When it comes to activewear, gym shorts are a staple in any athlete's wardrobe. These versatile bottoms provide the freedom of movement necessary for a variety of activities.
Some gym shorts include built-in compression lining and many athletes welcome this feature for a variety of reasons.
Roughly speaking, some shorts include liners to serve three primary goals:
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Reduce moisture buildup on the thighs and groin.
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Provide added support.
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Prevent chafing and irritation.
But, for many athletes, and in many sports, liners don’t serve any practical purpose and can actually be detrimental.
The Evolution of Gym Shorts and the Introduction of Liners
Liners in gym shorts weren’t always available and even today some people prefer gym shorts without liners.
Originally designed for male athletes and inspired by military uniforms, gym shorts lacked the advanced features we see today.
It was only in recent decades that liners became a standard addition to gym shorts, revolutionizing the comfort and functionality of this essential activewear item.
The Case Against Liners in Gym Shorts
While liners can provide additional support and moisture management, they may not be the best choice for everyone. Some athletes find liners to be restrictive or uncomfortable, preferring the freedom of movement offered by unlined shorts.
Moreover, liners can sometimes cause their own set of problems. For instance, they can lead to overheating in warm climates or during intense workouts, as they add an extra layer of insulation.
In addition, some people may have allergies or sensitivities to the materials used in liners, causing discomfort or skin reactions.
Lastly, not all sports or activities require the level of support that liners provide. For example, activities such as yoga or pilates, where flexibility and range of motion are more important than high-impact support, may be better suited to unlined shorts.
The Science Behind Liners
To provide optimal comfort and functionality, liners are constructed from carefully selected materials and designed with specific objectives in mind.
Materials used in Liners
Liners in gym shorts are typically made from high-performance fabrics such as elastane, nylon, and viscose.
These materials offer a combination of stretch, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties.
The use of such fabrics ensures that the liners can withstand the rigors of intense physical activity while maintaining their effectiveness.
Design and Construction of Liners
Liners are strategically designed to fit snugly against the body, providing the desired support and comfort.
They are often constructed with flatlock seams to minimize chafing and irritation, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience.
Additionally, liners are anatomically shaped to provide the best possible fit and ergonomic support.
Gender-Specific Advantages
While liners offer benefits for both male and female athletes, they are primarily found in gym shorts for men.
Benefits for Men
For male athletes, liners in gym shorts offer crucial genital support during intense physical activity.
The snug fit of the liner keeps everything in place, minimizing excessive movement and potential discomfort. This added support enhances performance and allows athletes to focus solely on their workouts during high-impact activity.
Benefits for Women
In women's gym shorts, liners play a different role.
Unlike men, women typically do not require the same level of support and our gym shorts for women don’t include liners to avoid unnecessary bulkiness.
However, liners in women's shorts can prevent riding up, provide an extra layer of coverage, and eliminate visible panty lines.
Common Questions About Gym Shorts Liners
Should you wear underwear with lined gym shorts?
Lined gym shorts are designed to be worn without underwear to prevent chafing.
The inner liner is usually made of a light, breathable material that wicks away moisture and reduces friction between your skin and the fabric of the shorts.
This helps keep you cool and comfortable during exercise and can also help prevent skin irritation. Lined gym shorts can help to prevent chafing by providing a barrier between your skin and the fabric of your shorts.
That said, many athletes choose to wear underwear even with lined gym shorts for added protection and hygienic benefits. Ultimately, what you wear to the gym or for any physical activity should be what makes you most comfortable.
Can you remove the liner from gym shorts?
While some gym shorts allow for the removal of the liner, that’s not typically the case. Most gym shorts with liners are designed to be worn with the liner at all times.
Liners in Gym Shorts: Our Take
Gym shorts with liners can help prevent chafing and provide extra support. You may find that they make your workouts more enjoyable and comfortable.
However, it's important to note that liners are not essential for everyone. Many athletes find liners to be bothersome and uncomfortable and avoid shorts with liners.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear a liner is a personal one.