Baseball pants are an essential part of the uniform for many young athletes playing America's favorite pastime. But with the restrictive, form-fitting design of baseball pants, choosing the right undergarment is key for both comfort and performance. Here's a detailed look at the undergarment options boys have when suiting up for the diamond.
Key Considerations
When deciding what to wear under baseball pants, boys need to keep a few key factors in mind:
- Comfort - The undergarment needs to be breathable and move with the body without chafing or binding. Restrictive underwear can be distracting and impact performance.
- Coverage - Choosing underwear that provides ample coverage and modesty is important, especially with the snug fit of baseball pants. Pant legs creeping up when running or sliding can reveal too much with the wrong undergarment choice.
- Performance - Undergarments that wick sweat, breathe well, and provide support without restrictive compression aid athletic performance. Choosing the right fit and fabric can make a big difference.
- Budget - Like all baseball gear, undergarments can range dramatically in price. Finding the balance between cost and meeting other criteria is key for most families.
With these factors in mind, here are the most common undergarment options boys choose for youth baseball.
Briefs
Traditional brief-style underwear provides a lightweight, minimalist choice. Cotton briefs breathe well and can come in both standard and athletic cuts. The snug fit of briefs can also providestability and minimize shifting as boys run and slide on the field.
However, some boys find standard briefs to be too revealing or prone to riding up under baseball pants. Choosing brief-cut underwear specifically designed for sports helps avoid these potential drawbacks. Brands like Under Armour and Nike make performance briefs from moisture-wicking fabrics that feel like a second skin for total comfort.
Boxer Briefs
Moisture-wicking athletic boxer briefs are ideal for the demands of America's pastime. Brands like Adidas and New Balance offer breathable polyester and spandex blends that move with the body for total freedom of motion. Compression options add muscle support too.
Going for a boxer brief cut one size smaller than usual can further eliminate ride up and creeping issues some boys experience. The snugger fit pairs perfectly with the compression of baseball pants.
Jock Strap
For maximum athletic support and protection, many boys opt for a jock strap under their baseball pants. Jocks feature a pouch for cup padding (more on that next) along with elastic straps around the waist and through the legs to hold everything in place.
The exposed back and leg bands ensure a jock stays positioned better than any other undergarment during slides, dives, and quick direction changes. Jocks come in standard cotton as well as high-tech moisture-wicking materials for cool, dry comfort.
Cup & Jock Combo
A step beyond just a jock is adding in the protection of a cup. Baseball requires frequent contact, slides, and shots right at the vulnerable groin area. For this reason, many leagues mandate cups for all players.
Cups insert into slots in the pouch area of the jock to shield the genitals from blows. Combining a cup and jock ensures the padding stays exactly where it needs to for effective protection. Breathable foam options allow for air flow and cooling.
Though cups add one more piece of gear to deal with, most boys appreciate the peace of mind knowing their most sensitive anatomy is guarded during America's pastime. Perfecting the right cup and jock fit combo takes some trial and error but is worth it.
Compression Shorts
The stretchy material hugs the body from waist to mid-thigh for a locked-in feel. This eliminates the need for leg bands while still keeping the shorts from riding up. Compression also improves blood flow and reduces fatigue.
Built-in cup pouches allow for full protective coverage. Multiple brands like McDavid also sell compression shorts with bio-ceramic padded liners providing cushioning and cooling relief. Going sleeveless or opting for short sleeves provides breathability too.
FAQs
What do most Little League players wear under baseball pants?
Most Little Leaguers wear either traditional briefs, athletic boxer briefs, or a jock with cup for practices and games. Briefs work for many boys, but those more concerned about coverage and riding up issues tend to opt for boxer briefs or jocks.
What fabric is best for underwear under baseball pants?
Look for polyester, spandex, and other synthetic blends when choosing underwear for baseball. These fabrics wick moisture, breathe better, and stretch with the body for comfort. Avoid 100% cotton, which can get hot, absorb sweat, and lack support.
Is it OK to just wear regular underwear under baseball pants?
While you can wear any underwear under baseball pants, regular styles like cotton briefs are likely to ride up, chafe, and lack durability. Sticking with athletic cuts and fabrics designed for sports will make a big improvement.
Can you wearcompression shorts instead of a jock and cup?
Many brands of compression shorts come equipped with built-in pouches for cup inserts, providing similar protection to a jock. Compression without exposed bands can feel more secure and comfortable for many players as well.
What do college and pro baseball players wear under their pants?
College and professional players overwhelmingly opt for athletic jocks and compression shorts over regular underwear. Superior protection and less risk of adjustment is crucial when performing at higher levels. Top brands and thelatest fabrics and technology are common in the big leagues.
Conclusion
When suiting up for America's pastime, choosing the right undergarment layered beneath those baseball pants is key. Performance, protection, comfort, and budget are all factors boys must consider. From traditional briefs and boxers to high-tech jocks and compression shorts, today's youth athletes have plenty of excellent options. Taking the time to find the right undergarment match means one less distraction in pursuing baseball success and enjoyment.
