The Complete Guide to Finding the Best Underwear for Men

The Complete Guide to Men's Underwear

When it comes to men's underwear, most guys don't give it much thought beyond grabbing the first pair in the drawer. But believe it or not, the right underwear can make a big difference in comfort, support, and even style. Here's a complete guide to finding the best underwear for men.

Different Types of Men's Underwear

There are several main styles of men's underwear to choose from:

Boxer Shorts: Boxer shorts are loose fitting with an elastic waistband. They can be mid-thigh to knee-length. Offer the most breathability and range of motion.
Boxer Briefs: Boxer briefs have the length of boxer shorts but are more form fitting like briefs. Great for athletic activities.
Briefs: Briefs are snug, short legged underwear that sit at the hips. Offer support and little leg movement.
Trunks: Trunks are shorter than boxer briefs and less tight than briefs. Good balance of coverage, support, and comfort.
Thongs: Thongs have a T-back with a thin waistband. Minimal rear coverage while eliminating panty lines.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Underwear

With all the different styles and fabrics available, focus on these factors to find the best underwear for your needs:

Fit: Make sure you get the right size so your underwear isn't too tight or too loose. Measure your waist size.
Comfort level: Try different lengths and cuts to find what feels best for daily wear and exercise.
Fabric: Cotton and cotton blends are soft, breathable options. Synthetics like polyester are moisture-wicking.
Style: Lower profiles like briefs and boxer briefs minimize movement and ride up. Boxers allow more airflow.
Support: Snugger styles provide more support. Look for pouch underwear or underwear with contour pouches.
Coverage: Boxers and trunks offer the most coverage for those concerned about modesty.

Choosing the Right Fabrics for Men's Underwear

Fabric is one of the most important factors when shopping for men's underwear. Materials directly impact the fit, feel, and function of your underwear. Some top options include:

Cotton: 100% cotton or cotton blends are lightweight, breathable, and soft. The most popular choice.
Modal: Modal is a type of rayon that is smooth, breathable, and resists shrinking. Great for sensitive skin.
Micro Modal: Made from beechwood pulp, micro modal is even softer than regular modal.
Nylon: Nylon is lightweight and quick-drying. Often used for athletic and moisture-wicking underwear.
Spandex: Spandex adds stretch and flexibility, good for activewear and compression underwear.
Polyester: Polyester provides moisture management and dries quickly. Better for working out.
Silk: Silk is very soft and temperature regulating. Used for high-end underwear.

For everyday wear, 100% cotton or cotton blends provide the best comfort. Modal and micro modal have a luxuriously soft feel, while performance fabrics like nylon and polyester are ideal for sports and exercise.

Boxer Short Styles for Men

Boxer shorts are one of the most popular underwear choices for men thanks to their loose, comfortable fit. When choosing boxers, opt for these styles:

Woven Boxers: Made from cotton or polyester woven fabrics. Breathable with a relaxed fit.
Knit Boxers: Knit from cotton, modal, or micro modal. Softer, stretchier fit that hugs the body.
Shorter Boxer Lengths: Boxer shorts, split-leg boxers, or knit boxers in 5-7 inch inseams.
Long Boxer Lengths: Traditional boxers in 8-10 inch inseams for maximum coverage.
Flannel Boxers: Flannel boxers provide extra warmth and softness for lounging and sleeping.

Look for boxers made from soft, natural fabrics like cotton for all-day comfort. Focus on the length and looseness based on your personal preference and lifestyle needs.

Choosing the Right Briefs

Briefs offer a snugger fit and more support than boxers. When shopping for briefs, look for these features:

Contoured Pouch: A contoured pouch adds room in the crotch for comfort and support.
Functional Fly: Look for Y-fronts or modern fly designs for easy access and ventilation.
No Ride Up Leg Bands: Snug, stay-put leg bands prevent ride up and keep briefs in place.
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Breathable synthetic blends keep you cool and dry down below.
Stretch Fabrics: Spandex or elastane provides flex and gives with movement.

The contoured pouch and leg bands help avoid pinching and chafing for all-day wear. Stretchy, quick-drying fabrics also enhance comfort during physical activity.

Choosing Sexy Styles

In addition to everyday underwear, many men like to pick up some sexy underwear styles for date nights or special occasions. Options to amp up your sexy style include:

Bikini Briefs: These are low-rise, skimpier briefs that show more skin.
Thongs: Thongs offer a barely-there option and the least coverage.
Jockstraps: Jockstraps highlight the rear and provide frontal support.
Enhancing Underwear: Look for enhancing pouches, contours, or inserts.
Novelty: Bold colors, sheer fabrics, and fun details add excitement.
Leather/Latex: Shiny, non-breathable fabrics signal a sexy night in.

For date nights, stick to sexy styles that you and your partner will both feel good in. Prioritize comfort and don't wear anything too constricting for an extended period.

Caring for Your Men's Underwear

Follow these tips to keep your underwear in top condition:

Read Care Labels: Follow washing, drying, and bleaching instructions to avoid damage.
Wash in Cold Water: Hot water can fade colors, shrink fabrics and damage elastic.
Air Dry: Line drying helps underwear maintain shape and elasticity.
Avoid Fabric Softener: Fabric softener can clog fibers and impact moisture wicking.
Sanitize Regularly: Wash or soak in dilute vinegar to kill bacteria and odors.
Inspect for Wear: Check for holes, tears, and stretched out elastic and replace as needed.

With proper laundering and regular replacement of old pairs, you can extend the life of your favorite underwear while keeping it in peak condition.

Finding the Best Underwear for Men

When it's time to restock your underwear drawer, refer to this guide and consider these final tips:

Buy underwear from reputable brands known for quality.
Try both wovens and knits to find your preference.
Experiment with different lengths to find your perfect fit.
Include underwear for everyday and for working out.
Don't overlook sexy styles for special occasions.
Get properly measured so you buy the right size.
Read fabrics details closely when comparing options.
Choose natural fibers like cotton for breathability.
Opt for synthetics if you need moisture management.
Find the right balance of comfort, support and coverage.

With the wide selection of fabrics, styles, and brands available today, there's men's underwear out there for every body type and preference. Follow these tips to upgrade your top drawer with underwear that checks all your boxes for fit, function and comfort.

FAQs

What are the most comfortable underwear fabrics?

The most comfortable underwear fabrics are cotton, modal, and micro modal. Cotton and cotton blends are lightweight, breathable, and soft against the skin. Modal and micro modal are smooth fabrics that feel luxuriously soft.

Should men's underwear have a fly?

Whether or not men's underwear has a fly is a personal preference. Underwear with no fly tends to have more stretch and mobility. Underwear with a fly offers convenient access and ventilation. The fly also allows you to use a urinal without pulling down your underwear.

How often should you replace old underwear?

Most experts recommend replacing your underwear every 6 months to 1 year. Elastic can weaken over time leading to a poor fit. Fabrics can also pill or get holes from washing. Regularly replacing old underwear helps maintain comfort and hygiene.

Should men wear briefs or boxers?

There is no definitive answer to whether men should wear briefs vs boxers. Boxers offer more airflow and breathability while briefs provide more support and control. Choose briefs for sports and tight pants or boxers for lounging around. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.

What is the most durable underwear fabric?

Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester tend to be more durable than natural fabrics for underwear. The tight weave resists stretching out and they maintain their shape after repeated laundering. Cotton and modal may pill or tear over time.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.