Avoid Swamp Ass With the 13 Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear (2024)

A trunk that’s designed to be worn working out, the AIRKNITx from Mack Weldon features a microfiber blend that grips you in the most comfortable way. We love the thoughtful design, which features the perfect amount of stretch, breathable mesh, and a non-roll waistband.

Plus, if you’re not happy with your purchase, the brand will help you find a pair that fits your needs or issue a refund—you can’t lose with this one.

We were not disappointed in apparel company Shinesty’s best-selling product, and you won't be either. This patented underwear is made with MicroModal fabric, that’s three times softer than cotton, ultra-breathable, and gets rid of sweat down there like a boss.

The four-way stretch underwear is also anti-sticking, and bunching, and staves off irritation in your privates. Best off all, the ball-pocket on this pair cradles you in a way that few others can compete with. Secure without being too tight, just perfect.

For many, Patagonia is the gold standard when it comes to their underwear and the Sender briefs continue that tradition. They're among the priciest we've tested, but we actually found them worth the splurge.

Made from a mixture of recycled nylon and spandex fabric, these boxers will are the epitome of breathability and all-day comfort. Plus, they're Fair Trade Certified™ sewn (meaning 100% of the materials came from Fair Trade farms).

These Nike Boxer Briefs are made with Dri-FIT technology that offers sweat-wicking support to keep you dry all day. Dri-FIT is the OG of moisture-wicking, and we found these are no exception.

Oh, and the fabric is odor-resistant to stave off that post-sweat funk, and comes in a ton of colors.

Jockey's trunks are made of an ultra-smooth, quick-drying microfiber, complete with mesh panels for plenty of breathability.

Not to say these don't match up with the best performance options in terms of functionality, because they actually do, but the reason to opt for these is if you're all about those funky prints. There's over 25 to choose from.

These Fruit of the Loom boxer briefs are a #1 best seller on Amazon. They're made primarily of cotton, which isn't the most functional moisture-wicking material, but is ideal for those with sensitive skin, eczema, or allergies to synthetic materials.

The fabric incorporates polyester for added breathability and wicking capabilities, but the breathable mesh support shaped fly that provides extra ventilation is the star of the show. They're also incredibly well priced, at less than $4 per pair for a 7-pack.

When you're shopping for moisture-wicking underwear, there are a few key things to keep in mind, fellas. First and foremost, make sure the label says "moisture wicking underwear" loud and clear. You don't want to end up with regular undies that'll leave you feeling all damp and uncomfortable during your workouts or daily grind.

Fabric: Dr. Hartman recommends looking for synthetic material designed for moisture-wicking, like polyester, nylon and Spandex. If you don't like synthetics, a natural moisture-wicking material like merino wool will do, too.

Fit: Go for the style that suits you best—briefs, boxers, boxer briefs—they've got moisture-wicking options in all shapes and sizes. Just be sure it actually fits, and isnt too tight, Dr. Hartman adds. "You also don’t want a size that is too big, which can cause fabric to rub and bunch across the skin."

Additional features: Some moisture-wicking underwear comes with odor-fighting properties, which is a game-changer after a tough workout. It's not an essential, but it is a great functional perk.

So, what is moisture wicking underwear good for, anyway?

According to Dr. Hartman, moisture-wicking fabrics help moisture from the inner layer of the fabric (the part that touches your skin) escape to the outside of the garment. The result? Drier and cooler skin.

"Moisture-wicking underwear can be especially beneficial when the body is subject to higher temperatures, like during a workout or a hot summer day," he explains. Plus, keeping things cool and dry down there can actually minimize a slew of issues.

"Buildup of sweat can lead to irritation which can appear as red, flaky patches or breakouts, which appear as red papules or pustules that may involve the hair follicle," explains Dr. Marisa Garshick, board-certified dermatologist of MDCS Dermatology.

There are some body odor perks, too (or lack thereof), according to Dr. Hartman. "Body odor occurs when sweat mixes with natural bacteria found on the skin. The less sweat on the skin, the less body odor."

Moisture-wicking underwear is designed with synthetic fabrics like polyester, Gore-Tex, nylon, and spandex to handle wetness better than traditional materials. These fabrics have tiny spaces in knit or mesh that allow moisture to move through, evaporating quickly. So, when you sweat wearing moisture-wicking underwear, it moves to the outer layer, avoiding fabric saturation and skin dampness.

"Synthetic materials are better at moisture-wicking as they not only pull sweat moisture away from the skin, but they also dry quickly and don’t hold onto moisture," explains. Dr. Garshick.

These fabrics are ideal in exercise clothes, as they can keep you more dry and comfortable during workouts than traditional materials.

"Cotton, on the other hand, while it can absorb sweat and moisture from the skin, it is more likely to hold onto the moisture and not dry as quickly, leaving the sweat in prolonged contact with the skin," she explains. Although, some cotton fabrics may be specially treated to make them moisture wicking.

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