I’m overcoming my almost genetic aversion to typing the word “panties” because, well, some jobs, though grim, must be done. A hiker at tribe.net’s Bay Area Hiking Group laments her undies aren’t getting it done when she hits the trail.
I am looking for a good pair a panties to wear when hiking… (After trekking several miles in pairs that just are not living up to my expectations, I am desperate… One’s undergarments should not be able to climb better than the person wearing them…)
The rest of the post treads a bit to close to the TMI zone, but anyway: all feedback is welcome.
(Some folks at REI like this model.)
I recently bought some of these on a trip back to Canada, sold through Mountain Equipment Coop:
They are not made with “natural fibers” but do breathe well because the polyester is woven loosely enough to allow air flow. They dry very quickly on overnight or longer trips so you don’t have to put on damp undies in the morning (ick!), and although they are bikini-style, the backside has enough coverage to prevent creeping. If she prefers, they are also available in boy-cut, which goes lower onto the thighs. I personally find that less comfortable.
That’s my pick, but I know for some people it’s cotton or nothing. I just hate the way it soaks up sweat and holds it.
I continue to be amazed at the subjects for which our fellow human beings seek advice. there must just be too many SKUs out there. or maybe a simple “size” review is in order. dunno. I should just shut up as the water sure is pretty deep down here on this end and I’m no Olympic swimmer. maybe I’ll just get out of the pool.
but, you know, I just can’t do that.
I recommend that we develop a new product as there is, apparently, insufficient variety available. yes. invention! consider the opportunities! techno-underwear! maybe a cuben/spandex/cordura/sil-poly with a 1 mil bamboo charcoal layer molecularly bonded to the interior regions and long, flesh-tone straps connecting the leg openings with your socks, or shoelaces, whichever is more convenient?
yes, and more! it must be multiple use, depending on yardage involved; can be a hat or a tarp, you know, depending. and of course panties that become mulch in the presence of simple garden soil will stongly appeal to our eco-sentivities. we could even have neon colors and phosphorescence, so that a properly outfitted female might never need a headlamp again, well, at least not in the summer.
yes, thank you very much, I’ll take two pair.
can you get me a towel?
jt
I wear Jockey Comfies when I’m hiking. I’m with Michelle on the wet-cotton thing so I buy the micrfibre version. But they come in cotton too, for those who prefer that. Lots of different models too. They’re around a tenner each.
When I wear them, I never have to think about my underwear. That’s the way it should be.
JT: However questionable the necessity of my panties-advice post might have been, it certainly was redeemed by your rant denouncing it!
I feel much better about it already.
I like running shorts with a built-in liner as part of my base hiking
togs. (It has to be pretty cool before I don long pants, a rarity
here in the Bay Area.) As this works for women too, it’s an option
that some might consider.
Hiking may result in excessive perspiration, heat rashes, sore skin and many more skin problems due to the friction from movement and undue heat. When engaging in sports and other vigorous activities, sports underwear are much recommendable. They ease heat and sweating through the use of lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics.