The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (2025)

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 13 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.

Most Comfortable Underwear

Mack Weldon 18-Hour Boxer Brief

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (7)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (8)Soft fabric
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (9)Mesh cool zones
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (10)No-roll waistband
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (11)18-hour comfort
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (12)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 honestly, our editors agree that this pair of boxers is one of the most comfortable things you'll ever put on your body. The fabric is lightweight, soft, and stretchy, with built-in mesh cool zones and a waistband designed not to roll over.

One reviewer says: "These are the only undies I'm willing to wear!"

TypeBoxer brief
MaterialJersey cotton and spandex
PouchVertical fly
SizesS-2XL

Best Affordable Boxer Briefs

Hanes ComfortFlex Boxers (5-Pack)

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (13)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (14)Comfortable waistband
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (15)Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (16)No ride-up
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (17)Elastic stretches out easilly

Even after all these years, Hanes—a basics brand our editors swear by—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 (you can give thanks to the sweat-wicking fabric for that) where it matters most.

One reviewer says: "These boxer briefs are a great fit. They feel made of good material. The flex band around the waist feel really comfortable. If you get the right size they are not too long and neither too short. They don't bunch up when walking around."

TypeBoxer brief
MaterialCotton and polyester
PouchFlyless
SizesS-3XL

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Best Cult-Classic Underwear

MeUndies Boxer Brief

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (18)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (19)Comfortable no-roll waistband
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (20)Static-resistant fabric
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (21)Sustainably made
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (22)Soft and flexible
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (23)Some report they can be tight around legs
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (24)Some say sizing can be difficult

This one's for you, fly guys. Over a few short years, MeUndies has cultivated a devoted cult-following enamored with the brand's signature boxer briefs. With a built-in fly, these supportive boxer briefs are all about being flexible and supportive; they move right along with you. And if you like to have some options, they come in over 100 different colors.

One reviewer says: "My husband said these are absolutely the most comfortable underwear he’s ever worn, they’re buttery soft, don’t stretch out, fit perfectly, 1000000/10."

TypeBoxer brief
MaterialMicromodal and elastane
PouchVertical fly
SizesS-4XL
Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (26)Durable yet comfortable cotton
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (27)Replacement guarantee
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (28)Made with soft and strong cotton
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (29)Some say material is too thick
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (30)Some say the leg length is too short

Everlane's supima-cotton boxer briefs took two years to develop, and you can feel the thought that was put into them. This super-soft style is designed with a waistband that won't go rolling over on ya, an absence of logos, and a close-fitting design.

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."

TypeBoxer brief
MaterialSupima cotton and elastane
PouchFlyless
SizesXS-XL

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Best Slim-Fitting Boxer

Nice Laundry Slim Fit Boxer

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (31)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (32)Four-way stretch fabric
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (33)Gusset detail
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (34)Love-your-first-pair guarantee
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (35)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.

One reviewer says: "Finally got around to buying these and they were totally worth it. Love the fit and feeling of them. Will be buying more and would definitely recommend."

TypeBoxer
MaterialPima cotton and nylon
PouchButton fly
SizesS-XL

Most Strudy Briefs

Bombas Modal Brief

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (36)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (37)Sturdy construction
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (38)Breathable fabric
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (39)Great stretch
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (40)No rolling or digging
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (41)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 reviewer says: "Finally, comfort! I’ve tried all kinds of styles briefs, shorts, etc., but what I can't find is a brief that doesn’t roll at the stomach. These briefs from Bombas win hands down and are so comfortable! Make sure you get the right size and you wont be disappointed."

TypeBrief
MaterialCotton, modal, and spandex
PouchFlyless
SizesS-3XL

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Best Affordable Briefs

Fruit of the Loom Tag-Free Briefs (9-Pack)

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (42)

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (43)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (44)Classic design
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (45)Plush-back waistband
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (46)Supportive
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (47)Tag-free
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (48)Wear easily over time
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (49)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.

One reviewer says: "The fabric is soft and feels comfortable against the skin. The waistband is well-designed, providing a secure fit without digging in."

TypeBrief
MaterialCotton
PouchFunctional fly
SizesS-3XL

Best Underwear for Working Out

Lululemon Always in Motion Boxers (5-Pack)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (51)Designed to be worn on the move
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (52)Come in two lengths
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (53)Optimal room and support
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (54)No convenient fly
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (55)Some buyers say they are not worth the pricier cost

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 are crafted with an ergonomic design and soft, stretchy, quick-drying fabric for all-day comfort. Plus, because Lululemon thinks of everything, they're built with breathability and sustainability in mind, too.

One reviewer says: "Super comfy and wear well. Very lightweight and soft."

TypeBoxer
MaterialModal and elastane
PouchFlyless
SizesXS-3XL

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Most Comfortable Luxury Underwear

Sunspel Sea Island Trunks

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (56)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (57)Buyers unanimously report they're comfortable
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (58)Soft, lightweight material
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (59)Fit true to size
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (60)Pricey

Sunspel uses Sea Island cotton for this luxe pair of trunks, which are completely organic and feel incredibly plush. These trunks sit low on the waist if you're not into that high-rise feel, and are snug, but not too tight. 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.

TypeBoxer
MaterialCotton
PouchFlyless
Sizes2XS-2XL

Most Relaxed Underwear

Tommy John Second Skin Boxers (3-Pack)

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (61)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (62)Buyers report they are the "perfect fit"
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (63)Extremely comfy material
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (64)Convenient pouch
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (65)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 love that there was no pilling, no lint, and no fuzz, wash after wash.

One reviewer says: "After trying them, I’ve decided that they are extremely comfortable for daily wear under work pants, and for sleeping. They exhibit the perfect formula of freedom with a bit of support. I’m a repeat repeat buyer….Kudos, TJ!"

TypeBoxer
MaterialMicromodal, polyester, and spandex
PouchHorizontal fly
SizesS-2XL

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Best No-Brainer Underwear

Intimissimi Logo Boxer Shorts

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (66)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (67)Breathable fabric
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (68)Super lightweight feel
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (69)Especially suitable for athletes
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (70)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, friction-free. 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."

TypeBoxer
MaterialPolyamide and elastane
PouchFlyless
SizesS-XL

Smoothest Underwear

Calvin Klein Classic Boxer Briefs (7-Pack)

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (71)

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (72)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (73)A tried-and-true classic
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (74)Added stretch for maximum comfort
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (75)No fly opening

Smooth, soft, and made of a microfiber stretch fabric? Now nothing can come between you and your Calvins. This classic, iconic style 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.

One reviewer says: "Very comfortable, soft fabric. Fits true to size."

TypeBoxer brief
MaterialPolyester and elastane
PouchFlyless
SizesXS-XL

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best innovative underwear

Saxx Vibe Boxer Brief

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (76)

Pros
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (77)Breathable and stretchy
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (78)Fit true to size
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (79)Won't lose their quality in the wash
Cons
  • The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (80)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 soft, stretchy viscose and elastane, this option gives you a body-hugging fit that still allows you to breathe. Our experts highlighted how the brand's innovative ball pouch and 40-plus different patterns and colors made these stand out from the rest.

One reviewer says: "Without a doubt the best brand best fit and comfort on the market!"

TypeBoxer
Material95% Viscose, 5% Elastane
PouchFlyless
SizesXS-2XL

Tips for Choosing Underwear

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (81)

As you've seen above, underwear is a cast 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.

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Top Fabrics to Consider

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (82)

Look for something breezy that'll allow plenty of breathing room for your boys down below like 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

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (83)

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.

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.

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How We Chose the Best Underwear for Men

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (84)

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

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (85)

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.

The 13 Best Pairs of Underwear for Men (2025)

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