T8 Commando Running Underwear Full Review

At TheRunningWeek we’re always on the lookout for gear that enhances performance while keeping discomfort at bay especially for long runs, ultras, and humid training sessions.

So when the team at T8 sent over their flagship Commando Running Underwear we were eager to put them through the wringer.

After testing them across multiple long runs, tempo sessions, and recovery days in the sun-drenched trails of Gran Canaria, here's our honest, detailed take on T8 and why these might be the most underrated essentials in your gear drawer.

Who Is T8.run?

Founded in Hong Kong by ultrarunners, T8 stands for "Typhoon 8" a reference to the highest typhoon warning signal in the region, where training in extreme heat and humidity is a way of life.

The company’s ethos is rooted in minimalist performance gear designed for tropical climates and ultra-endurance efforts.

Their gear is ultralight, high-performance, and designed to disappear during movement.

T8 isn’t a mass-market brand, and that’s their strength they’re laser-focused on runners who demand more from their gear when conditions get tough.

First Impressions

Packaging: Sleek, simple, no waste. A nice touch that aligns with their commitment to minimalism.

Design: Both the M and W Commandos are extremely minimal in construction. At first glance, they look almost too light to offer real support but don’t let appearances fool you.

Fabric Feel: They feel like air. Made with Italian stretch mesh, they're breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. Holding them in your hand, you can immediately tell they’re engineered for high performance.

Fit and Comfort

Men’s Commandos (M Commandos)

The M Commandos fit like a second skin. They’re tagless, chafe-free, and offer full support without feeling restrictive. The waistband is soft but secure no digging or rolling, even on a 30 km tempo.

I wore them under 2-in-1 shorts and race split shorts, and they stayed put across hill climbs, descents, and even during some light strides on the track. No ride-up, no sweat pooling, and most importantly zero chafing.

Even after back-to-back long days, they didn’t hold odor and felt like they dried before I even took my shoes off.

Women’s Commandos (W Commandos)

The W Commandos are designed with real runner feedback there’s no center seam, a mid-rise waistband, and enough front-to-back coverage to stay invisible under shorts or tights.

One tester on our team noted, “They’re so light I forgot I was even wearing underwear. No riding up, and no adjustments needed mid-run, even during trail climbs.”

They’re also squat-proof, breathable, and wicked away sweat even during an intense 90-minute track session.

Performance Testing

We tested both pairs over a three-week block in:

• High humidity (Gran Canaria’s coastal trails)
• Back-to-back long runs over 25 km
• Speed sessions (400s and tempo intervals)
• Everyday recovery runs

Across all conditions, they performed flawlessly. No hotspots, no odor build-up, no discomfort. They dried quickly post-run and held shape after several washes.

Durability and Care

Despite being ultra-light, the Commandos are surprisingly durable.

We machine-washed them on delicate (cold) and hung them to dry. No loss of elasticity, no pilling, and stitching remained intact.

They’re built for repeated use and abuse exactly what you’d want from gear designed for ultras and stage races.

Sustainability Angle

T8 takes environmental impact seriously. The Commandos are ethically made with OEKO-TEX certified fabrics and packaged with minimal waste.

Plus, their lightweight nature reduces emissions in production and shipping.

It’s a small brand making smart, sustainable choices a refreshing change in a market crowded with excess.

The Verdict

T8 Commandos live up to the hype. These are true performance underwear for serious runners who want gear that disappears when the miles get long.

They’re breathable, durable, comfortable, and downright essential once you’ve experienced them. While they might not be the flashiest item in your kit, they might just be the most important.

Whether you’re training in humid climates, prepping for an ultra, or simply tired of subpar base layers, the T8 Commandos are a game-changer.

Pros

• Incredibly light and breathable
• Zero chafing, even on long runs
• Quick-drying and moisture-wicking
• Excellent fit for both men and women
• Eco-conscious production and packaging

Cons

• Limited color options (for now)

Conclusion: Are They Worth It?

Absolutely. T8 Commandos are one of those pieces of gear that you don’t realize how badly you need until you try them.

Once you do, there’s no going back to heavy, sweat-soaked underwear that slows you down.

Minimalist in look, maximalist in performance the T8 Commandos are now a permanent part of our rotation.