Commando meaning: Is freeballing a flex or a mistake?

Going commando doesn’t mean you’re part of an elite military unit, like the Green Berets, or even that such a unit exists that’s famous for not wearing certain garments. No, what it actually means is choosing to go about your day without wearing underwear. Across Oz, you might also hear it referred to as “freeballing” or “free flapping.” 

But is it a good idea, or could you be putting your health at risk in the process?

In this guide, we discuss what going commando is and the potential benefits and risks of deciding to go about your day without any undies.

What does “going commando” mean?

Going commando means deciding not to wear any underwear. There’s not much in the way of research to understand how common the practice is, but an American study found that just 7% of men said they always went commando, compared to 40% who said they never did, even while sleeping [1].

Where did the term “commando” come from?

The phrase didn’t originate as a piece of linguistic fun, but on American college campuses during the 1970s at the height of the Vietnam War [2].

It didn’t come from nowhere. Originally, many returning veterans brought the phrase home, as some soldiers (especially special forces) would avoid wearing underwear for more ventilation and to stop fungal infections, including “crotch rot”, in Vietnam’s hot and humid conditions. Eventually, the term spread and became an integral part of student slang. Its prominence was further boosted after it was used in a 1996 Friends episode.

However, although this was when the term was popularised, that doesn’t mean soldiers were not avoiding undies even earlier. Elite units, especially commando units, have been going without underwear in certain combat environments since at least World War II, and maybe even dating back to the Boer War.

Did the practice originate from a specific military unit in World War II?

No, the story is nice, but it's not true.

Some myths say an amphibious military unit trained without undies, such as marine commandos or shock troops, to move quickly and deliver hit-and-run raids as a raiding party across enemy lines and into enemy territory. It sounds like a great story for specially trained commandos to operate quickly.

Unfortunately, whether the story focuses on a Portuguese commando, a particular French commander, Dutch commando command, or even Boer commandos running as militia members, no evidence to show that the practice comes from any particular army or unit.

Why do people go commando?

For many people, the answer boils down to simple comfort and freedom. It’s not uncommon for people to feel liberated without that extra layer, especially if you’re already wearing tight outer layers. Skipping undies can also prevent chafing and rubbing. If you regularly wear skinny jeans, leggings, or spandex, going commando could help reduce chub rub.

On the other hand, there are also those who don’t wear underwear because of the extra health benefits. Most purported health benefits are linked to the extra ventilation and breathability around the genital area.

Benefits of going commando

Are there any benefits to going commando, or is the whole concept an urban myth?

Surprisingly, there may be some genuine benefits to not wearing underwear. However, it’s vital to mention that there’s still considerable debate in some arenas. Let’s discuss the primary reasons why you might want to give your undies a miss.

Prevent allergic reactions

Sensitive skin, especially around the face, isn’t uncommon. One study found that 50-60% of men worldwide have sensitive skin in at least one area [3]. If you’ve got extremely sensitive skin, the clothes you wear may be causing you allergic reactions, known as contact dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis presents with several symptoms, including:

• Bumps
• Rashes
• Irritation
• Blisters

In more serious cases, this could even lead to infections and tissue damage. Not wearing underwear could prevent certain types of allergic reactions in some cases. Don’t underestimate how common allergic contact dermatitis is, with as much as 8% of the Australian population allergic to the common element nickel, which is found in an array of clothing and accessories [4].

Stop fungal infections

When your man parts get warm and wet, you’ve created the ideal breeding ground for fungal infections, including the famous jock itch. This can lead to your genitals itching, feeling irritated, and appearing red.

Not wearing undies can ensure proper ventilation, keeping the area cool and dry. If you’re one of the 34% of Australian men participating in sport at least once a week, reducing your layers could prevent problems later on [5].

Reduce chafing and injuries

Whether you’re wearing undies or not, the layer closest to your genitals can rub against your penis and scrotum. Over time, this can result in irritation. Without prompt intervention, the persistent motion could eventually lead to injury.

Influence sperm production 

The biggest benefit that many men claim influences their decision is that without undies, they produce more and better quality sperm. It might sound absurd, but there is some logic to this theory.

The testicles hang outside the body for a reason. They have to because producing sperm efficiently means keeping the testicles at a temperature of around 34.4°C [6]. This is lower than your body’s typical temperature, which can range from 35.2°C to 37.4°C [7].

Wearing underwear pushes your testicles against your body, thus raising the temperature in your scrotum. With a sub-optimal environment, this can lead to testicular hyperthermia, which might lower sperm count over time. In theory, this could also increase your chances of infertility, but more research is needed to confirm this [8].

Risks of going commando

Going commando isn’t the cure-all method for any genital problem. Some blokes might find that it doesn’t work for them for one reason or another. Chiefly, the issues boil down to physical and hygiene risks.

If we sum up these risks, they are:

• Chafing – Going commando can prevent chafing, but it can also cause it. It all depends on the clothing you’re wearing, as without undies, your skin might be rubbing directly onto harsh fabrics.
• Infections – If you’re someone who sweats a lot, increased moisture and a lack of a barrier can also result in bacteria and fungal infections thriving, including rashes and jock itch.
• Hygiene Problems – Potential leaks and sweat could leave an embarrassing wet spot on your daks that’ll be difficult to explain away.
• Lack of Support – Many men find that their undies support their testicles. Without this support, it can leave them flopping around, which can cause testicular strain and bruising, especially during physical activity.
• Pinching and Snagging – There’s also the practical issue that going without undies means your genitals are exposed to your clothing. Rough seams and zips become public enemy number one, depending on the type of clothing you prefer.

You might have noticed that the risks are essentially the same as the benefits. That’s why deciding to go commando or not is very much a personal choice. It won’t work for everyone, but it could work for you. The only way to find out is to try it.

Is it better for men to go commando? 

Science is silent on whether men should go commando. Assuming you’re not part of an armed force preparing to go on a commando raid, the issue is down to you.

Factors like activity level, skin health, and comfort all come into play. While you might increase airflow and reduce the risk of infections and chub rub by not wearing undies, some men might find the exact opposite happens.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, so you’ll have to give it a try and see what happens.

When should you avoid going commando?

Going commando isn’t for every occasion. Although it’s a personal decision, there are some situations where it’s better to have that extra protective layer. Here’s when to avoid going commando:

• You’re wearing tight/synthetic clothing.
• You’re involved in high-intensity exercise.
• You’re prone to skin infections.
• You’re in a professional setting where wardrobe malfunctions could be awkward.

It’s also a matter of hygiene. Going commando might feel liberating, but if you’re chafing and sweaty, it’s not the ideal way to give you the confidence you need in the bedroom. If you’re one of the 54% of men who have suffered from some sort of sexual dysfunction in the past 12 months, it’s time to take action [9].

If you’re noticing irritation, reduced sensitivity, or any other problem, talking to a doctor could reveal other issues. What the problem is will determine your next steps, whether you would benefit from speaking to a sex therapist or engaging in a medically-backed program like Pilot’s ED Treatment.

The first step is to get in touch with your GP if you’re worried about anything to do with your sexual performance and confidence.

What to wear if you want to go commando comfortably

Your style is your style. What matters is that every person follows three rules when not wearing undies:

1. Don’t wear tight clothes.
2. Change and wash your clothes more regularly than you usually would.
3. Don’t try on new clothes.

Beyond that, what you wear doesn’t really matter. Generally, anything baggy and loose will provide the proper ventilation you need without causing too much friction. See how it goes and then decide whether it works for you.

Are you going to try going commando? 

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