The intent of my first post was merely to describe what works well for me. As a personal trainer for 15 years, I agree with most experts that an ideal garment should be close-fitting, nonirritating, and able to wick away moisture. Rather than state as crazy as it sounds, perhaps it would have best been phrased: Im an exception to the general rule. I also wanted to avoid a lengthy discussion on skin conditions and infections that may result from running and jogging, such as eczema, heat rash (prickly heat), allergic rashes, jock itch, etc. Heat, perspiration, changes in body temperature, intensity of the workout and stress can exacerbate all of those skin conditions and infections. Perspiration helps to regulate our bodys temperature by cooling us down as it evaporates through our skin. Wearing tight-fitting shorts in fabrics such as nylon and polyester can trap sweat, raise the temperature of skin, cause the skin to swell and in turn plug sweat ducts. Heat rash occurs when these blocked ducts force sweat to trickle into your skin rather than out of it. In general, this problem usually develops on clothed areas of your body, such as the abdomen, neck, upper chest, back, groin and armpits. Most of us have experienced jock itch which differs in that it is a rather common infection caused by a fungus or yeast.
Individual factors can also play an important role: age, % body fat, fluid intake, intensity level of training, concentration of oil glands, etc. Except for a pumpers ring, I dont shave the forest in my groin area. Some of you do, while others perhaps have little body hair.
Despite the fact that Im not a Fabric Aficionado that relies heavily on spell-checker, cotton works well for me. I know the difference between open- and closed mesh weaves, as well as natural and synthetic fabrics. At one time or another, Ive probably tried everything available in the Undergear catalogues, Academy, and department stores.
My running shorts are Nike (95% cotton, 5% Spandex), my tops are Nike FITDRY, my socks are Nike self-wicking and yes, my shoes are Nike Airs.
From May to October, I also swim 2 miles daily (a carryover from swimming in H.S. and college). Thus, Im also familiar with bikini bottom, however that infection doesnt apply here unless you continue to wear cotton briefs after heavy perspiration. Likewise, Acne mechanica which results from rubbing, heat, pressure and sweating caused by heavy protective padding in athletes is only rarely seen in runners.
