The Most Important Workout Gear?
The Most Important Workout Gear?
There are already enough things to worry about at the gym. Did the last guy wipe his gross sweat off the bench? Will there be any dumbbells left by the time I finally make it over to the rack? If I do one more set will I actually pass out? The last thing you want to worry about your underwear.
Yes, there’s a pretty hard and fast rule about free-balling in the gym. You just don’t do it. Man parts are to be secured at all costs. You want something light and breathable but underwear that also offers security. No one wants to spend half their session adjusting their junk in between sets.
How to Prevent Chafing
Chafing is a result of your skin rubbing together or together with fabric to create red, irritated, painful patches that can really derail a good gait. Prepping skin prone to chafing with something that reduces friction is key. and we recommend using something such as Vaseline, BodyGlide, or Gold Bond Body Powder. Areas that are quick to chafe include thighs, armpits, nipples, and groin.
To further prevent chafing, avoid cotton, as it traps moisture and can increase the likelihood of rough, red spots. Anti-chafing fibers such as nylon, polyester, and rayon from bamboo are going to be the best bet in keeping your boys cozy.
Best Materials for Men's Athletic Underwear
As mentioned, synthetic fabrics have proven to be the way to go when it comes to active underwear, but there are some natural fabric options that provide breathability and moisture wicking that will keep movement at a maximum while also helping to prevent chafing.
Nylon. By far the most popular fiber for running and athletic apparel, nylon often originates from a source such as coal or petroleum and is quickly finding a lot of competition from fabrics that can be more eco-conscious.
Polyester. Polyester is another plastic-based fabric. It is lightweight, durable, and breathable and stays much drier than a lot of other natural fabrics. However, it doesn’t have antibacterial qualities of natural fibers.
Spandex. Almost always mixed with another synthetic fiber, spandex can stretch and expand to offer unrestricted movement while retaining its shape over time.
Bamboo. Bamboo is a great soft, sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fibers. It’s naturally sweat-wicking and anti-bacterial.
Wool. Believe it or not, merino wool is ideal for both hot and cold weather as it is temperature regulating, breathable, sweat-wicking, and anti-bacterial.
Best Workout Underwear for Men
You don’t necessarily have to splurge on an expensive pair of workout-specific tights to avoid the bunching that boxers will inevitably cause or the chafing that those damn briefs bring with them. You can opt for a pair of underwear designed uniquely with your manhood in mind.