Underarm Sweat Pads: 6 Different Types & Brands

Sweat glands strike at the worst moments possible. You've probably felt that flash of heat and instant sweating when pitching a client or trying to impress a first date. Armpit sweat pads help eliminate embarrassing wet marks, pit stains and deodorant marks to keep you confident.

Beyond fueling your confidence, investing in underarm pads or shields also saves you on dry cleaning.

6 Underarm Sweat Pads

There are different types of sweat pads on the market, including:

• Garment shields that fasten around the torso or arm
• Underarm pads that adhere directly to the skin
• Sweat pads that stick to the inside of your clothing
• Shields that require the use of snaps, tapes or pins or are sewn into your clothing

But not all underarm sweat pads are created equal. Today we’ll put six types of armpit pads to the sweat test and see how they hold up.

Integrated Underarm Sweat Pads: Thompson Tee

If you're tired of dealing with underarm sweat marks and the hassle of traditional pads, Thompson Teesweat proof undershirts are the solution you’ve been looking for!

These innovative undershirts feature built-in sweat pads that stay in place all day, without the need for adhesives, pins, or constant adjustments. Thanks to their Hydro-Shield technology—the only patented sweat proof armpit pad on the market—you can say goodbye to embarrassing wet spots and yellow stains.

Unlike disposable underarm pads, these tees absorb sweat and release it as vapor, so you don’t have to worry about swapping them out. Made from soft, breathable materials like combed cotton and rayon from bamboo, they provide a comfortable fit that’s gentle on your skin. Plus, since they are machine-washable, making them the more sustainable and cost-effective option compared to single-use perspiration pads.

• Price: From from $33.99
• Size: From XS to 3XL for men and XS to 2XL for women
• Color: Thompson Tees come in a variety of styles and colors for men and women

Skin-Adhesive Armpit Pads: PURAX

Adhesive sweat pads are designed to stick to your skin, preventing sweat from reaching your clothes and keeping odor contained. These pads are usually made of lightweight cotton or fleece material, making them discreet under your clothing. However, they are typically only effective for light to moderate amounts of sweat.

The most popular brand is PURAX. However, they’re not large enough to comfortably cover your entire underarm area, leaving you vulnerable to sweat appearing around the pad. Additionally, some customers indicate they are difficult to remove from your skin (ouch!) and create sensitivity and rashes, making it difficult to wear these daily.

• Price: $17.99/30 pads
• Size: 5.5” x 5”
• Color: Brown

Application

1. Prep Your Skin: Ensure your underarms are clean, dry, and shaved. Avoid using deodorant or antiperspirant, as they can weaken the adhesive.

2. Apply the Pad: Peel off the backing, lift your arm, and press the pad firmly against your skin for at least 10 seconds. For larger underarms, place two pads side by side for better coverage.

Removal

1. Gentle Removal: To remove the pad, carefully peel it off like a Band-Aid. This can be uncomfortable, so use caution.

2. Reduce Discomfort: To ease the removal process and avoid sticky residue, apply baby powder to your skin before use. Alternatively, dab rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and gently apply it to the adhesive to help lift it off. Be cautious with alcohol to avoid skin irritation.

Shirt-Adhesive Sweat Pads: Kleinert & CFGROW

Shirt-adhesive sweat pads, also known as disposable dress shields, stick directly to your clothing. These pads work best on cotton fabrics, as the adhesive may not hold as well on stretchy or synthetic materials. They're typically thin and provide light to moderate protection, but for more coverage, you may need to use two pads per underarm.

While discreet, these pads can shift during the day, especially with natural arm movements, and they don’t offer long-lasting protection. Most brands recommend replacing them after a few hours, and heavy sweating can cause them to lose their adhesive properties more quickly.

Be mindful of fabric care, as the adhesive can stick to clothing if left on too long, potentially damaging delicate fabrics. Additionally, the pads may be visible under light-colored clothing, so they’re best used with darker or more opaque fabrics.

While there are different brands, Kleinert’s underarm pads offer a solid solution for sweat protection, but their size and color may not work well with all outfit types. So if you need a larger perspiration pad, check out CFGROW that have an oversized design.

• Price: From $11.99/12 pads
• Size: 5.5” x 5”
• Color: Available in white and black

Reusable Armpit Pads: SUPVOX

If you want to eliminate waste and lower costs, you might find SUPVOX reusable sweat pads preferable to disposables. These reusable dacron pads attach around your upper arm with a clear plastic band and are machine washable. However, these pads are smaller than other options on this list. In addition, several customers make note that the strap is too small to keep the pads in place effectively.

• Price: $12.69/2 pairs
• Size: 3.9” x 4.7”
• Color: Ivory

Reusable Armpit Pads for Women: Dukars

Dukars old-school option for women is worn over a bra like a vest, keeping removable sweat pads in place with adjustable straps. Women who’ve used themsay that, while effective in stopping sweat stains, its one-size option is designed for smaller-framed women and feels uncomfortable after long wearing.

• Price: $5.99
• Color: Beige

The Sticky Truth About Armpit Pads

At Thompson Tee, we’ve dedicated our lives to helping people overcome the embarrassing aspects of armpit sweat and the unforgiving clothing stains that come with it.

We know that, in very rare occasions, armpit sweat pads can be effective. But after trying out many brands, we've found that they are more limiting than liberating, especially for those who suffer from axillary hyperhidrosis.

• Inconsistent Placement: Sweat pads often don’t stay in place, leading to discomfort and the need for constant adjustments throughout the day.
• Sweat Loosens Adhesive: Once saturated with sweat, pads can shift, leak, or even become visible under clothing.
• Skin Irritation: Many users report rashes, irritation, or skin darkening, especially for those with sensitive skin.
• Embarrassing Maintenance: Replacing or adjusting pads in public restrooms can be awkward and inconvenient.
• Clothing Damage: The adhesive from sweat pads can accumulate on your clothes over time, causing potential damage.
• Limited Coverage: Sweat pads may not provide enough protection, especially for those with heavy sweating or axillary hyperhidrosis.
• Shaving Requirement: Pads that stick to your skin must be applied to shaved underarms, making them unsuitable for those who don’t want to shave.
• Sheer or Delicate Fabrics: Sweat pads are often visible under light or delicate fabrics, making them impractical for these types of clothing.

Make Your Life Easier With Built-In Sweat Pads

For a hassle-free, long-lasting solution to underarm sweat, consider switching to a Thompson Tee. With its built-in sweat shield, you won’t need to worry about applying, adjusting, or replacing pads throughout the day. Simply put on the undershirt, and you're good to go.

Thompson Tees offer complete sweat protection, absorbing sweat and releasing it as vapor, keeping you dry without the mess of disposable pads. Made from soft, breathable materials like premium cotton and rayon from bamboo, these shirts are comfortable, durable, and last longer than any other sweat pad. 

Upgrade to Thompson Tee for consistent, reliable protection without the fuss. Shop men’s or women’s.