Here's What the Vast Majority of Players Wear Under Volleyball Shorts
Learn the common practice among players for comfort and confident on the court.
Whether you’re new to the sport, just starting to play competitively, or simply curious about the standard practice, you might be wondering what volleyball players wear beneath their shorts when competing.
Due to the style and fit of volleyball spandex, it's actually a question we see quite frequently.
It’s not at all easy figuring out the best option to wear beneath those snug and stretchy compression shorts.
And the last thing you want is to feel self-conscious while you’re competing, worrying about your shorts instead of focusing on the game.
Ideally, you want a solution that’s comfortable and keeps you locked in on the court.
So, here we’ll cover the common go-to choices among volleyball players for what to wear under volleyball shorts.
Wait, do I even need to wear anything under my volleyball shorts?
The short answer: No, you don’t need to wear anything under your volleyball shorts.
While it may sound strange to the unfamiliar or uninitiated, it’s actually a perfectly acceptable option and a widespread practice to forgo wearing underwear beneath your volleyball shorts (i.e. going commando).
Volleyball shorts, as with all compression-style shorts, are designed to be worn right against the skin—no undergarment necessary.
This allows for the compression fabric to effectively wick sweat away from your body while you’re active.
And because of their snug and stretchy fit, many players feel compression shorts offer enough coverage and security on their own.
But going commando isn’t for everyone.
Maybe you’re forced to wear an inferior pair of volleyball shorts as part of a team uniform, or perhaps it’s that time of the month and you want an extra barrier of protection.
No matter the reason, we’ll cover what the best underwear option is in this case.
The best underwear choice to wear under volleyball shorts is a seamless performance thong.
While of course this doesn’t have any impact on how well you play, let’s be honest, no one wants a pesky VPL if it can be helped.
"This underwear option not only greatly minimizes the appearance of VPLs, but is breathable, moisture-wicking, and provides friction-free layering."
Because of the second-skin nature of volleyball spandex, really the only way to completely eliminate visible panty lines is to skip the underwear altogether.
Sometimes, however, not wearing underwear beneath your volleyball spandex is simply not an option.
Adding a pair of underwear beneath your volleyball shorts can provide an extra layer of comfort and security to free your mind from any worry while you’re active.
With this in mind, there are a few underwear options that will work better than others.
It can depend on the athlete and their personal preference but typically the best underwear solution is a seamless performance thong (these are our top picks).
This underwear option not only greatly minimizes the appearance of VPLs, but is breathable, moisture-wicking, and provides friction-free layering.
As you consider different underwear options, be sure to steer clear of any non-breathable fabrics like satin.
Cotton is a better and more breathable choice, but does not wick moisture well and can leave you damp and irritated in sweaty situations.
On the other hand, performance-minded fabrics like polyester, spandex, etc. are the best choice when it comes to moisture-wicking and layering under compression garments.
Prioritizing comfort and function will keep you focused and playing your best.
The most important thing to prioritize when you’re figuring out what works best for you is comfort and functionality.
When you’re in ready position, you want to be completely locked-in and ready go, not distracted by an uncomfortable fit or self-conscious about your appearance.
"Finding the right choice or combination for you and your game will definitely help to boost your overall focus, confidence, and performance on the court."
You’ve a got a game to play.
So, you'll want to find a solution that’s comfortable and allows you to perform at your best.
Also, let’s not overlook the role that a stellar pair of volleyball shorts can play in this scenario.
Whether you’re hoping to minimize the possibility of visible panty lines or you’re looking for a comfortable option to help you forgo the underwear altogether, sometimes the right pair of volleyball shorts can make all the difference.
Remember, comfort is key here.
Volleyball shorts should actually have a very pleasant and comfortable fit that you have no problem wearing them for an extended period of time.
Another option that's increasing in popularity among players for a secure and comfortable fit on the court: leggings.
With their additional length, leggings provide an extra secure fit that's familiar, comfortable, and protective.
Finding the right choice or combination for you and your game will definitely help to boost your overall focus, confidence, and performance on the court.
And if you're in the midst of gearing up for volleyball season, be sure to check out our Complete Volleyball Checklist.
