7 Best Sustainable Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Workouts and Beyond

Shopping for underwear probably isn’t the most exciting thing on your list, but it’s something we all have to do at some point. Noticing some wear and tear on your favorite undies? Has it been years since you’ve slipped into a fresh pair? Both are good indicators of it being time for an underwear haul. And thanks to the

sustainability movement in fashion, eco-friendly underwear options have become far more popular than they used to be.

Depending on your needs and lifestyle, moisture-wicking underwear should be on your list. Perfect for workouts at the gym,

#hotgirlwalks, or

long hikes in the wilderness, moisture-wicking underwear helps draw moisture from your body rather than having it sit there all day (and ultimately causing discomfort). 

While a lot of moisture-wicking underwear on the market is produced with synthetic materials, sustainable options are extra safe for the gentler parts of our bodies—and the environment, too.

You’ll find that some natural fibers, like

bamboo, work to prevent us from being drenched in our briefs, thongs, and boyshorts every day. And, contrary to popular belief, organic cotton has natural moisture-wicking abilities. "It's going to be the best fabric to use in any form of underwear," says board-certified OB-GYN,

Shon Cooper, MD. "It’s more breathable and gentler on your skin."

With organic cotton's special moisture-managing properties, it's no surprise it's often found in plenty of

activewear—including leggings and sports bras—to keep you cooler and drier. It's also easier to wash because odors are fully released, whereas in synthetic underwear, they can stay trapped. Non-organic cotton, on the other hand, can keep moisture trapped and take an inconveniently long time to dry. 

Thongs specifically can be tricky, because bacteria can easily transfer with one sudden movement. However, brands like Parade have made safe moisture-wicking thongs that stay put while working out.

"Thongs aren't any worse than full-coverage underwear," says

Michelle Jones Singer, MD, a board-certified OB-GYN. “They both can promote or decrease chances of infection, but it depends on the material they’re made of,” she adds. Aside from opting for sustainable materials, Dr. Singer also recommends choosing a thong that fits properly and isn’t too tight or snug.

Traditional moisture-wicking underwear is usually made of nylon, polyester, or spandex, but it can also contain additional chemicals and pesticides that are generally unsafe for sensitive areas. Instead, aim for one of these sustainable moisture-wicking underwear options, handpicked by us from some of our most trusted brands.