How to Stop Underwear Riding Up
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There are few things more annoying than underwear that won't stay put. Whether it's creeping up throughout the day or bunching uncomfortably, riding up is one of the most common underwear complaints — and one of the most avoidable. Here's why it happens and how to fix it for good.
Why Does Underwear Ride Up?
Underwear rides up for a few key reasons:
- Wrong size — too large and there's excess fabric with nowhere to go
- Wrong style — some cuts are more prone to riding up than others
- Worn out elastic — old underwear loses its grip and starts to shift
- Wrong fabric — slippery fabrics don't grip your skin or clothing
- Muscular thighs — friction from thighs can push fabric upward
Choose the Right Style
The style of underwear you wear makes a huge difference. Longer-leg trunks and boxer briefs are far less likely to ride up than shorter styles because the leg band sits lower on the thigh, giving it more surface area to grip. If you constantly have issues with riding up, switch from short briefs to trunks with a longer leg.
Get the Right Size
This is the most common fix. If your underwear is too big, the excess fabric has nowhere to go but up. Measure your waist properly and check the brand's size guide — don't just go by your trouser size. When in doubt, size down rather than up.
Choose the Right Fabric
Microfibre and modal fabrics tend to stay in place better than cotton, which can bunch and shift. Look for underwear with a good percentage of elastane (at least 5-10%) to ensure it moves with your body rather than against it.
Replace Old Underwear
If your underwear is more than a year old and the elastic is starting to go, it's time to replace it. Worn-out elastic simply can't hold its shape, and no amount of adjusting will fix that. Fresh underwear with good elastic stays put all day.
Look for Anti-Ride Features
Some underwear is specifically designed to prevent riding up. Look for silicone grip strips on the leg bands, longer leg lengths, and flatlock seams that reduce bulk and friction. These small design details make a big difference over the course of a day.
The Bottom Line
Underwear that rides up is almost always a fit or style issue. Get the right size, choose a longer-leg style, and invest in quality fabric — and you'll never have to adjust yourself in public again.