What is an FUD?
An FUD is a Female Urination Device. It’s basically a way to urinate while standing up, with only minor adjustment to your clothes. Most FUDs are shaped something like this: imagine a cup that catches, and a tube that lets you aim away from you.
Why would I want to pee while standing?
- There are times when you have no access to a clean bathroom.
Have you ever had to go in a nasty, well used porta-potty? With an FUD, you can go without having to sit on suspiciously dirty toilet seats. - There are times when there is no bathroom around at all.
There is nothing good about having to squat. Squatting means you have to get undressed. Squatting puts your shoes at risk. Squatting means you risk having poison oak, ticks, and other bad things close to your nether-regions. When outdoors, undressing and squatting are simply unreasonable, when there is a better alternative.
Is it sanitary?
It is in fact, a VERY sanitary way to go, and certainly more sanitary than sitting on a dirty toilet seat.
When would I want to use this?
Whenever there isn’t a clean bathroom around.
Does it take a lot of practice to get used to it?
Not really. Although each brand has a little bit different way of holding the FUD, it’s very easy to get used to. If you have ANY doubts it at first I recommend practicing in the shower at first; you’ll quickly see how easy it is to use.
Why do you recommend this for Road Cyclists, in particular?
- Because there are times when all you have available are porta-potties, or gas station bathrooms.
- If you like to wear bibs, this is the only way to go, without removing all of your clothing.
Why do you recommend it for Mountain Bikers, in particular?
Because mtb girls often have to go in the woods. FUDs are a great way to keep clean, and quickly go without having to remove clothing, and/or squat. It’s simply much easier.
What different types of FUDs are available?
There are three types that I’ve tried and liked: the Freshette, which is plastic, the P-mate which is coated paper, and the GoGirl which is medical grade, highly flexible silicone.
Why do you choose to sell the GoGirl?
I found it to be the easiest one to carry, and had the best impact environmentally. The P-mate can bend out of shape while carrying, making it harder to use. You also throw it away after one use, which is (to me) environmentally unsound. On the other hand the Freshette is made of hard plastic, making it uncomfortable to stow in a back pocket. It’s also hard to clean the tube. The GoGirl is very flexible, and can be cleaned and re-used over and over. It’s also very easy to clean.
How do I use the GoGirl?
Instructions come with each FUD on exactly how to use it.
Yes, you CAN now write your name in the snow!
