Women’s underwear comes in a plethora of style options and fabrics. Some offer support or visibility while others are more playful and sexy. And then there are those that simply make you feel more confident.
What many of us don’t realize is that every piece of underwear we wear has a “panty gusset” or “pocket.” This extra layer of fabric is sewn into the crotch of women’s panties to prevent rubbing and to help with comfort, especially when wearing tighter-fitting clothing.
Most health professionals recommend choosing undies made with natural fibers, like cotton, over synthetic ones, such as nylon. These are generally less abrasive, so they’re better for your skin.
In addition to being more breathable, the natural fibers in your underwear can be super soft and drapey. They also typically dry quicker than synthetics. Other popular fabric choices include breathable plant-based cotton alternatives such as rayon and modal (which are made with bamboo, though they’re technically synthetic).
Some styles of underwear are specifically designed to be abrasion-free or have other functional features, such as built-in period underwear. Riot Swim founder Montinique Dever swears by Boob’s briefs, which are made without seams in the crotch area and have a double-layered front that helps with postpartum belly support. (They’re also designed to be worn with a bra.) Another option, according to Phenomenal CEO Meena Harris: these high-waisted knickers that are her favorite because they are “not bulky like a pad” but still absorb tampons just as well. women’s bamboo underwear