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The right pair of hiking underwear is essential for women. Whether trekking for several days or going on a day hike, your underwear should support your adventure, not inconvenience it.
As seasoned hikers and outdoor guides, we’ve seen it all—from crotch rot to wedgie city, good ol’ fashioned swamp ass, epic chafing, and surprise periods on the trail, to more serious trail troubles like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and UTIs. Undies are a key player in keeping all these bummers at bay.
We’ve been searching for the best hiking underwear for women for years, and finally have a chance to write about it and share our thoughts with fellow hikers. For this article, we tested eight women’s hiking underwear options, including top brands like Smartwool, Icebreaker, Paradis, and BRANWYN, over several weeks of varied outdoor activity.
We know dialing in your pantaloons takes some trial and error, so we’ve pulled up our knickers and gone on the trail to give you a comprehensive, trail-tested review of the best options on the market this year.
Our testing covered hundreds of miles of hiking, backpacking, and cross-country skiing in Central Washington’s Cascade foothills and mountains, primarily during the winter season (updates for long-term testing to follow). We evaluated each pair using metrics like moisture-wicking and dry time, breathability, comfort and fit, durability, odor resistance, and packability to identify the best options for outdoor enthusiasts.
Your days of bunching briefs, sagging granny panties, and moisture-trapping unmentionables are over!
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Women’s Hiking Underwear
Check out this quick list of our favorites, or continue scrolling to see our full list of the best women’s hiking underwear with in-depth reviews.
Best Women’s Hiking Underwear Overall: BRANWYN Essential Hipster ($38)
Best Hiking Underwear for Moisture Control: Smartwool Women’s Everyday Bikini Boxed ($32)
Best Lightweight Hiking Underwear for Women: Icebreaker Women’s Merino 150 Siren Hipkini ($35)
Most Comfortable Hiking Underwear: Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini ($35)
Best Mineral Hiking Underwear: Huha Bikini ($24)
Best When You’re on Your Period: Awwa High Waisted Brief ($32)
Best Synthetic Hiking Underwear: ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief ($35)
Best Boy Shorts: Ridge Merino Boy Shorts ($30)
What’s new
We’ve taken a fresh look at the laundry that gets the dirtiest, testing and retesting hiking underwear out on trail. Here’s where things stand this time around:
- The BRANWYN Essential Hipster is our favorite option overall.
- The top all day everyday pair is the Smartwool Everyday Merino Bikini.
- One of our most comfortable options is the Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini.
Women’s Hiking Underwear Overall Testing Score
BRANWYN Essential Hipster
Best Women’s Hiking Underwear Overall
CleverHiker Rating:
4.8/5.0
Price:
$38
Materials:
81% Merino wool, 12% nylon, 7% spandex
Chemical Free:
Certified BPA, BHP, and PFAS free
Seam:
Seamless knitting technology
Style:
Hipster, four-way stretch
Pros
- Exceptional comfort
- Moisture-wicking, odor resistant, and breathable
- Sustainable materials
- Durable
- Retains shape and elasticity
Cons
- Not the most comprehensize sizing
- Long drying time
- Light colorways stain easily
The BRANWYN Essential Hipster checks all the boxes for hiking underwear. They are comfortable, long-lasting, breathable, have excellent moisture management, and have natural odor resistance. They’re made from a Merino wool blend and have seamless construction. They stay put and don’t bunch, and honestly, when I wear these on a hike, I don’t think about my underwear because they’re meant to hug your body to fit your curves during activities.
While the Essential Hipster is a premium product, its durability and high-quality design justify the price for those prioritizing comfort and sustainability. The eco-forward certifications, renewable materials, transparency, and responsible sourcing practices add value for environmentally conscious shoppers. And despite its longer dry time, the underwear maintains exceptional performance in most conditions.
For hikers seeking a sustainable, high-performance option, the BRANWYN Essential Hipster is an excellent investment. They also have a bikini style, but the Hipster is preferable for hiking since it sits higher on your waist and is less likely to ride down. Its ability to actually be comfortable all day, stay in place, manage sweat, and minimize odor sets it apart.
Smartwool Women’s Everday Bikini Boxed
Best Hiking Underwear for Moisture Control
CleverHiker Rating:
4.6/5.0
Price:
$32
Materials:
53% Merino Wool, 47% Lyocell
Chemical Free:
Not disclosed
Seam:
Soft elastic waistband
Style:
Slim-fit Bikini
Pros
- Excellent moisture-wicking
- Odor-resistant
- Temperature regulating
- Slim fit, flattering, not restrictive
Cons
- Some find them itchy
- Annoying tags
The Smartwool Women’s Everyday Bikini Boxed is designed to optimize moisture control. They combine Merino wool’s natural moisture-wicking, odor resistance, and temperature regulation with TENCEL Lyocell’s cooling softness. It is exceptionally lightweight, dries incredibly fast, and is perfect for ultralight packing.
The fabric manages sweat, keeps you cool on warmer hikes, and retains some warmth in the cold. It is very thin, though, so don’t expect much additional warmth in the depths of winter. The thin fabric is also less durable and more prone to developing holes, especially along the seams.
The material is a little itchy in the first few wears, even after washing. If you have sensitive skin, this could be more of an issue, and other Merino wool underwear options don’t itch at all. Additionally, the placement of the interior tag is bonkers. The tag is enormous, and when we tore it off to make it more comfortable to wear, some of the stitching was removed. Others have reported in customer reviews that ripping the tag off produced a hole in a brand-new pair. This would be a simple issue for Smarwool to fix, and I hope they do because these underwear perform well, but the tag situation feels like an afterthought in design.
They are slim-fitting, so they don’t fit all body types. Still, they have a thoughtful fabric blend, offering decent versatility. Hikers with sensitive skin or larger bodies may consider these factors before purchasing.
Icebreaker Women’s Merino 150 Siren Hipkini
Best Lightweight Women’s Hiking Underwear
CleverHiker Rating:
4.6/5.0
Price:
$35
Materials:
83% Merino Wool, 12% Nylon, 5% Elastane
Chemical Free:
PFAS-free
Seam:
Flatlock seams
Style:
Hipkini
Pros
- Lightweight & breathable
- Excellent moisture-wicking and odor resistance
- Snug, next to skin fit
- Packable
Cons
- Not the best coverage depending on body shape
- Annoying tag
The Icebreaker Women’s Merino 150 Siren Hipkinis are small, compact, and perfect for any kind of travel.
Made from a blend of Merino wool, nylon, and elastane, the Siren Hipkini benefits from the natural properties of mostly wool materials. They’re highly breathable, move moisture away from the body, and dry the fastest of any other underwear we tested. These undies are incredibly lightweight and soft, providing a low-bulk fit for layering under technical clothing.
The Siren Hipkini work well while hiking, and even though they don’t have the most coverage, they don’t ride up. The snug design may not provide full coverage for wearers with curvier body shapes, and if that is the case, they could ride up in those instances, and a different design may be a better choice.
It comes with a hefty tag sewn into the waistband, which is incredibly uncomfortable and challenging to remove without damaging the seam. We accidentally ripped out some of the stitching when we tried to remove the tag. Despite this flaw, the Siren Hipkini is an excellent option for hikers and travelers who want a lightweight performance and a natural material that can dry quickly.
Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini
Most Comfortable Women’s Hiking Underwear
CleverHiker Rating:
4.6/5.0
Price:
$35
Materials:
88% Superfine™ Micro-Modal, 12% Lycra
Chemical Free:
PFAS- and BPA-free, Oeko-Tex certified
Seam:
Double-layered front panel and wide waistband
Style:
Bikini
Pros
- Soft, breathable fabric
- Quick-drying
- Stays in place, no riding up
- Small & packable
Cons
- Visible seams under fitted clothing
- Runs small
- Limited size options
The Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini underwear is versatile for activewear and daily use. It has the softest feel of all the underwear we tested and is made from sustainably harvested beech tree pulp and Superfine Micro-Modal fabric.
The double-layered front panel and wide waistband provide added hiking coverage and stability. While the fabric is soft, the Paradis Sport Bikini stays in place without riding up or chafing. It collected a fair amount of sweat while exercising or hiking, but dried quickly.
The snug fit may require sizing up, particularly for those in between sizes, and the seams can leave visible panty lines under leggings or form-fitting clothes.
Huha Bikini
Best Mineral Underwear
CleverHiker Rating:
4.5/5.0
Price:
$24
Materials:
90% TENCEL™ Modal x Micro, 10% Spandex (shell); 88% TENCEL™ Lyocell, 10% Lyocell, 2% Spandex (lining)
Chemical Free:
PFAS- and BPA-free, Oeko-Tex certified
Seam:
Ultra-soft merrow stitch
Style:
Bikini
Pros
- Sustainably sourced materials
- Naturally antibacterial zinc lining for odor resistance
- Comfortable wide gusset
- Many color options
- Soft & comfy
- Comprehensize sizing
Cons
- Seams are thick and noticeable
- Loosen during wear
- Zinc withstands 150 washes
The Huha Bikini is an innovative mineral-infused underwear with sustainable credentials. Made from TENCEL fibers and lined with zinc-infused smartcel sensitive fabric, the Huha Bikini offers natural antibacterial properties that resist odors while being gentle on sensitive skin.
This lightweight, fuller-coverage bikini cut works well for everyday wear and during activities like hiking because it offers a breathable fit that stays comfortable during long days on the trail or in the office.
The wide gusset felt very secure yet provided an unrestrictive, comfortable fit. While the company claims no front seam, the seams on this underwear were among the most noticeable. The soft seams are thicker than those found in seamless designs, making them especially noticeable under tighter clothing.
The material wicks moisture and maintains freshness over extended use, but the fabric loosens slightly with wear. We found that they regain shape after washing, which can impact all-day performance and comfort for some wearers.
While the fit could be improved, the comfort and functionality of the Huha Bikini outweigh the drawbacks. This underwear combines a thoughtful design and environmental responsibility for eco-conscious consumers or anyone with sensitive skin.
Awwa High Waisted Brief
Best Period Underwear
CleverHiker Rating:
4.3/5.0
Price:
$43
Materials:
Outer: 80% Recycled Nylon, 20% Elastane; Mesh: 94% Nylon, 6% Spandex; Lining: 95% Organic Cotton, 5% Elastane
Chemical Free:
Tested for PFAS
Seam:
High-waist with mesh panel detailing
Style:
High-waisted brief
Pros
- Absorbent enough for moderate flow
- Traceable supply chain
- Comfortable high-waisted fit
- Actually leakproof
- Stays in place while hiking or exercising
Cons
- Tighter fit than traditional underwear
- Requires a more conscious washing routine
The Awwa High Waisted Brief period panty is a fantastic addition to a period kit for hiking. They offer reliable period protection on the trail as the high-waisted brief stays secure during physical activity. It has an absorbency capacity equivalent to two tampons or pads, but it works best for a moderate flow or as backup protection for tampons or menstrual cups.
When tested during a heavy flow day as a backup to a menstrual cup, the Awwa High Waisted Brief lasted throughout the day without leaks or any odors. They were also tested overnight with no additional products (moderate flow) and did not leak, even though they were worn for more than eight hours.
The high waist and soft fabric make it comfortable for hiking, preventing shifting or discomfort during long treks. They’re a great backup to a cup to prevent leaking onto your hiking pants or as a backup at night to avoid leaking onto sleeping gear or baselayers. If you have a heavier flow, you may need to carry additional pairs for extended trips and adjust to the washing routine required to maintain the underwear.
While the upfront cost per pair may seem steep, the long-term savings on single-use menstrual products and reduced waste make it a good value and a more sustainable choice. Awwa’s commitment to sustainability and combating period poverty further enhances the appeal of this product.
ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief
Best Synthetic Women’s Hiking Underwear
CleverHiker Rating:
4.3/5.0
Price:
$35 (2 pair)
Materials:
89% nylon, 11% elastane
Chemical Free:
Not Disclosed
Seam:
Flatlock seams
Style:
Mid-rise bikini brief
Pros
- Flattering fit with a functional waistband
- Lightweight, breathable, and fast-drying fabric
- Chafe-free wear with flatlock seams
- Durable and long-lasting material quality
- Easy to care for, even on the go
Cons
- Sizing runs slightly big
- Not the most comprehensize sizing
- Higher price point for synthetic materials
The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief is designed with 89% nylon and 11% elastane. The synthetic materials are favored for their lightweight breathability, quick-drying performance, and fit. While the underwear does run a little big, they still provide all-day comfort, chafe-free flatlock seams, and a secure waistband that stays in place.
The quick-drying properties stood out, and after our dry test, the underwear was ready to wear by morning. The mid-rise cut and wide waistband deliver a flattering and functional fit, and the waistband does not roll or scrunch up even when wearing a backpack. For synthetic materials, they perform admirably in odor resistance and don’t hold onto odors too much.
These briefs balance performance and value for travelers seeking reliability and easy maintenance. They are a little expensive for synthetic materials but are among the most affordable underwear options discussed here. The Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief is dependable for breathable and long-lasting activewear. Whether hiking in the summer heat or navigating humid climates, these are a reliable choice.
Women’s Ridge Merino Boy Shorts
Best Boy Short Style Hiking Underwear
CleverHiker Rating:
4.0/5.0
Price:
$30
Materials:
84% Merino wool, 12% recycled nylon, 4% spandex
Chemical Free:
“good for you & good for environment”
Seam:
Flatlock seams
Style:
Full-coverage boy shorts
Pros
- Moisture-wicking
- Odor-resistant
- Thick & durable
- Comfortable fabric
Cons
- Waistband can be too tight
- Sags when wet
- Can ride up while hiking
The Ridge Merino Boy Shorts balance comfort, durability, and functionality in full-coverage underwear. They’re made with an 84% Merino wool blend, making them highly breathable, odor-resistant, and naturally moisture-wicking. Due to the thick material, they had the longest dry time we tested, but they work well for hiking, working out, or layering under ski pants.
The soft Merino wool blend isn’t itchy and regulates body temperature, resists odors, and wicks moisture even during high-intensity hiking. The lightweight fabric has flatlock seams and a “no-flip” waistband. The seams are not noticeable, but the waistband can flip when hiking, and it may only be a no-flip for wearers with a completely flat stomach. Still, I liked the versatility as a base layer, for sleepwear, and even swimwear because of the full coverage during backpacking trips.
Depending on your body shape and size, the waistband may feel tight, especially on curvier body types, so sizing up may be necessary for a more comfortable fit. The material also loses its shape when wet, and depending on your butt size, they do ride up some while hiking. They do a nice job for a boy short and are among the most comfortable full coverage options we’ve tried for the trail.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Moisture Control | Breathability | Comfort | Durability | Odor Control | Packability | 0 |
BRANWYN Essential Hipster View at BRANWYN  |
$38 | 4.2 | 4.7 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.7 | 1 |
Women’s Everday Bikini Boxed View at Smartwool View at Amazon |
$32 | 5.0 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 5.0 | 2 |
Women’s Merino 150 Siren Hipkini View at Amazon View at Icebreaker |
$35 | 5.0 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 5.0 | 3 |
Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini View at Paradis Sport |
$35 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.0 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 4 |
Huha Bikini View at Icebreaker |
$24 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 5 |
Awwa High Waisted Brief View at Awwa |
$43 | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 6 |
ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief View at Amazon View at ExOfficio  |
$35 (2 pair) | 4.8 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 3.0 | 4.8 | 7 |
Ridge Merino Boy Shorts View at Ridge View at Garage Grown Gear |
$30 | 4.0 | 3.6 | 3.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 3.0 |
|---|
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How We Test & Methodology
MOISTURE WICKING & DRY TIME
We assessed moisture-wicking by conducting controlled tests. We wet all underwear options and timed how long each took to dry. We also wore the underwear during high-intensity hikes, measuring how effectively they managed sweat and kept the skin dry. We aim to determine which options wick moisture away from the skin and dry the fastest.
BREATHABILITY
We tested breathability by wearing each pair of underwear in a range of hiking conditions and during all our favorite outdoor activities. While wearing the underwear, we noted how well the fabric allowed airflow to prevent discomfort.
The ideal pair should keep you cool and dry during high-energy activities, minimizing sweat accumulation and chafing.
COMFORT & FIT
We assess comfort and fit during long hikes (at least 6 hours) and daily activities. We pay close attention to how well the underwear stays in place without chafing, rolling, loosening, or riding up.
The waistband and seams are specifically checked for irritation, and we assess the fit against the labeled size. Any discomfort, such as chafing or the need for constant adjustments, is recorded. The goal is to identify which pairs offer the most comfortable and secure fit over extended wear.
DURABILITY
We test for durability by wearing each pair on at least three different hikes and by washing them 10-15 times following the manufacturer’s care instructions. We check to see how well they maintain their elasticity, shape, and fabric integrity. We check for signs of wear, such as fraying, pilling, or loss of structure.
While we’ve been wearing some of these brands for many seasons, we test the latest version to give an accurate review of the model that’s on the market this year. With more long-term testing, we update this guide regularly.
ODOR RESISTANCE
Each pair was worn for a full day of hiking or cross-country skiing to evaluate odor resistance. After the activity, we assess odor levels and test how well the fabric neutralizes odors after airing out for 24 hours. Additionally, we evaluate the fabric’s performance after multiple washes to see how well it continues to manage odor and if it holds onto odors even after washing. The best underwear should resist odor buildup, keeping you feeling fresh even on extended hikes.
PACKABILITY
Packability is tested by folding or rolling each pair of underwear into the smallest possible size. We then measure the dimensions of the folded underwear and compress it further by placing it under mild pressure in a stuffed backpack. We also evaluate how easily the underwear fits into compact dry bags for packing on long-distance hikes.
Why Trust CleverHiker
At CleverHiker, we bring expert, hands-on experience to our gear reviews. The lead tester for this article, Meg Carney, is an outdoor and environmental writer with over eight years of experience writing for outdoor industry publications.
With firsthand experience on the trails and in the field, Meg has hiked thousands of miles and tested gear in various conditions, from weekend backpacking trips to remote wilderness adventures. Her coverage and research into sustainable product design, environmental issues, and outdoor gear make her uniquely qualified to help readers find more sustainably focused and high-performing hiking gear.
Her expertise ensures that CleverHiker readers receive honest, thorough advice on the best women’s underwear for their needs.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
Among the tested products, the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief may have the best value or at least the best upfront cost, offering two pairs for the price of one of most of the other pairs we tested.
While synthetic materials don’t have the best odor resistance compared to Merino options, they still have a solid performance in moisture-wicking, breathability, and comfort at a significantly lower price point.
The most expensive option on our list is the Awwa High-Waisted Brief, but there’s a good reason. Its specialized design for period protection and sustainability credentials justify the cost for specific use cases.
Similarly spendy, the BRANWYN Essential Hipster is a high-value pick because it offers exceptional comfort, durability, and certified chemical-free materials, making it wprthy investment for health-conscious hikers.
MOISTURE WICKING & DRY TIME
Moisture management and quick-drying capabilities directly impact comfort, prevent chafing, and improve performance during outdoor activities.
The Icebreaker Merino 150 Siren Hipkini has the fastest dry time among the tested products and does the best job of wicking moisture away from the skin while in use. This performance makes it an excellent choice for high-intensity hikes, humid conditions, or multi-day trips where fast drying is a top consideration.
Similarly, the ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief excels in moisture management because of the synthetic blend of nylon and spandex. After a full soak, it dried within an hour. While it did not dry as fast as the Icebreaker Hipkini, it is more affordable and performs similarly.
The BRANWYN Essential Hipster decently manages moisture while in use, but takes longer to dry than synthetic options and thinner Merino blends. It took 2+ hours to fully dry after soaking, but the material’s comfort and odor-resistant properties compensate for the slower drying time.
BREATHABILITY
Breathability and proper airflow reduce sweat buildup, minimize the risk of chafing, and help regulate body temperature. The Smartwool Everyday Bikini Boxed and Icebreaker Siren Hipkini earn high marks in this category due to the inherent breathability of Merino wool. Both products allow for excellent airflow, even during extended wear. The natural temperature-regulating properties of Merino wool also contribute to keeping wearers comfortable.
The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief also performs well in terms of breathability, thanks to its lightweight synthetic fabric. The nylon-spandex blend allows for adequate airflow and prevents sweat from pooling on the skin. It still lacks the temperature-regulating benefits of Merino wool, but its performance is commendable for its price point.
In contrast, the Huha Bikini’s thicker material is soft and capable of moderate airflow; the design inhibits optimal ventilation, making it less suitable for high-heat or high-humidity conditions. The thicker construction also gives it a heavier feel, which might not appeal to those seeking lightweight, minimalist gear.
The BRANWYN innerwear offers moderate breathability. Its thicker Merino wool fabric provides less airflow than the lighter Smartwool and Icebreaker options.
Similarly, the Awwa High-Waisted Brief is designed for period protection, which means some trade-offs with breathability. While the mesh side panels improve this somewhat, the thicker, absorbent layers are less conducive to airflow, making it a specialized product rather than an all-purpose option.
COMFORT & FIT
Ill-fitting or uncomfortable underwear designs can lead to chafing, irritation, and distraction on the trail.
The BRANWYN Essential Hipster is by far the most consistently comfortable because of its seamless construction and soft, stretchy fabric. The absence of seams makes them unnoticeable during long hikes, and the snug fit keeps the underwear in place without rolling, bunching, or riding up. The design also works for a range of body types.
The Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini also shines in this category with a close fit, excellent stability, and staying in place. Its soft fabric is comfortable against the skin and may have the softest feel of all the underwear we tested. However, its tighter fit may require some users to size up for optimal comfort, particularly those with curvier body types.
The Icebreaker Merino 150 Siren Hipkini’s next-to-skin fit was another highlight, providing adequate support and preventing uncomfortable shifting during movement. However, the lower-rise design and limited coverage might not suit everyone. Additionally, the large tag on the interior detracts from the overall comfort. We removed our which drastically leveled-up their comfort rating.
The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief provides reliable comfort, but the sizing runs slightly large, which may result in a looser fit for some users. This could lead to minor shifting, but it’s a minor gripe for a dependable and budget-friendly option.
The Huha Bikini’s soft material increases its comfort level, but the looser fit and thicker seams make it less ideal for long hikes. The thicker seams increase the likelihood of chafing, and the loosening fit requires occasional adjustments.
DURABILITY
No one wants to invest in underwear that gets holes after just a few weeks of wear. Even worse is having a limited number of underwear with you on a long-distance trek and having them fall apart.
BRANWYN Essential Hipster’s merino wool blend and seamless knitting technology proved exceptionally durable, maintaining its shape and elasticity after multiple washes. We’ve worn BRANWYN for over a year, and even our oldest pair has no noticeable fraying or pilling, and the fabric’s integrity remains intact.
The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Brief is extremely durable, and many hikers have relied on these for thru-hikes. Its synthetic materials resist wear even after extensive testing and countless washes.
The only pairs that showed any signs of noticeable wear were the Icebreaker Women’s Merino 150 Siren Hipkini and the Smartwool Women’s Everyday Bikini Boxed underwear. The thin materials show slight vulnerability to fraying at the seams, particularly after removing the large tags, which damaged the stitching.
ODOR RESISTANCE
Even if you change underwear daily on the trail, you aren’t showering, sometimes not swimming, and can work up quite the odor. Odor resistance isn’t just about smell either, and as women, minimizing bacteria growth can prevent infections.
Natural fibers perform the best in this category. Merino wool’s natural properties gave the Smartwool Women’s Everyday Bikini Boxed, BRANWYN Essential Hipster, and Icebreaker Women’s Merino 150 Siren Hipkini a significant advantage. They consistently managed odor throughout long days of hiking and maintained freshness even after multiple wears without washing. However, Huha Bikini’s zinc-infused lining provided decent antibacterial protection, but odor resistance diminished after extended use.
PACKABILITY
When packing several pairs of underwear into your bag, you don’t want them to take up too much space or weigh you down.
The lightweight and compact design of the Icebreaker Women’s Merino 150 Siren Hipkini made it the most packable option. It is compressed easily and fits seamlessly into tight spaces.
Smartwool Women’s Everyday Bikini Boxed and Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini also scored highly, offering slim profiles and lightweight fabrics ideal for ultralight packing. Ridge Merino Boy Shorts and Awwa High Waisted Brief were less packable due to their thicker fabrics and designs, making them bulkier in tightly packed bags.
How to Choose Women’s Hiking Underwear
There are many aspects to consider when choosing the best pair of underwear for a woman, and understanding these features and tradeoffs can help you make an informed decision.
MATERIAL
The material of your hiking underwear directly impacts moisture management, breathability, and odor control. An often overlooked aspect of the materials that women should be considering is if the materials are tested for harmful chemicals like BPA (bisphenol A) and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).
These chemicals have been shown to be absorbable through the skin (read this article) and are known endocrine (hormone) disruptors. We suggest purchasing from brands that avoid or test for these substances.
Merino wool is one of the best choices for hiking underwear thanks to its natural moisture-wicking properties, breathability, and odor resistance. It’s particularly beneficial for longer trips where staying dry and fresh is essential.
However, merino wool can be more expensive and may not be as durable as synthetic materials. Most Merino underwear options are a blend of materials to increase durability.
Synthetic blends, typically made from nylon, polyester, or spandex, offer durability, quick-drying capabilities, and affordability. However, they don’t manage odors as effectively as merino and are more likely to contain toxic chemicals.
Natural fiber blends like bamboo, tencel, or mineral-based fabrics provide comfort and a more sustainable option without entirely depending on animal-derived materials. However, they may not perform as well in extreme conditions.
MOISTURE CONTROL
Moisture-wicking properties help prevent chafing and keep your skin dry while you’re on the move. Fabrics like Merino wool and Tencel naturally draw sweat away from the skin, helping to prevent irritation and discomfort.
When choosing hiking underwear, the dry time of the fabric may also be a factor worth considering. If you like to take a quick dip in an alpine lake or are on a multi-month trip and need to wash clothes on the trail, dry time matters.
Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon typically dry the fastest.
Lightweight merino wool blends also offer good moisture-wicking properties but dry more slowly than synthetics. Hot tip: if you can, try to dry your undies in full sun (hang on your pack, set up a drying line in the sun). This helps nuke the stinky stuff better.
BREATHABILITY
Breathability helps regulate your body temperature during high-intensity activities. Fabrics that allow for good airflow will help keep you comfortable by preventing overheating and moisture buildup.
Lightweight materials and mesh panels are particularly effective for enhancing breathability, making them ideal for warm-weather hikes. Keep in mind that increased breathability can sometimes mean less warmth. So, if you’re planning to hike in cold weather, a fabric that can continue to insulate when wet, like wool, may be better.
COMFORT & FIT
Comfort is key when it comes to hiking underwear. You want a pair that feels like a second skin and minimizes distractions like wedgies, chafing, bunching, or scratchy fabric. Seamless underwear or ones utilizing flatlock seams can reduce friction, prevent chafing, and are just more comfortable.
Choose a style that works best for your body type and preferences. Something that fits one person well won’t be comfortable for another body type.
Don’t forget to consider the rise of the underwear, whether you prefer low, mid, or high-waisted options, and the cut of the leg, whether you prefer bikini, briefs, or boy shorts.
DURABILITY
Hiking underwear should withstand frequent wear, washing, and use on extended hiking trips. Hang-drying, especially when made with natural materials, is one easy way to prolong the life of your underwear.
Synthetic fabrics tend to be more durable and resistant to abrasion, but merino wool is more comfortable and odor-resistant. Most Merino underwear contains a small percentage of synthetic materials to improve fit and durability. Reinforced stitching and high-quality materials will also contribute to the overall longevity of the underwear.
ODOR RESISTANCE
Odor resistance is a key feature for long hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. Merino wool and other natural materials like Tencel are all naturally antimicrobial, which makes them excellent for resisting odors.
Some synthetic fabrics, like those treated with Polygiene, can also feature odor-reducing technology. Mineral-treated underwear can also improve odor resistance.
If you plan on being on the trail for several days, choose underwear with good odor resistance and consider packing a new pair for each day. If you’re on a long trek, pack at least two pairs so you can wash them often.
PACKABILITY
If you’re an ultralight hiker, that doesn’t mean you have to go commando. Look for compact and lightweight underwear. Thin, lightweight fabrics, like merino-based ones, are great for minimizing pack weight while providing the comfort and performance you need on the trail. These types of underwear are easy to pack, dry relatively quickly, and are well-suited for those looking to save space and weight in their gear.
Conclusion
We work hard to provide expert, thorough product reviews to help you make informed decisions about your hiking gear. Our testing process is designed to assess all the critical factors, from comfort and durability to moisture management and odor resistance.
We’ve carefully researched and tested a variety of women’s hiking underwear to bring you the top options currently available. Whether preparing for a weekend hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, our guide can help you find the best fit for your needs and preferences. Let us know your favorites in the comments!
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