Is It Okay to Go Commando in Tights? (2024)

As much as we love swapping tips and tricks to solve our biggest fashion and beauty dilemmas, there are some questions we may not feel comfortable asking our friends about, let alone Google without going incognito. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. In this series, we’re tackling those embarrassing queries by turning to experts in the field to get you the answers you need — minus any awkward feelings.

Is It Okay to Go Commando in Tights? (1)

Most of us know the confident feeling of slipping on a fresh pair of tights or leggings over our favorite pair of undies before heading out for the day. Fast forward to lunchtime and we’re feeling pinched in all the wrong places, constantly picking uncomfortable wedgies, sporting the dreaded panty lines, and in general, just not living our best outfit life. And it seems we can’t win with a thong or a brief because neither ever seem to lay flat. Then comes the day when we just say forget it and skip the panties altogether. Sometimes it’s because our laundry heap is piled high, but other times it’s because we just can’t deal with the constant fuss. But then we wonder: Is it okay to go undie-less under tights or leggings? Do we ditch the panties forever? Are there *other* underwear options? Can we have the best of all the worlds?

Which underwear pairs best with tights?

Aside from looking tacky, underwear lines are the result of two styles or fabrics that don’t belong together. Or one of them is likely a bad fit. “Lines mean your underwear is digging into you, which usually means it’s uncomfortable!” says Kerry O’Brien, founder, designer, and CEO of Commando, a company that specializes in intimates and leggings. “A smooth foundation always looks best under clothes. You don’t want your undergarments to create lumps and bumps on your body.” Instead of struggling to make just *anything* work, save yourself the discomfort and embarrassment and opt for seamless underwear styles. “In today’s market there are so many amazing line-free undies,” says style editor at Brit + Co, Jenny Altman. “For all the tight-fitting clothes we wear — like knits, leggings, and denim — seamless is always the answer.”

Bottom line: If you want to continue wearing undies with your tights, go seamless.

Is it okay to go commando?

Is It Okay to Go Commando in Tights? (2)

Image via cottonbro studio/Pexels

So you’re still not happy with the seamless option? We get it. And generally speaking, going commando is fine, but there are a few rules to follow. If you’re going without panties regularly, be sure to consider the health risks. vagin*l folliculitis, yeast infections, UTIs, and chafing are a few possible ailments that are even more uncomfortable than wearing undies under tights. “Moist and warm environments, unfortunately, create ideal conditions for bacteria and yeast to grow,” says Gail Mautner, a New Jersey-based dermatologist. “Avoid lacy underwear and tight thongs as both can contribute to irritation and friction that can lead to abrasions and urinary tract infections.”

When choosing tights, opt for natural fabrics when possible, preferably with a built-in cotton gusset. “This gusset basically acts like undies because it’s a cotton lining sewn into the tights,” says Altman. When picking yoga pants, moisture-wicking fabric is ideal because it catches sweat. Mautner recommends investing in high-quality athleisure, noting that it can actually be more effective than cotton undies when it comes to keeping you dry down there. “If yoga pants are made up of moisture-wicking performance material, then underwear’s not necessary,” says Mautner.

Bottom line: Feel free to go sans undies every day; just be sure to wear natural fabrics with built-in cotton gussets, moisture-wicking materials, and always wash the garments after each wear.

How do I choose which tights to buy?

To avoid health risks and embarrassing camel toe and to prolong the lifespan of your favorite tights or leggings, opt for high-quality brands. Be discerning when shopping for new tights and new undies to avoid uncomfortable layering situations. “The tights you wear make a difference,” says O’Brien. “If they have an elastic waistband, they will create lines, no matter what underwear you have on.”

Although higher quality styles will generally cost a bit more, it’s worth thinking about a good pair of tights (or leggings) as an investment — especially if you wear skirts or work out a lot. “Bargain tights are fairly disposable and have a short life span,” says Altman. “High-end tights are made much better and hold up the longest when washed carefully.” She recommends choosing time-tested brands like Wolford, Falke, and Commando. “They’re made of superior fabrics and are meant to last forever,” she says. “They don’t pill, rip, or stretch out and will often last 10 years!”

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(Illustrations by San Trieu)

This post has been updated.

Lindsey Graham-Jones

Lindsey is a lover of all things animal print, a surfer of knee-high waves, and a seeker of sunshine.

Is It Okay to Go Commando in Tights? (2024)

FAQs

Is It Okay to Go Commando in Tights? ›

And generally speaking, going commando is fine, but there are a few rules to follow. If you're going without panties regularly, be sure to consider the health risks. vagin*l folliculitis, yeast infections, UTIs, and chafing are a few possible ailments that are even more uncomfortable than wearing undies under tights.

Is it OK to go commando in tights? ›

Going Commando

Choosing to wear leggings with no underwear is totally fine and peachy. Whether you're simply more comfortable going commando at the gym, or you're low on laundry at home, there's no judgment here, soldier. Without the protective layer of undies, though, you may have to wash your leggings more often.

Is it OK if I go commando? ›

Underwear can help protect delicate genital skin, but you may not always need to wear it. Going commando may help prevent common concerns like yeast infections, UTIs, or jock itch. When you do wear underwear, stick with cotton, avoid a tight fit, and change it daily, experts say.

Is it better to go commando or wear a thong? ›

Whatever you wear, make sure your pair fits well and is not overly tight, Dr. Yamaguchi advises—again, to avoid chafing and spreading potentially harmful bacteria. But if you don't want to deal with undie lines or you're just not a full-bottom person, then going commando is a healthier habit to ward off infection.

Is it OK to go commando as a girl? ›

Women going commando these days is not just a trend you read about in magazines, but it's a real thing that women have legitimate reasons for. Whether it's a strong personal choice or you are feeling like you're up for a challenge, going commando can be fun or it can be a lesson learned.

Is it OK to wear tights to bed? ›

Wearing running tights - or even compression tights - to sleep should not be a problem. As long as your friends are sleeping well, what they wear to bed is not a huge issue.

Will I smell if I go commando? ›

When moisture from sweat and heat are trapped in the genital area by underwear, it can start smelling more strongly down there. Skipping underwear can: allow your sweat to evaporate. keep the odors to a minimum.

Is it OK to workout in a thong? ›

“From a health perspective, it's ok to work out in anything that makes you comfortable. For some people, working out in a thong may be comfortable,” she explains. That said, it does come with some risks. Exercising in a thong could increase your risk for a UTI by spreading bacteria to your urethra as you move.

Why do I like going commando? ›

Why Do People Go Commando? For people with sensitive skin, most underwear and seams can be itchy and lead to irritation or rashes, so they prefer to go commando and ditch underwear entirely so that nothing rubs against their skin. Some guys go commando because having no underwear on gives them more airflow down there.

Should kids go commando? ›

The only reason to go commando is if they're prone to urinary tract infections or candida. Nguyen says it's more important that you encourage good bathroom habits and hygiene rituals than to concern yourself with their underpants at night. "Work with your kids on how to wipe properly.

Why wear a thong to the beach? ›

Thong Bikini Bottoms are Incredibly Comfortable

With bikini bottoms that have more coverage, the constant adjusting to make sure to avoid a wedgie can be incredibly annoying. With thong bikini bottoms, they are designed to sit and mold to the contours of your body, meaning fewer adjustments and distractions.

Can you go commando with pants? ›

It's also totally fine to go underwear-free in regular clothes. “Again, do what feels comfortable, and if you're comfortable going commando in jeans or your everyday clothes, go for it,” says Dr. Kallen.

Can you wear thongs in the military? ›

All female applicants must wear bras (no sports bras) and “regular” undergarments. No thongs, “G-strings”, “boy shorts” or see through underwear are allowed. d. No shorts, short skirts, or plain white T-shirts.

How many girls like to go commando? ›

According to a survey done by Cottonelle, about 8% of women say they 'always' go commando in yoga pants, while 31% said they do it 'occasionally'. The same survey found that of those who were willing to ditch their knickers, most (36%) did it to avoid the judgement VPL.

Do a lot of guys go commando? ›

Surveys have established that between 5% and 7% of men don't wear underwear (it's called “go commando” or “freeballing”). Actually, letting your boys hang loose is nothing like going to battle. There are several reasons that make you feel that underwear is necessary than going commando.

What happens when a guy goes commando? ›

LESS SWEAT, MORE BREEZE

A big reason for men going commando is reducing sweat and maximizing airflow. Underwear adds an extra layer of fabric around your privates that can sometimes lead to more sweating. And not wearing underwear means more air can circulate down there, which I imagine feels pretty good.

What not to wear with tights? ›

A shimmering top, a fancy blouse, or a baby doll dress simply don't go well with a stretchy, tight pair of leggings. Resist the temptation to be too adventurous with your style, as leggings are not sophisticated enough for dinner dates or other more formal events.

Why do I love to wear tights? ›

The number one reason that I wear tights (more than anything) is for added coverage for a dress that hits a little above the knee. Tights are the perfect way for some added modesty or for skirts/dresses where I need just a tiny bit of help feeling covered up!

Do you wear anything under tights? ›

Layers and covering. Running tights are usually designed to be worn without underwear - it can be uncomfortable to wear an extra layer underneath an already close pair of tights. Of course, you can wear underwear if you find that more comfortable.

Can others smell my private area? ›

Many women become concerned that other people can detect the odor around their vulva and vagin*. In reality, women are most sensitive to their own odor, and it's very unlikely that others who don't have intimate contact with them can smell it.

Is armpit smell a turn on? ›

The scientists showed that male sweat contains a compound capable of lightening a woman's mood and heightening her sexual arousal. Androstadienone (CORR), a musky-smelling chemical, also speeds up blood pressure, heart rate and breathing and raises levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Does sperm leave an odor? ›

sem*n usually has a faint odor, but it also depends on what a man eats. The smell of sem*n can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as a sexually transmitted infection, including: Very strong-smelling sem*n: Bacteria and microorganisms can change the smell of sem*n Translate.

Is it legal to walk around in a thong? ›

As a general rule: thong swimsuits are legal in public in almost every state in the United States. But, they are not legal in every municipality or jurisdiction in every state. For example: in Florida, the state allows people to wear thong swimsuits, but several counties and cities do not allow them to be worn.

Can you wear a tampon and a thong? ›

The easy answer to this question, is yes, you can absolutely wear a thong on your period. However you can't wear bulky sanitary pads, so your options for period protection are slightly more limited than usual: tampon. menstrual cup.

Do thongs have a purpose? ›

Purpose of Thongs

The main goal of the thong style is to provide coverage and protection between your body and your clothing, without showing through. Many women prefer the style with form fitting pants, skirts and dresses and also feel the style gives them added confidence for intimate occasions.

Is it OK to sleep commando? ›

Wearing underwear keeps that moisture close to your genitals. This allows bacteria and yeast to grow, which can cause infection and other problems. If you are prone to yeast infections, vagin*l infections or vagin*l irritation, going commando at bedtime could be a great—and healthy—choice.

Can you go commando everyday? ›

Plenty of people go commando every day and don't experience any negative side effects. But in general, there are some reasons why health experts recommend throwing on a pair, particularly the kind that's breathable.

Is commando more comfortable? ›

Benefits of Going Commando

People could feel more at ease and liberated without the additional layer of clothing. Also, people who like to wear tight clothes like skinny jeans and leggings find that going commando is much more comfortable because the tight clothes don't rub against the extra layer of fabric.

Why do thongs feel so good? ›

This is one of the biggest reasons why women invest in quality thongs. Since they are made from thin fabrics, the edges are not raised and the thong fits on your body like a second skin. Not just bodycon dresses, but thongs can also be worn underneath fitted pants & skinny jeans.

How do girls feel wearing a thong? ›

Many women agree that wearing a thong makes them feel comfortable, especially when wearing yoga pants, jeans, shorts or skirts. There is a perfect balance of comfort and freedom when wearing a thong, so if you pick the right fit and fabric, you are golden.

How uncomfortable is a thong? ›

Contrary to popular belief, thongs are a lot more comfortable than they appear. Whilst some people might complain of that wedgie like feeling that thongs might give you; they can be one of the most comfortable knickers to own.

Should men go commando in bed? ›

For men, there is no health benefit, nor is there any harm, from going commando to bed, said Dr. Michael Eisenberg, a urologist and the director of male reproductive medicine and surgery at Stanford University Medical Centerin Palo Alto, California.

Can I go commando with spandex? ›

You can wear some underwear on condition that spandex garment does not have any crotch pad, liner or some other means that keeps ones crotch private. One may not need to wear underwear if the fabric is thick sufficiently or if the piece of clothing has built in one to account for it.

Can you go commando in board shorts? ›

The choice of what to wear, or not to wear, under your boardshorts is, in the end, entirely up to you. But as a general rule of thumb, if your boardshorts have a mesh liner, you can skip the underwear.

Can I kiss my wife in military uniform? ›

No PDA. PDA, or public displays of affection, is considered unprofessional, and a big no-no while in uniform. However, each unit, branch, and area treat this rule with different severity. This can include hugging, kissing, holding hands, and even holding children.

Does the army issue bras? ›

More than two decades later, the Army still does not have a uniform bra designed to meet all the needs of female soldiers in the field, according to a fact sheet from the Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center.

Can you wear a bra in the army? ›

Brassieres and underpants may be of a commercial design, in white, black, or other neutral colors that are not readily apparent when worn under the uniform. The category of brassieres also includes sports bras. (3) How worn. Females will wear brassieres and underpants with all uniforms.

What is the definition of a commando? ›

/kəˈmɑːn.dəʊ/ plural commandos or commandoes. a soldier who is specially trained to make attacks on enemy areas that are very dangerous or difficult to attack: He was an experienced commando with 13 years in the Special Forces.

Does going commando mean less discharge? ›

Ok, going commando isn't going to stop discharge and vagin*l odor completely. It's perfectly normal for you to experience the two but if you're not ventilating properly down there then an overgrowth of yeast is likely to occur which will lead to greater vagin*l discharge and foul odors that nobody wants to deal with!

What does it feel like to go commando as a guy? ›

Going commando seems like it could be a supremely comfortable option. Without an extra layer of clothing to deal with between your man parts and thighs, you can enjoy increased ventilation and airflow, which can feel easy, breezy and just plain good.

Can tight boxers cause damage? ›

Takeaway. Wearing tight underwear can be uncomfortable, and in some cases it may have adverse effects on your health. For people with penises, wearing tight underwear can push the scrotum against the body, causing the testes to rise in temperature. This has shown in some research to correlate with a lower sperm count.

How do you go commando in a dress? ›

Tips for going commando in a dress

Just like with discharge, make sure to wash your feminine area thoroughly. So there is no smell of discharge or pee when you open your legs. Also, make sure you are hair-free down there to reduce sweating. And your thighs won't feel icky in your dress.

Do you wear undies under skins? ›

This means you can enjoy outdoor exercise and activities without the concern of sun related risks. DO I NEED TO WEAR UNDERWEAR UNDER SKINS? SKINS can be worn with or without underwear. It's entirely up to you.

Why are girls volleyball shorts so tight? ›

The shorts were chosen for comfort and practicality. First and foremost, the reason for choosing the spandex shorts used today is because of the range of motion. The spandex short does not, in any way, inhibit its occupant's range of motion.

Can you wear a thong with tights? ›

However, thongs work great under more fitted clothes, as they often don't show VPL. Tight fitting leggings, trousers, skirts, and dresses work well over thongs, as they help to keep underwear lines discreet.

Is it OK to wear tights every day? ›

While tights may not be the worst thing for your body or even your feet, they are something that few people consider at all. And yet they are worn all the time, usually throughout a person's lifetime. While it is okay to wear tights, it is best to avoid wearing them all the time.

Is it OK to wear tights on a plane? ›

They're the obvious comfy choice of clothing for a long flight - but next time you're heading on a break, you should think twice about wearing leggings for your flight. According to one aviation expert, they are one of the most dangerous things a passenger could wear if an emergency occurs onboard.

Is it OK to go commando for boys? ›

Surveys show that between 5% and 7% of men don't wear underwear at all. And they just might be onto something because going commando can definitely be beneficial. It can allow more air circulation, lower the risk for infections, and even help with sperm production and fertility.

Can I sleep commando? ›

It's completely safe to sleep without underwear and in some cases, it may be preferable,” she says. Underwear serves two main purposes: protection and hygiene, says David E. Bank, MD, a dermatologist and founder of The Center For Dermatology in Westchester, New York.

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