The Ultimate Men’s Underwear Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to the Ultimate Hub for Men’s Underwear

Let’s talk about underwear. I know, it’s not exactly the kind of topic most guys bring up over drinks, but here’s the truth: you wear it almost every day, and it says a lot about you. The right pair makes you feel put together, confident, and sexy without even trying. The wrong one can ruin your day before you’ve had your morning coffee.

I used to grab whatever was clean, pull it on, and hope for the best. But once I started paying attention to what I wore underneath, everything changed. The fit, the fabric, the style, they all affect how I look, how I feel, and how I move.

That’s why I created this men’s underwear guide series on Barebuff. It’s not about brands shouting “premium cotton” to sound fancy. It’s about finding underwear that feels amazing, looks damn good, and lasts longer than your last situationship.

This guide covers everything: the different types of men’s underwear, the best fabrics, fit and sizing, care tips, the brands worth knowing, and everything in between. I’ve kept it practical, so it’s not just information but real advice you can use when you buy your next pair, whether online or in-store.

Since this is the main post in the Men’s Underwear series, it’s a long one, but I’ve made it easy to follow. Everything is broken into clear sections with quick overviews and links to deeper guides. Use it as your base camp and explore whatever turns you on next

Ready? Let’s strip it down.

Why Underwear Matters for Men

Here’s why your choice really matters:

• Comfort and health: The right fabric and cut prevent chafing, irritation, and those sweaty moments no one wants to talk about.
• Style and confidence: A waistband peeking above your jeans, a clean line under slim pants, a color that feels like a secret weapon. The right pair defines your vibe.
• Performance: For workouts or long flights, breathability and support separate the “just okay” pairs from the ones that make you forget you’re even wearing them.

How to Choose the Right Underwear

With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel lost when shopping for your next pair. No worries, I’ve got you covered. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be good to go.

Step 1: Know the different types of men’s underwear

The cut is the first thing you should think about when buying new underwear. Why? Because the right type is all about how you want to feel: supported, comfortable, and confident. Each cut has its own vibe and purpose, and every guy has that one go-to style that says something about who he is and how he likes to feel. Here’s a quick look at the most common types you’ll come across:

Type	What it is	Best for
Briefs	High support with minimal fabric, classic Y‑front or modern cuts	Everyday comfort, tailored pants, bigger thighs
Boxer Briefs	Hybrid of boxers and briefs, snug leg coverage	All‑day wear, chafe control, workouts
Trunks	Shorter legs than boxer briefs, modern, sleek	Athletic builds, minimal lines under slim pants
Boxers	Loose fit, lots of airflow	Lounging, sleeping, breathability
Jockstraps	Open back with supportive pouch and straps	Training, lifting, dance, bold looks
Bikinis	Low coverage, narrow sides, minimal fabric	Sexy minimalism, no bunching under tight fits
Thongs	Pouch front with string back	Zero VPL, bold style, hot nights
Long Johns	Full‑length base layer	Cold weather, layering for outdoor days

Curious about which style suits your vibe? Check out our complete guide to men’s underwear types for the full scoop on pros, cons, and when to wear each.

Step 2: Pay attention to fabrics and materials

The fabric of your underwear matters just as much as the style. It’s what sits against your most sensitive skin all day, so the right material can mean the difference between feeling amazing or miserable.

Each fabric has its own texture, breathability, and vibe. The good ones move with you, stay soft after every wash, and keep you cool when things heat up. The wrong ones? They trap sweat, lose shape, and make even the nicest pair feel cheap.

A lot of guys skip checking the materials since that info’s often tucked away under tabs, but once you start noticing how different fabrics feel, you’ll never go back to grabbing the first pack you see. Here’s a quick look at the most popular materials and what each one does best.

• Cotton: Classic, soft, and breathable. Perfect for daily wear and lounging. It feels natural against the skin but holds moisture, so it’s not great for sweaty days or workouts.
• Modal: Smooth, cool, and incredibly soft. It keeps its shape and stays silky even after dozens of washes. Great for guys who want a touch of luxury without trying too hard.
• Bamboo: Naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking. It stays fresh, feels cool, and works perfectly for sensitive skin or hot weather. Bonus: it’s eco-friendly and super soft.
• Nylon, Spandex, and Performance Blends: Designed for movement. These fabrics stretch, breathe, and dry fast, making them ideal for workouts, travel, or long days on the move.
• Mesh, Lace, and Sheer Fabrics: For when you want to turn up the heat. Light, airy, and sensual, they feel amazing against your skin and add a little thrill to your drawer.

Fabric	Feel and performance	When to pick it
Cotton	Soft, breathable, familiar	Everyday wear, low maintenance
Modal	Silky, cool, drapey, colorfast	Luxe daily comfort, minimal friction
Bamboo Viscose	Ultra soft, breathable, often touted as cooling	Warm climates, sensitive skin
Microfiber (Poly/Nylon)	Smooth, moisture wicking, durable	Training, travel, quick dry
Merino Wool	Odor resistant, temperature regulating	Multi‑day travel, variable temps
Elastane/Spandex	Added to blends for stretch and shape	Snap back fit, freedom to move
Mesh or Lace	Airy, sexy, statement pieces	Nights out, confidence boost, breathability

Want to get touchy-feely with the details? Learn more in our complete guide to men’s underwear fabrics.

Step 3: Choose the right pouch for your comfort

The pouch is where real comfort lives. It’s not just a pocket, it’s design done right. A good pouch keeps everything supported without feeling cramped. Thanks to modern designers, there are now plenty of pouch styles to choose from: ones that keep you comfortable, give a little lift, and show off your best assets:

• Flat pouches: Avoid them. Even without much to pack, they’re too tight and can leave you feeling itchy.
• Contoured pouches: Offer lift and definition for a more pronounced shape.
• Ergonomic pouches: Created to separate and cradle your package naturally, reducing heat and friction.

If you’ve never tried a contoured or ergonomic pouch, do it. Once you feel that lift, regular underwear will feel like a downgrade.

Internal Link: [Best Underwear for Big Thighs and Athletic Builds]

Step 4: Notice the rise and waistband style

The “rise” is how high the waistband sits on your hips. It changes the look, the comfort, and how confident you feel when you move.

• High-rise: Gives more coverage, great for bigger builds or guys who love a retro vibe. Just be careful: if you’ve got a short torso, it can end up looking a little too much like a diaper situation.
• Mid-rise: The classic fit that works for most guys and outfits.
• Low-rise: Sits below the hips, great for showing off your V-line or wearing under low-cut jeans.
• Ultra Low-rise: Sits even lower than low-rise, usually resting just above the base of your package. Some cuts dip lower, teasing a bit more skin or showing the top of your butt crack. It’s bold, sexy, and made for guys who aren’t afraid to show off a little.

When in doubt, mid-rise is the safe zone. But if you like to tease, go low.

For waistband styles, most men’s underwear today features a wide band that proudly shows off the brand logo, often in bold colors or eye-catching patterns. It’s more than just a piece of elastic, it’s a little spotlight for your personality.

If you like to keep things classic, go for neutral designs like black, white, or gray. If you’re feeling more expressive, pick something bright, colorful, or patterned that shows off your vibe. Whatever you choose, make sure the waistband feels comfortable and sits on your hips just right, not too tight, not too loose.

Step 5: Understand the fit and Check your size

No matter how good your underwear looks, if it doesn’t fit right, it’s failing you. You could buy the most expensive pair out there, but without the right fit, it’s worthless. Fit is the secret that turns “just underwear” into something that feels made for your body. It shapes you, supports you, and moves with you instead of fighting against you.

Think of it like flirting: it’s all about tension and space. Too tight, and you’re suffocating. Too loose, and there’s no spark.

The right fit makes your underwear feel like a second skin, hugging in the right spots, lifting where it should, and letting you breathe where you need it most.

How Underwear Should Actually Feel

When underwear fits right, it disappears. You feel comfortable, confident, and ready for whatever, or whoever, the day brings. If it pinches, rides up, or sags, it’s not doing its job.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

• The waistband should sit comfortably without digging in.
• The pouch should support, not squeeze. If you feel crushed, size up or try a different brand.
• Leg openings should be snug enough to stay put but never tight.
• And never assume every brand’s size is the same. Trust me, check their chart before buying.

(Need help? I’ve got a full [Men’s Underwear Fit & Sizing Guide] for you.)

Signs Your Underwear Doesn’t Fit (Even If You Think It Does)

Here’s how you know it’s time to upgrade your drawer:

• The waistband leaves red marks on your skin.
• The fabric bunches up or twists during the day.
• The pouch feels either too tight or completely empty.
• You’re constantly adjusting or pulling.

If any of that sounds familiar, trust me, you’re wearing the wrong size or cut.

Quick Fit Checklist

Before you buy (or blame your laundry skills), ask yourself:

• Does the waistband stay in place when I move?
• Do I feel supported but not restricted?
• Does the fabric hug without pinching?
• Can I bend, stretch, or sit comfortably?

If you said “no” to any of these, it’s time to explore new brands or styles.

How to Measure Yourself

Most guys have never actually measured their waist for underwear. They just guess and pray. But the truth is, one quick measuring session can save you from years of awkward adjustments.

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Waist: Wrap a soft tape around your waist where your underwear normally sits. Don’t suck in. Keep it natural.
2. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and butt. This helps if you’ve got a thicker build or stronger glutes.
3. Thighs: For styles that hug your legs (like trunks or boxer briefs), measure around the widest part of your thigh.

Write those numbers down. They’ll help you pick the perfect size from each brand’s chart, because small means something totally different at Calvin Klein than it does at Andrew Christian.

If between sizes, consider your leg build and desired support. More thigh often benefits from a longer leg to reduce ride-up.

Internal Link: [How to Find the Perfect Underwear Fit]

Finding Your Underwear Style

Style isn’t about what’s trending, it’s about what feels like you.

Some guys like to keep it simple with clean cuts and neutral colors. Others go for bold prints, bright waistbands, or mesh that leaves little to the imagination. None of it is wrong. What matters is how it makes you feel when you slip it on.

Your underwear should fit your lifestyle and your mood. Cotton briefs for workdays, trunks for travel, something daring when you want to impress. Once you start rotating styles, it’s easy to see how each pair can shift your confidence without saying a word.

Internal Link: [Underwear as Self-Expression (Fashion & Identity)]

Step 6: Pick colors and patterns that show your personality

The color of your underwear says a lot before you even take your pants off. It’s personality. It’s how you express yourself when no one’s looking. The right color or pattern can set your mood, boost your confidence, and give a little peek into your vibe.

Classic Neutrals

Black, white, and gray are timeless for a reason. Black is sleek and powerful, white feels fresh and confident, and gray is that easy-going, quietly sexy option. If you like clean lines and simplicity, these are your best friends.

Bold Colors

Feeling confident? Go for deep navy, rich burgundy, or bright red. Bold colors show you’re not afraid to stand out. Red, especially, brings energy and passion. It’s the “I woke up feeling hot today” kind of color.

Soft Tones

Pastels and muted shades, like soft pink or pale blue, give off calm, effortless charm. They look great against any skin tone and show quiet confidence. These are perfect for days when you want to feel relaxed but still stylish.

Patterns That Pop

Stripes, geometrics, and small prints add personality without going overboard. A striped waistband or subtle pattern under your jeans gives just enough detail to make someone curious.

Playful Prints

When you’re in the mood to have fun, go for something unexpected: florals, animal prints, or abstract designs. They’re cheeky, confident, and full of personality. A little pattern can say, “yeah, I’ve got style, and I’m not afraid to show it.”

Choosing Your Mood

Your color choice should match your energy. Feeling calm? Go neutral. Want to turn heads? Try bold. Just want to feel sexy for yourself? Pick that pair that makes you grin when you pull it on.

Underwear isn’t just about coverage, it’s self-expression. So show your true self, even if it’s just between you and the mirror.

Step 7: Pick a style that flatters your body type

There’s no one-size-fits-all situation here. The trick is finding styles that work with your shape, not against it.

Athletic Builds

You’ve got strong legs and a firm butt. Go for trunks or boxer briefs that have stretch and structure. They’ll highlight your body without squeezing too much.

Avoid: baggy boxers that hide your shape.

Slim or Lean Frames

You’ll look great in briefs or trunks that add a bit of contour. Low-rise styles help emphasize your lines and create balance.

Avoid: long boxer briefs that make your legs look thinner.

Bigger or Plus-Size Builds

If you’ve got a thicker waist or strong thighs, go for boxer briefs or trunks made from soft stretch fabric. A wide waistband keeps everything in place, and a contoured pouch gives room where it counts. Stick to brands made for bigger builds, not just stretched-out sizes, so the fit actually flatters your body.

Avoid: low-rise cuts that roll or dig into your waist, and tight fabrics that trap heat.

Internal Link: [Best Underwear for Plus-Size Men]

Average Builds

You can wear almost anything. Mix it up depending on your mood: briefs for a sharper silhouette, trunks for casual days, and jocks when you want to show off.

Avoid: ignoring fit labels. Even “average” needs the right cut.

Big Thighs or Glutes

You need underwear that stretches without losing shape. Trunks with shorter legs or jockstraps keep things in place while giving your thighs breathing room.

Avoid: boxer briefs that roll up your legs.

Internal Link: [Best Underwear for Every Body Type]

Step 8: Think about when and where you’ll wear it

You don’t wear gym shoes on a date, so don’t wear your gym underwear either. Here’s how I plan it out:

• Everyday: Modal trunks or boxer briefs. Reliable and flattering.
• Workout: Performance fabrics like nylon or bamboo. They stay dry and supportive.
• Date Night: Go for something that makes you feel sexy. A low-rise brief or sleek trunk usually does the trick.
• Travel: Quick-drying, breathable fabrics that survive hotel sinks.
• Chill Mode: Loose boxers or ultra-soft trunks for lounging or sleeping.
• Climate & sweat: Hot and humid calls for synthetics, mesh, or bamboo blends. Cooler temps and travel love merino.

(You can find more recommendations in the [Occasion-Based Underwear Guide].)

Step 9: Find the brand that feels made for you

Once you know what fits and feels good, finding the right brand becomes the fun part, even if it can be a little tricky. No worries though. I’ve tried plenty of brands, and I’ll walk you through the ones worth knowing so you can find what truly fits your body, your vibe, and your lifestyle.

Why the Right Brand Makes a Difference

Every brand has its own personality, just like you. Some focus on comfort, others on style, and some mix both with a little edge.

The trick is to find brands that match your vibe. If you like soft and subtle, there are options for that. If you want something daring or body-hugging, plenty of designers are ready to make you feel like a god.

Quality brands don’t just sell fabric, they sell confidence. They understand the balance between comfort, design, and sex appeal. That’s why it’s worth paying attention to who’s behind the label.

Best Men’s Underwear Brands

The men's underwear market has exploded with amazing brands that blend style, comfort, and innovation. While there are tons to explore, here are a few that consistently deliver.

• Calvin Klein: An undisputed icon for a reason. They offer classic, sexy designs and high-quality materials that have defined men's style for decades.
• Andrew Christian: Famous for its bold, colorful, and often provocative designs, this brand is all about celebrating the male form with fun and confidence.
• C-IN2: Known for its innovative fabrics and athletic-inspired designs, C-IN2 focuses on creating underwear that is both functional and fashionable.
• SAXX: This brand revolutionized comfort with its patented "BallPark Pouch" technology, designed to prevent friction and provide chafe-free support.

Choose Brands That Match Your Vibe

Pick your brands based on what matters most to you. Whether it’s comfort, performance, sex appeal, or sustainability, there’s something out there that fits your priorities.

• For everyday comfort: Go for brands that use breathable cotton or modal blends to keep you fresh all day. They focus on softness, fit, and durability rather than flash.
• For sporty or active wear: Look for performance brands with moisture-wicking fabrics and flexible waistbands. These stay put during workouts and still look good when you cool down.
• For something sexy: Go for low-rise cuts, contoured pouches, or sheer designs. Some brands know underwear can be both practical and seductive.
• For sustainability: Try eco-conscious labels that use bamboo or recycled fibers. They care about comfort, quality, and the planet.

Each brand adds something to your drawer: reliability, comfort, or that spark that makes you feel amazing when you catch yourself in the mirror.

Curious about who else made the cut? See our picks for the Best Men’s Underwear Brands in 2025 for reviews and top recommendations.

Building Your Underwear Drawer

Now that you know how to pick the right underwear, it’s time to build a drawer that keeps you ready for any occasion.

A Guide to Building Your Underwear Set

Think of it like a game: you start easy, then level up as you go.

• Start with three basic categories: everyday pairs (briefs, boxer briefs, trunks), performance pairs (briefs, jockstraps, trunks), and sexy pairs (thongs, bikinis, jockstraps). Rotate them and see which ones you grab most. Keep what you love and ditch what you don’t.
• Mix it up: I keep briefs for tight jeans, trunks for work, and performance pairs for the gym.
• Try before committing: Start with one or two pairs of each type before buying in bulk.
• Play with color: Throw in a bold shade once in a while. A red or cobalt blue pair can feel surprisingly empowering.
• Listen to your body: If something feels off or uncomfortable, it’s not the right cut or brand for you.
• Build by season: Go for lighter, breathable fabrics in warm months and switch to thicker modal or merino blends when it cools down.
• Rotate regularly: Having enough pairs means you can rotate properly and make them last longer.
• Check different brands: Every brand fits differently. Try one or two pairs from a few options to see what feels best, then stick with the ones that suit you most.
• Stay open to change: What worked before might not be your best choice now. Try a new cut or pouch style every so often. Small changes can make a big difference.

Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made all of these at some point, so learn from me:

• Buying packs without checking the fit.
• Wearing old pairs “just because they’re clean.”
• Ignoring fabric type for different activities.
• Thinking underwear doesn’t matter. (It absolutely does.)

Care & Maintenance: Making Your Underwear Last

Even the best pair won’t last long if you don’t treat it right. A little attention keeps your underwear looking good, feeling soft, and smelling fresh. Here’s how to keep them in shape:

• Wash cold: Hot water breaks down fabric and elastic. Stick to a gentle, cool cycle instead.
• Use a mesh laundry bag: It keeps waistbands, mesh, and lace from getting tangled or stretched.
• Choose mild detergent: Harsh stuff kills fibers fast. Skip fabric softeners too, they weaken elastane and ruin moisture-wicking fabrics.
• Hand wash when you can: Especially for performance or mesh styles. It keeps them softer and stops waistbands from stretching.
• Dry with care: Air drying is best. If you use a dryer, go low heat. High heat fades color and kills stretch.
• Wash after every wear: It’s the most intimate thing you own, so don’t skip a wash.
• Replace on time: If the band curls, the fabric thins, or the shape’s gone by midday, it’s time to let go. Most pairs last six to twelve months with regular use. Performance fabrics can last longer if you treat them gently.

No underwear lasts forever, not even your favorite pair. The best you can do is take care of it, keep it fresh, and when it’s time, let it go. Don’t cling to worn-out underwear, it’s not loyalty, it’s laziness. A new pair feels better, looks better, and reminds you that you deserve something that actually fits you right.

Get the full checklist and product recs in our Underwear Care Guide.

The Bottom Line

Consider your underwear education officially started. You now have the foundational knowledge to find the pairs that will make you look and feel your absolute best.

Use this guide as your hub, and don't be afraid to click through to our more detailed articles to become a true underwear expert.

What's your go-to underwear style? Drop a comment below and let us know! And don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more style tips, reviews, and a little bit of fun, delivered straight to your inbox.

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