If you’re the type of person who wears underwear with everything – a perfectly normal person in my opinion – you might be wondering what’s going on with running shorts and workout leggings. Sometimes men’s loose-fitting shorts have a tight-fitting lining, or certain women’s models have a crotch gusset made from a different material than the rest of the shorts. Should I wear these without underwear, you might be wondering? In many cases the answer is yes.
However, it’s a common question. On Reddit, the topic is on the Operate forums, the Fitness forums for women, the “No stupid questions” sub, and more. In the discussion that follows, two groups of people (underwear wearers and non-underwear wearers) often react in shock to the fact that the other exists.
Let’s see if we can break that down a bit. Anyone can wear shorts they like, in my opinion, but they are usually sold in “men” and “women” styles.
What to expect in men’s running shorts
Men’s running shorts often have an underwear-like lining “to keep your balls in place,” like a helpful redditor put it. Why not just wear normal underwear? Well, you can, but running shorts are often designed to be comfortable and sweat-wicking. So why ruin this technique with your regular old cotton underwear? Think of the liner as free underwear optimized for your running needs.
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The liner also helps avoid chafing, there this discussion revealed in ultra runners (people who run more than marathons). Styles vary, from minimalist liners to full compression shorts. Tight-fitting running tights often have a windproof panel on the front, which is another sign that they should be worn as a command.
If your running shorts don’t have an inner shoe, this is a common one recommendation is to wear them with compression shorts – or go back to the store and buy a pair that has them built in.
What to expect in women’s running shorts
There is less agreement when it comes to shorts and leggings for women: some wear underwear, others don’t.
Generally, if your loose fitting shorts have a tight-fitting liner, they should be worn as a command. And if there’s a gusset in the crotch (a strip of double-layered fabric with a different texture right between your legs), that’s another sign that they can be worn without underwear.
Many runners go out without underwear and often find that their waistband or thighs are less rubbing; the pairing of the shorts inner lining and the additional layer of underwear (especially if you sweat) can be a bad combination.
But if you are more comfortable with underwear than without, wear it can make the shorts last longer (especially if you are concerned about stains) and can also allow yourself to wear the shorts more than once without washing if you wish. Consider buying underwear that is suitable for running or exercising. Some runners report that, for example, merino underwear dissipates sweat better than other materials.
When it comes to regular leggings rather than custom-made running shorts, you may want to do a “squat check”. to ensure that the leggings are not see-through when stretched. (Use a mirror, cell phone camera, or a trusted friend to find out.) Also, try on leggings with no underwear on before going to the gym: some are not worn for the command and may have seams in uncomfortable places.
