If you’ve ever headed out on a hike only to find yourself tugging at uncomfortable underwear, you already know why the right gear matters. Choosing hiking underwear women need isn’t just about fashion—it’s about comfort, hygiene, and preventing distractions so you can focus on the trail ahead. Unlike everyday undies, hiking underwear is built to wick sweat, resist odors, and stay in place mile after mile. In this guide, we’ll break down fabrics, styles, top picks, and tips so you can hit the trail feeling confident from the ground up.
What to Look for in Women’s Hiking Underwear
When shopping for hiking underwear women, you want to balance comfort, performance, and durability. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Fabric: Skip cotton. Instead, go for moisture-wicking synthetics, merino wool, or bamboo blends.
- Fit: Look for snug but not tight. Too loose and fabric will bunch, too tight and you risk chafing.
- Features: Flat seams, tagless waistbands, and odor resistance make a huge difference on long hikes.
- Coverage: Choose a cut that makes you feel secure, whether that’s full briefs, bikinis, or thongs.
The goal is to find underwear that disappears into the background—you shouldn’t even notice it’s there.
Best Fabrics for Women’s Hiking Underwear
Fabric choice is arguably the most important decision. Here are the three main players:
Synthetics (Polyester, Nylon, Spandex)
- Pros: Quick-drying, affordable, durable, stretchy.
- Cons: Can hold onto odor, especially after multiple days without washing.
Synthetics are ideal for hot, sweaty hikes where fast drying is key.
Merino Wool
- Pros: Naturally odor-resistant, regulates body temperature, soft against the skin.
- Cons: Pricier, less durable over time, slower to dry than synthetics.
Merino wool shines for multi-day hikes when you need underwear you can wear repeatedly without stinking.
Bamboo
- Pros: Ultra-soft, breathable, eco-friendly, hypoallergenic.
- Cons: Slower drying, less durable than synthetics.
Bamboo blends are a comfortable choice for women who prioritize sustainability and softness.
Styles of Hiking Underwear for Women
Finding the right style is all about personal comfort. Each cut has unique pros and cons.
Briefs
Classic and reliable. They provide good coverage and tend to stay in place. Great for women who want dependable comfort without fuss.
Boyshorts / Boxer Briefs
Extra coverage on the thighs helps reduce chafing—perfect for long hikes or women prone to inner-thigh rub.
Bikinis
Lightweight and versatile. Bikinis offer less coverage but often dry quicker and feel less bulky under leggings or shorts.
Thongs
Minimal coverage means minimal fabric to dry and zero visible lines. Not for everyone, but many women swear by thongs for quick-drying performance.
Sports Bras
Bras count as hiking underwear too. A good sports bra provides support, comfort, and moisture-wicking. Look for flat straps and stretchy fabrics that won’t dig under a backpack.
Best Women’s Hiking Underwear: Our Top Picks
Here are standout options across fabrics and styles:
- Best Overall: Icebreaker Merino Siren Bikini Briefs – Full coverage, odor-resistant, and long-lasting when cared for properly.
- Best Synthetic Option: ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Briefs – Quick-drying, durable, and travel-ready for sink washes on the go.
- Best Merino Wool Option: Smartwool Merino 150 Bikini Underwear – Lightweight and soft with excellent odor resistance.
- Best Bamboo Option: Boody Full Briefs – Sustainable, soft, and high-waisted for full comfort.
- Best Budget-Friendly Option: REI Co-op Active Hipster Underwear – Affordable, quick-drying, and dependable for everyday hiking.
- Best Sports Bra: Patagonia Barely Bra – Lightweight, stretchy, and supportive without being restrictive.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pair
Here’s how to dial in the perfect hiking underwear women should consider:
- Avoid cotton: It traps moisture, leading to chafing and discomfort.
- Consider your body type: Curvier women may prefer boyshorts to reduce thigh rub, while others love the low-profile feel of bikinis.
- Think about trip length: For thru-hikes, prioritize odor resistance and durability. For day hikes, comfort may be your top priority.
- Pack smart: For backpacking trips, two or three pairs are usually enough—wash one, wear one, and keep one dry.
Care & Maintenance of Hiking Underwear
To extend the lifespan of your gear:
- Wash gently: Use cold or warm water and mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, which can reduce wicking ability.
- Air dry: High heat from dryers can damage elastic and shorten lifespan.
- Trail washing: A quick rinse in a stream or sink with biodegradable soap works fine. Hang overnight and they’ll often be dry by morning.
Final Thoughts on Hiking Underwear for Women
When it comes to hiking underwear women, comfort is everything. The right pair should wick sweat, stay in place, and resist odors so you can forget about your underwear and focus on the view. Whether you choose durable synthetics, cozy merino wool, or soft bamboo, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you. Once you’ve dialed in your fit and style, you’ll find that underwear becomes one of the smallest but most impactful pieces of gear in your pack.
