London commuters ditch trousers for annual No Pants Tube Ride

A Commute That Refuses to Keep Its Pants On (PICS/AFP)

London's famously serious commute briefly lost its composure on Sunday, January 11, 2026, as dozens of trouser-less commuters boarded the tube wearing nothing below the waist but their underwear - and a straight face.

It was launched in New York in 2002 by a seven-member comedy collective Improv Everywhere. "The idea behind No Pants is simple: Random passengers board a subway car at separate stops in the middle of winter without pants. The participants behave as if they do not know each other, and they all wear winter coats, hats, scarves, and gloves. The only unusual thing is their lack of pants." stated the comedy show.

The tradition crossed the Atlantic to London in 2009 and has since become a regular fixture in the UK capital's cultural calendar. The annual No Trousers Tube Ride returned to the UK capital with its simple mission: spread laughter, surprise and a dash of absurdity during the depths of winter. Designed as a harmless piece of public performance, the event doesn't aim to irritate or shock fellow passengers. Instead, it invites strangers to share a moment of collective humour in one of the city's most routine spaces.

In the interest of keeping things legal, participants were reminded that underwear with decent coverage was mandatory. A man armed with a loudspeaker was seen announcing, "Trousers down, pants on," ensuring everyone understood the boundaries. After all, millions use London's famed metro network every day - but once a year, dozens travel it in their underwear. The rules were clear: trousers stay on until inside the Tube station, then off they come. Once aboard, the real challenge begins - acting completely nonchalant.

Fashion, unsurprisingly, took a creative turn. Crisp shirts and blazers were paired with colourful boxers, while trench coats, oversized puffers and cow boy hats made appearances. Beanies, scarves and gloves completed the winter look, proving that when comedy is the objective, dress codes is optional.

"I was really scared at first," said participant Sophie Karl, laughing. "But now I think I like it. I'm so excited, I don't want to put my trousers back on now. We should do this every day. It can get a bit cold, but the excitement keeps us warm."

Another participant, Oliver Mardlin, wore a full suit and tie - minus the trousers. "It's a chance to let loose and ignore boundaries," he said. "People commute every day feeling constrained - by work, by routine, by the clothes they have to wear."

Participants of all ages were spotted taking part - young boys, adults, older men and women alike. Whether on escalators, platforms or inside the carriage, everyone appeared fully committed to the spirit of the event. Hairuo said she had "specifically chosen boxers" for the day, while another participant, Jiacy, opted for a mini skirt to make the mid-journey strip easier. One commuter was even seen proudly sporting underwear picked out in anticipation of the next year's ride.

Once a year, Londoners step out of their comfort zones - and their trousers - proving that sometimes, a little silliness is all it takes to turn an ordinary commute into a shared moment of joy.

(With inputs from AFP)