Written By: Jared Mortense
There are numerous options available, each designed to suit different needs, preferences, and activities. Whether you're looking for all-day comfort, athletic performance, or stylish looks, understanding the different types of male underwear can help you make the right choice.
In this guide, we'll explore the most popular male types of underwear, comparing their features, benefits, and best uses.
1. Boxers
Overview:
Boxers are loose-fitting underwear that provide ample room and comfort. They feature a waistband and extend down the thighs, offering freedom of movement without being restrictive. Boxers are made from materials such as cotton, silk, or blends that are soft and breathable.
Benefits:
- Breathability: The loose fit allows air to circulate, which can keep you cooler, especially in hot weather.
- Comfortable Fit: Boxers are ideal for men who prefer a relaxed fit and don’t want underwear that hugs their body too tightly.
- Versatility: They can be worn under jeans, shorts, or sweatpants and are often used for lounging or sleeping.
Best For:
Boxers are great for those who value comfort and breathability. They're ideal for casual days at home or under looser clothing.
2. Boxer Briefs
Overview:
Boxer briefs are a hybrid between boxers and briefs, combining the snug fit of briefs with the longer coverage of boxers. They provide support while also offering more coverage for the thighs. Boxer briefs are often made from cotton, spandex, or a cotton-blend fabric, offering a comfortable fit that moves with the body.
Benefits:
- Support and Comfort: Boxer briefs offer more support than boxers and are ideal for everyday wear or athletic activities.
- Versatile Fit: The longer length helps reduce chafing and is ideal for men who need both support and coverage.
- Breathability: Most boxer briefs use fabrics that wick moisture away from the body, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Best For:
Boxer briefs are perfect for men who want support, comfort, and a more tailored fit. They’re ideal for active wear, office wear, and casual outings.
3. Briefs
Overview:
Briefs are a classic style of male underwear that offer a snug, supportive fit with a waistband that sits at the waist or just below. They provide full coverage in the front and rear but leave the legs uncovered. Briefs come in various cuts, including low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise.
Benefits:
- Supportive Fit: Briefs are great for men who need extra support, especially for athletic activities or long periods of sitting.
- Compact Design: The minimalistic design allows for a tighter fit that won’t bunch up under clothes.
- Breathability: Many briefs are made from breathable fabrics, helping to keep you cool and dry.
Best For:
Briefs are ideal for men who want a compact, supportive option for everyday wear. They're especially good for those who prefer a traditional underwear style and need firm support.
4. Trunks
Overview:
Trunks are similar to boxer briefs but feature a shorter leg. They offer a snug, comfortable fit while providing support and coverage. Trunks are a popular choice for men who like the fit of boxer briefs but prefer a more modern, less bulky style.
Benefits:
- Modern Fit: The shorter legs of trunks make them ideal for men who prefer a sleeker, more streamlined look.
- Comfortable Support: Trunks offer similar support to boxer briefs but with a lower leg length, reducing bulk and allowing them to fit under tighter clothing.
- Variety of Styles: Trunks come in many different fabrics, including cotton, modal, and spandex blends.
Best For:
Trunks are perfect for men who like a shorter, more modern cut. They are versatile and ideal for everyday wear, as well as for athletic activities or under slim-fitting clothing.
5. Jockstraps
Overview:
Jockstraps are an athletic style of underwear designed to provide support during physical activity. They feature a waistband and a supportive pouch in the front, but the rear is left completely exposed with straps that go around the hips or thighs. Jockstraps are typically made from elastic, cotton, or performance fabrics.
Benefits:
- Supportive: Jockstraps offer excellent support, especially for active men involved in sports or physical activities.
- Breathability: With minimal fabric, jockstraps allow for maximum airflow, helping to keep you dry and comfortable during high-intensity activities.
- Freedom of Movement: The design ensures that you have plenty of room to move freely without restriction.
Best For:
Jockstraps are best suited for athletes or men who need extra support during physical activities, such as running, cycling, or weightlifting.
6. Thongs
Overview:
Thongs for men are similar to those for women, offering minimal coverage with a waistband at the waist and a small strip of fabric that goes between the legs. The back is usually a string or narrow band, leaving the buttocks exposed.
Benefits:
- Minimal Coverage: Thongs provide very little coverage, making them ideal for situations where you want to avoid visible underwear lines.
- Breathable: The minimal fabric design allows for maximum breathability and ventilation.
- Discreet Fit: Thongs are an excellent choice for men who wear tight-fitting clothes and want to ensure their underwear isn’t visible.
Best For:
Men who want minimal coverage and need underwear that won’t show through tight clothing. They can also be a stylish and confident option for those who enjoy bold underwear choices.
7. Performance Underwear
Overview:
Performance underwear is designed with specialized fabrics that offer moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and odor-controlling properties. These types of underwear are typically made from blends of polyester, spandex, or nylon, and they are built for men who lead active lifestyles.
Benefits:
- Moisture-Wicking: Performance underwear helps keep you dry by pulling moisture away from the skin.
- Breathability: These underwear are designed to keep you cool and prevent discomfort during strenuous activities.
- Flexibility: Performance underwear often includes elastic or stretchable materials that move with the body, offering excellent freedom of movement.
Best For:
Performance underwear is ideal for athletes, gym-goers, or anyone engaged in high-intensity physical activities. It’s also a good choice for travel or long days on the go when comfort and dryness are essential.
8. Bikini Underwear
Overview:
Bikini underwear for men is a more recent trend, offering a sleek and minimalistic design. Similar to briefs but with less coverage, bikinis have a waistband that sits low on the hips, with the sides of the underwear cut higher for a modern, stylish look.
Benefits:
- Comfortable Fit: Bikinis offer a snug fit that’s comfortable and supportive without excessive bulk.
- Stylish Design: Bikinis are often designed with modern cuts and stylish materials, appealing to men who want something a little different.
- Versatility: The low-rise fit makes bikinis ideal for wearing under low-rise jeans, shorts, or other fashionable clothing.
Best For:
Men who want a balance between the support of briefs and the style of a modern, low-rise design. They’re perfect for fashion-forward individuals.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Male Underwear for You
The best type of male underwear really depends on your personal needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for the freedom of boxers, the support of boxer briefs, or the sleekness of trunks, there’s an option that will work for every lifestyle. Active men may prefer performance underwear or jockstraps for support during physical activities, while those looking for comfort and breathability might find boxers or briefs to be the perfect choice.
It’s important to try different styles and materials to determine what feels best for you and suits your daily activities. With the right underwear, you’ll not only be more comfortable but also ready to take on whatever the day brings.
