A case for commando: chaff-free hiking

Well if you wear light, fast drying underwear you don't chaff (at least I don't) and you still get support that most need. In addition I find that wearing boxer brief actually reduces chaffing as then skin isn't rubbing against skin.

To each their own though. Just remember to keep your fly up less you get a mosquito bite on you willy. :P

I agree with going commando – especially on thru-hikes where everyone ends up going half nekked anyway. In more civilized settings, it can be problematic, especially if Mr. Happy gets frisky.

I would say chaffing is because of moisture and friction… infection is secondary. One treatment is to keep the area cool to minimize moisture. Going commando is one way to do this. I would think that wearing a kilt would be a good match to the commando approach.

Another treatment for chaffing is to reduce friction by introduction protection and making the surfaces more slippery. Slippy can be something like using a stick of glide. Tight fitting, seamless boxer briefs can also been effective for some people.

There isn't a once size fits all.

–mark

There are two sides to this coin for sure. On one hand, the most comfortable I had felt down there hiking was when I was commando.Shorts that are airy and light work well because they breathe and help keep air flowing to prevent moisture buildup.
On the other hand, the most uncomfortable I have felt was also commando. On this occasion I got bruising on my gonads, which made every step…feel like getting hit in the N*%$.

Another vote for boxer briefs, especially in hot weather. You're gonna sweat down there anyway (at least I do — my secret shame). ;vD Thus, you need something to wick the sweat and prevent any skin-on-skin contact. A good boxer brief like the Ex Officio fills the bill.

I actually prefer to go commando style (ha! new term to me) in the spring and fall when perspiration is less of an issue. In winter of course, the base layer serves several functions besides warmth.

Funny story: I used to wear my BPL Thorofare pants "au natural," but my wife laid down the law: Those pants use terribly thin material, and people do stare.

Stargazer

When I met my other half I was a full time commando. Habit born from spending many hours a day on a horse, where nothing should come between you and your jeans. Since getting hitched, commando is a no no, so Icebreaker boxers work for me in summer and winter.
I still think of my days of freedom…