14 Best Underwear for Men that is Amazingly Comfortable

Most men don’t talk about underwear – we don’t want to talk about our own, and we certainly don’t want to hear about our mates.

But the best underwear is worth talking about.

Whether it’s briefs, boxers, or whatever else, finding the right underwear for your particular needs can be an unexpected game-changer. So in this article, we’re going to discuss exactly what makes a great pair and offer you the 14 best sets on the market.

Our no.1 choice are the Calvin Klein’s Men’s Modal boxer briefs – made from luxuriously soft modal fabric; they offer a fantastic combination of brand-name quality and value.

But we know that won’t be to everyone’s taste.

For example, our no.2 choice are the Tani Silkcut Boxer Briefs, which appeal to men who prefer innovation to the classics. They’re completely biodegradable materials and are made of innovative MicroModal fabric.

So we’ve got something for you, no matter who you are.

And we aren’t stopping there:

We’re also giving you tips on how to choose the right underwear for you; detail all the different underwear types available, and explain how underwear can make such a big difference to your life.

Let’s jump into it.

Quick summary

Before you buy: 6 Things to consider when purchasing underwear

If you’re like most men, buying underwear isn’t high on your priority list. Perhaps you buy the same type you always buy, or you ask for underwear as a Christmas gift (hopefully, there are far more exciting things on your gift list).

That’s not to say an underwear shopping trip needs to take a ton of time or has to be pure drudgery.

With the following underwear buying tips, you can save yourself the hassle of deciding what types and brands are best for you, while perhaps expanding your horizons and branching out into different underwear. The sky’s the limit, gents.

1. First and foremost, get the right fit

You understand how important fit is if you’ve ever bought underwear that’s too tight or too loose. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of walking around in underwear with a vice-like grip, for example.

All that said, check sizes for every specific brand, which should provide sizing charts that correspond with your waist size.

A fit that’s too tight will make your love handles even more prominent while also squeezing your junk way beyond what’s comfortable. A size that’s too big can gives you the saggy ass look. Either way, you’ll spend far too much of your day adjusting your skivvies.

Generally, underwear – whether boxers, briefs, or whatever – come in small (for waists between 28 and 30 inches), medium (32-34), and large (36-38) sizes. Look for extra-large sizes if your waist is larger than 38.

The thing with fit is this: the best underwear for you is the type or brand that you don’t notice throughout your day. They feel comfortable, and you don’t spend any time adjusting them to make them more comfortable.

2. Decide what fabric you prefer

Common materials used to make underwear include cotton, nylon, silk, spandex, and Lycra.

Cotton underwear is the choice of many men because it’s breathable, it keeps irritation to a minimum, and it’s durable. Plus, cotton is usually more affordable than other fabrics used to make underwear.

Note: Where you live may determine what type of underwear fabric you choose, i.e., cotton is a good choice for warmer climates, because of its breathability, while wool blends, Lycra, and even flannel provide extra warmth when the temperature plummets.

3. The style of underwear

We’ll delve deeper into the styles and types of underwear later in the post, but you have plenty of options from which to choose. Among the most popular styles are:

• Briefs
• Boxers
• Boxer briefs
• Thongs

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4. The brand

Many men are loyal to a certain brand of underwear, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Others don’t pay much attention to the brand and grab the first brand off the shelf that appeals to them.

There’s no wrong or right way when choosing a brand of underwear, but our advice is always to be open to trying different brands. Who knows, you may find that your trusted ol’ brand isn’t quite as comfortable as another brand or style.

5. Buy age-appropriate underwear

Not that we ever advocate “boring,” but simple, classic styles become more appropriate as you mature. You still can wear flashy or even funny designs, but there’s nothing wrong with acting your age, either.

True, the chances are good that your work colleagues won’t notice that you’re wearing underwear, which features your favorite superhero, but still … it never hurts to strive for a bit of sophistication.

6. Colors

You won’t have much trouble finding underwear in your favorite color, because they come in a wide variety of hues, patterns, and designs. The traditional underwear colors are white, black, blue, and grey.

Let’s move on to our reviews of the best underwear for men.

The 14 best underwear for men in 2020

1. Calvin Klein Men’s Body Modal Boxer Briefs

Calvin Klein knows a thing or two about luxury but also about comfort and appearance. Their Body Modal Boxer Briefs look and feel great and, say some reviewers, appeal to significant others in the way they hug the contours of what’s below a man’s waist.

Made from 69% nylon and 31% Elastane, these briefs have a “body defining” fit that’s stretchy and lightweight. Moreover, they hold your manhood in place, whether you’re in the office or grinding out a workout at the gym.

“Modal” comes from these briefs’ soft fabric that has added stretch for comfort. Further comfort comes from a soft, smooth waistband that doesn’t dig into your midsection like the waistbands on many other pairs of men’s underwear.

The waistband rides below the hip, which keeps the briefs from riding up and bunching, which not only doesn’t feel good but is sometimes noticeable if you’re wearing pants with closer-to-the-body fit.

It’s not easy to achieve a body-hugging fit that still manages to be comfortable, yet these briefs have. And here’s another thing: they come with a contour pouch that enhances the look of your package; it may even make it look bigger, which isn’t a bad thing.

Bottom Line

Calvin Klein makes plenty of quality men’s undergarments, and their Body Modal underwear is the best boxer brief 2020.

2. Tani Silkcut Boxer Briefs 

Tani USA puts a premium on comfort in everything it makes while hoping to change how men feel and think about men’s underwear. Their SilkCut boxer briefs are a cut above the rest, for sure, and offer lightweight comfort.

The SilkCut briefs include Tani’s patented Micro Modal Air fabric that helps keep wearers cool and dry by wicking moisture away from the skin. They also consist of eco-friendly biodegradable material, which is a common theme in the Tani production process.

While the SilkCut brief fabric keeps moisture away from the body to maintain constant comfort, you’ll also appreciate the material’s stretchiness, especially around the thighs.

It keeps the briefs from bunching up – which can make underwear uncomfortable for sleeping, among other things – while providing the ideal balance between comfort and every day performance.

The Tani SilkCut briefs also consist of pure mulberry silk and have a shimmering appearance because of the prism-like structure of the silk’s fiber. It helps to provide a luxurious feel and look.

Something else we appreciate about these briefs is how easy it is to care for them. You can clean them in the washing machine safely, and then throw them in the dryer on low heat. What’s also nice is how they maintain their shape even after repeated washings.

You can also wear them under any clothing, from work and formal wear to workout clothes and even sports uniforms.

Bottom Line

You owe it to yourself to check out Tani’s line of men’s underwear, whether it’s briefs, boxers, or t-shirts. You’ll love how they feel and how they’re perfect for everyday life.

3. Saxx Underwear Men’s Boxer Briefs

Saxx is a brand not everyone will have heard of, but they make some of the most innovative and smartly designed underwear you’ll find anywhere on the market. These Boxer Briefs are a case-in-point.

With their Three-D fit design, they offer incredible support in all the right places, and the BallPark support pouch reduces friction and gives you the breathing space your stuff needs. Combined, they reduce friction and avoid any unpleasant bunching or rubbing.

Plus, the Flat Out seam and breathable fabric to make a really relaxed, comfortable fit – you can really feel the difference as soon as you put them on. And the fabric is moisture-wicking, too.

They are also really low maintenance: you can just machine wash and tumble dry them, for maximum ease of care.

These are longer length briefs and will be ideal for guys who are a little taller or have larger thighs. Equally, if you just prefer more coverage, they could also be a dream for you.

Bottom Line

Low maintenance, super comfortable underwear for taller men. While they’re on the pricier end, men who need a little extra support will find them more than worth it.

4. Chaads Ultimate Men’s Boxer Briefs

There’s nothing worse than having to constantly be adjusting your boxers – they’re riding up, they’re bunching or pinching or not giving your stuff the room it needs to breathe.

Well, Chaads’ Ultimate Men’s Boxer Briefs are designed specifically to make sure you never have to mess with that stuff again.

Made from 47% cotton, 47% viscose, and just a little bit of spandex, they’re silky soft and comfortable enough for a long, difficult day. They’ve got a specially designed front pouch that gives you support where you need it most. And they’re the perfect length to make sure they won’t chafe, won’t ride and won’t bunch.

Reading all that, you might assume Chaads’ are charging a pretty penny for their boxers. The thing is, though, Chaads is a brand on a mission to make good quality underwear as affordable as it possibly can be. This means the Ultimate Men’s Boxer Briefs are actually shockingly cheap at $20 a pop.

Bottom Line

Super comfortable underwear is one thing, but when it’s this cheap and this well designed, the biggest question is really why don’t you already own some?

5. Hanes Men’s 5-Pack Sports-Inspired Boxer Briefs

Keeping cool, dry, and comfortable underneath their clothes is important for anyone who plays sports or leads an active lifestyle. Hanes borrows from the same principles used to make activewear in their sports-inspired Boxer Briefs.

For starters, the Sports-Inspired briefs include Cool-Dri fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin to keep you cool and dry at the office, the gym, on the trail, or even on the road as you put in the miles training for your next 5K or 10K.

Comfort is always king, however, and Hanes has you covered, thanks to their ComfortFlex waistband that’s soft and stretchable, while their briefs are tag-free to enhance their overall comfort.

They also won’t bunch up on you, which helps avoid chafing, and they have a traditional fly closure.

Contrast stitching and sport styling help give these briefs a stylish look, and you can buy them in a variety of colors. Colors may vary with each 5-pack of briefs.

Bottom Line

There’s a lot to like about Hanes’ Sports-Inspired Boxer Briefs, not the least of which is a fabric that keeps you cool and dry down below. They also provide a comfortable fit that won’t bunch up on you throughout the day.

6. ColdPruf Men’s Basic Dual Layer Bottom

You have to love ColdPruf’s signature slogan: “We Respect Cold. Then We Laugh At It.” It takes an iron set of you-know-what to make that claim, but ColdPruf backs it up with superior thermal underwear that stands toe-to-toe with cold.

The ColdPruf Base Layer design is all about providing warmth and comfort during the colder months, whether you’re enjoying the outdoors or hunkered down at home while the weather outside becomes frightful.

Here’s how it works: Cold Pruf’s two-layer engineering traps your body’s heat between its layers while blocking out the cold. The base layer creates an insulating effect that’s crucial to staying comfortable when it’s frigid outside.

ColdPruf’s goal is to strike a balance between what the body is doing and what the weather is doing.

Their ThermaChoice System – which includes a color-coded table to help you choose the right pair of their underwear based on the climate you live in and your level of activity – is all about finding that balance.

ColdPruf also uses Merino wool to help bolster their long underwear’s defense against freezing temperatures. Merino sheep inhabit New Zealand’s Southern Alps, where it’s damn cold, and survival of the fittest reigns.

Merino wool provides warmth but is soft, lightweight, breathable, and controls moisture.

The ColdPruf Base Dual Layer Bottom sits comfortably at the wearer’s natural waistline and makes for a comfortable fit. The waistband doesn’t itch, while tagless labeling adds to the overall comfort.

Bottom Line

Keeping warm during the long cold winter is a challenge, but ColdPruf meets the challenge head-on with its Basic Dual Layer long underwear. It’s the ideal base layer for keeping warmth in and cold out.

7. Carhartt Men’s Base For Wicking Cotton Super-Cold Weather Legging

If there’s one thing to be said about Carhartt, it’s that they know how to design rugged clothing that stands up to the weather and any activity, no matter how strenuous.

It’s no surprise, then, that Carhartt offers thermal underwear that can handle whatever winter brings, including freezing temperatures.

Their Super-Cold Weather Legging long underwear is for every man and woman, especially for those who live life in the outdoors – whether it be for work or otherwise.

There’s too much to like about Carhartt’s thermal underwear to not include them on our list, such as:

• Made from 100% cotton, the Super-Cold Weather Legging provides excellent comfort while keeping your lower body warm.
• Their flexible waistband adapts to its wearer’s form nicely and allows it to fit a variety of waistlines.
• Their overall fit, not just at the waist, is considered semi-form fitting. They’re not too tight or too bulky but allow for easy, non-constricted movement.
• The fabric wicks away moisture and helps keep you dry, even when you’re sweating while working in the shivering cold.
• It also has a tagless label that eliminates a potential cause of itching and irritation.

The Carhartt Super-Cold Weather Legging also is machine washable and incorporates stain-breaker technology that helps to release stains in the wash.

Bottom Line

The cold is often relentless when you work in an outdoor setting, as well as any time you’re outside for extended periods during the winter, but Carharrt has you covered with a superior pair of thermal underwear that keeps the cold out and you dry.

8. David Archy Men’s Ultrasoft Breathable Boxer Brief

The full title of this underwear, at least on Amazon, includes the phrase “sports underwear.” That tells you something about David Archy’s Boxer Briefs, the design of which included input from professional athletes.

But they’re not just for athletes, far from it. Any man can benefit from the comfort, roominess, and breathability of these boxer briefs.

There’s much more to like, too, including fast-drying, moisture-wicking polyamide fabric. Polyamide is durable and flexible enough to ensure a comfortable fit and superior performance even during strenuous exercise.

Spandex is another component in the design of these briefs, so you’ll know you’ll get all the stretchiness you need, no matter your activity.

Another unique feature is an extra roomy pouch design that offers all of the support you need, plenty of ventilation, and the roominess to keep your junk from binding up.

Bottom Line

The breathable boxer briefs by David Archy have plenty of unique features that help make them a cut above the rest.

9. Polo Ralph Lauren Classic Fit Wicking 3-Pack Knit Boxers

Ralph Lauren is known around the world for a reason: they make great quality clothing with an almost zero miss rate. And their Classic Fit boxers are no exception.

The first thing to note is these are 100% ringspun combed cotton, making them exceptionally breathable. They don’t ride up at all and have a comfortably loose fit, giving you some extra space to breathe.

These are definitely not boxers for showing off: they are all about true comfort, and they deliver it in spades. They have a stretch waistband, which is ideal, and are very easy and low-maintenance to keep washed.

With moisture wicking which absorbs moisture, they keep you dry and secure at all times, as well as giving everything that needs room to breathe…room to breathe. And while some complain they are closer to shorts than boxers, the majority seem to see the benefits in that extra room – we sure do!

Another great thing about this set is they come in a set of 3, meaning you can get fully stocked with a single purchase.

Bottom Line

A great set of boxers for anyone who likes to feel totally free and breezy.

10. Fruit of the Loom Men’s Basic Cotton Brief

It could seem a bit blasphemous to not include a Fruit of the Loom product in any review of men’s undergarments. However, we don’t feel the need to include any iconic brand in our lists if their products don’t measure up.

But we can confidently say that the classic Fruit of the Loom Basic Cotton Brief is worthy of our attention, just as it has been for millions of satisfied customers over the years.

While there’s nothing fancy about these briefs – and “fancy” isn’t one of our criteria for choosing any product – they provide everything you need in a quality pair of men’s underwear: comfort, support, great fit, etc.

Among the many things we like about the FOL, cotton briefs are pinch-free leg openings that don’t dig into the skin and provide excellent freedom of movement. They also offer a “dual defense” system that wicks away moisture and protects against odor.

FOL’s Basic Cotton Briefs, as their name implies, consist of 100% cotton and provide full “coverage,” as you’d expect from a classic brief style. They also have a tag-free waistband that’s comfortable against your skin.

Bottom Line

Fruit of the Loom’s classic cotton briefs are as iconic as it gets when it comes to men’s underwear, but they’ve earned their lofty status by offering no-frills comfortable wear that works for every man. They still rate amongst the best briefs for men.

11. Adidas Men’s Sport Performance Climalite Boxer Briefs

Let’s face it; things can get a little warm below the belt. Whether you work in a warm environment or are working out, the heat of the day or the moment may turn comfortable into catastrophe. You know the drill: sweat, chafing, itching, even odor.

Adidas understands a man’s plight while offering an excellent solution with its Sport Performance Climalite Boxer Brief Underwear, which is the best underwear for hot weather.

They’re engineered to keep you dry and cool while allowing you to perform your best, whether on the job or in the gym.

The Climalite fabric, made from polyester and spandex, wicks moisture away from the body and onto the surface of the garment, where it evaporates much faster.

So, no matter how hot it is outside or inside your underwear, Sport Performance underwear can handle the sweat.

They’re also comfortable in other ways. Each pair has a plush-soft waistband, is tagless, and has a double-line mesh support pouch to protect your “valuables.”

Wearers also appreciate the Sports Performance boxer brief’s no-bunch construction that keeps the fabric from riding up your leg. Furthermore, the stitching is smooth and non-chafing to further cut down on potential skin irritation.

Bottom Line

Adidas’ Climalite underwear helps you to keep your cool in any situation. They’re comfortable, wick moisture away from the skin, and offer excellent protection.

12. Calvin Klein Men’s Cotton Stretch Low-Rise Trunks

Trunks, as we’ll discuss later, are a hybrid of boxer briefs and briefs, if that makes sense. They have the fit of a boxer brief but with (shorter) legs like regular briefs, and they’ve become a popular choice for many men.

Calvin Klein’s Low-Rise trunks are, in our estimation, the best trunk underwear and offer a lot regarding comfort, durability, and more. Made from 95% cotton and 5% elastane, these trunks feature a high-cut leg and a waistband that sits at the hip.

The cotton blend of these trunks is soft and breathable and has a nice “stretch” that adapts to your body’s shape without bunching up. The elastic waistband also is comfortable and doesn’t pinch like waistbands on cheaper-quality men’s underwear.

While you may pay a bit more for these trunks, they provide plenty of value. Why go cheap when it comes to a necessity such as underwear?

Bottom Line

Calvin Klein’s low-rise trunks stand out among a lengthy list of quality trunks available to men today. They’re comfortable yet supportive enough for a variety of activities and don’t lose their elasticity after several washings.

13. Jockey Men’s Underwear Active Stretch Midway Brief

Jockey is an old-school underwear brand that remains relevant today thanks to its use of modern technology. It also doesn’t hurt that their products are affordable without sacrificing quality.

Jockey’s ActiveStretch Midway Briefs are a great example: they feature cotton-spandex fabric that’s moisture-wicking and StayNew technology. They also have a low-rise that helps to keep them in place, as well as a contour pouch that offers additional support.

Most reviewers love how they fit – it’s more of an athletic fit, perhaps, but still comfortable enough for men of different builds – and the crotch is roomier than you might find on similar briefs.

The StayNew technology is nice because it keeps your underwear looking new, no matter how often you run them through the washer and dryer.

Bottom Line

Jockey’s ActiveStretch Midway briefs provide lightweight comfort and excellent support. They’ll also keep you dry and comfortable thanks to moisture-wicking technology.

14. iKingsky Men’s Sexy Pouch G String Low Rise Y-Back Thong Underwear

Maybe your significant other wants you to wear sexy underwear to add some zest to your love life, or maybe you’ve just joined a troupe of erotic male dancers. In any case, you need a thong or another type of skimpy skivvies, and not just any ol’ thong will do.

That’s why we recommend iKingsky’s men’s thong underwear, which shows everything you need to show while covering up – at least at the start – what needs to be covered up.

They also come in a dazzling array of colors and designs, which often is more important when buying sexy underwear than more traditional types.

Their low-rise style, as you’d expect from a thong, falls below the natural waistline and remains hidden underneath pants, jeans, and shorts.

You won’t have to endure the potential embarrassment of bending over and the top of your thong showing to people you don’t want or who’d rather not see it in the first place.

The iKingsky Low-Rise Y-Back Thong Underwear consists of 85% polyamide, which is very similar to polyester, and 15% spandex, and they’re comfortable enough to wear all day if you so choose.

As far as we know, they slip off comfortably when it’s time to “get lucky.” Of course, we always wish you the best of luck, friends.

Bottom Line

You want sexy? Then you need a thong by iKingsky to spice things up! It’s a thong that offers everything you’d expect from a, well, thong.

How we chose our best underwear for men

There’s more to underwear than meets the eye. True, it has to provide support and protection for your most valuable parts, but it also has to fit and feel good, last a long time, and even provide some eye candy to your significant other.

We chose the underwear above as our best of 2020 for reasons such as those mentioned above: comfort, support, and in the case of the iKingsky thong, a whole lot of sexiness.

We also tried to give a variety of choices, based on the various men’s underwear types: briefs, boxer briefs, thermal underwear, trunks, etc.

Why there’s more to wearing underwear than you might think

A healthy dose of self-honesty is not a bad thing to have on your side as you figure out what type of underwear best fits you and how to wear them.

There’s more to wearing underwear than picking a brand, style, or design you like and slapping them on first thing in the morning.

Suppose you want to wear a thong or bikini brief, more power to you. We just hope you get the reaction you intended and not otherwise.

1. ‘Back to the basics’ rule

It’s worth repeating: the best pair of underwear is the one you barely notice during the day. If you feel any pinching, chafing, or itching in your nether regions, the chances are good that your underwear isn’t right for you – and most likely the wrong fit.

2. Follow proper underwear etiquette

Your mother told you long ago never to wear dirty underwear, and she was a wise woman. Proper underwear etiquette says just that, and a whole lot more, such as tossing out old underwear when it’s time.

Even if you have a lucky pair that’s graying, ripped, or gross, it’s time to toss those bad boys out and find another talisman.

Always change your underwear every day, or more than once a day, if you go to the gym frequently or work in an environment in which you sweat a lot.

3. Boxers can hide your flaws

We’re men. We age. That six-pack of abs we chiseled out in our 20s is a bit (or a lot) less defined. Even our sack can start to hang low. That’s why boxers are your friend, brother: they hide your flaws better than other types of underwear.

A tight pair of boxer briefs may look good in some ways but perhaps doesn’t pair as well with a beer belly and a somewhat sagging ass.

4. Wear briefs if you can swing it

OK, maybe not “swing it,” so to speak, but briefs are a good fit for men who are a bit more endowed than others, although endowment doesn’t rate higher than comfort when choosing a pair of underwear.

There’s no hiding your junk with a pair of tighty whities – or whatever type you choose.

However, regular briefs have a tighter fit than regular boxers and show more leg, so don’t be afraid to show off those thigh muscles with a pair of briefs.

Briefs also work better for men with smaller buttocks, because of a cut that leaves less material in the back of the briefs.

5. A few more thoughts on wearing boxers

Boxers aren’t the best option if you often wear suit pants or slim jeans because the extra fabric can bunch up and become noticeable in pants that are more form-fitting than others.

The good news, however, is that many brands and designers now offer shorter, slimmer-cut boxers with a stretch waistband.

Boxers also make for good sleepwear, because of how they fit and their breathability, but be sure that they don’t bunch up when you inevitably toss and turn during your slumber.

However, boxers don’t make for good workout underwear, because they don’t offer the same kind of support as briefs and boxer briefs.

Last but not least, boxers are your best choice for when you and your wife or significant other plan to have children. The tighter fit of regular and boxer briefs increases the temperature of the testicles, which negatively affects sperm quality.

6. When and how to wear boxer briefs

Boxer briefs represent versatility and are what many, many modern men choose to wear. They’re not as revealing as briefs but offer the same kind of support and have a leg that can fit from mid- to low-thigh.

You do have to be careful of them bunching up, although not to the same degree as you do with boxers.

The higher waistband of boxer briefs makes them suitable for taller men whose pants may slip down below the trouser line when bending over. They also have more material than regular briefs, which means men with larger posteriors can wear them comfortably.

7. Who should wear trunks?

Trunks, the shorter (in the leg) version of boxer briefs, fit flush to the skin but with plenty of stretch, which helps to make them ideal for slimmer men.

They also sit lower on the hips, meaning they’re also good for men with gym-honed bodies. Make sure that the legs of your trunks don’t ride up as you walk.

8. When and how to wear skimpywear

We’re not here to tell you what to do, which is why we’ll never say “never” regarding thongs, G-strings, man bikinis, and the like. If you feel the urge, whether you have a good reason or not, go for it.

But do keep in mind a couple of things: 1) G-strings, thongs, etc. are more of a novelty than anything else. That makes them more effective for certain situations (i.e., dancing with the Chippendales) than for daily use. Save them for special occasions.

Secondly, remember that the rear of thongs and G-strings doesn’t cover even a fraction of an inch of your backside.

That can be embarrassing when you bend over and increases the chances of getting a good, old-fashioned wedgie – not that there’s anything “good” about it.

Also, don’t wear the skimpy stuff when working out. While it does offer some support, you’re better off wearing boxer briefs or a jockstrap when hitting it hard at the gym.

What’s your choice for down under? A guide to different underwear types

Briefs, boxer briefs, trunks, G-strings – you name it, and there’s an underwear type that fits your needs, desires, whims, occasion, etc. Let’s break things down by men’s underwear type while helping you to decide which type is right for you.

The humble, yet still rocking, brief

Most men have worn briefs at some point, and many continue to wear them today. They’re the classic, standard, run-of-the-mill underwear that covers your man jewels and ass (literally!).

They leave the upper thigh exposed and are comfortable with just about anything you wear over them. They offer plenty of support without using the excess fabric of boxer briefs, boxers, or trunks, all of which we’ll talk about in a bit.

Briefs come in a variety of styles, including low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise briefs. An underwear’s “rise” refers to where it rests on a man’s waistline.

Mid-rise briefs rest at the natural waistline, for example.

High-rise briefs, in which the waistband rests not far below the navel, are best worn with high-waisted pants – it only makes sense.

Briefs look great if you have a good body and allow you to show off the entire package while keeping it concealed.

You can even buy briefs that, ahem, enhance your rig to make it look even more impressive. Briefs on heavier men, or men with wide hips, can bring unwanted attention to the man’s weight or hip size.

Boxers: The choice of many men

Are you a briefs or boxers type of guy? That’s a common question because boxers and briefs are the two most popular types of men’s underwear.

Inspired by the loose boxing trunks worn by…drum roll…boxers, boxer shorts fit more loosely on the skin than briefs and don’t have the elasticized leg openings that keep the fabric tight against the leg.

Boxers are ideal for bigger men who are fit and muscular. If you have skinny chicken legs, then boxers may not be for you, because they’ll draw further attention to your thin lower limbs.

The hybrid: Boxer Briefs

The name says it all, i.e., boxer briefs combine the elements of briefs and boxers into a type of underwear that’s very popular among today’s men. Boxer briefs have the tighter fit of briefs (because of Lycra or another fiber added to their fabric) plus the shape of boxers.

Boxer briefs offer a best-of-all-worlds scenario in that there’s extra fabric to cover the thigh area, while you get the kind of man-junk support that briefs provide. They’re not too tight or too loose, which makes them the choice of many men.

Trunks, but not swimming trunks

“Trunks” refer to a type of underwear that’s not quite boxer briefs but close, if that makes sense. They’re smaller and fit closer to the body than boxer briefs and generally have less fabric and a smaller waistband.

They do work well for men with wide hips – better than regular briefs, that is – and they usually don’t lose their elasticity for a long time.

Another advantage of wearing trunks is that they provide a happy medium between briefs and boxer briefs in that they don’t move around (i.e., bunch up) when you do. If you’re prone to wedgies, you may want to give trunks a try.

The jockstrap: Keeping things in place for over two centuries

Support is what it’s all about when discussing the common jockstrap.

Invented in 1874 by an American who wanted to provide support and comfort to bicycle messengers, the jock holds a man’s genitals in place while allowing for more freedom of movement, because it contains far less fabric than briefs, boxers, and boxer briefs.

The typical jockstrap also leaves you bare-assed, which, hey, helps keep you cooler underneath, if nothing else.

Basically, a jockstrap consists of a pouch, a waistband, and straps that go over your legs, and it has come a long way from its original design – which still exists, mind you – as various brands now produce jock briefs and jock boxers.

They provide the coverage and comfort briefs, and boxers have to offer while still keeping things breathable for your rear end.

Some jockstraps can add a protective cup to provide a further safeguard for your rig – always a good thing when playing sports where an errant ball or kick can bring you to your knees with a pain only men understand.

Stay warm and comfy with long underwear

Also known as “thermal” underwear, long underwear is a simple but effective way of protecting your body from cold weather. It regulates your body temperature, helps to keep you warm and dry, while, in some brands, wicks moisture away from the body.

Tired of turning up the heat in your home because it’s too hard to keep warm in the winter? Instead, don a pair of thermal underwear and save a few dollars on your energy bill.

Long underwear consists of many fabric types, including cotton, wool, silk, and synthetic blends.

Cotton is comfortable but retains moisture and can leave you feeling a bit clammy underneath. Silk is the lightest option and has a wonderfully soft texture, but it wicks water away more slowly than some other fabrics.

Thermal underwear made from synthetic fabric is the choice of many men today and ideal for extremely cold conditions. They help to wick water away from the skin while retaining heat.

The primary reason most men buy long underwear is for its warmth, and the weight of the fabric determines the amount of warmth a pair of thermal underwear provides.

Long underwear comes in two styles: a one-piece thermal underwear “suit” or as a separate pant or top. In any case, you’ll find thermal underwear that fit loose or more tightly.

Bikini briefs: Not necessarily an everyday pair of underwear

Some underwear experts argue that bikini briefs are more of a novelty than a type of underwear that men should wear daily. Why? Because they’re not suitable for all of your activities, including working out and other strenuous endeavors.

Bikini briefs, just like a woman’s bikini, don’t cover a whole helluva lot.

They’re skimpy yet do offer some support and comfort. Many men use them as nightwear, but perhaps the best uses for men’s bikinis are those potential romantic and amorous evenings filled with promise.

Getting all skimpy with G-strings

G-strings are the most revealing men’s underwear of all – even skimpier than a thong in many cases. While it offers some support and comfort, a G-string – like a bikini brief – isn’t for the faint of heart.

The pouch may cover most of your rig or not, while the waistband is as thin as a guitar string (hence the name G-string), while another string goes between your ass cheeks and attaches to the pouch to hold the entire thing together.

If you want to add an extra bit of zest to a potentially hot-and-heavy evening – and have the body for it – then try a G-string, by all means.

Conclusion

We’d also love to hear from you. What type of underwear do you prefer? What’s your favorite brand? Have you tried any of the underwear we’ve listed here? As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions.

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