When the temperatures dipped below freezing, intrepid straphangers flocked to the city’s subways to take part in Sunday’s annual “No Pants Subway Ride.”
“The turnout is definitely down this year,” said LJ Geraghty, who has traveled to the Big Apple for 14 straight years to take part in the internationally celebrated pants-less excursion.
Geraghty, a 36-year-old, from Boston, was bundled in heavy layers to combat the 17-degree temps, with the exception of ruffled gray panties and bare thighs.
“I wore my knee-highs this year, usually I just wear high heels,” she said, as her 16-year-old niece stood nearby. The teen who was also pantless, denied she was cold despite her bright red legs.
“I don’t like pants anyway,” said Deli Meehan, who was rocking classic briefs. “I’m wearing two pairs of socks, and two pairs of underwear.”
The event kicked off at 3 p.m. Sunday in New York City, with commuters converging at Union Station.
“I’m definitely freezing my ass off, but hopefully not any other important parts,” shivered 35-year-old Perry Ryan, a bartender from Queens who was wearing a heavy winter jacket and checkered boxers.
“I almost didn’t do it because of the cold, but my buddies talked me into it and I didn’t want to be the one to chicken out,” Ryan said.
The temperature hovered around 17 degrees, with an additional 10-degree wind chill, according to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Dave Dombeck.
“It’s always best to have at least more than one layer,” said Dombeck when asked about the possible dangers of the frigid temps on bare skin. “You really don’t want to be outside too long, I wouldn’t press it beyond 15 or 20 minutes.”
The majority of pants-less riders seemed to be enjoying the stinging air.
“My legs are a little numb right now but I’m pushing through. Can’t let a little cold weather stop us,” grinned 27-year-old art student Karina Valesco, who was sporting baby blue panties. “I’m proud to be out here today, freezing my tail off with all these awesome people. We’re fearless!”
The event is organized by Improv Everywhere, which says its goal is to cause “scenes of chaos and joy in public places.”
The first “No Pants Subway Ride” took place in 2002, with only six people. Some 4,000 were expected to take part this year.
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