Underwear might be the most overlooked piece of men’s clothing, yet it plays the biggest role in everyday comfort and confidence. In fact, a YouGov survey found that 57% of men prefer briefs over boxers or other styles. The right pair can keep you supported throughout the day, enhance your outfit’s fit, and even improve performance during workouts. With numerous types of men’s underwear available, selecting the right style can be overwhelming.
This guide explains the main styles, their benefits, and how to choose the best option for different occasions. We’ll also highlight how Argus Apparel, a private label manufacturer, supports apparel brands and startups with high-quality custom underwear manufacturing.
Why the Right Men’s Underwear Matters
Choosing the right underwear isn’t about fashion, it directly affects comfort, confidence, and even performance. Since underwear is the first layer of clothing you put on each day, it sets the foundation for how you feel and move.
Here’s why it matters:
Comfort and Daily Support
The best underwear provides the right balance of softness, stretch, and support. A poor fit can lead to discomfort, irritation, or the need for constant adjustments throughout the day. High-quality underwear reduces friction, keeps everything in place, and helps prevent chafing, whether you’re sitting at a desk, walking, or on the move.
Outfit Compatibility
Not all underwear works with every outfit. Slim-fit jeans or tailored trousers, for example, pair best with streamlined options like trunks or briefs, which avoid visible bunching or lines. On the other hand, boxers are more suited for relaxed clothing or at-home wear. Matching underwear to your outfit ensures a cleaner silhouette, making your overall look more polished.
Performance and Breathability
For athletes or men with active lifestyles, underwear is as important as any other piece of performance gear. Fabrics that wick away sweat, offer flexibility, and stay breathable can make workouts more comfortable and effective. Styles like compression shorts or jockstraps provide targeted support, reducing the risk of discomfort and improving mobility. Breathable fabrics such as microfiber or modal also help regulate temperature and keep you fresh during long days.
Confidence and Hygiene
The right underwear not only feels good but also boosts confidence. When you’re comfortable, it shows in your posture and movement. Additionally, choosing the right material and fit helps maintain better hygiene by minimizing sweat buildup and allowing proper ventilation.
Main Types of Men’s Underwear Explained
Briefs
Briefs are the timeless, classic style of men’s underwear. Known for their Y-shaped front and high-cut design, briefs provide a snug fit without any leg coverage. They are designed to hold everything in place, making them one of the most supportive options available.
Best For:
All-day wear, formal outfits, travel, or men who prefer maximum support.
Pros:
Stay in place without riding up, prevent bunching under trousers, ideal for men with active or office lifestyles.
Considerations:
Some men may find briefs less breathable than looser options like boxers.
Boxers
Boxers are loose-fitting underwear that resemble shorts. They offer the most breathability and freedom of movement but lack the support of snug-fitting styles. Boxers are often chosen for comfort rather than practicality.
Best For:
Lounging at home, sleeping, or wearing with relaxed-fit clothing.
Pros:
Airy, lightweight, and very comfortable for downtime. Available in cotton, silk, or novelty prints for added style.
Considerations:
Not ideal for workouts or slim-fit clothing, as excess fabric may bunch or show under tighter pants.
Boxer Briefs
Boxer briefs combine the length of boxers with the snug fit of briefs, offering the best of both worlds. With thigh coverage and a body-hugging design, they’re versatile enough for everyday wear and active use.
Best For:
Office wear, gym sessions, daily use, or men who want support with added coverage.
Pros:
Prevents chafing during activity, stays in place, and works well under most outfits. Ideal for men with larger thighs.
Considerations:
Can feel warmer than briefs due to longer leg coverage, especially in hot climates.
Trunks
Trunks are a modern take on boxer briefs, featuring shorter legs and a square-cut design. They are stylish, supportive, and less bulky, making them a favorite among younger men and fashion-conscious buyers.
Best For:
Slim-fit pants, jeans, tailored trousers, or anyone wanting a sleek look.
Pros:
Trendy, supportive, sits low on the waist, and creates a flattering silhouette.
Considerations:
Not always comfortable for men with bigger thighs, as the shorter leg length may ride up.
Jockstraps
Originally designed for athletes, jockstraps have a supportive front pouch, waistband, and two elastic straps that leave the rear exposed. This design maximizes ventilation while keeping everything secure during high movement.
Best For:
Sports, gym workouts, cycling, or men who need strong athletic support.
Pros:
Excellent lift and support, breathable, and prevents overheating. Also popular in fashion-forward and athletic fashion markets.
Considerations:
Limited coverage makes them less suitable for casual or all-day wear.
Compression Shorts
Compression shorts are longer, form-fitting underwear made with performance fabrics. They are designed to improve circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, and keep sweat under control. Often used by athletes, they double as underwear and activewear.
Best For:
Running, intense workouts, sports training, or recovery sessions.
Pros:
Supportive, moisture-wicking, reduces chafing and muscle strain. Can be worn alone as workout gear.
Considerations:
May feel restrictive for men who prefer looser fits; best reserved for physical activity rather than daily use.
Popular Fabrics for Men’s Underwear
When it comes to different types of men’s underwear, fabric is just as important as style. The material determines comfort, breathability, durability, and even how well your underwear pairs with certain outfits.
Here are the most common fabrics used in men’s underwear and their benefits:
Cotton
Cotton is the most widely used fabric for men’s underwear, and for good reasons. It’s breathable, soft, and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Cotton underwear is durable and easy to wash, making it a practical choice for everyday wear. However, it tends to absorb moisture, so it may not be the best option for workouts or hot climates.
Best For:
Daily wear, casual outfits, and men who prioritize all-day comfort.
Modal
Modal is a semi-synthetic fabric made from beech tree pulp. Known for its luxurious, silky-smooth texture, it’s softer than cotton and drapes perfectly on the body. Modal is highly breathable, resists shrinking, and retains color even after many washes. It’s often blended with spandex for extra stretching, making it a great choice for fitted underwear styles like trunks and boxer briefs.
Best For:
Fashion-forward underwear, slim-fit outfits, and men looking for softness and style.
Microfiber
Microfiber is a lightweight, woven fabric that provides a sleek, smooth feel against the skin. It’s often blended with polyester or nylon for durability and stretch. Microfiber underwear fits close to the body without bulk, making it perfect for layering under slim jeans or tailored pants. It also resists wrinkles and dries quickly, which is ideal for travel.
Best For:
Business wear, travel, and men who prefer a modern, streamlined fit.
Performance Fabrics
Performance fabrics are engineered specifically for athletes and active lifestyles. These blends usually include polyester, nylon, and elastane to provide moisture-wicking, quick-dry, and stretchable properties. They keep the body cool and reduce chafing during movement. Compression shorts, jockstraps, and training underwear are typically made with these high-performance materials.
Best For:
Sports, gym workouts, running, and any high-intensity activity.
Choosing the Right Fabric
Each fabric has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle:
- Cotton for everyday basics.
- Modal for luxury and softness.
- Microfiber for sleek, stylish fits.
- Performance fabrics for workouts and sports.
When building a versatile underwear collection, it’s smart to include a mix of fabrics so you’re covered for every occasion.
How to Choose the Right Type of Men’s Underwear
Finding the best men’s underwear styles is not a one-size-fits-all decision. The right choice depends on lifestyle, outfit, and personal comfort.
Here are the key factors to consider before making your pick:
Activity Level
Your daily routine should guide your underwear selection.
- Everyday wear: Briefs or boxer briefs provide all-day support and are ideal for long office hours, commuting, or casual outings.
- Workouts & sports: Compression shorts or jockstraps are designed for performance, offering stability and reducing muscle fatigue. They also wick away sweat, keeping you cool during training.
- Relaxing at home: Boxers are the go-to for lounging or sleeping thanks to their loose fit and breathability.
Outfit Type
The style of pants or shorts you wear plays a major role in choosing underwear.
- Slim-fit pants or jeans: Trunks are the best choice because of their shorter legs and sleek design that doesn’t bunch up.
- Formal trousers or dress pants: Briefs work perfectly under tailored outfits since they provide support without visible lines.
- Casual wear: Boxer briefs are versatile enough to pair with most outfits, making them a safe all-rounder.
Personal Comfort
Comfort is highly individual, so it’s important to experiment with different fits.
- Supportive preference: Men who like a secure, held-in feel often go for briefs, boxer briefs, or trunks.
- Freedom of movement: If you prefer a loose fit, boxers or relaxed styles may suit you better.
- Fabric sensitivity: Soft fabrics like modal or microfiber are ideal if you have sensitive skin or dislike rough textures.
Climate & Season
The weather can also influence underwear choice.
- Hot and humid conditions: Lightweight cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics keep you cool and dry.
- Cold climates: Thicker fabrics or longer cuts, like boxer briefs, offer extra warmth.
Lifestyle & Fashion Preference
Underwear is not just functional; it’s also part of your personal style. Bold colors, prints, or designer cuts can reflect your fashion personality, while neutrals provide a clean, timeless look.
Tip: Rotate between at least two or three different types of men’s underwear. This ensures you always have the right pair for work, workouts, or downtime.
Custom Men’s Underwear Manufacturing with Argus Apparel
For apparel brands, e-commerce retailers, and startups, choosing the right manufacturing partner is just as important as choosing the right style. At Argus Apparel, we specialize in custom men’s underwear manufacturing, offering:
- A wide range of styles, including briefs, boxers, trunks, jockstraps, and more.
- Private labeling & branding options to strengthen your identity.
- Low minimum order quantities (MOQs), make it easy for startups and growing brands to launch their own underwear line.
- High-quality fabrics, durable stitching, and expert craftsmanship.
Explore more about MOQs in our blog: What Is MOQ in Clothing Manufacturing? Everything You Need to Know (2025 Guide)
Conclusion
The right underwear is more than just a base layer—it’s the foundation of comfort, style, and confidence. From classic briefs to modern trunks, every type has its purpose. Try different types of men’s underwear to find your best fit.
If you’re a fashion brand or retailer looking to create a custom underwear line, Argus Apparel is here to help. Our team will collaborate with you to design, develop, and manufacture styles that meet your brand’s vision.
Contact Argus Apparel today to start your custom men’s underwear collection.
