Men’s Underwear Types

PHOTO: RALMEZ COLLAB

Men’s sense of fashion and style have drastically changed in recent years. Modern guys pay far greater attention to their look and appearance. This heightened self care also extends to underwear. Producers for this market must keep a close eye on trends to create collections that appeal to their increasingly demanding buyers. The contemporary underwear market offers many different brands, styles and fits — a degree of choice not seen in the past. While some men stick to traditional models, others wouldn’t even consider them. Each underwear fit has its advantages and disadvantages. This guide helps you select the right model to go with your style, or for a specific occasion such as sleeping, playing sports, dressing up, or surprising that special someone.

1 ▸ Briefs: this style usually has a “V” shape and short sides, though the angle of the leg holes may differ between brands. This underwear offers greater flexibility for exercising, not showing under tight clothes and the ability to stretch your legs. Before buying, I suggest to check the fabric at the back, as well. Occasionally, the high cut mean that things can get tight around your bum, which isn’t great if you have a little more to cover there. Overall, they are very popular and always a top seller.

2 ▸ Hip Briefs: with an attractive and very modern low rise fit, this type can create a chic retro look. Hip briefs are best for guys who like their undies to stay hidden under jeans or any other trousers. These briefs sit below the natural waistline on the hips giving you just enough fabric to cover you up.

3 ▸ Trunks: deep sided, these undies fit from below the waist to the top of the thigh in a boxy trunk design. Despite being a perfect pair of underwear for any guy, trunks are especially well-suited for men with a shorter build. It is the perfect choice to accentuate your muscle, and really add comfort for your specific body type. If you prefer to exercise or play sports in shorts that hit higher on the thigh, you’ll want to wear trunks so you don’t face the embarrassing moment of your undies peeking out from under the hem of your shorts.

4 ▸ Boxer Briefs: this is my favourite underwear so far and probably the world’s best selling shape in male underwear today. While pretty similar at first sight to trunks, boxer briefs have a longer fit. The main advantage is that it prevents friction between the legs, besides having a more modern design. However, since these cover a larger part of the leg, I would not recommended to wear these beneath social or tight trousers, since they will likely crinkle and press through your clothes. Also, if you are short, boxer briefs can give the impression that your legs are shorter, as they cover more leg area.

5 ▸ Boxers: classic loose fit boxer shorts. When opting for this model, make sure to pay attention to the length, so that nothing shows underneath; e.g., another pair of underwear. Mostly in shirt-style cotton rather than softer Jersey fabrics, often with buttons down the front. For this reason, many men wear them as pyjamas. Boxers also go very well with chino or tailored trousers, worn on more formal occasions. As you can see, its great advantage is comfort. 

6 ▸ Midway Briefs: these are similar in style to boxer briefs, but have an even longer leg. They extend to just above the knee, providing the most coverage. The longer leg offers optimal support during sport or at work. Usually they are available in cotton, cotton stretch or microfiber fabrics.

But if you like something more sexy, with a big range of colours, patterns and textures, here are some more inspirations for you

▸ Jockstraps_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

▸ Pump_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

▸ Thongs________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A good advice for those who would like to explore a little bit more the underwear world is … wear what makes you feel comfortable, no matter what.