As a lifelong hiker and runner I’ve had my fair share of wedgies and chafing, so I want to help you prevent that hot mess. 🥾Tip: Get a kula cloth and invest in quality hiking underwear – anything to prevent problems down there is worth it.
Authors TL;DR: The best hiking underwear for women should be comfortable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. It should also provide support and prevent chafing during long hikes.
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Material | Moisture-wicking, breathable, quick-drying |
| Fit | Snug, comfortable, avoid chafing |
| Features | Seamless design, antimicrobial properties, moisture-proof barrier |
The size and fit are also crucial, as ill-fitting underwear can lead to discomfort and chafing.
I’ve spent hours researching and years testing various hiking underwear options to identify the best ones for women.
Prone to UTI?
Often it just happens, but moisture wicking materials MAY be helpful alongside proper medical care.
Check out my carefully selected recommendations below.
Short on Time? Quick Verdict Best Hiking Underwear for Women
| Gear Tip
Go high end luxury with your lady bits and buy Patagonia’s Women’s Active Hiking Panties. Hike without the crotch rot and reduce your impact on the planet simultaneously. Lightweight, soft and stretchy!
Check out this quick list of our top picks if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.
- Best undies overall: Patagonia Women’s Active Hiking Panties
- Best merino fiber: Ibex Merino Briefs
- Runner up merino: Smartwool Everyday Bikini
- Best full coverage : ExOfficio Women’s Give-n-go Full Cut Brief
- Best tummy control: Ocojoce Womens Underwear
- Best on a budget: Fruit of the Loom Breathable Underwear
- Absolute cheapest: Balanced Tech Women’s
🔥 ➡️ Related Reading – Hiking Advice from a Physical Therapist Hiking Addict:
Read my review of the Best Hiking Jackets for Women.
More Buying Guides:
⚡️ Best Blister Kits for Hiking
🦆 Review of the Best Down Jackets for Hiking
💡 Best Women’s Hiking Boots
7 Best Hiking Underwear for Women
Whether you prefer briefs, boyshorts, or thongs, we’ve rounded up the top options to help you find the perfect pair for your next adventure.
Best Overall
1. Best Overall: Patagonia Women’s Active Hiking Panties
⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.5/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!
These high end undies come in hipster, brief and barely hipster styles and are the best synthetic blend hiking underwear on the market.
Pros:
- Comfort: These hipsters are incredibly comfortable, thanks to the lightweight fabric and the miDori™ bioSoft that adds extra wicking and softness.
- Odor Control: The HeiQ® Pure technology is effective in controlling odors, making them a great choice for active use.
- Seamless Waistband: The flat, seamless waistband doesn’t roll or bind, ensuring a snug fit without any discomfort.
- Eco-Friendly: Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, these hipsters support ethical labor practices.
- Durable: Despite their lightweight feel, the material is durable and maintains quality through wear and washes.
Cons:
- Sizing: Some customers have noted that sizing can be tricky, and it may take some trial and error to find the perfect fit.
- Price: The cost is on the higher end, but many customers feel the quality and comfort justify the investment.
The Patagonia undies are a popular choice for those seeking comfort, durability, and eco-conscious production in their activewear.
They are versatile for a range of activities including casual wear, hiking, and work. Their fast-drying material is tops and the fact that they stay put without chafing or creeping.
While some have had issues with sizing and the tags, the overall consensus is that these hipsters are a reliable and high-quality option for those willing to invest in their comfort and the planet.
2. Best Merino Wool: Ibex Merino Briefs
⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.3/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!
For total comfort on the trails, these Ibex merino briefs are your reliable go-to with their soft, breathable fabric and stay-put design. They also come in thong style.
Pros
- Incredibly soft material that feels great against the skin
- Constructed for durability with material that retains shape
- Breathable merino wool with moisture-wicking properties for dry comfort
Cons
- Can be pricier than synthetic options
- May require more careful washing due to merino wool composition
- Limited in color and style choices
Feel the difference quality material makes during a vigorous hike. The Ibex Merino Briefs are crafted with a blend that feels almost like a second skin.
As someone who has worn them through various trekking adventures, I can attest to their incredible comfort.
The breathable merino wool keeps you cool as you climb, and the gentle elastic around the legs ensures everything stays put no matter the incline.
Durability is key when you’re out in nature.
These briefs are blended with a dash of nylon and elastane, which means they can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor excursions while retaining their fit.
I have worn mine through dense forests and rocky climbs, and they still hold up without any stretching or puckering.
Moisture management
The merino wool effectively wicks away sweat, which I can personally say keeps you dry and comfortable on long treks.
While they’re an investment, the value comes in the form of their comfort and longevity.
Keep in mind delicate care is needed, so those who prefer low-maintenance garments should consider this.
Opting for the Ibex Merino Briefs means committing to quality and comfort on your hikes.
3. Runner Up Best Merino: Smartwool Everyday Bikini
⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.9/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!
Your hikes just got more comfortable with the Smartwool Everyday Bikini, designed to keep you cool on the trail and fresh during your post-hike chill.
Pros
- Exceptional temperature regulation and sweat management
- Flattering slim fit for unrestricted movement
- Eco-friendly Merino/Tencel blend for sustainability
Cons
- Higher price point than some alternatives
- May require specific care to maintain quality
- Slim fit might not suit all body types
As soon as you slip on these Smartwool bikinis, you’ll appreciate their snug fit that doesn’t compromise on your ability to move.
The Merino wool blend is convincingly soft against your skin, and it’s evident that it wicks moisture effectively like socks can as well.
Whether it’s a steep climb or a relaxed walk through the woods, these bikinis handle sweat like a pro, keeping you cooler than many other materials would.
On those longer treks, it’s not just about staying dry; odor can become a concern.
Fortunately, the Merino wool works wonders for odor resistance. After a full day out, you can settle into your tent without worrying about any unpleasant smells.
Beyond the trail, it’s important to know that your outdoor gear choice aligns with sustainable practices.
Smartwool stands out here, with their commitment to the environment and community. Wearing these, you feel part of a bigger movement towards responsible adventuring.
Remember, these are cut for a close fit, so if you’re between sizes or prefer a more relaxed feel, consider sizing up.
They’re not the cheapest option on the block, but they’re a worthwhile investment for serious hikers who value comfort and sustainability in their gear.
Keep in mind the care instructions too; they’re machine washable but treat them gently to maintain their condition.
4. Best Full Coverage: ExOfficio Women’s Give-n-go Full Cut Brief
⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.5/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!
If you’re looking for some ACTUAL coverage these hiking panties balance covering your bum with breathability.
Pros
- Odor-reducing treatment
- The breathable and wickable mesh improves airflow.
- The quick-drying fabric is ready to wear within hours, so you can wash, go, and pack less.
- Also comes in Bikini sizing.
Cons
- Sizing varies.
- The material may feel a bit thin.
- The waistband may not be as stretchy as some users would like.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and practical option for your next hiking trip, the ExOfficio brand is definitely worth considering.
The odor-reducing treatment and breathable mesh make this underwear a great choice for multi-day hikes, and the quick-drying fabric means you can pack less.
5. Best Tummy Control: Ocojoce Womens Underwear
⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.1/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!
It is nice to have a tummy control option alongside breathable hiking undies.
Pros
- Mild tummy control.
- The full coverage design.
- Breathable mesh
Cons
- Sizing issues
- The leg lines may be too tight for some
- Not low rise
These underwear are made from performance fabric that is soft, seamless, and stretchy.
The spandex leg lines provide full coverage without riding up, so you can move freely without worrying about chafing or discomfort. The tag-free comfort waistband and elastic waistband ensure a comfortable fit that stays in place, even during intense activity.
The quick-drying fabric is also odor-resistant and moisture-wicking, so you can stay fresh and dry throughout your day.
6. Best on a Budget: Fruit of the Loom Breathable Underwear
⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 6.6/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!
Don’t want to invest $25-35 for each pair of underwear? This is a good solution for people like me that have dogs that always manage to find their undies and chew through them.
Pros
- The micro-mesh fabric is breathable and keeps you cool and comfortable all day long.
- Cheap.
- Good moisture-wicking.
Cons
- The sizing may be a bit off.
- The colors may vary from what is shown in the picture.
- The underwear may not be suitable for those who prefer high-waisted styles.
These panties are a good mix of price and value for hiking or any other outdoor activity. The micro-mesh fabric is breathable and keeps you cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days. The soft leg and waistband provide extra comfort, and the moisture-wicking feature keeps you dry.
The only downside is that the sizing may be a bit off, so make sure to check the size chart before purchasing. The colors may vary from what is shown in the picture.
Tummy control is non-existent.
7. Absolute Cheapest: Balanced Tech Women’s
⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 5.6/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!
These are comfortable and affordable underwear for your hiking trips and great on a budget.
Pros
- The lightweight and breathable fabric keeps you dry and fresh throughout your active day.
- The four-way stretch conforms to your body and provides excellent support.
- The seamless style ensures comfort while minimizing visible panty lines.
Cons
- The underwear is not completely seamless, and the thick seam around the legs might show up.
- The sizing may be off, and you might need to order a size smaller than usual.
- The underwear might not be suitable for women with larger hips.
These panties are made of 92% Nylon/8% Elastane fabric that is super soft and comfortable. The moisture-wicking technology moves moisture away from your body and ensures fast drying. The odor resistance feature keeps you fresh and feeling dry throughout your day.
These panties are decent for a traveling and an active lifestyle. The ultra-comfortable nylon elastane fabric allows for freedom of movement and conforms to the body for great mid-rise support.
Buying Guide
Material
When choosing hiking underwear, material is crucial for comfort and functionality.
Look for synthetic blends such as nylon or polyester for quick-drying properties, or merino wool for natural odor resistance and temperature regulation.
- Synthetic: Quick dry, durable
- Merino Wool: Odor resistant, thermoregulating
Fit
Your underwear should fit snugly without constricting movement. They should also not bunch up as this can cause discomfort or chafing during long hikes.
Consider seamless designs or those with flatlock seams to minimize irritation.
- Snug Fit: Ensures comfort
- Seamless/Flatlock Seams: Reduces chafing
Style
Choose a style based on personal preference and the type of hiking you’ll be doing.
Options include briefs, boy shorts, and bikini cut. Think about the type of outer garments you’ll be wearing and how they work together.
- Briefs: Full coverage
- Boy Shorts: Extra leg protection
- Bikini Cut: Less material, lightweight
Moisture Management
Hiking can be a sweaty endeavor, so select underwear that wicks moisture away from your body to keep you dry and prevent chafing.
- Wicking: Keeps you dry
Durability
Invest in durable underwear that can withstand the rigors of outdoor wear and frequent washing.
Check the quality of the elastic and stitching.
Breathability
Proper ventilation is important to manage temperature and keep your skin healthy.
Underwear with breathable panels or mesh can provide extra airflow in high sweat areas.
- Mesh Panels: Enhances airflow
Use this guide to find the right balance of feature and function for your hiking adventures.
Remember that comfort and practicality should drive your choice.
ber to prioritize comfort, support, and performance when making your purchase.
Final Verdict
| Tip
Go high end luxury with your lady bits and buy Patagonia’s Women’s Active Hiking Panties. Hike without the crotch rot and reduce your impact on the planet simultaneously. Lightweight, soft and stretchy!
If you’re looking for a relatable and honest take on outdoor gear, you’re in the right place.
Why Trust? Our Review Process
- We own and field test every product in real-life outdoor situations.
- No sponsored reviews or payment for reviews.
- We constantly update our guides when new products launch.
- Hiked and skied on 3 continents x 30 years.
We know finding trustworthy advice can be tough. As a physical therapist, avid hut-to-hut hiker, skier, and mother, I’m always on the lookout for gear that enhances comfort and enjoyment in the great outdoors, all while grounded in scientific principles. That’s the inspiration behind Crave the Planet.
I’ll be real with you, I’m not an expert in every outdoor activity. But, who is? I’m just a regular person who loves exploring the planet and our growing team lives for the Outdoors.
We value continuous learning and welcome your constructive feedback. If you spot a missed product or an error, please let us know.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hiking underwear options for women?
The best hiking underwear options for women are those that are comfortable, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Look for options made from materials like merino wool, synthetic blends, or bamboo. A good budget brand is Fruit of the Loom and higher end is Patagonia.
Which brands make the most comfortable hiking underwear for women?
Brands that make the most comfortable hiking underwear for women include ExOfficio, Patagonia, Smartwool, Icebreaker, and REI Co-op.
Are Patagonia Active Briefs a good choice for hiking?
Yes, Patagonia Active Briefs are a good choice for hiking. They are made from a blend of polyester and spandex, which makes them stretchy and comfortable. They are also moisture-wicking and quick-drying, which is important for hiking.
How do ExOfficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh Bikini Briefs perform on the trail?
ExOfficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh Bikini Briefs perform well on the trail. They are made from a breathable mesh fabric that is moisture-wicking and quick-drying. They are also odor-resistant, which is a bonus for multi-day hikes.
What are some features to look for in the best hiking underwear for women?
When looking for the best hiking underwear for women, look for options that are comfortable, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Other features to consider include odor-resistance, quick-drying properties, and a comfortable waistband.
Can Micromodal fabric be a good choice for hiking underwear?
Yes, Micromodal fabric can be a good choice for hiking underwear. It is a soft and comfortable fabric that is also moisture-wicking and breathable. However, it is not as durable as some other materials, so it may not be the best choice for longer hikes.
More Buying Guides for Hikers
Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.