Choosing the wrong underwear can ruin your day before it even starts. We spend an average of 8 hours a day in our underwear, which means comfort isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. An uncomfortable pair can lead to sweating, chafing, and constant adjustments.
I’ve been there, and that’s why I put this guide together. This isn’t just a list, it’s a complete breakdown of the seven main types of underwear for men to help you find the perfect fit for your body and lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
The seven main types of men’s underwear are boxers, briefs, boxer briefs, trunks, thongs, jockstraps, and bikini cuts. Boxer briefs are often considered the most versatile choice for everyday wear.
Fabric is crucial for comfort. Materials like Tencel™ Modal and Pima cotton offer superior softness, while synthetics like nylon provide moisture-wicking for workouts. Premium brands like Saxx use patented technology like the BallPark Pouch™ to reduce chafing.
Your body type and daily activities determine the best style. Men with larger thighs often benefit from longer-inseam boxer briefs (7-9 inches) to prevent chafing, while athletic builds may prefer trunks or jockstraps for better movement.
Value packs from well-known brands offer a great starting point. A three-pack of Calvin Klein Cotton Stretch Trunks typically costs around $42, while a similar set from Polo Ralph Lauren is about $45.
While classic colors remain popular, brands like MeUndies and Pair of Thieves are leading a trend toward bold patterns and bright colors, allowing men to express their personality.
Table of Contents
Exploring the Main Types of Men’s Underwear
Let’s dive into the seven most popular styles on the market. Each one offers a unique combination of coverage, support, and style, designed for different activities and body types.
Boxers
Boxers are the classic choice, first popularized by Everlast in the 1920s. These loose-fitting shorts provide maximum breathability, which is great for lounging or sleeping. The airy design isn’t just for comfort, a 2018 Harvard study suggested that men who predominantly wore boxers had higher sperm concentrations compared to those who wore tighter styles.
I find that a quality pair made from 100% woven cotton, like the ones from J. Crew, makes all the difference. When considering cotton vs nylon, cotton is king for this relaxed style.
The biggest drawback I’ve found is that boxers tend to bunch up under slimmer-fitting pants. They’re ideal for relaxed-fit jeans or wearing around the house.
Briefs
Briefs offer a snug, supportive fit that has been a staple since Coopers, Inc. (which later became Jockey) invented the Y-front design in 1935. This style provides excellent support and coverage in the front while leaving the legs completely exposed.
This design is perfect for guys who are active or have muscular thighs, as there’s no extra fabric to get in the way. Modern briefs come in various rises, low, mid, and high, to match your preference.
In my experience, briefs made from a soft cotton blend with a bit of elastane, like the classic Calvin Klein Cotton Classics, offer the best combination of support and comfort for all-day wear, especially under dress pants or for a workout.
Boxer Briefs
Boxer briefs are the perfect hybrid, blending the length of boxers with the snug fit of briefs. They were famously popularized by Calvin Klein in the 1990s and have since become the go-to style for millions of men. They offer fantastic support and prevent chafing, making them my top recommendation for both the gym and the office.
The biggest innovation in this category comes from brands like Saxx, with their patented BallPark Pouch™ technology that keeps everything separate and secure. It’s a game-changer for all-day comfort.
- Standard Inseam: 5-6 inches, great for everyday wear.
- Longer Inseam: 7-9 inches, ideal for preventing thigh chafing during workouts or for men with larger legs.
A common issue with lower-quality pairs is the legs riding up. I’ve found that investing in a premium pair from a brand like Tommy John, which often advertises a “stay-put” fit, is well worth it.
Trunks
Trunks are essentially a shorter, more squared-off version of boxer briefs. They have a lower rise and a shorter inseam, usually around 2-3 inches, which hits at the upper part of the thigh. This cut is perfect for guys with thinner or more defined legs and has become a very modern and stylish choice.
As part of dressing better, I’ve found trunks are excellent under slim-fit pants because they provide a clean silhouette without any excess fabric.
You can find great value packs from leading brands. For example, Calvin Klein offers Cotton Stretch Trunks in three-packs for around $42, and Polo Ralph Lauren provides similar packs for $45. For guys with larger thighs, however, the shorter inseam might lead to some riding up.
Thongs
Men’s thongs offer the absolute minimum in coverage while still providing full support up front. They feature a comfortable pouch and a narrow strip of fabric in the back, which eliminates any visible underwear lines. This makes them a surprisingly practical choice under tight athletic wear like cycling shorts or slim-fit formal trousers.
While some people still associate them with novelty, modern men’s thongs from brands like Andrew Christian are designed for comfort and function. Based on reviews and forum discussions, the key to a good experience is ensuring the front pouch is the correct size for proper support.
Jockstraps
Designed for maximum support during athletic activity, the jockstrap is a true performance garment. It was invented in 1874 by C.F. Bennett of a Chicago sporting goods company to provide comfort and support for “bicycle jockeys.”
A jockstrap consists of a supportive front pouch, an elastic waistband, and two leg straps. This design holds everything securely in place while leaving the rear exposed for maximum ventilation, reducing heat and sweat during intense workouts.
Today, you’ll find jockstraps from classic brands like Bike that are designed for high-impact sports and often include a pocket for a protective cup. There are also fashion versions that focus on style while still providing that signature support and breathability.
Bikini Cut
Bikini cut underwear, sometimes called string briefs, offers minimal coverage with a stylish, athletic look. They are similar to traditional briefs but feature a lower rise that sits on the hips and higher-cut leg openings.
This style is perfect for wearing under low-rise jeans, as the waistband is less likely to show. Brands like Jockey and Emporio Armani often feature this modern, European-inspired fit in their collections.
The high-cut legs offer complete freedom of movement and are great for showing off your physique. They provide the same frontal support as regular briefs but with less fabric, making them a comfortable option for hot days or for guys who simply prefer a more revealing fit.
Choosing the Right Men’s Underwear
Picking the perfect pair is about more than just style. To find underwear that will keep you comfortable all day, you need to consider your body type, your daily activities, and the fabric.
Consider Your Body Type
Your body shape is the most important factor in finding a comfortable fit. What works for one guy might not work for another.
- For Leaner Builds: You have the most flexibility. Trunks and briefs will look sharp, and boxer briefs offer a great everyday fit without feeling bulky.
- For Larger Frames or Muscular Thighs: Boxer briefs are your best friend. I specifically recommend looking for pairs with a longer inseam of 7-9 inches to effectively prevent chafing.
- For Athletic Builds (Big Glutes/Thighs, Smaller Waist): You might find standard underwear gaps at the waist. Look for brands that use highly flexible fabrics, like Lululemon’s Always in Motion Boxer, which is designed to accommodate this shape.
Match Underwear to Your Activities
Just like you wouldn’t wear dress shoes to the gym, you should choose your underwear based on what you’ll be doing. Having a few different styles in your drawer ensures you’re always prepared and comfortable.
| Activity | Recommended Style | Key Feature | Example Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Office/Daily Wear | Boxer Briefs, Trunks | Soft, breathable fabric | Tommy John Second Skin |
| Gym/Running | Boxer Briefs, Jockstraps | Moisture-wicking, supportive | Lululemon License to Train Boxer |
| Lounging/Sleeping | Boxers, Loose Boxer Briefs | Loose fit, soft cotton | J.Crew Woven Boxers |
| Formal Wear/Slim Pants | Trunks, Briefs | No-show seams, prevents bunching | Calvin Klein Micro Stretch Trunk |
Select the Best Fabric for Comfort
The material touching your skin all day long has a massive impact on your comfort. Cotton used to be the only option, but modern fabric technology has introduced some amazing alternatives.
My experience is that investing in premium fabrics is always worth it. The difference in softness and performance is immediately noticeable.
- Tencel™ Modal: Made by the Austrian company Lenzing, this fabric is exceptionally soft, breathable, and eco-friendly. It’s the signature material used by MeUndies.
- Pima Cotton: This is a type of long-staple cotton that is far softer and more durable than regular cotton. It’s often used by brands like Polo Ralph Lauren for a premium feel.
- Nylon/Spandex Blends: These synthetic blends are the workhorses for athletic wear. They excel at wicking moisture away from the skin and drying quickly. This is the technology behind products like Nike’s Dri-FIT underwear.
- Specialty Blends: Some brands create their own unique fabrics, like theButter Blend™ Boxer Brief which is known for its incredible softness.
Trends in Colors and Patterns for Men’s Underwear
The days of having a drawer full of only white briefs are long gone. Men’s underwear has become another way to express personal style, with options ranging from timeless classics to bold, adventurous designs.
Classic Colors: Black, White, and Gray
Black, white, and gray are the undisputed classics of men’s underwear for a reason. They are timeless, versatile, and look good on everyone. Black is sleek and practical, while gray offers a more relaxed, casual vibe.
These three colors still account for the majority of men’s underwear sales, proving their lasting appeal.
A pro-tip I’ve learned for keeping white cotton underwear looking bright is to avoid chlorine bleach, which can cause yellowing. Instead, laundry experts on forums often recommend using an oxygen-based brightener or a traditional bluing agent.
Exploring Bold Colors and Patterns
If you’re looking to add some personality to your underwear drawer, now is the perfect time. The trend toward bold colors and creative patterns is stronger than ever.
Brands like SAXX are well-known for their eye-catching and artistic prints. But the company that truly built its brand on this trend is MeUndies. They release new, fun patterns every month, many of which are licensed from popular franchises like Star Wars or Marvel, and sell them through a popular subscription model.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get in on the trend either. Brands like Pair of Thieves, widely available at retailers like Target, offer a huge variety of creative and fun patterns at an accessible price point.
People Also Ask
What are the most daring types of men’s underwear?
G-strings, thongs, mankinis, and c-strings are the boldest choices for men who like to push fashion limits. These styles offer minimal coverage but maximum confidence for those brave enough to rock them.
How do I pick the right style of underwear for daily wear?
Start with classic styles before jumping into bolder options like g-strings or mankinis. Your comfort level matters most. Think about what you’ll be doing that day and pick accordingly.
Are c-strings and mankinis really meant for everyday use?
No, these styles are more for special occasions or beach wear. C-strings and mankinis aren’t your typical Monday morning choices. They’re best saved for times when you want to make a statement.
What’s the difference between g-strings and thongs for men?
G-strings have a tiny strip of fabric in the back, while thongs offer slightly more coverage. Both styles belong to the minimal underwears category, but g-strings show more skin than thongs do.
