The 10 Best Underwear for Women, Tested by a Style Writer

ProsSuper comfortable No chafing Minimal seamsConsHand-washing requiredOut of all the options out there, we love the Only Hearts 100% Organic Cotton Bikini best. The classic shape is minimal and goes with any workout apparel, there are a ton of color selections, and it’s made from a super breathable fabric. Plus, the minimal seams and super-soft fabric are some of the comfiest on this list, whether I have this pair on under tight leggings or baggier sweats.This pair is also one of our favorite underwear for working out because it has a barely-there feel. The waistband doesn’t ride up, fall down, or dig in, which can sometimes be an issue with bikini-style undies. From gentle yoga flows to intense interval training, it moves with you through every bend and sprint.For daily wear, I love a pair of 100% cotton underwear, and this one is one of the comfiest pairs I’ve tested. But it’s important to remember that cotton isn’t always the best choice for working out, says fabric expert Cathy Rust. That’s because (while it is super breathable), once it gets wet, it doesn’t dry out as quickly as other materials. Though if you prioritize natural fabrics for your underwear, this is a great pick.Read More: Best Underwear for WorkoutsFeatures at a GlanceSizesS—XLFabric100% organic Supima cottonColors3CutBikiniCareHand wash onlyProsSuper comfortableAffordableSoft and stretchyConsDoesn't come in other stylesAfter testing dozens of pairs of underwear, the Amazon Essentials Cotton Bikini Brief Underwear is an affordable choice that doesn't slack on comfort. It's made from cotton and stretchy spandex, so it's extremely soft but also super moisture-wicking. Plus, I like that it has a bit of snap for light compression, but it's not too tight or clingy.This underwear comes in either a six-pack or a 10-pack, so you get a mega bang for your buck, as the six-pack goes for under $15. It also comes in tons of assorted styles—and the color options are endless.It’s a bikini-style underwear, so it offers more coverage than a thong, but I love it because I can have these on all day and forget I’m wearing them. They have a higher leg cut than normal, which helps avoid pinching or bunching, even while I’m moving around a lot. I also notice minimal lines under my clothing with this pair, but I wouldn’t quite say it’s invisible.I've washed this underwear a ton of times and have never noticed any shrinking or a change in quality, which isn't always the case for affordable Amazon underwear. If you're looking for good quality, inexpensive underwear, this pair is it.SizesXXS—6XLFabric95% cotton, 5% elastaneColors20+CutBikiniCareMachine wash, dry flatAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsGreat for workoutsSeamlessComes in different coverage options besides just thongsRuns true-to-sizeConsWe wish it came in more color options Of all the thongs I’ve tried, this pair from On Gossamer checks most of my boxes. It’s the most durable pair on this list thanks to a high amount of nylon in the fabric. Wash after wash, it feels brand new. And, for a synthetic option, it’s extremely soft and comfortable. Additionally, it comes in many different coverage options (think: brief, bikini, high cut, etc), is super stretchy without slacking on shape and compression, and it has a cotton gusset, which is essential for wicking away moisture.This underwear has plenty of stretch—it can expand super wide but still snaps back for a snug, comfortable fit, thanks to the spandex in the fabric. It comes in sizes XS to XL, but the extra stretch means it can accommodate a bit beyond that, too.To make matters even better, it’s buttery soft, so it literally feels like you’re wearing nothing. And, it looks like that, too—I’ve worn this underwear under super tight compression leggings, and you can’t see any seams.I wear the Heavenly Stretch Thong for everything—from the gym to the office to running errands—because it’s seamless, lightweight, and moisture-wicking. Even when I get sweaty, it stays dry and comfortable, so I never have to worry about dampness or chafing. By the time I leave the gym, it’s usually dry and feels completely weightless. No need to adjust after burpees or squats—it stays put the entire time.I’d recommend going with your normal size for this panty. I tried a pair in a size down, and found that while it definitely fit, it was a bit tight around the hips. My one con? I wish it came in more color options besides just black and tan.Read more: Best Moisture-Wicking UnderwearSizesXS—XLFabric75% nylon, 25% spandex; 100% cotton gussetColors2CutThongCareHand washCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsInclusive sizing Lightweight and breathableLace makes it look sexierTons of colorsConsVPLs when worn with leggingsEven though I’m a thong girl through and through, a bikini provides more coverage and comes in handy when you're lounging at home or during certain times of the month. And this one is a favorite of mine. With a touch of lace and tons of fun colors, it’s anything but grandma-y. Plus, it’s so soft and comfy, I actually want to wear it all day. I’ve even slept in it—it’s full coverage but feels buttery smooth and cozy.This pair is made from Tencel modal, which is twice as soft as cotton. Compared to cotton, it’s smoother, more lightweight, and resistant to shrinking. And get this: It’s also super breathable, which is hard to find in panties that aren’t made from cotton.It's sometimes hard to find comfortable bikini-style underwear that doesn't dig into the skin or move around because of the amount of fabric on the hips. This brief fits like a dream—it stays in place without riding up and has the perfect mid-rise cut. While I wouldn’t wear it with tight leggings, it’s seamless under jeans with no visible panty lines. Plus, since it doesn’t shift throughout the day, I never have to worry about adjusting it.The sizing is also super inclusive with this underwear, as it ranges from XS to 4XL, so you can always find the right size. And don’t even get me started on the color range—there are more than 100 colors and patterns to choose from (though you won’t find them all under one Amazon listing).SizesXXS—4XLFabric75% Tencel modalColors100-plusCutBriefCareHand wash onlyAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSuper breathableFlattering cutFeminine designConsLimited color optionsCotton underwear is great for wearing all day because it's a naturally breathable material, says gynecologist and Chief Medical Officer of Bonafide Health Dr. Alyssa Dweck, MS, MD, FACOG. This pair is made from 100% organic Supima cotton, which has longer fibers than regular cotton, making it feel extra soft and smooth against the skin. The fabric also includes a touch of spandex, which adds just the right amount of stretch. That’s why I love to wear it for walks, Pilates, and even high-impact workouts when I want to feel supported, secure, and ready to move.Plus, the material isn’t too thick. Combined with the smooth lace trim, this underwear is invisible under tight leggings and workout shorts. That’s a big win, since I find it difficult to avoid visible panty lines in styles that aren’t thongs.And while thong and bikini styles tend to get a lot of love for workouts, the French Cut is one of the most underrated styles, IMO. Its high-leg cut makes it easy to move around in since the fabric doesn’t bunch at the hips or feel restrictive. That makes this pair great for all workouts. Plus, I love that the fit sits above the hips while still offering plenty of coverage. They’re also great for low-rise or super-short shorts when you need a pair of undies that won’t show while you’re on the move. The delicate lace trim detailing also adds a feminine touch, making them great for wearing outside the gym too.SizesXS—2XLFabric94% pima cotton, 6% lycraColors4CutFrench (high-leg bikini)CareHand wash onlyCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsInvisible under leggingsDries quickly after workoutsGusset stays in place during high-intensity workoutsSuper stretchy Cons“One size fits all” option tends to sell out quickly Of all the moisture-wicking underwear I’ve tried, the Spanx Fit To You Thong checked all my boxes in terms of fit, materials, comfort, and sweat-fighting abilities. The nylon-based fabric is soft, breathable, and keeps me cool. It dries quickly, even after high-intensity workouts. By the time I leave the gym, I never have to worry about sweaty underwear if I’m running errands afterward.It stays invisible under leggings, which can be hard to find in underwear, even in thongs. This pair has light compression for a smoothing effect, while the mid-rise style sits right at the waist without peeking over. There’s also no elastic band, so I never have to worry about an uncomfortable digging sensation.The moisture-wicking cotton gusset stays in place during even my most intense workouts, offering full coverage without shifting or bunching up. I was skeptical about the “one size fits all” claim, but the stretch really impressed me—it hugs the body just right and prevents any VPLs (visible panty lines). The “one size plus” option is a great addition, making the fit more inclusive. However, I’ve noticed that many colors sell out quickly in the “one size fits all” option, while the “one size plus” tends to stay in stock longer.SizesOne size, one size plusFabric77% nylon, 23% elastane; 100% cotton gussetColors5CutThongCareMachine wash, dry flatAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsLightweight and breathableSuper soft cotton materialFull coverageConsVPLs when worn with leggingsI rarely go for full coverage undies, but I love this boybrief style from Aerie. It’s so comfortable and lightweight that I find myself reaching for it on a weekly basis. Normally, full-coverage styles like briefs and shorts dig in and are just…noticeably there all day, IYKWIM. Not this pair. The low rise on the hips helps with the barely-there feel, as does the thinner, super breathable construction.I also love that this underwear is made primarily from cotton (with a bit of elastane for stretch), which helps with that softness and breathability. The material truly feels like butter on the skin. It feels less like full coverage underwear and more like a skimpy short, so I often wear it on its own with a t-shirt when I’m lounging at home. But it also works great under looser bottoms like basketball shorts, sweatpants, or baggy jeans. I wouldn’t wear it with leggings or anything form-fitting on the bottom, because it does cause VPL under tighter clothing.SizesXXS—XXLFabric95% cotton, 5% elastaneColors13CutBoybriefCareMachine wash cold or hand wash, air dryCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsAbsorbs up to eight teaspoons of bloodThin and comfortableEasy to wash and re-useDiscreetConsNot the best Knix option for heavier flows When you’re on your period, you need underwear that keeps you dry and wicks away moisture. The Knix Super Leakproof Bikini does just that, absorbing up to eight teaspoons (!!) of blood, pee, or sweat. So if you bleed through your tampon, you’ve got a backup—without needing a pad.Unlike other period underwear I've tested (which uses ugly, puffy padding to prevent leaking), Knix’s design is super discreet. That's because it uses a moisture-wicking nylon exterior with a cotton gusset that absorbs liquid. Some period underwear feels bulky and constricting, but this pair is so thin and comfortable, it’s like wearing nothing at all. The bonded edges also help prevent side leaks, making it great for overnight wear when you want extra protection without a tampon. And while leakproof underwear might not sound glamorous, trust me—this pair is anything but bulky. The built-in moisture-wicking pad is so thin you barely notice it, even under sheer lace pants (I tested it at my birthday party!). Plus, it’s machine washable and seamless enough to wear under leggings. If you have a heavier flow, Knix offers thicker options, but this pair is perfect for light days or when you need extra backup.SizesXS—4XLFabric77% nylon, 23% elastane; 86% cotton, 10%, spandex, 4% carbon gussetColors5CutBikiniCareMachine wash cold, dry flatAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsNaturally anti-odor and antimicrobialSoft and stretchyQuick dryingConsNot as smooth as lyocell or cottonMerino wool is one of the best materials to look for in a pair of workout underwear, and Branwyn's Essential Bikini is my favorite merino wool option. It dries out very quickly, even when I’m super sweaty. I love that I don’t have to worry about wearing these straight from the gym to brunch if I’m in a hurry.Merino wool as a technical fabric is one of the few natural fibers that actually performs well in activewear. It comes from the coat of sheep and other animals, is naturally antimicrobial, and wicks away and absorbs sweat rather than letting it sit on the skin. If you run hot during your workouts, you can trust this pair of undies to dry quickly.The nearly seamless construction also means no weird pinching or discomfort. The stretch (from the spandex in the fabric) means it moves in every direction without feeling restrictive. In fact, this is the most flexible underwear I’ve tested during my runs. Each piece is dyed in small batches, making every pair unique.SizesXS—XXLFabric81% extra fine merino wool, 12% nylon, and 7% spandexColors7CutBikiniCareHand wash or machine wash in cool water, dry flatCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsSuper soft Moisture-wicking and breathableNever digs into the skinGreat with low-waisted pantsI’ve had a few of Skims’ Fits Everybody Dipped Front Thongs for years—it’s that good, I couldn’t just stop at one. Hands down, it’s the softest pair on this list. The On Gossamer thong is thinner and has more spandex, giving it a more compressive, workout-like feel. But this one is soft and stretchy without that snap, making it feel looser and more buttery. Despite its high polyester content, it has more of a cotton-like texture that’s super comfortable. I wouldn’t wear this underwear with tight leggings as it has a looser fit and it's not seamless, but this is my go-to underwear to wear with trousers, jeans, or sweats.However, it’s still extremely breathable and quick drying, and kept us feeling cool and fresh during HIIT workouts. Unlike other thongs I own, this one never digs into my skin.This underwear also has a dipped front, which I prefer while wearing low-cut pants or crop tops. You never have to worry about it sticking up over your pants, as it doesn’t have a super high, thick band.The “Fits Everybody” line is my favorite that Skims offers, and there are so many different bras and underwear you can shop within this soft, stretchy line. There’s an Adaptive Thong, T-String Thong (another favorite of mine), and my go-to bra, the Fits Everybody Scoop Bralette.SizesXXS—4XLFabric76% polyamide, 24% elastaneColors12CutThongCareMachine wash coldAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowCredit: Justin Steele For Women's HealthProsCan be worn with anything or aloneMoisture-wicking and quick drying Perfect length and high-waisted fit ConsStitching at the front makes it more obvious that it’s underwearIn my opinion, every woman needs a good pair of boyshorts—for sleeping, extra coverage under short dresses, layering under jeans for warmth, or even wearing solo to yoga or Pilates. This pair from lululemon is perfect for all of that. It looks just like a pair of biker shorts (so no one will know it’s underwear!), but it has the breathability and moisture-wicking benefits of a great pair of undies.This short is made from 91 percent modal (which is softer than cotton) and nine percent elastane for the perfect amount of stretch. It feels buttery soft, but the bit of spandex gives it a subtle snap, making it great for workouts or light compression under a dress. The flat seams stay invisible under clothes and help prevent chafing, while the smooth waistband sits comfortably without digging in or showing through.This short has a five-inch inseam and a super high rise, making it a versatile fit for all kinds of outfits. In my opinion, it’s the perfect length for layering under clothes. When I wear it solo to a workout class, I wish it didn’t have stitching at the crotch—this makes it look more like underwear than workout shorts. But don’t get it twisted—I still wear it to the gym all the time. Plus, it’s moisture-wicking and quick drying, so I never have to worry about feeling damp down there after a sweaty sesh.SizesXL—2XLFabric91% Modal, 9% elastaneColors3CutBoyshortCareMachine wash coldShannen Zitz is the Associate Style & Reviews Editor at Women's Health, where she covers all-things sneakers and activewear. Previously, she was an assistant editor at Prevention. Shannen graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men's Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.