Something we don’t often talk about as guys, is if we should wear underwear under compression shorts. However, many guys have questions about the do’s and don’ts of compression shorts and undergarments.
Which raises the question…
Should You Wear Underwear Under Compression Shorts?
Many people find wearing underwear under compression shorts more comfortable. However, this can depend on the fabric of the shorts and personal preference. Underwear provides an extra layer of protection and prevents direct contact between the skin and compression fabric.
Ultimately, the decision to wear underwear under compression shorts is a personal choice and can depend the specific activity you are participating in. Wearing underwear can provide support during physical activities and sports.
In tis post, I share the benefits of wearing underwear under your compression shorts. I also share the benefits of wearing compression shorts as your first layer.
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Benefits of Wearing Underwear Under Your Compression Shorts:
Wearing a pair of underwear under your compression shorts may not be necessary. However, it sure does have it’s benefits!
Here are the benefits of wearing underwear under compression shorts:
Hygiene Purposes
Wearing underwear under compression shorts will contribute to better hygiene. The additional layer of underwear will create a layer that helps absorb sweat and prevents direct contact between the body and compression fabric.
This can be particularly beneficial if you can’t wash your compression shorts frequently.
Although you can wear compression shorts a few times between washes, I suggest washing them every time you wear them. Since compression shorts are made with moisture-wicking fabric, they will absorb your sweat and start to smell.
Keeps You Warm in Cold Weather
Wearing underwear under your compression shorts can provide a light layer of insulation, helping to regulate your body temperature.
They can keep you warm in colder environments by trapping a thin layer of air against the skin, while their moisture-wicking materials prevent overheating and excessive sweat accumulation.
If you’re exercising out in a cold climate, it’s a good idea to wear a pair of underwear under your compression running shorts.
Necessity for Certain Sports
A general rule for contact sports, is that you are going to want to wear a pair of underwear under your compression shorts. Wearing underwear under your compression sports will offer more support and protection.
It can be quite uncomfortable for other people when you are playing a contact sport without underwear on.
Reduces Chafing
Wearing underwear under your shorts will reduce chafing and skin irritation. The extra layer from your underwear creates a separation between your groin area and thigh.
When you’re playing sports, it’s important to reduce friction as much as possible. Friction can cause chafing and skin irritation, which is a common problem among athletes.
Many athletes like to wear underwear under their compression shorts because it creates a barrier between their legs and crotch area.
Compression Shorts Quality
If your compression shorts are not made with high-grade fabric, you’re going to want to wear underwear as your base layer. Compression shorts that aren’t of excellent quality will be very uncomfortable and can irritate your thighs, groin, and private parts.
If you’re unsure if your shorts are good enough quality, it’s better to wear underwear. Wearing underwear will be equally if not more comfortable to wear under your pair of shorts.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision to wear underwear under compression shorts comes down to personal preference. Some people feel more comfortable and secure when wearing both layers.
In my experience, wearing a pair of compression underwear under my compression shorts offers more comfort and support. Personally, I prefer to wear underwear under my compression shorts because it is way more comfortable and it is more hygienic.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Shorts as Your First Layer:
Wearing underwear under compression shorts has the fitness community divided. Although there are many reasons to wear underwear under compression shorts, there are also many benefits to not wearing any underwear under compression shorts.
Here are the benefits to wearing compressions shorts as your base layer:
Improved Circulation
By applying a light amount of pressure to the muscles, compression shorts help enhance oxygen and nutrient delivery while facilitating the removal of metabolic waste products. Improved circulation will improve recovery time and reduce muscle soreness.
Having an increased blood flow in your legs will allow you to workout for a longer period of time. This is the primary benefit of wearing compression shorts as your base layer.
Moisture Management
Compression shorts made from moisture-wicking fabrics will help draw sweat away from the skin. This moisture management feature keeps you dry and comfortable during exercise by preventing excessive sweat buildup and reducing the risk of chafing or irritation.
Some people choose to wear moisture-wicking underwear underneath their compression gear. However, that is a personal choice.
Comfort
Compression shorts are made from stretchable materials that allow for a wide range of motion. They provide a secure and comfortable fit without restricting your movements.
Wearing only compression shorts will allow you to easily perform exercises and sports movements.
There are many people who prefer to wear only compression shorts, because the extra layer causes discomfort. Since the built-in liner is made with breathable materials, they will be very comfortable to wear without underwear.
What Type of Underwear Do You Wear Under Compression Shorts?
If you’re going to wear underwear under your compression shorts, the kind of underwear you choose is important.
Here are the types of underwear you should wear with compression shorts:
Boxer Briefs
Boxer briefs offer more coverage than traditional briefs while still providing a snug fit. They have a longer leg length that will help reduce friction and chafing.
It’s a good idea to look for boxer briefs made from moisture-wicking and stretchable fabrics to ensure optimal comfort and performance.
Compression Underwear
Some brands offer compression underwear that is designed to be worn as a base layer with compression shorts. These underwear options provide additional compression to complement the compression shorts, offering increased muscle support and circulation benefits.
Compression underwear is the ideal choice whether you’re wearing compression tights, shorts, pants, or other compression gear.
Performance Briefs
Performance briefs are designed specifically for athletic activities. They are made from moisture-wicking materials that help keep you dry and comfortable during exercise.
Performance briefs often have a supportive pouch or contouring design to provide a secure fit without sacrificing freedom of movement. This is especially good for sports where you are actively using your legs.
What Type of Underwear Should Not Be Worn Under Compression Shorts?
When wearing compression shorts, it’s best to avoid certain types of underwear that may interfere with the fit, compression, or comfort of the shorts.
Here are a few types of underwear that should never be worn under compression shorts:
Loose Boxers
Loose boxers can bunch up or create excess fabric that will cause discomfort and interfere with the compression provided by the shorts. The loose fit will also lead to increased friction and potential chafing during physical activity.
In my experience, loose boxers absorb more sweat which can irritate the thighs and groin area. Instead of wearing loose boxers, try out a pair of compression underwear.
Cotton Underwear
While cotton underwear is generally comfortable for everyday wear, there are better choices to wear under compression shorts during physical activity. Cotton tends to retain moisture, which can lead to discomfort, chafing, and potential skin irritation.
Moisture-wicking fabrics, such as polyester or nylon blends, are preferred by athletes for active wear.
Why Do Men’s Shorts Have Netting?
The netting design on shorts allows your skin to breathe and dry after being moistened by sweat from physical exercise. Many athletes like shorts with mesh liner because it is more comfortable, they reduce chafing and they provide better ventilation and airflow to the groin area.
Overall, lined shorts are great for athletes who sweat a lot and like to wear high performance workout clothing. For those who just want a casual pair of shorts, lined shorts are not necessary.
Should You Wear Underwear Under Compression Pants?
Oftentimes, compression pants are worn with underwear. Since compression pants fit close to the skin, many people find that wearing underwear help prevent skin irritation and chafing. Wearing underwear under compression sweatpants will give a much needed extra layer of protection.
Many people find that wearing sweatpants under compression pants can make them feel warmer, more comfortable and it keeps things in place.
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Final Thoughts on Do You Wear Underwear Under Compression Shorts
Wearing underwear under compression shorts is a personal decision that really comes down to personal preference. There are pros and cons to wearing underwear under compressions shorts, so it’s really up to you to weigh your options.
In this post, I shared if you should wearing underwear under compression shorts, the pros and cons of wearing underwear under compression shorts and the different types of underwear that can be worn with compression shorts.
’23 humans who wear compression shorts/pants look so futuristically sick. One day a few months ago, I heard a delivery truck out in the street and when I glanced outside to see what was happening, I was like whoaaa – lo and behold, the coolest looking human I had ever seen was standing out in the road directing his co-worker in the truck. He was definitely one of the older Z’s (like maybe 21 or so) and he was wearing full black compression pants with loose colored shorts over them and black yeezys. Combine all of that with the most futuristic hairstyle I had ever seen thus far, and I was literally like whoaaa that looks so freaking amazing!! He looked just like an awesome real-life video game character moving around out there, and I mean that totally as a compliment! Only a Z could rock a modern look like that so confidently and perfectly – Z’s literally OWN the future!