Whether you’re a recreational player or compete at the highest levels, having the right gear can make all the difference on the soccer pitch. But while things like cleats and shin guards get most of the attention, what you wear under your soccer shorts matters, too!
As a female soccer player, you need athletic apparel that offers support and coverage during sprints, kicks, and slides. The wrong underwear or shorts can ride up, cause chafing, or expose more than you’d like. Not fun! Having the wrong athletic apparel underneath is among the crucial stressors to avoid on a game day for peak performance.
To help you suit up comfortably and confidently, here are three tips for choosing the best undergarments to wear under your soccer shorts.
Let’s dive in!
The 3 Best Underwear Options for Soccer Shorts
When it comes to figuring out what to wear under those soccer shorts, things can get a bit tricky. You want to feel secure and comfortable out on the field but also avoid any embarrassing situations with ill-fitting undergarments.
No need to stress – we’ve got you covered with some key pointers for choosing the best underwear options to complement your soccer shorts. Here are three of the top options to consider.
1. Briefs for Soccer Players
Opting for a pair of form-fitting briefs or boyshorts is a great choice for popular female soccer players. The snug fit will keep everything in place as you sprint down the field or deliver a powerful kick.
Briefs also provide more coverage than a thong or cheeky cut, eliminating the need to worry about underwear lines under your shorts.
Briefs come in both low and high-rise cuts, so pick what feels most comfortable for you. Look for breathable fabrics like cotton that won’t get overly sweaty. The right pair of briefs will have you feeling confident and ready to score.
2. Compression Shorts
Compression shorts are growing in popularity for female athletes, and for good reason – they reduce chafing and muscle fatigue while providing core support. These tight-fitting shorts also improve circulation- all advantages for soccer matches.
Compression shorts prevent chafing by keeping fabric from rubbing against your skin. Their elasticity allows for a wide range of motion while you play. Choose a mid-to-high-rise pair and wear them alone or layered under loose shorts. With compression shorts, you’ll be geared up for a long day on the field.
For extra support, look for compression shorts with a wide waistband. The snug fit around your middle will keep them from sliding down as you run and kick. Stick with darker colors like black, navy, or gray for a streamlined look under your uniform shorts.
3. Soccer Thongs – Viable Option?
Thongs may not seem like the obvious choice for sports. However, micro-thongs and athletic thongs exist specifically with female athletes in mind. Made from slick, sweat-wicking fabrics, sports thongs eliminate panty lines and stay put through workouts and matches.
That said, soccer requires a lot of movement, so a thong could potentially result in discomfort or adjustments during play. Consider your personal preference – if you find thongs comfortable for sports, the right athletic style can work under soccer shorts.
Please test it out in practice first before game day.
Choosing the Right Fabric
The material your underwear is made of matters for both durability and ventilation purposes. When shopping for underwear, look for:
Breathable Fabrics: Cotton, microfiber, moisture-wicking synthetics. These will prevent overheating and sweat buildup.
Stretch Fabrics: Spandex-blend fabrics offer stretch and movement. Great for compression shorts.
Tight Knits: Avoid loose, flimsy fabrics that could cause chafing and ride-up.
Reinforced panels: Choose underwear with reinforced panels at the crotch for durability and abrasion resistance in active sports like soccer.
The right fabrics will provide the ideal balance of breathability, coverage, and support – helping you maintain focus on the game, not your underwear.
Personal Hygiene and Comfort
Let’s face it – sweating is inevitable during a 90-minute soccer match, especially under the sun’s heat. When heat and humidity come into play, extra precautions are needed to avoid discomfort.
Here are tips for staying fresh;
- Use breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for shorts and underwear to avoid dampness.
- Apply anti-chafe balms/powders to your inner thighs and bikini line to minimize rubbing and irritation.
- Bring extra underwear and hygiene products like feminine wipes to refresh at halftime.
- Wear shower sandals post-game and change out of sweaty underwear as soon as possible.
- Clean shorts and underwear between matches to eliminate bacterial buildup.
- Consider breathable liner options to absorb sweat during high-exertion activities.
Taking a few extra steps to care for your hygiene will keep you feeling confident and healthy all season long.
Game Day Confidence
Building your best base layer wardrobe and finding great-fitting underwear allows you to play your very best without nagging distractions like wedgies or constant adjusting. With the right athletic apparel underneath, you can confidently run, kick, slide, and stretch.
Focus on your game, not your gear. Try moisture-wicking leggings or compression shorts under mid-rise, gusseted soccer shorts in the right fit. Top it off with a sports bra, and you’re ready to dominate the pitch.
Final Whistle
Finding the right balance of comfort, coverage, and performance in your underwear is key to excelling on the soccer field. Opt for briefs or compression shorts in moisture-wicking fabrics for the winning combination of support and breathability.
Listen to your preferences on thongs or boyshorts to determine what feels best. With the right underwear for the job, you’ll be focused on your competitive edge – not your underwear. So suit up, and get out there and own the field.
