, making them better suited for a comfortable night's sleep than as part of your activewear.
Merino wool options like those pictured here can offer some of the softest feel next to skin.
Credit: Trish Matheny
What Style Will Best Meet Your Needs?
Comfort and fit can really make or break your experience, and undies come in all shapes and sizes. From thongs that hide seamlessly under your leggings to full-coverage boy shorts that come in handy as a pajama bottom, there is plenty to choose from. We recommend considering your exact needs and assessing the suitability of the different cuts before making your purchase. If you find a material that you love but don't think the cut fits just right or will suit your purpose, be sure to check with the manufacturer or retailers for alternate options from the same line, as there are often multiple cuts available. Be sure you consider not only the softness of the fabric and the nature of the seams — do they lay flat and will they hold their elasticity — but also take into account the style of the leg openings and whether or not the listed product size is accurate to ensure you achieve the right fit. For a more in-depth discussion on these fit considerations, check out our Buying Advice article for Women's Travel Underwear.
Ultimately, the best style for you will always come down to personal preference. Thongs are super lightweight, take up minimal space in a suitcase, tend to dry fastest due to their small size, and help to remove panty lines under tighter-fitting clothes. Bikini briefs are perhaps the most universally popular style, benefiting from their smaller size when it comes to packing and drying time and sometimes even moonlighting as a swim bottom when necessity (or an alpine lake) arises. Full coverage cuts like boyshorts and hipsters serve equally well as impromptu swim bottoms and can be nice choices for colder climates. Our lead tester found boy shorts to be the best option beneath ski bibs when mornings remain cold but the day's heat becomes too intense for full-length long underwear bottoms.
Comfort and Fit is a huge consideration for your next travel underwear purchase. Our testing team evaluated everything from thongs to boy shorts to offer insight into the pros and cons of each cut.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Conclusion
Fussing over your underwear might seem a little unnecessary, but after weeks on the road, we can tell you that comfortable travel undeniably starts with undies. From comfortable material to enough stretch to move, the construction of each pair is critical to its performance. Keeping dry and odor-free in various climates is just as important as drying quickly after a hand wash in a stream. During weeks of testing throughout multiple seasons, we found a few standout performers in price, comfort, and odor-free construction. We hope our suggestions are helpful when deciding which garment is best for your next adventure. You may also want to take a look at our packing list for the ultimate guide to help you think through all you'll need, wherever your explorations may take you. And don't worry boys; we also have a men's review of travel underwear to help you stay on track as well.
