Is Skipping Underwear Actually Better for Your Body? Doctors Reveal the Real Pros and Risks

Going without underwear, often called “going commando,” has long been a personal comfort choice. Recently, health experts have been weighing in on whether skipping underwear offers real benefits or hidden downsides. While there is no single rule that applies to everyone, doctors agree that context, hygiene, and clothing choices matter more than the habit itself.

One potential benefit of going commando is improved airflow. Underwear can trap heat and moisture, particularly when made from synthetic or tight-fitting fabrics. Allowing the skin to breathe may help reduce irritation, sweating, and the conditions that allow certain fungal infections to thrive. For people prone to chafing or sensitivity, less fabric can sometimes mean less friction.

For men, temperature regulation is often discussed. Testicles function best at slightly cooler temperatures than the rest of the body. Tight underwear can increase heat, and looser clothing — or no underwear at all — may support a cooler environment. However, experts caution that the impact on fertility or long-term health is modest and varies widely between individuals.

There are also clear drawbacks. Underwear acts as a protective barrier, absorbing sweat and natural discharge and keeping outer clothing cleaner. Without it, rough fabrics like denim or synthetic blends can rub directly against sensitive skin, increasing the risk of irritation or discomfort. Hygiene becomes more important, as trousers and shorts may need to be washed more frequently.

Doctors generally recommend wearing underwear during exercise, long periods of movement, or in situations where support and protection are needed. Ultimately, the healthiest choice depends on comfort, clothing material, activity level, and personal skin sensitivity.

Key Takeaways:

• Going commando may improve airflow and reduce moisture buildup.

• Benefits vary by body type, clothing, and daily activity.

• Underwear still plays an important role in protection and hygiene.

Adapted From

The Guardian

5. It is against the law in Thailand to “go commando.” It is actually illegal to go in public without underwear in the Kingdom. It’s the law. If you do, you could (theoretically) wind up in jail.

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Said to benefit woman

It is for people with little balls and small D.

Those of us that are man sized need the support.

On 2/15/2026 at 3:16 PM, bkk6060 said:

It is for people with little balls and small D.

Those of us that are man sized need the support.

Of course the case can be made that for men with larger than average space requirement, going commando is a blessing since there is no restrictions and space confinements that can be quite uncomfortable.

As I get older my testicles have hung lower - tropical temperatures add to the elasticity.

I tried going commando once, but ended up (literally) sitting on my balls whilst getting into my car. It was an experience not to be repeated.

You need freedom of movement plus some support. I favour the boxer brief

On 2/11/2026 at 1:13 AM, Real Name Hidden said:

It is against the law in Thailand to “go commando.” It is actually illegal to go in public without underwear in the Kingdom. It’s the law. If you do, you could (theoretically) wind up in jail.

Are you dure about this?

The news article to which you posted a link doesn't cite any law on this subject.

On 2/16/2026 at 5:23 PM, chickenslegs said:

As I get older my testicles have hung lower - tropical temperatures add to the elasticity.

I tried going commando once, but ended up (literally) sitting on my balls whilst getting into my car. It was an experience not to be repeated.

On 2/17/2026 at 2:24 AM, Baht Simpson said:

You need freedom of movement plus some support. I favour the boxer brief

It is the scrotum that needs freedom of movement.

if your pants (US English: underpants) press your scrotum tightly against your body, this immobilises the ligaments and muscles on which the scrotum hangs almost completely. As a result, they atrophy and get weak and no longer can fully perform there intended functions once the scrotum is released from this confinement: the scrotum progressively hangs lower.

@Sheryl Have I got this right?

Free the scrotum! Let it dangle freely always or as often as possible.

I only go commando when having a foot massage in case it escalates, only one downside, the hot motobike seat