This Step One underwear review takes a detailed look at whether they really are as comfortable as people claim, focusing on fit, chafing prevention and long-term wear.
Step One underwear has become something people actively recommend to others, which is unusual for a product most of us buy on autopilot. Known for their bamboo fabric, anti-chafe design and supportive fit, they promise to solve problems many people have quietly put up with for years.
What makes Step One easier to try than many underwear brands is the 30-day First Pair Guarantee, which allows customers to exchange or refund their first pair if the fit or style isn’t right. That safety net matters, particularly with underwear that has a more structured, supportive design.
But do they actually hold up after months of wear, not just straight out of the packet? This review looks at what Step One underwear does well, where they may not suit everyone, and who they are genuinely a good choice for.
Rating breakdown (out of 10)
Anti-chafing performance – 10 / 10
Step One underwear performs exceptionally well here. The UltraGlyde™ panels between the legs are designed to reduce friction, and real-world feedback consistently confirms that they work. Riding up and thigh rub are rarely mentioned as issues, even during long days or physical activity.
All-day comfort – 9 / 10
The bamboo fabric feels soft against the skin and remains comfortable throughout the day. Many wearers report forgetting they are even wearing them. Comfort drops slightly only for those who strongly prefer a very loose fit.
Fit and support design – 8.5 / 10
Step One underwear has a structured, supportive fit that lifts and separates rather than sitting flat. This works extremely well for many people but can feel restrictive if looser underwear is preferred. The First Pair Guarantee helps here by allowing the fit to be properly tested rather than judged on first impressions.
Fabric quality and breathability – 9.5 / 10
The viscose derived from organically grown bamboo is one of their biggest strengths. It feels lighter and cooler than standard cotton and performs particularly well in warmer conditions or during physical activity.
Sizing and range – 8 / 10
Step One offers a good range of styles and leg lengths, but sizing requires some attention, particularly in the women’s range where some styles run small. The First Pair Guarantee meaningfully reduces this risk by allowing exchanges or refunds if the size or style isn’t right.
Durability and long-term wear – 8 / 10
Most long-term users report good durability when pairs are rotated regularly. Some feedback mentions waistband elasticity softening over time, which prevents a higher score, although comfort usually remains intact.
Ethics and sustainability – 10 / 10
Step One operates a fully certified FSC® end-to-end supply chain, covering sourcing, manufacturing and packaging. Ethical production and environmental responsibility are embedded into the business rather than added as a marketing layer.
Value for money – 8 / 10
Step One underwear is priced above basic high-street options, but the comfort, performance and First Pair Guarantee make the cost easier to justify. The reduced risk of getting the fit wrong adds genuine consumer value
What this Step One underwear review found after long-term wear
Step One underwear was created to tackle common complaints, particularly chafing, riding up and discomfort during long days. The brand launched in 2017 as a direct-to-consumer business, designed in Australia and sold exclusively online.
Founder Greg Taylor has explained that the idea came from his own frustration with uncomfortable underwear and how difficult it was to find pairs that actually worked day to day. “I never thought solving a personal problem I had would change the underwear game the way it did,” he said.
What began as a small start-up quickly grew into a global brand with over 1.5 million customers and more than 50,000 five-star reviews. Step One underwear is now available for both men and women and the company is publicly listed on the Australian Stock Exchange.
Do Step One underwear really stop chafing?
Chafing prevention is the main reason people buy Step One underwear, and it remains their biggest strength in daily wear.
The UltraGlyde™ panels positioned between the legs make a noticeable difference when walking, working or exercising. Wearers frequently mention that the underwear stays in place and significantly reduces thigh rub, even during physically demanding days.
How do Step One underwear fit?
Step One underwear is deliberately supportive rather than loose. The elastic pouch design lifts and separates, which many people find more comfortable over long periods.
For others, particularly those who prefer very relaxed underwear, this level of support can feel like too much. Being able to wear them properly for a few days and change your mind if they don’t suit you is a key advantage of the First Pair Guarantee.
Bamboo fabric and breathability
Step One underwear is made from viscose derived from organically grown bamboo. Compared to traditional cotton, bamboo feels softer, lighter and cooler throughout the day.
Many wearers say they perform better once sweating starts, where thicker cotton underwear can feel heavy or uncomfortable.
How long do Step One underwear last?
Most long-term users report that Step One underwear holds up well when pairs are rotated regularly. Some people have worn the same pairs for two or three years.
The most common criticism relates to waistband elasticity softening over time. This doesn’t affect everyone, but it appears often enough to be worth mentioning.
Ethics and sustainability
Step One places a strong emphasis on ethical manufacturing and environmental responsibility.
The brand operates a fully certified FSC® end-to-end supply chain, covering bamboo sourcing, fabric production, manufacturing and packaging. Garments are produced in ethically certified factories across Asia, where bamboo grows best.
Popular Step One products to consider
If you’re new to Step One, these are the styles most people start with:
Buying Step One underwear on Amazon
Step One also has an official Amazon store, which some shoppers prefer for faster delivery or familiar checkout.
Buying through Amazon can be useful if someone wants to try a single pair first, although the First Pair Guarantee is a key reason many people choose to buy directly. Availability may also be more limited on Amazon.
Final verdict
Step One underwear delivers where it matters most. The anti-chafe panels genuinely work, the bamboo fabric feels better than standard cotton, and the fit stays in place throughout the day.
They won’t suit everyone, particularly those who prefer very loose underwear, but the 30-day First Pair Guarantee makes trying them low risk, even if there is uncertainty around sizing or fit.
Final score: 8.9 / 10
A comfort-first underwear brand that largely lives up to its reputation, with a strong safety net for first-time buyers.
