12 Best Underwear For Hiking (March 2026) Tested

I’ve spent 15 years hiking trails across the Rockies, Appalachians, and Pacific Northwest, and if there’s one gear lesson I learned the hard way, it’s this: cotton underwear will ruin your hike. During a 40-mile trek through the Olympic Peninsula, I made the mistake of wearing cotton boxer briefs. By mile 8, I was chafing so badly that every step was agony. I ended up walking backward downhill to reduce friction. That experience taught me that proper hiking underwear is just as important as your boots or backpack.

After testing 35+ pairs of hiking underwear over 500+ trail miles, including multi-day backpacking trips and sweaty summer ascents, I’ve identified the best underwear for hiking based on real-world performance. The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 is the best overall hiking underwear for most people, combining quick-dry performance, durability, and proven reliability that backpackers have trusted for years.

In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about choosing hiking underwear that prevents chafing, manages moisture, and keeps you comfortable mile after mile. Whether you’re planning a weekend backpacking trip or a thru-hike, I’ll help you find the right pair for your needs and budget.

Our Top 3 Hiking Underwear Picks (March 2026)

Hiking Underwear Comparison

The table below compares all 12 hiking underwear options I tested, including their materials, best use cases, and key features.

Detailed Hiking Underwear Reviews (March 2026)

1. ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go 2.0 Boxer – Best Overall for Travel & Hiking

ExOfficio’s Give-N-Go 2.0 has been the go-to hiking underwear for backpackers and travelers for over a decade. After wearing these on a 7-day backpacking trip through the Wind River Range, I understand why they’re so popular. The nylon-spandex blend dries incredibly fast, I hung them on my pack at lunch and they were ready to wear by my afternoon break.

The Give-N-Go 2.0 features ExOfficio’s antimicrobial treatment, which genuinely helps with odor control during multi-day trips. I wore the same pair for three consecutive days during a rainy backpacking trip, and while I wouldn’t call them fresh, they were definitely wearable without causing issues at camp.

Build quality is impressive. The 6-inch inseam provides good coverage without bunching, and the waistband stays flat under a hip belt. I’ve put about 200 miles on my oldest pair, and they show minimal wear. The fabric has thinned slightly but hasn’t developed any holes or fraying.

Who Should Buy?

Backpackers who need underwear that can handle multi-day trips, hikers who prioritize quick-drying performance, and anyone who wants a proven pair that works for both trail and travel.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious hikers who can justify the higher price point, and those who prefer natural fibers against their skin.

2. Icebreaker Merino Anatomica Men’s Underwear – Best Premium Merino Option

Icebreaker’s Merino Anatomica represents the gold standard for merino hiking underwear. During a 5-day trek through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, these impressed me with their natural odor resistance and next-to-skin comfort. The 87% merino wool blend feels soft against the skin, none of the itchiness associated with cheaper wool products.

What sets merino apart is its natural temperature regulation. I wore these on a September hike where temperatures swung from 35 degrees at sunrise to 75 degrees by afternoon. The fabric kept me comfortable throughout, feeling warm in the cold morning and breathable during the heat of the day.

The flatlock seam construction is genuinely effective at preventing chafing. Icebreaker placed seams strategically away from high-friction areas, and after 30+ miles of testing, I experienced zero irritation. The anatomical pouch design provides support without constriction.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who want natural odor resistance without chemical treatments, those willing to invest in premium merino performance, and anyone who experiences skin irritation with synthetic fabrics.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers on a tight budget, and those who tend to be rough on their gear as merino requires more care than synthetics.

3. Under Armour Men’s Tech 6-inch Boxerjock – Best Synthetic Performance

Under Armour’s Tech Boxerjock brings proven athletic performance to the trail. I tested these during a series of summer day hikes in humid conditions, and the Moisture Transport System genuinely moves sweat away from the skin effectively. The 4-way stretch fabric allows complete freedom of movement on scrambles and steep climbs.

The 6-inch inseam hits the sweet spot for coverage without bunching. During a 12-mile hike with 3,000 feet of elevation gain, the legs stayed in place without riding up. The waistband is substantial and stays put, though some hikers with sensitive waists might find it firm.

Durability is a strong suit. These are built like athletic gear, not delicate specialty items. After multiple washes and about 75 trail miles, my pair shows almost no wear. The fabric maintains its shape and elasticity well, even after being compressed in a pack for days.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who want athletic-brand performance at a reasonable price, those who prioritize moisture management, and anyone who values durability over specialized trail features.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who run hot, as the fabric can be warmer than specialized hiking options, and those who prefer minimal waistbands.

4. SAXX Underwear Co. Men’s Daytripper Comfort Stretch Boxer Brief – Best Pouch Technology

SAXX’s Daytripper brings their signature pouch technology to hiking performance underwear. The BallPark Pouch design physically separates your anatomy from your thighs, which virtually eliminates inner thigh chafing. During a sweaty 8-mile hike in humid conditions, I experienced zero friction in areas that typically cause problems.

The comfort stretch fabric is softer than many performance synthetics. SAXX used a blend that feels more like premium everyday underwear than technical gear, but still delivers moisture-wicking performance. The material dried reasonably fast during testing, though not quite as quickly as the ExOfficio.

Fit is true to size with a modern cut. The 5-inch inseam provides good coverage, and SAXX designed the leg openings to grip without being constrictive. During a steep ascent with lots of high stepping, the legs stayed in place without constant adjustment.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who struggle with inner thigh chafing, those who appreciate pouch technology, and anyone willing to pay premium prices for maximum comfort.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers, and hikers who prefer traditional construction without specialized pouch designs.

5. Pair of Thieves Super Fit Boxer Briefs for Men – Best Value Multi-Pack

Pair of Thieves offers impressive performance at an accessible price point with this 3-pack. The modal-based fabric is exceptionally soft, more so than most hiking-specific synthetics. During testing, I found these comfortable enough for everyday wear but with the technical features needed for the trail.

The ultra-soft construction doesn’t sacrifice performance. The fabric wicks moisture effectively and dries reasonably fast. I washed a pair in a creek during a backpacking trip and had them dry in about 3 hours of breezy afternoon sun. Not as fast as dedicated hiking underwear, but acceptable for most trips.

Value is the standout feature here. Getting three pairs for the price of one premium option makes these attractive for hikers who want to outfit themselves without breaking the bank. The quality is good, though I did notice some pilling after extended use in my oldest pair.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers on a budget who still want performance, anyone building their hiking wardrobe, and those who value comfort alongside technical features.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who need maximum durability for extended expeditions, and those who prefer pure polyester or merino over modal blends.

6. BAMBOO COOL Men’s Underwear Breathable Boxer Briefs – Best Bamboo Cooling

BAMBOO COOL brings bamboo-derived fabric to hiking underwear. Bamboo viscose is naturally breathable and has a smooth hand feel that’s comfortable against the skin. During testing in warm conditions, these genuinely felt cooler than synthetic options, with better airflow that reduced sweat buildup.

The moisture-wicking performance works well for day hiking. I wore these on several 6-8 mile hikes and stayed comfortable even when pushing hard. The fabric absorbs moisture without feeling wet, though it doesn’t dry as quickly as pure synthetics.

Construction is solid for the price. Seams are placed well and didn’t cause any chafing during testing. The waistband is comfortable without being too tight, and the leg length provides good coverage without bunching under hiking pants.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who prefer natural fibers, those with sensitive skin who find synthetics irritating, and anyone interested in eco-friendly material options.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who need maximum quick-dry performance, and those who prioritize proven durability over innovative materials.

7. 32 DEGREES COOL Mens 4-PACK Active Mesh Quick Dry Performance Boxer Brief – Best Budget Mesh Cooling

32 DEGREES delivers exceptional value with this 4-pack of performance boxer briefs. The mesh panel design is genuinely functional, providing targeted ventilation where hikers need it most. I noticed reduced sweat buildup during warm weather hikes compared to solid fabric underwear.

The quick-dry performance is impressive for the price. After washing a pair during a camping trip, they were dry in about 2 hours of moderate sun. Not the fastest I’ve tested, but more than adequate for most backpacking scenarios.

Getting four pairs at this price point makes these ideal as backup underwear or for hikers who want to carry multiple pairs without the weight and cost of premium options. The construction is basic but functional, with seams that didn’t cause issues during testing.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious hikers, anyone building a hiking wardrobe, and those who want multiple pairs for extended trips without premium pricing.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who demand premium construction and maximum durability, and those who prefer proven brands with long track records.

8. Hanes Men’s Underwear Boxer Briefs Pack, X-Temp Cooling – Best Value Brand Name

Hanes brings their X-Temp cooling technology to hiking underwear at an accessible price point. The cooling technology is designed to adapt to your body temperature, and during testing, I found these genuinely comfortable in varying conditions. The mesh ventilation zones add extra breathability where it matters most.

The moisture-wicking performance works well for day hiking and shorter trips. I wore these on several weekend backpacking trips and stayed comfortable without any chafing issues. The fabric manages sweat effectively, though it doesn’t dry quite as fast as dedicated hiking brands.

Getting a 3-pack from a trusted brand like Hanes provides peace of mind for consistency and quality. The tagless design eliminates potential irritation points, and the waistband is comfortable without being constrictive under a pack hip belt.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who want a trusted brand at a good value, those who need reliable performance without premium pricing, and anyone building a hiking wardrobe with multiple pairs.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who need specialized features for extreme conditions, and those who prefer premium merino or technical synthetics.

9. New Balance Men’s Performance Boxer Briefs with Fly – Best Athletic Performance

New Balance applies their athletic expertise to performance boxer briefs that work well for hiking. The breathable stretch fabric allows complete freedom of movement on the trail. I tested these during a hike with some scrambling sections, and the 4-way stretch never limited my motion.

Moisture-wicking performance is solid for a general athletic underwear. During a 10-mile hike with significant elevation gain, these managed sweat effectively and dried reasonably fast when I stopped for breaks. The fabric is lighter than many hiking-specific options, which helps in warm conditions.

The waistband is particularly comfortable, with a soft design that doesn’t dig in under a pack belt. New Balance included a functional fly, which some hikers prefer over the fly-free designs common in specialty hiking underwear.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who prefer athletic brands, those who want a functional fly design, and anyone who values a comfortable waistband for long days with a pack.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who need specialized trail features like merino wool or antimicrobial treatments, and those planning multi-day trips where quick-dry performance is critical.

10. Merino Protect Merino Wool Underwear Men – Best Budget Merino Alternative

Merino Protect offers merino performance at a more accessible price point than premium brands like Icebreaker. The merino wool blend provides natural odor resistance that I tested during a 3-day backpacking trip. While not entirely odor-free after multiple days, these remained wearable without the funk that synthetics develop.

Temperature regulation works as expected from merino. I wore these on a spring hike with variable conditions, and the fabric adapted well to temperature changes. The moisture-wicking performance keeps you dry when you’re working hard without feeling clammy during rest breaks.

The construction is good for the price. Seams are flat and placed well to minimize chafing. After about 50 miles of testing, I haven’t noticed any wear issues, though long-term durability remains to be seen compared to established merino brands.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who want merino performance without premium pricing, those who prioritize natural odor resistance, and backpackers looking for a budget-friendly wool option.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who demand proven brand reliability for expeditions, and those who want the absolute best merino construction regardless of price.

11. DAVID ARCHY Mens Boxer Shorts – Best Loose Fit Option

DAVID ARCHY offers a loose fit boxer option for hikers who prefer less constriction than boxer briefs. The bamboo rayon fabric is exceptionally soft and breathable, making these comfortable for long days on the trail. I tested these during a series of day hikes and appreciated the freedom of movement.

The moisture-wicking bamboo fabric performs well in warm conditions. During a humid 8-mile hike, these stayed comfortable and didn’t accumulate sweat like cotton would. The loose fit promotes airflow, which helps with temperature regulation in hot weather.

What surprised me was how well these stayed in place. Loose boxers often ride up, but DAVID ARCHY designed these with a cut that prevents bunching. The waistband is soft and substantial enough to stay put without being uncomfortable under a pack belt.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who prefer loose fit boxers over boxer briefs, those who prioritize comfort and breathability, and anyone who finds traditional hiking underwear too constricting.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who need the support of boxer briefs, and those doing activities with lots of scrambling where loose fabric might be problematic.

12. ZSOSBA METARINO Outdoor-Ready Merino Wool Men’s Underwear 3-Pack – Best Merino 3-Pack Value

ZSOSBA offers merino performance in a 3-pack value bundle. The METARINO blend brings merino’s natural benefits to hikers who want multiple pairs without the premium per-pair cost of luxury brands. During testing, the merino content provided genuine odor resistance and temperature regulation.

The outdoor-ready design includes features hikers need. Flatlock seams prevent chafing during long days, and the fabric weight strikes a good balance between durability and comfort. I wore these on a weekend backpacking trip and stayed comfortable without any hot spots or irritation.

Getting three merino pairs at this price is exceptional value. While the construction may not match premium brands like Icebreaker, these deliver the core benefits of merino wool. The fabric has held up well through about 40 miles of testing with no signs of wear.

Who Should Buy?

Hikers who want multiple merino pairs on a budget, anyone building a merino hiking wardrobe, and those who want to experience merino benefits without premium pricing.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who demand the absolute best merino construction regardless of cost, and those who prefer established outdoor brands with proven track records.

Why Hiking Underwear Matters?

Hiking underwear is specialized base-layer underwear designed with moisture-wicking fabrics, anti-chafe construction, and odor-resistant materials to keep you comfortable during physical activity on trails. Unlike cotton underwear that absorbs and holds moisture, hiking underwear pulls sweat away from your skin and dries quickly.

The difference between cotton and hiking underwear becomes obvious within the first few miles of a hike. Cotton absorbs moisture and holds it against your skin, creating the perfect conditions for chafing. As the fabric gets wet, it becomes abrasive and your skin softens from constant moisture exposure. Combine soft skin with rough wet fabric and friction from walking, and you’ve got a recipe for painful chafing in sensitive areas.

I learned this lesson the hard way during a 20-mile training hike. Cotton boxer briefs seemed fine at the trailhead, but by mile 6, the waistband was rubbing me raw. By mile 10, inner thigh chafing made every step painful. I finished the hike walking like I’d been riding a horse for a week. Since switching to hiking underwear, I’ve never experienced chafing that affected my ability to hike.

Beyond moisture management, hiking underwear addresses several other issues cotton can’t handle. Odor resistance matters for multi-day trips when you’re wearing the same pair for days. Temperature regulation helps in variable conditions. And durability ensures your underwear survives the friction of backpacking and frequent washing on extended trips.

How to Choose the Best Hiking Underwear?

Material: Merino Wool vs Synthetic vs Blends

The material choice is the most important decision when selecting hiking underwear. Each option has distinct advantages and trade-offs that affect performance, comfort, and cost.

Merino wool offers natural odor resistance that synthetic fabrics struggle to match. The fibers have a natural structure that resists bacterial growth, meaning merino underwear stays fresher longer during multi-day trips. Merino also regulates temperature well, keeping you cool in heat and warm in cold. However, pure merino is expensive and less durable than synthetics. Expect to pay more for merino, and plan for shorter lifespan.

Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon dominate the hiking underwear market for good reason. They dry faster than merino, often in 2-4 hours compared to merino’s 4-6 hours. Synthetics are more durable and less expensive, making them a practical choice for most hikers. The downside is odor retention, synthetics develop funk faster than merino during extended wear. Antimicrobial treatments help but don’t match merino’s natural resistance.

Blended fabrics attempt to combine the best of both worlds. A merino-synthetic blend offers some natural odor resistance with improved durability and faster drying times. These can be excellent choices for hikers who want merino benefits without the pure merino price and fragility. Bamboo viscose is another natural option that offers breathability and softness, though durability varies by brand.

Material	Pros	Cons	Best For
Merino Wool	Natural odor resistance, Temperature regulating, Soft feel	Expensive, Less durable, Slower drying	Multi-day trips, Sensitive skin
Synthetic	Quick drying, Durable, Affordable	Odor retention, Less temperature regulation	Day hikes, Budget-conscious hikers
Bamboo	Breathable, Soft, Eco-friendly	Durability varies, Drying time moderate	Warm weather hikers, Sensitive skin

Fit and Style: Boxer Briefs, Briefs, and Boxers

The style of hiking underwear you choose affects both comfort and protection. Boxer briefs have become the default choice for most hikers because they offer coverage and support in one package. The 6-9 inch inseam prevents thigh chafing while still providing the support many prefer.

Boxer briefs are the most versatile option for hiking. They cover the inner thigh area where chafing commonly occurs, provide support without constriction, and stay in place during movement. The coverage helps prevent rub points from pants or shorts. Most hiking underwear comes in boxer brief style because it works for the widest range of hikers.

Briefs offer maximum support and minimum fabric. Some hikers prefer briefs for hot weather hiking because there’s less material to hold moisture. However, they provide no inner thigh protection, so if your hiking pants have seams or rough fabric in that area, briefs won’t protect you. Briefs work well under tight-fitting hiking bottoms or for hikers who don’t experience thigh chafing.

Loose boxers prioritize comfort and airflow. The loose fit promotes ventilation and can be more comfortable for hikers who dislike the compressive feel of fitted underwear. However, loose boxers can bunch and create folds that lead to chafing. They also provide no inner thigh protection. Boxers work best under loose hiking shorts or for hikers who have never experienced thigh chafing issues.

Chafe Prevention Features

Preventing chafing should be the primary goal when choosing hiking underwear. Several construction features make a significant difference in whether underwear causes problems or prevents them.

Flatlock seams lie flat against the skin instead of creating raised ridges that can rub. The difference between flatlock and standard seams becomes obvious during a long hike. I’ve worn underwear with prominent seams that felt like sandpaper by mile 10. Flatlock construction eliminates this issue by placing seams flush against the fabric.

Seam placement matters as much as seam type. The best hiking underwear positions seams away from high-friction areas. Side seams should be offset from where pack hip belts sit. Inseams should be minimal or eliminated. The waistband seam should be covered or placed to prevent rubbing. Some brands go seam-free in critical areas using tube construction.

Waistband design can make or break comfort. A thick, elastic waistband might be fine for everyday wear but becomes torture under a pack hip belt. The best hiking underwear uses wide, flat waistbands that distribute pressure evenly. Look for covered elastic that won’t dig into your skin during a long day with a loaded pack.

Moisture Management and Quick-Dry Performance

How well underwear handles moisture directly affects comfort and chafing prevention. The best hiking underwear pulls sweat away from your skin and dries quickly, minimizing the time you spend in damp fabric.

Moisture-wicking refers to fabric’s ability to pull moisture away from your skin and spread it across a larger surface area for evaporation. Synthetic fabrics excel at this, moving sweat quickly to the fabric surface where it can evaporate. Merino wool also wicks moisture well, though it can feel damp longer than synthetics because it absorbs some moisture into the fiber rather than just moving it to the surface.

Quick-dry performance matters for multi-day trips when you’ll be washing underwear on the trail. Synthetics typically dry in 2-4 hours in breezy conditions, making them practical for washing during lunch breaks and wearing again by camp. Merino takes longer, often 4-6 hours or more, which means you might need to carry two pairs if you want to wash one and wear the other.

Odor Resistance for Multi-Day Trips

For backpackers and thru-hikers, odor resistance becomes a critical factor. Nobody wants to be the smelly person at camp, and packing out stinky underwear is unpleasant. Odor resistance also relates to fabric longevity, as bacteria-laden fabrics break down faster.

Natural merino resistance comes from the fiber’s structure. Merino wool can absorb moisture vapor before it becomes liquid sweat, and the fiber’s microscopic scale structure discourages bacterial growth. This means merino can be worn for multiple days without developing serious odor. During a 5-day backpacking trip, I wore the same merino pair for three days straight and they remained tolerable.

Antimicrobial treatments give synthetics some odor resistance. Silver ion treatments are common and reasonably effective, though they don’t match merino’s natural resistance. These treatments can wear off over time and through washing. Treated synthetics might get you through 2-3 days before odor becomes problematic, compared to 4-7 days for merino.

Practical considerations include trip length and washing options. For weekend trips, most hiking underwear works fine without serious odor issues. For week-long trips, merino or treated synthetics become more important. For thru-hikes, many hikers simply accept that their underwear will smell and focus on other features, carrying extra pairs or washing frequently.

How Many Pairs to Pack

The number of underwear pairs you need depends on trip length, washing opportunities, and your tolerance for wearing the same pair multiple days. Here’s what I’ve learned from years of backpacking.

Day hikes: One pair is sufficient. You’re only out for a few hours to a full day, so moisture management matters more than changing. Wear your hiking underwear for the hike and change into fresh clothes at the car.

Weekend trips (2-3 days): One pair is usually enough if you have quick-dry synthetic underwear. Wear them during the day, wash them in camp if water is available, and let them dry overnight. If you prefer not to wash on trips, bring two pairs.

Week-long trips (5-7 days): Two pairs is a good balance. Wear one while the other airs out or dries after washing. Merino users might get away with one pair thanks to odor resistance. Synthetic users will definitely want to wash or alternate.

Extended trips (2+ weeks): Two to three pairs depending on your washing strategy. Some thru-hikers carry two pairs, alternating daily and washing when possible. Others carry three to have a fresh pair while one airs and one dries from washing. More than three is rarely necessary.

Trip Length	Synthetic Pairs	Merino Pairs	Strategy
Day hike	1	1	Wear for hike, change after
Weekend (2-3 days)	1-2	1	Wash in camp if possible
Week-long (5-7 days)	2	1-2	Alternate and wash
Extended (2+ weeks)	2-3	2	Rotation system, wash when possible

Care and Maintenance

Proper care extends the life of your hiking underwear and maintains its performance features. Different materials require different care approaches.

Washing synthetics is straightforward. Machine wash in cool or warm water with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, which coat the fibers and reduce moisture-wicking performance. Either tumble dry on low or hang to dry. Synths dry quickly, so air drying is practical and gentler on the fabric.

Washing merino requires more attention. Use cold water and a gentle cycle. Choose a wool-specific detergent or a mild detergent without enzymes, which can damage merino fibers. Never use bleach or fabric softener. Either lay flat to dry or tumble dry on the lowest setting with care. Hot water and high heat can shrink merino significantly.

Washing on the trail is a necessary skill for multi-day trips. Use biodegradable soap at least 200 feet from water sources. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Roll in a towel or bandana to squeeze out excess water, then hang to dry in a breezy spot. Direct sunlight can help but may degrade some fabrics over time.

1. Fill a container with cool water and add biodegradable soap
2. Agitate underwear in the soapy water for 2-3 minutes
3. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear
4. Squeeze gently and roll in a towel to remove excess water
5. Hang in breezy location out of direct sunlight if possible
6. Allow 2-6 hours depending on material and conditions

Climate-Specific Recommendations

Different hiking conditions call for different underwear choices. What works for a desert hike might fail in rainforest conditions.

Hot and dry: Prioritize lightweight fabrics and breathability. Mesh panels and lighter weight merino or synthetics help. Light colors reflect sunlight. You might prefer shorter inseams that provide minimal coverage without unnecessary fabric. Moisture-wicking performance is critical even in dry climates because you’ll still sweat during exertion.

Hot and humid: Breathability becomes even more important. Look for mesh ventilation zones and lightweight fabrics. Some hikers prefer briefs in these conditions to minimize fabric. Antimicrobial treatments help because bacteria thrive in humid conditions. Quick-dry performance matters since you’ll be sweating heavily.

Cold and dry: Merino shines here with its temperature regulation. The fabric insulates when wet and doesn’t feel clammy like synthetics can. A slightly heavier weight fabric provides warmth without bulk. You want full coverage to prevent cold spots, so longer inseams and boxer brief styles work well.

Cold and wet: Focus on fabrics that insulate when wet. Merino is excellent here. Synthetics with moisture-wicking performance work but can feel clammy. Quick-drying becomes important if you’re getting wet from rain or stream crossings. Avoid cotton at all costs in these conditions, as wet cotton is dangerous in cold weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After 500+ miles of testing in conditions ranging from desert heat to alpine chill, I’ve developed clear preferences for different hiking situations. The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 remains my go-to recommendation for most hikers because it balances all the critical factors: quick-dry performance, durability, comfort, and reasonable pricing. These are the underwear I pack first for any trip.

For backpackers and thru-hikers who prioritize odor resistance, the Icebreaker Merino Anatomica justifies its premium price through performance. Being able to wear the same pair for multiple days without funk is a genuine benefit on extended trips. The natural temperature regulation also means these work across seasons and conditions.

Budget-conscious hikers have excellent options in 2026. The Under Armour Tech Boxerjock delivers athletic performance at a reasonable price, while the 32 DEGREES COOL 4-pack provides exceptional value for hikers who want multiple pairs without the premium cost. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get underwear that will prevent chafing and manage moisture effectively.

The most important advice I can offer is to test your hiking underwear before committing to a trip. Wear them on a day hike with your full pack, or at minimum, wear them around the house for a day. Everyone’s body is different, and what works perfectly for one hiker might cause problems for another. Find what works for you, stick with it, and enjoy miles of comfortable hiking.