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14 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men, Tested & Reviewed
What you wear down there matters.
Underwear is the backbone of everything you wear. It's essential, perhaps more so than anything else in your closet. You know it's time to do laundry when you're out of clean underwear. You can't quite say the same about other wardrobe items like button-downs or hoodies.
And the thing is: You need (and deserve) underwear that is infallible. Sweatproof and moisture-wicking options are great, sure, but meaningless if they don't fit right. A contour pouch is an added luxury. A waistband that doesn't roll over or squeeze into your stomach throughout the day is a necessity. That's why the styles we've gathered here are editor tested, reviewed, and approved, so you can rest assured that your underwear isn't going to fail you.
It doesn't matter if you're a guy who likes boxers or briefs, plain or patterned, silk or cotton—we have 14 of the best pairs of underwear for you right here. So you can breathe a sigh of relief and maybe put off doing your laundry for just a little bit longer.
Pros
Soft fabric
Mesh cool zones
No-roll waistband
18-hour comfort
Cons
Some buyers report the seams feel thick
Mack Weldon made a name for itself in the fiercely competitive world of men's undergarments by letting its products speak for themselves. And we do have to say that this pair of boxers is one of the most comfortable things you'll ever put on your body. Lightweight and ridiculously soft, it is designed for any and every day.
One reviewer says, "These are the only undies I'm willing to wear!"
Type | Boxer brief |
---|---|
Material | Jersey cotton and spandex |
Pouch | Vertical fly |
Sizes | S-2XL |
Pros
Comfortable waistband
Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric
No ride-up
Cons
Elastic stretches out easilly
Even after all these years, Hanes—an elder statesman of the underwear scene—still offers a value proposition that's tough to beat. Our experts think this five-pack will not only give you one hell of a bang for your buck but will also keep you cool and dry (due to the sweat-wicking fabric) where it matters most.
Type | Boxer brief |
---|---|
Material | Cotton and polyester |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | S-3XL |
Pros
Comfortable no-roll waistband
Static-resistant fabric
Sustainably made
Soft and flexible
Cons
Some report they can be tight around legs
Some say sizing can be difficult
This one's for you, fly guys. Over a few short years, MeUndies has cultivated a surprisingly devoted following enamored with the brand's signature boxer briefs. These are the exact same boxer briefs as the ones you know and love but this time with a fly. They're also designed with sustainably sourced mircromodal and a touch of elastane and come in over 100 different patterns and colors. Wow.
Type | Boxer brief |
---|---|
Material | Micromodal and elastane |
Pouch | Vertical fly |
Sizes | S-4XL |
Pros
Durable yet comfortable cotton
Replacement guarantee
Made with soft and strong cotton
Cons
Some say material is too thick
Some say the leg length is too short
Everlane's supersoft supima-cotton boxer briefs are backed by a 365-day guarantee, so on the off chance anything goes awry product-wise, you won't find yourself in an underwear-related bind. They're made with a close fit through the leg and a waistband that won’t roll. This option is the perfect first layer, at last.
One reviewer says, "This is the third or fourth year that I've restocked all of my boxer briefs with Everlane's Supima version. It's hard to find boxer briefs that don't get overstretched or bunch up around the legs, and that hold up and look good as long as these do."
Type | Boxer brief |
---|---|
Material | Supima cotton and elastane |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | XS-XL |
Pros
Four-way stretch fabric
Gusset detail
Love-your-first-pair guarantee
Cons
Can get a little warm in hot weather
Nice Laundry's name speaks for itself. The upstart underwear brand reworks the classic woven boxer in knitted cotton with a touch of extra stretch, all in a slim-fitting silhouette that's cut snug but is far from clingy. All we're saying is, you're a grown man; it's time to embrace the slim-fit-pant party.
Buyers go crazy for this style, noting how they're "super soft, super comfy, and look amazing!"
Type | Boxer |
---|---|
Material | Pima cotton and nylon |
Pouch | Button fly |
Sizes | S-XL |
Pros
A tried-and-true classic
Added stretch for maximum comfort
Cons
No fly opening
Smooth, soft, and made of a microfiber stretch fabric? Now nothing can come between you and your Calvins. This ultra-cozy microfiber pair will make you want to dance around in them all day—think Tom Cruise in Risky Business. Plus, our experts love how the soft, flexible waistband retains its shape wear after wear and will stay put, without too much compression.
Type | Boxer brief |
---|---|
Material | Polyester and elastane |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | XS-XL |
Pros
Sturdy construction
Breathable fabric
Great stretch
No rolling or digging
Cons
No convenient fly
Bombas doesn't limit itself to making some of the best socks out there. Its selection of underwear—including these briefs made of a cotton-and-modal blend that's as soft as it is sturdy—is equally impressive. It's the type of underwear that makes you excited to open your drawer every morning.
One customer agrees, saying, "I love briefs, and these are the best I have ever bought! They are comfortable, and they fit all day long."
Type | Brief |
---|---|
Material | Cotton, modal, and spandex |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | S-3XL |
Pros
Classic design
Plush-back waistband
Supportive
Tag-free
Cons
Wear easily over time
Some buyers say they run small
Ah, the mighty white cotton brief—aka tighty-whities. It doesn't get any more classic than a pack of this underwear option, especially from Fruit of the Loom. This style offers a comfortable, pinch-free leg opening and a full-coverage fit. And if Captain Underpants can rock the hell out of this look, we have no worries or doubts that you can, too.
Type | Brief |
---|---|
Material | Cotton |
Pouch | Functional fly |
Sizes | S-3XL |
Pros
Designed to be worn on the move
Come in two lengths
Optimal room and support
Cons
No convenient fly
Some buyers say they are not worth the pricier cost
This is the good stuff. If you're going to trust any brand to outfit the lower half of your body in a snug-fitting model, it's going to be the one that outfits folks for working and working out with equal expertise. These boxers feature an ergonomic design and supersoft, quick-drying fabric for total comfort.
Don't believe us? What about after one customer called them "simply great. The best boxers I've ever owned." We think that's a pretty compelling selling point. Just saying.
Type | Boxer |
---|---|
Material | Modal and elastane |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | XS-3XL |
Pros
Buyers unanimously report they're comfortable
Soft, lightweight material
Fit true to size
Cons
Pricey
Sunspel doesn't use just any cotton; the brand uses super cotton, like this one called Sea Island, which is completely organic and feels incredibly plush. These trunks sit low on the waist with an elastic waistband and are close-cut for additional support. They're the type of everyday luxury that you'll want to invest in. It also just so happens that this style makes your ass look great—even if you're the only one looking.
Type | Boxer |
---|---|
Material | Cotton |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | 2XS-2XL |
Pros
Allow for plenty of movement
Secure fit
All-day support
Cons
Prone to riding up
Hom is a jack of all trades, master of many: The brand pretty much has every kind of underwear style out there, including the highly underrated G-string. We get that they're not everyone's preference, but don't knock them until you give one a try. You never know, you might find that you really like the no-lined look.
And if you're nervous to try this type of underwear, maybe this customer review will give you the confidence boost you need: "Love them! Perfect fit; it feels like you're almost wearing nothing. Best underwear ever."
Type | G-string |
---|---|
Material | Polyamide and elastane |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | XS-XL |
Pros
Buyers report they are the "perfect fit"
Extremely comfy material
Convenient pouch
Cons
Pricey
Not too large, not too tight—these Tommy John boxers are the Goldilocks of underwear. With a more relaxed fit for dudes who prefer a little extra room to breathe, they're made out of a supremely comfortable fabric that everyone will appreciate. And speaking of, our reviewers really appreciated how there was no pilling, no lint, and no fuzz, wash after wash.
Type | Boxer |
---|---|
Material | Micromodal, polyester, and spandex |
Pouch | Horizontal fly |
Sizes | S-2XL |
Pros
Breathable fabric
Super lightweight feel
Especially suitable for athletes
Cons
Run tight
Intimissimi's boxer shorts are some of the best quality on the market. Made with a soft microfiber material, this style is designed to give maximum comfort in movement without creating any friction. Elegant comfort is the brand's aim, and elegant comfort is what it delivers.
One reviewer says, "This pair of underwear is like wearing nothing."
Type | Boxer |
---|---|
Material | Polyamide and elastane |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | S-XL |
Pros
Breathable and stretchy
Fit true to size
Won't lose their quality in the wash
Cons
Pricier than some of the other options
Say goodbye to chafing and hello to your new favorite underwear with these funky boxer briefs. Made with undeniably soft viscose and elastane, this option gives you a body-hugging fit that allows you to breathe. This is truly one of those situations where if you don't get it, you'll regret it. And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, our experts highlighted how the brand's innovative ball pouch and 40-plus different patterns and colors made these stand out from the rest.
Type | Boxer |
---|---|
Material | 95% Viscose, 5% Elastane |
Pouch | Flyless |
Sizes | XS-2XL |
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Tips for Choosing Underwear
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As you've seen above, underwear is a category with many characters. The usual suspects: briefs, boxers, boxer briefs. The outliers: long johns, thongs, jockstraps, G-strings. What constitutes the best cut and length is dependent on what makes you feel comfortable, but here are some other useful things to consider!
Support: Your underwear has one job: to support you where you need it most. You want to look for options with a well-designed pouch that keeps your balls comfortably in place; a snug, elastic waistband that holds the underwear up without digging into the skin; and an ergonomic design that fits the body's natural shape.
Stretch: Nothing, and we mean nothing (okay, that's a little dramatic, but you get the point), will derail your day quite like a pair of underwear that's too tight in all the wrong places. That's why you should seek out styles that have enough elasticity so that they'll let you move freely but will also reduce restrictions and prevent sagging.
Function: While you may think the function of men's underwear is pretty obvious, it's important to note that a great pair of undies should act as a barrier for the skin, absorb sweat, and help keep your downstairs at a comfortable temperature.
Top Fabrics to Consider
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Looking for something breezy that'll allow plenty of breathing room for your boys down below? Reach for some silky boxer shorts. Hate the feeling of your underwear riding up with even the most minute shifts in position? Consider buying a few well-cut briefs in breathable cotton. And if pure cotton isn't doing the trick, try a blend with nylon or spandex for added comfort and ease of movement. You could even invest in a pair with micromodal—the latest fabric development in cutting-edge underwear technology—if you're in the market for undies specifically designed to wick away moisture and resist shrinking.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which type of underwear is best for men?
While this all comes down to personal preference, it's important to note that underwear is the type of garment you spend all day in—so once you find a style you like, we suggest sticking to it. And while this list has a little bit of everything, as long as you find an option that feels great and keeps you comfortable, you can't go wrong. But between you and me, some of our editors are big fans of boxers and briefs, which just so happen to be two of the most popular types of underwear on the market.
Should my underwear fit tight or loose?
According to medical professionals, "the tightness or looseness of underwear will have an impact on a man's fertility." Tighter styles tend to attract more heat, which affects sperm production and quality. On the other hand, looser-fitting underwear will help regulate your body temperature and up your sperm production. So in other words, you shouldn't guess the size of your underwear, because fit matters.
How do I stop my underwear waistband from stretching?
As hard as it may be to hear it, the number-one rule to stop your waistband from stretching is to avoid the dryer. Welcome to your drying-rack era, my friend! This will help maintain elasticity and prevent your panties from losing their form.
How We Chose the Best Underwear for Men
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In compiling this comprehensive list of the best pairs of underwear for men in 2024, our experts knew that our guide needed to feature options that were comfortable, breathable, and, of course, designed to support your family jewels.
We considered material, fit, versatility, sizing, and cost. We also recruited our talented colleagues to shape this guide and consulted user reviews, Internet forums, and the honest opinions of our readers.
Why You Can Trust Esquire
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We're not going to say something is great unless it's actually great. Every product in Esquire's roundups is carefully chosen by our fashion and e-commerce teams.
When it comes to underwear, you can rest assured that we're hand-selecting styles that we've personally tried, tested, and loved, along with options that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse. We've had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these pairs of underwear are simply the best.
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