Women’s Hiking Bras and Underwear I Recommend (2026)
Choosing the best women’s underwear for you is a decidedly personal choice based on preferences. These are my favorite bras and underwear for hiking and backpacking.
Finding the right underwear for outdoor adventures can be a challenge. It’s important to find what works for you, whether that’s the fabric, cut, style, or sizing. Since cotton is not a good choice since it retains moisture, I’ve tried synthetic and wool fabrics for both bras and underwear and both work well for me, although I prefer merino wool for the ability to retain less odor.
I prioritize pieces that stay comfortable all day, dry reasonably quickly, resist odor buildup, and hold up well after repeated use on trail. Over the years, I’ve tested a variety of options, and these are the brands I continue reaching for most often.
BRANWYN
BRANWYN is a woman-owned company that creates “performance innerwear” designed specifically for active women using seamless merino wool blends. The brand was founded after its creator struggled to find natural fiber underwear that worked well for exercise and outdoor use. Their products are designed around moisture management, temperature regulation, comfort, and durability while using responsibly sourced merino wool. The company also supports organizations and initiatives that help empower women through outdoor access, adventure, and community support.
I’ve found BRANWYN pieces especially useful for hiking and backpacking because their merino wool fabric has a soft, substantial feel that’s comfortable against the skin right away and never itchy, even after long wear. The material also resists holding onto odors, which makes a noticeable difference on longer hikes and multi-day trips. I’ve also found it holds its shape well over time without stretching out or losing support.
Essential Bralette
In general, I’ve found that many active bras feel more restrictive than I prefer, especially for hiking. I’m a smaller person and don’t need much compression, so I tend to look for bras that prioritize comfort and ease of wear over high support. I’m also prone to skin irritation and rashes under bra bands, so moisture management and a softer, more forgiving fit are especially important for me.
This bra provides solid support for a low-impact style and has a wide bottom band that stays put better than most bras I’ve used during hiking and other active days. The straps are convertible, so you can wear them straight or switch to a cross-back depending on fit and comfort, which I appreciate for dialing in support. The fit runs small in my experience, so I recommend sizing up — especially if you prefer a looser bottom band like I do. I sized up to a large (even though I normally wear a small), and that size works perfectly for me.
Overall, this is the best bra I’ve used for hiking and backpacking.
- fabric: 81% extra fine merino wool, 14% nylon, and 5% elastane
BRANWYN Essential Hipster
The hipster is a my favorite style for providing good coverage, with a higher rise and wide waistband that doesn’t shift around or need adjustment during activity.
- fabric: 81% extra fine merino wool, 14% nylon, and 5% elastane
BRANWYN Essential Boyshort
The boyshort offers more coverage than the hipster, but still moves easily without feeling bulky. What I like most is how adjustable the fit feels depending on how you wear it — lower on the hips or pulled higher depending on preference and activity. Either way, it stays in place well without rolling, digging in, or shifting during movement. Even with the fuller coverage, it still has a streamlined, flattering fit.
- fabric: 81% extra fine merino wool, 14% nylon, and 5% elastane
BRANWYN Essential Bikini
The bikini style offers a lower-profile fit while still maintaining more coverage than many standard bikini cuts. It’s a good option if you prefer something lighter and less coverage overall. It also stays in place well during activity — and has held up well over time with regular use, maintaining its shape and comfort even after a year of wear.
- fabric: 81% extra fine merino wool, 14% nylon, and 5% elastane
Paradis Sport
Paradis Sport is a woman-owned company focused exclusively on performance underwear designed for active women. The company developed its products through extensive athlete fit testing and emphasizes comfort, stay-in-place fit, durable construction, and chemical-free materials.
Their natural fiber collection uses sustainably sourced fabrics designed to transition comfortably between workouts, outdoor activities, and everyday wear. Compared to merino wool options, Paradis Sport pieces feel lighter and more minimalist while still offering excellent comfort for hiking and active use.
Paradis Sport Natural Fiber Bikini
These micro-modal underwear are extremely soft and light, featuring flatlock seams for a “barely there” feel. I like that they provide full coverage in the back and a wide waistband for a good fit. The four-way stretch material is made from sustainably harvested beech tree pulp fabric, is highly breathable, and wicks moisture away from your skin.
- fabric: 88% Micromodal 12% Lycra
Paradis Sport Seamless Boyshort
This boyshort provides more coverage than other types of underwear, and the seamless knit construction helps eliminate chafing since there are no side seams or bulky edges. The fabric is a soft, stretchy blend of recycled nylon and spandex that feels smooth against the skin and moves easily with your body. It has a lightweight, supportive feel without being restrictive.
- fabric: 94% recycled nylon, 6% spandex