The best underwear for hiking is a fitted boxer brief or trunk in a light, quick-drying fabric such as modal or mesh, with flat seams and a waistband that stays put. Skip heavy cotton on long, warm days, because it holds moisture and feels worse the longer you walk. Here is how to choose for trails, pickup games and long days outside.
What outdoor days demand from underwear
A day outside is a different test from a day at a desk. You walk for hours, climb, sit on rocks, carry a pack and sweat more than you expect. Three things matter most:
- Airflow and drying speed: fabric that lets heat out and does not stay damp.
- Leg length: a short, close leg that will not ride up under shorts or trail trousers.
- Quiet seams and waistband: pack straps and hip belts press on everything, so flat seams and a waistband that does not roll are worth a lot.
Fabrics compared for hiking
| Fabric | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Modal / ice silk | All-day trails, mixed weather, a soft feel under a pack | Choose your true size, as it is a close fit |
| Mesh | Warm days and maximum ventilation | The see-through finish suits some looks better than others |
| Cotton | Short, easy walks and the trip home | Slow to dry once it is damp |
If you want a deeper look at how these fabrics differ, read our mesh vs cotton vs modal comparison.
Modal and ice silk: the all-rounder
For a full day on the trail, a soft modal trunk is hard to beat. The Arjen Kroos Ice Silk Trunks use soft modal fabric that dries fast, wicks away moisture and keeps its shape. They have a low-rise cut with soft flat seams, mesh panels for airflow and an elastic waistband that does not roll down. The 3D contour pouch gives secure support while you walk. They come in 8 colours, sizes S to XXL, and the product page notes they run small, so size up.
Mesh for hot climbs and summer trails
When the forecast is warm, all-over mesh is the most ventilated option we make. The Mesh Boxer Briefs have a roomy pouch that supports without squeezing, a low-rise short-leg cut and an elastic waistband, in 12 colours and sizes S to XXL. A second style, the Mesh Boxer Briefs Trunks, adds a see-through finish and a bulge pouch in 9 colours. Mesh is a fit for hot days, so pack a second, softer pair for the evening. For more on this fabric, see our mesh underwear explainer.
Fit details that stop problems on the trail
- Short leg beats long leg under hiking shorts, because there is less fabric to bunch up.
- Test the waistband with a pack on: it should sit flat under a hip belt, not roll.
- Avoid tags and thick seams at the legs and waist, since repeated steps turn small irritations into big ones.
- Get the size right. Too tight restricts a high step, too loose shifts. Our size guide shows how to measure.
How many pairs to pack
For a day hike, wear one pair and carry a spare in a dry bag so you can change at the end. For a multi-day trek, three pairs is a good base: wear one, wash one at camp and keep one dry. Quick-drying modal and mesh dry overnight on a pack strap or a line, while cotton often stays damp by morning. More packing ideas are in our travel packing guide.
Outdoor days beyond hiking
The same rules apply to a pickup basketball game, a park run, a bike ride or a long walk through a city: breathable fabric, a close short leg, flat seams and a stable waistband. If you ride a lot, our guide to cycling underwear covers the extra points for the saddle.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best underwear for hiking?
A close-fitting boxer brief or trunk in modal or mesh with flat seams and a waistband that stays put. Both fabrics are lighter and dry faster than heavy cotton.
Is cotton underwear bad for hiking?
Not bad, but it dries slowly. It works for short, easy walks. For long or warm days, modal or mesh is usually the more comfortable choice.
Should I wear boxer briefs or briefs on a hike?
Most hikers prefer a short-leg boxer brief or trunk, because it stays in place under shorts and trail trousers. Choose briefs if you like less fabric and a lighter feel.
How do I stop my underwear riding up on the trail?
Pick the right size, a short leg cut and a flat elastic waistband. Test the pair with a loaded pack before a big day out.
How many pairs should I pack for a weekend hike?
Two pairs is enough for a weekend: one to wear and one fresh. Add a third on longer trips so one can always dry.
Ready for your next day outside
Browse our full range of boxer briefs, plus mesh underwear, silk-like underwear and sportswear. Every order ships in discreet packaging.
