The Best Workout Underwear: Your Guide for 2026
Choosing the right underwear for your workouts can make a significant difference in comfort and performance. With countless options on the market, it’s essential to know which styles and materials will best suit your fitness goals. Our comprehensive guide aims to help you select the ideal workout underwear based on extensive testing and expert recommendations.
Testing Methodology
Our evaluation process was built on hands-on experience and expert insight. The teams from Women’s Health in the US and UK dedicated the past two years to testing over two dozen pairs of workout underwear. Our criteria focused on comfort, fabric quality, fit, and durability, with consideration given to the types of workouts where each style excelled.
As a fitness and outdoor gear writer, I personally tested multiple pairs from our shortlisted selections. Additionally, contributions from experts like Lily Wohlner, a seasoned writer, and Hattie Parish, Senior Health and Wellness Ecommerce Editor, ensured that we identified the best options for intense workouts.
Comprehensive Testing Conditions
We meticulously tested these underwear styles under various conditions, including wearing them beneath gym leggings and running shorts. Special attention was paid to thinner yoga leggings to assess visibility, comfort, moisture-wicking abilities, and how well the underwear stayed in place during movements like squats, lunges, burpees, and long runs. We also made sure to test thong styles for comfort, ensuring they did not become too wedged during activity.
For those who prefer looser bottoms, such as shell shorts or tracksuit pants, sweat-wicking performance was a primary focus. Our guide includes a range of styles—thongs, bikinis, briefs, and shorts—so you can find what fits your needs.
Expert Insights
To refine our selections further, we consulted professionals such as gynaecologist Dr. King and fabric expert Riquetti. Their expertise helped us understand the best materials and designs to look for in workout underwear. We also included insights from Andrea Speir, founder of SPEIR Pilates and an expert with 18 years of experience in the field.
Top Selections for 2026
Only the most comfortable, breathable, and high-performance options made it into our final guide. Below, you’ll find our top picks for workout underwear that will support you through your fitness journey.
Conclusion
Investing in the right workout underwear is crucial for enhancing your performance and ensuring your comfort during physical activity. With our guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of the best styles and materials tailored to various workout needs. Explore our recommendations to find your perfect fit and elevate your fitness experience.
