Underwear is probably the most underrated piece of clothing we own. Think about it—it's something most of us wear every day, all day long. We carefully consider which athletic shorts are the best. Shouldn't we do the same when shopping for underwear? Given that they’re something we wear under our clothes and directly against our skin, comfort is arguably the number one priority.
There are so many options for women's underwear, it's hard to know where to begin. You might be shopping for your perfect daily wear or you may be searching for a style that you won't have to worry about during your next triathlon. The ACTIVE Reviews Team knows how important underwear is, so we've done the research for you and lined up our top 10 picks for the best underwear for women.
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The 10 Best Underwear for Women - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Underwear for Women: Natori Bliss Brief
- Best Cotton Underwear for Women: Calvin Klein Cotton Bikini Panties
- Best Thong Underwear for Women: Skims Fits Everybody Thong
- Best Seamless Underwear for Women: Reebok Seamless Panties
- Best Compression Underwear for Women: Maidenform Women's Tame Your Tummy Brief
- Best Hipster Underwear for Women: Commando Butter Hipster
- Best Boyshort Underwear for Women: Chantelle Soft Stretch Boyshort
- Best Maternity Underwear for Women: Old Navy Maternity Over-the-Bump Underwear Briefs
- Best Period Underwear for Women: Hanes Women's Comfort
- Best Budget Underwear for Women: OnGossamer Hi-Cut Brief
Best Overall Underwear for Women - Natori Bliss Brief
SPECS
- Style: Brief
- Material: 94% pima cotton, 6% lycra spandex
- Size options: XS-XXL
We don’t often see comfortable and high-quality women's underwear being sold in a pack, yet the Natori Bliss Brief comes in a pack of three. If you don't want to make that big of a commitment the first time you purchase them, they also sell single pairs. There are over 30 color choices for single pairs and a handful of color combinations for the three-packs.
The Natori Bliss Briefs were chosen as the best overall underwear for women because they're light and stylish. They sit right below the hip and are mostly cotton with lace trim. The material is thin and breathable. The trim stretches, so it is very forgiving and comfortable for the hips and legs. It does say you need to hand wash them, but reviews say they handle the washer and dryer well. If you want them to last longer, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's care instructions.
What We Like
- Stretchy trim
- Variety of colors to choose from
- Option to buy singles or a pack
What We Don't Like
- Must hand wash
- Tag on the side can be uncomfortable
Best Cotton Underwear for Women - Calvin Klein Cotton Bikini Panties
SPECS
- Style: Bikini
- Material: 90% cotton,10% elastane
- Size options: XS-XL
The Calvin Klein Cotton Bikini Panties are another option which is sold in packs or single pairs. These were an easy choice for the best cotton underwear for women since they're made from 90% cotton, aside from the elastic waistband. The cotton is ultra-soft and stretchy so you feel maximum comfort.
Calvin Klein has always been around and is known for the sporty-sexy look. More recently, celebrities and influencers have been showing off the iconic label on the waistband and they may be onto something. The cotton is extremely breathable and good for activewear. Reviewers say they fit true to size, but if you're concerned about the waistband feeling tight it's always a good idea to size up.
What We Like
- Machine washable
- Made from stretch cotton
- Extra lining
- Great for exercise
What We Don't Like
- Cotton may wear more quickly over time
- Waistband and bikini line may feel restrictive
BUY: Calvin Klein Cotton Bikini Panties
Best Thong Underwear for Women - Skims Fits Everybody Thong
SPECS
- Style: Thong
- Material: 76% polyamide, 24% elastane
- Size options: XXS-4X
The Skims Fits Everybody Thong is made of the synthetic materials polyamide and elastane. The reviews for this product are raving about how soft, buttery, and stretchy this material is. The waistband is soft and wide, so you don't see that bulge you may see from other thong style underwear for women.
Even though nude and neutral colors are more widely advertised, there are many other colorful options if you need a little more color and excitement in your life. We love that they offer a variety of sizes from XXS-4XL, which is a must if you're going to use “fits everybody” in the name.
What We Like
- Wide, stretchy waistband
- Variety of sizes
- No panty lines
- Machine washable
- Thin material
What We Don't Like
- Not sold in packs
- No added decoration or lace
BUY: Skims Fits Everybody Thong
Best Seamless Underwear for Women - Reebok Seamless Panties
SPECS
- Style: Bikini
- Material: 95% nylon, 5% elastane
- Size options: S-XL
If you're into women's underwear that's seamless but doesn't want to sacrifice coverage, the Reebok Seamless Panties are the best of both worlds. These are bikini-style and made of mostly nylon, so they are conveniently machine-washable. Lightweight and soft, they're easy to forget about while you're working out and they're invisible under leggings.
Nylon feels similar to silk but comes in at a lower price point. They also dry quickly and don't wrinkle. They're a great form-fitting option, but nylon may not move as well with the body in comparison to other materials. Nylon also tends to hold heat, so that's something to keep in mind for the warmer months and climates.
What We Like
- Seamless
- Soft, silk-like texture
- Inexpensive
- Dries quickly
What We Don't Like
- Limited size options
- May retain heat
Best Compression Underwear for Women - Maidenform Women's Tame Your Tummy Brief
SPECS
- Style: High-cut brief
- Material: 84% polyester, 16% spandex
- Size options: S-XXL
The Maidenform Tame Your Tummy Brief is an excellent option if you want the comfort and security of a high-cut brief. They're a nice hybrid of shapewear and underwear for women since they reach as high as your navel. Unlike other shapewear brands, these have a thin and breathable material that is stretchy and comfortable so you can feel confident and breathe and sit comfortably.
Overall, the reviews indicate that they fit true to size, but you may want to size down if you're looking for more compression. There are 14 color choices so you can easily find something that fits your preference. However, it is noted that these need to be hand washed.
What We Like
- Thin material keeps the high-cut hidden under clothes
- Smoothing design
- Cool, breathable
What We Don't Like
- Hand wash only
- Top may roll down
- Compression may be too light
BUY: Maidenform Women's Tame Your Tummy Brief
Best Hipster Underwear for Women - Commando Butter Hipster
SPECS
- Style: Hipster
- Material: 79% modal, 21% elastane
- Size options: XS-2X
An easy choice for the best hipster is the Commando Butter Hipsters because they're ultra-soft. Since they're made with mostly modal material, we can see why they used "butter" in the name. Modal is not only smooth, but it's also durable so feel free to throw these in the washing machine.
They also have a seamless design, so there is no restrictive feeling or awkward bulge. You can wear these with leggings or any tight clothing of your choice since they're fashioned to fit like a second skin. They also have four-way stretch, which makes them great for exercise.
What We Like
- Seamless
- Machine washable
- Made in the USA
- 4-way stretch
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Limited color options
Best Boyshort Underwear for Women - Chantelle Soft Stretch Boyshort
SPECS
- Style: Boyshort
- Material: 80% polyamide, 20% spandex
- Size options: One size
We love the Chantelle Soft Stretch Boyshort because they're a marvelous choice if you're seeking a high amount of coverage—and you won't even notice them since they disappear under any outfit. They're made of mostly polyamide material, so they're very stretchy but don't feel loose. They also retain their shape better than other materials, even after going through the washer.
They're great to work out in because they have a 360-degree stretch and soft-stretch technology. The waistline is supportive without being overly restrictive. It is important to note that they only come in one size since Chantelle feels confident in their design’s ability to adapt to your shape and size. However, they also noted that they are intended to accommodate sizes XS-XL.
What We Like
- Great for exercise
- Stretchy to adapt to your shape
- Moisture wicking
What We Don't Like
- One size only
- Expensive
BUY: Chantelle Soft Stretch Boyshort
Best Maternity Underwear for Women - Old Navy Maternity Over-the-Bump Underwear Briefs
SPECS
- Style: Brief
- Material: 53% Supima cotton, 35% modal, 12% lycra
- Size options: XS-XXL
The Old Navy Maternity Over-the-Bump Underwear Briefs offer a lot of coverage and comfort. They're more high-rise than typical briefs so your growing belly can feel supported. They're 53% cotton, so they avoid extra moisture by drying quickly, which also keeps you cool. The 35% modal adds durability and flexibility so they can grow with you. The last 12% is made up of lycra, which adds to elasticity.
Old Navy thought of everything when it comes to comfort. Remember those annoying itchy tags seen in other brands of women’s underwear? These have a tag-free label so you don't have to deal with that irritation. They also made these an easy pull-on style, keeping in mind how tough getting dressed can be in later trimesters.
What We Like
- Variety of colors and patterns to choose from
- Comes in sets of 2
- Machine washable
- Stretchy
- Easy to put on
What We Don't Like
- Fabric may be too thick for warmer temperatures
- Waistband may not fit as comfortably in later months
BUY: Old Navy Maternity Over-the-Bump Underwear Briefs
Best Period Underwear for Women - Hanes Women's Comfort
SPECS
- Style: Bikini
- Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex
- Size options: 5-9
We all know comfort is especially important during that time of the month. The Hanes Women's Comfort underwear is not only that, but they also offer peace of mind because they have an absorptive leak protection liner. These are a great option because they are a reusable alternative if you want to cut down on waste from traditional pads and tampons. The stain-block technology is a bonus that helps you worry less about embarrassing leaks.
While these do have more fabric than typical underwear for women, they're not bulky. It's suggested that you give them a good rinse with cold water before you put them in the washer, and you can tumble dry them on low.
What We Like
- Leak protection
- Comes in 3-pack
- Machine washable
- Good for maternity use as well
What We Don't Like
- May still need to take another protective measure if you're being active
- Only light and medium leak protection
Best Budget Underwear for Women: OnGossamer Hi-Cut Brief
SPECS
- Style: High-cut brief
- Material: 100% nylon
- Size options: S-XL
The OnGossamer Hi-Cut Brief made the top of the list for best budget underwear because they are so inexpensive. Even though they're at a lower price point, they're made of 100% nylon so they have a smooth silk-like texture. This material also rarely ever loses shape, doesn't wrinkle, and is fast-drying.
These briefs are slightly see-through, so that may pose a problem if you need a little more privacy. The waistband and bikini lines have a lace-like trim, which adds a little something extra if you're into that. Since nylon is delicate, they do need to be washed by hand, but they'll last a long time if you take care of them.
What We Like
- Long-lasting
- Trim adds extra flair
- Lightweight
- Less expensive than other brands
What We Don't Like
- See-through
- Not many color choices
- Hand-wash only
What To Consider When Buying Women's Underwear
Material
A few materials you'll see while browsing women's underwear are cotton, cotton blends, polyamide and polyester spandex, modal, nylon, and silk. Cotton is a natural material that is soft, breathable, and gentle. It's also less expensive than other fabrics. However, it may lose its shape over time. Cotton blends are a great choice because they combine the breathability of cotton with added softness and elasticity.
Polyester spandex, polyamide, and modal dry more quickly so they're more durable. They also hold fewer wrinkles and don't fade as easily as other materials. They're less thick than cotton and since they're synthetic, they can be blended with different colors. Silk is a more expensive natural fabric, but it can hold 40% of its weight in moisture before feeling wet. It's quick drying and may be more aesthetically pleasing than other materials.
Size
Size can vary by brand. Some brands’ sizing uses small to large, while others use pant sizes. Overall, most brands have a size chart that can be helpful. If you are between sizes or unsure, choosing the larger size is always a safe choice so you can feel comfortable. Keep in mind what the waistband and bikini line materials and styles are. For example, an elastic waistband may be more restrictive than a seamless waistband.
Style
You'll see many different styles when shopping for underwear for women and the style you choose depends on your preference and intended use. A thong offers no coverage and you won't need to worry about any panty lines if you're wearing leggings. On the contrary, the bikini has a high-cut leg and more coverage in the back but is a low-rise style.
Briefs offer more coverage and support up top than bikinis. High briefs, also known as high-cut briefs, are similar to briefs but have a high-waisted fit. Boy shorts have the most coverage of all since they extend down to the thigh. The waistband is usually available in low-rise or mid-rise. Hipsters are a blend between bikinis and boyshorts. They reach a few inches below the naval, sitting perfectly on the hip. The back coverage of this style is comparable to bikinis.
FAQs About Underwear for Women
Is it better to wear cotton or silk underwear?
Cotton is a breathable and moisture-wicking natural fabric. It is also a cheaper material, so in turn, cotton underwear costs less. It's hypoallergenic and soft so you don't need to worry about irritations. One downfall to cotton is that it's less durable and may shrink over time. Silk is also a natural hypoallergenic fiber and it's known for its softness. It absorbs and evaporates moisture quickly, which helps keep you cool and dry. Since it is a more expensive, fine fabric, it can be easily damaged so extra care is needed when washing. When choosing women's underwear, it's important to keep in mind your budget and your needs.
What underwear is best for wearing under leggings?
Since leggings fit like a second skin and they usually create more sweat and moisture, we recommended choosing a breathable fabric. If you're concerned about panty lines, choose a seamless style or thong.
Should you sleep with underwear on?
You can, if you feel comfortable. If you plan on sleeping with your underwear on, you'll want to look for cotton or silk material when shopping for women's underwear. That way, you feel comfortable and have the breathability needed for overnight wear.
Should underwear be tight or loose?
Your underwear should fit properly, meaning it's not so tight that it leaves deep marks on your skin. On the flip side, you don't want it so loose that it bunches underneath your clothes or has a hard time staying up.
When should underwear be thrown out?
There have been discussions around every 6 to 12 months, however, that's just a guideline. If they are not fitting how they did initially or if you're wearing the same few pairs over and over again and they're getting worn, that's a good indication they need to be replaced.
Should you wash underwear separately?
Since most underwear will have different cleaning instructions from your clothes, it's not a bad idea. This is also recommended to prevent the transfer of bacteria from your underwear to other clothing.