Running with or without underwear?
The latest advances in technology applied to technical running clothes make the use of underwear, in many cases, more a matter of own decision than need. We raise the debate about the suitability or not of wearing underwear while running.
With underpants or without them. It is the Shakespearean issue that many runners face. Leaving aside any morbid motivation, and that can lead to hours and hours of discussion and joking jokes, it is a question serious enough to be treated a little more thoroughly. Should we wear briefs when we put on some tights to go jogging? And in the case of choosing to wear shorts, should we also wear some underpants? We leave you some information and thoughts that, we hope, will help you make a decision about this doubt in the style of a Hamlet runner.
THE CASE OF THE BADS
If we like to run with tights, the answer to the question we asked at the beginning is more than simple. Especially if it's compression meshes. So that they do not lose an iota of their effect, most brands recommend using them directly on the skin. This is without underwear. In fact, they are designed for it, to be used as a single garment. In this way we maximize your comfort. And we can give as an example the case of a swimsuit. When we go to the beach or to the pool we do not consider any debate. Swimsuit and point. Well, in the case of running tights, especially if they have a compressive effect (or even for other sports such as cycling), the same thing happens.
The tights, pants that fit the body and can have several measures, help keep our body warm, in addition to avoiding the dreaded groin scratches. Of course, after all, the final decision will be taken by the runner himself, taking care of his comfort. A sweat slip can suppose a ballast for our groin and be the origin of friction that can cause skin burns. The majority of underwear is made of cotton or contains a good part of it, a material that does not dry easily (compared to new fibers) and which, in addition, is not characterized by having a good expulsion of moisture out . According to a study published in 2012 (Fibers and Textiles in Eastern Europe), “garments made of 100% polyester provide better physiological and performance responses of athletes” if we compare them “with cotton garments and those of 65 % polyester and 35% cotton ”. Results that, by the way, were related to better moisture management of new materials.
Speaking of materials, currently, most brands that manufacture meshes do so with fabrics that are characterized - following with this thread - by a great absorption of moisture, which is why you do not have to worry about the accumulation of sweat or water. In this sense, the meshes are especially suitable for rainy days or extreme heat, since they will offer more protection than very wet shorts - either due to sweat or rainwater. To this effective need for health, some add an aesthetic motive. They do not like the brand that underpants can glimpse under the meshes. So, another reason for not wearing underwear when we go jogging, either in the mountains or in the city.
THE CASE OF SHORT PANTS
When we talk about shorts, there are also answers for all tastes to whether or not we should wear underwear. Even more than in the case of meshes. All this would be based on the specific short model. If he wears a built-in underwear (as most usually incorporate), it would be best to take off his underwear and take advantage of this double lining or added underwear. And, if we put on a slip, we will be wearing two briefs at the same time. Ours and pants, with which the danger of rubbing and discomfort could be greater (some solve it with the application of petroleum jelly). It is the same that could happen with the meshes. Also, in the case of shorts, the aesthetic effect ceases to have any influence. The underwear, if we talk about a short slip, will not be seen at any time (whether we wear it or not).
Some runners choose to wear underpants because they have the perception that the inner support of the shorts is not enough. It is a matter of sensations, but most of the current pants that incorporate this type of briefs offer more than necessary support to run with total normality and freedom, without any loose ends. It is a matter of getting used to. Unless vascular problems are suffered, as some runners may have, and in this specific dilemma, they need a greater grip (especially when they take sports activities such as running).
THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD HYGIENE
Finally, whether or not we wear running shorts, there is a warning that we should never lose sight of. Once we have finished our training, we have to change our clothes as quickly as possible. Dermatologists advise him to avoid the appearance of the dreaded chafing. And, once we have finished our departure, these clothes are wet and sticks to the skin, which is why it can cause maceration. And, in the worst case, infections in the damaged area.
In addition to changing clothes quickly (with the subsequent shower, if possible), it is also mandatory to wash clothes after each workout. Experts warn of the possible influence of a bacterium known as micrococcus. It is a bacterium that loves to live in polyester rather than cotton and is the cause of the stench that some sportswear give off over time. As the saying goes, in clean house, the angels dance with pleasure.
