Pants pong prevented

News - The Age, Australia

They might have invented Pong proof pants but that doesn't make the idea of not chaning your underwerar right.

Stinky underwear could soon be consigned to the garbage bin of history, thanks to the invention of what British manufacturers claim are the first "pong-proof pants".

Tiny fragments of silver woven into the North Face briefs help stop bacteria multiplying, mean they can be worn again and again without getting smelly.

Even the oldest trick in the book for those concerned about causing a stench - turning underwear inside out before wearing it for a second day - is rendered unnecessary, the company says.

The way the material is woven also helps resist malodorous microbes and mildew.

The specialist outdoor expedition equipment manufacturer created the range of base layer clothing for its team of hardened athletes and explorers.

The technical undergarments had to be lightweight, comfortable and durable enough to last a trip to the top of Everest, and also easy to care for even when miles from a washing machine.

The lightweight synthetic Baselayer range, made of polypropylene yarn, resists odour build-up.

Keith Byrne, marketing manager for The North Face, said the garments would be "extremely popular" with the general public, as well with serious athletes.

"The fact they resist odour build-up is sure to appeal to blokes everywhere who may be slightly challenged in the washing machine department," he said