It's time for a much-needed skivvy upgrade.
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WHEN IT COMES to underwear for men, comfort matters. “Underwear is the one item most men wear day in/day out for 12-16 hours per day,” says Billy Barba, Founder and CEO of male underwear brand, UnderGents. So finding the right type of underwear that feels great to sport 24/7 is essential. While Barba believes that there is no right or wrong style, in the realm of skivvies, boxer shorts offer the most comfort: unlike boxer briefs, boxer shorts are airy, fit looser, and feel more freeing. "Boxer shorts provide the freedom and carefree feeling that is almost like going commando but with some protection, but you want to avoid bulky boxer shorts that bunch under clothes,” says Barba.
The best boxer shorts for men should be made with fabric that is breathable, moisture-wicking, and gentle on the skin to ensure you feel at ease throughout the day. Additionally, the best boxer shorts for men need to balance between comfort and support, offering a snug fit that won’t ride up under pants but also have enough breathing room for thighs. Lastly, the best boxer shorts for men will be functional and versatile enough for you to lounge at home with, run errands in, sleep in, or even hit the gym with.
Ahead, we’ve hands-on tested boxer shorts from our favorite underwear brands and spoken to a panel of underwear experts about fit, fabric, and comfort to find the 17 best boxer shorts for men, for all types of wear.
Working from home brought our appreciation for comfort to a whole new level, and knit boxer shorts were created to provide just that (even when you've returned to 5 days per week in the office). This extra soft version from Mack Weldon comes in a bunch of colors and patterns. These also make for great stocking stuffers.
Our testers found themselves being able to indulge in the softness and comfort of this boxer. The tailored fit offered a balance of relaxation and sophistication while ensuring coziness for sleeping, lounging, or going about daily activities. We also love how the stretch gusset aids in our flexibility and thigh movement, making these boxers great for traveling and commuting as well. Lastly, the button fly detail adds a functional touch. All in all, whether for movement or for loafing about at home, Mack Weldon's versatile boxer will keep up.
We'd be remiss not to include this OG skivvies brand. But Hanes has since infused its boxers with forward-thinking innovations, including its breathable fabric which felt like a second skin in our testing and also helped wick away sweat to keep us cool and dry all day long. The most comfortable boxers should also have generous room in the leg for optimal movement, a flexible waistband, and no scratchy tag, and we found that these Hanes boxers met all the criteria. No wonder they're the best seller on Amazon.
Our testers also found that while wearing these boxer shorts all day long, the brand's proprietary Comfort Flex waistband has kept them from pinching and binding, ensuring comfort on the go even under slim pants. The fabric also feels very soft and naturally stretchy, making these boxers versatile for lounging and traveling. Lastly, in our testing we found that they've been able to maintain their fit after multiple washes.
Your go-to athleisure brand launched a pack of oh-so-soft underwear that has the innovative fabric for maximum comfort you’d expect from the premium label. And when this fabric meets boxer style, you get a pair of underwear that actually delivers. While Always in Motion might look at first like boxer briefs, these made-for-movement skivvies are actually boxers made with Lululemon's elite performance fabric.
Their crazy-soft modal fabric, in our testing, is proven to be both naturally breathable and sweat-wicking. And I love the ergonomically shaped pouch that provides roomy space to keep the boys in position. The four-way stretch makes it perfect for my daily pursuits and my legs' ebb and flow too. And the quick-drying makes it so that you can actually exercise a bit in them without having to change immediately after the session. It’s the underwear you'll want accompanying you whenever you're on the go. The only qualm is that it does has a boxer-brief-like fit—albeit a very loose one—that will gently hug your thighs.
Personal stylist Grace Thomas says that for "a top-of-the-line option, you can't go wrong with a classic like Calvin Klein." And while we all know Calvin Klein knows how to make a great pair of underwear, the top pick for boxers is the Cotton Classics Knit. "The cut and breathable fabric on these make them so comfortable to wear all day long," says Thomas.
In our testing, we found that even after dozens of washes, these boxers kept their shape and color. Moreover, what makes CK's classic so popular is that it doesn't increase the bulk of your thighs in slim pants. The straight leg and mid-thigh length are perfect for everyday comfort. Really, it's hard to beat a pack of Calvin's when you consider how long the legacy underwear lasts.
Our testers especially love wearing these for lazy days at home, since they are cut wide with room to spare. Considering loungewear is the new workwear, we should all be given an award for wearing underwear at all.
Did you know merino wool naturally wicks away moisture and helps to regulate your body temperature? Not to mention breathable while fighting against odor? That makes merino a great fabric choice for the most comfortable men’s underwear. Smartwool goes the extra mile by wrapping merino fibers around a nylon core so this pair keeps its shape with greater durability, with fabric that has held up after multiple washes in our testing. Designed with a double front panel and a flatlock seam construction, we love the extra support they offer without the chafing as we wear this boxer brief all day long.
All in all, you can say hello to moisture-wicking, anti-odor control, and supreme comfort with these bad boys. Their lightweight and loose fit is also very outdoor- and movement-friendly, so you can camp or hike in these boxers without an issue.
Known for their eternally-wearable socks, CDLP makes some equally-cozy boxer shorts that are life-changing. They hit all the right places with a lower waist cut and shorter legs that cover just enough skin. As underwear in general, this performance skivvy is also quite the prize. First, made with lyocell and no tag (because there's nothing more annoying than an itchy tag on your underwear), I found that the fabric feels smoother than even silk and much softer than cotton on the skin ever since I started wearing this in spring 2023. Also breathable and moisture-wicking, it has kept my skin feeling cool even in the summer; and, with some spandex that lends just the right amount of flexibility to your thighs, it doesn't fit too tight on me and is great for moving about too.
And can we talk about the health benefits? The boxer is naturally anti-bacterial, and the enchanted pouch offers extra support to your man parts while reducing friction. Thus, it’s a best-of-both-worlds situation that you will want to slide into, and the waistband will keep you there nicely.
This isn't your ordinary pair of cotton boxers, folks. In our testing, we found that Sunspel’s cotton creates a smooth, silky feel against our skin while being stretchy and flexible enough to keep up with our movement. The fabric also felt breathable to boot, and I’ve in fact worn it for hours on end during the day, such as during a long-haul flight or a long day trip, without feeling a bit of discomfort down there: the smoothness and performance of this boxer’s fabric just kept on giving, and the nice natural stretch moved with my thighs at each step of the way.
While these boxers might not have the razzle-dazzle look of designer underwear, we do love that they have the rich feel that defines everyday luxury. Yes, they're a bit expensive, but they feel great, look great, and have lasted through many washes in my testing. I mean, as your first garment layer, it'd better be good.
An underwear drawer full of monochrome, neutral options can feel downright boring. That's why we recommend always adding a few fun styles that show some personality. Enter J.Crew's famed printed boxers, which are constantly replenished with seasonal patterns (spring clovers, pelicans, or palm trees, anyone?). If you're looking for a cheap-yet-stylish pair of boxers, this J.Crew option also won't break the bank. They offer several tons of unique prints and designs that are fun and trendy. Plus, you get a discount if you buy multiples.
Also, given that it's J.Crew, these boxers come in a variety of sizes, durability that has lasted over 8 cycles of wash and dry in our testing, and a relaxed fit plus a comfortable cut that work for everyday wear. The one downside: given how fast these unique styles sell out, you'll want to grab them as soon as they come in stock.
"Forget readjusting your underwear in front of colleagues; once you go Saxx, there’s no going back," says e-commerce and retail expert Jessica Kats at Soxy. Not only can the Quest cover all kinds of movement you can possibly perform with your thighs, but it also provides the utmost comfort. "If you want your boys to experience a comforting night out or smoothen the friction between the fabric and the ever-present genitals, opt for Saxx," says Kats. "There is little to no chafing, so your private parts remain unscathed and go through the day without a tingle." This is all thanks to the Quest's built-in tech feats like flat-out seams, anti-roll waistband, 3-D fit, and Saxx's signature BallPark Pouch™, engineered to keep your crown jewels in place like in a hammock.
In addition, we found Saxx's boxers to be odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, and the fabric is extra stretchy for even working out. Whether it’s an outdoor excursion, daily gym grind, or just constant commuting, you’ll love how relaxed-fitting these boxers are, with enough room around the leg.
Bamboo is one of the most sustainable materials you can use for anything because it grows incredibly fast with little maintenance. It also makes a very durable and breathable fiber for clothing called bamboo viscose. Meaning, sure, your full cotton graphic boxers from your high school days might look nice, but they can never feel as cozy as these.
In our testing, we found that these bamboo boxers basically double as pajama shorts to be the only layer you need at night. The awesome part about them is the fabric which is made of everything you need in boxers and nothing you don’t. The durable micro-porous structure of bamboo viscose fiber makes the fabric extra breathable and scores high at moisture-wicking and odor resistance. The spandex also gives the right amount of stretch to its relaxed fit.
Lastly, the cotton amps up the softness and smoothness. Our testers have also enjoyed its bells and whistles, like the button-fly closure and the elastic waistband that stays put. So, if you like to feel free as a bird down there, these bamboo boxers are what you’ll need.
The name says it all with this great pair of briefs for men—it'll feel like wearing no undies at all. Not at all tight but packed with all kinds of punches, Tommy John's Second Skin Boxer is incredibly light like a feather. In fact, you might not even remember you're wearing them until the occasion comes for you to take them off—hence, the horizontal fly for quick access when No.1 visits.
Designed to be worn all day, our testers found that they're also incredibly durable, with a non-pilling, quick-drying micro modal fabric. Fit-wise, we love how these boxers stay put with a waistband that won't roll around or pinch your sensitive areas. Our favorite part is for your 'crown jewels'—these boxers have a contour pouch to keep them in place—no awkward adjustment in public. Really, this boxer short is one you’ll have no problem wearing for 24 hours long with superior comfort.
Uniqlo’s uber-popular AIRism collection includes boxer briefs that are made of an ultra-thin fabric, which absorbs and releases sweat from your body. In other words, it helps you stay cool and dry even on the hottest summer days. Plus, the material offers plenty of stretch for ease of movement. During our testing, we found that this pair retains its shape after multiple washes, thanks to its nylon-spandex blend. The only downside is that AIRism tends to sell out pretty quickly, but it’s reasonably priced, so you can stock up on multiple pairs.
What’s great about Gildan is that the brand produces basics with pretty decent quality fabrics for its price points. The same applies for its woven underwear boxers as well. It has a soft, cotton-blended fabric, which stays flat underneath relaxed-fit chinos or denim. Our testers really loved how snug the fabric of these boxers felt, and said that they're perfect for laying around the house on the weekends. Also, the moisture-wicking technology will keep you cool and dry when the temperature heats up.
If you want a pair of classic underwear with an elevated look, the Heritage Boxers Brief is your guy. The clean style is made with organic cotton, which is cut, sewn, and assembled in Los Angeles. It’s also brushed for an ultra-soft feel and pre-shrunk for a seamless fit. Our fashion director Ted Stafford is a fan of Flint and Tinder’s boxer briefs. He says he loves its cotton-elastane blend that provides enough stretch to keep your nether regions comfortable when you’re on the move.
These boxer shorts from Patagonia are some of the best boxer briefs to prevent sweating and keep you cool, whether you’re lounging or getting in some serious activity. They’re made from soft AF, moisture-wicking, breathable, spandex stretch jerseys.
If you’re a boxer guy but want a tight enough fit to keep a sleek silhouette under jeans and pants, these Jockey boxers are a good bet. The tapered leg eliminates bulk but the fit is still roomy for comfort and ease of movement. Plus, the briefs are made with a plant-based renewable resource, which means they're better for you and the planet.
Woven from an ultra-soft, breathable fabric and cut to have a slightly formed fit, these Bombas boxers are a solid choice for guys who want a slim boxer that's not going to bunch up under their pants. Small details like a button fly and a curved hem at the leg openings show superb attention to detail. We also enjoy the fun colors that are offered.
Materials and construction: Some of the best boxers we've tried are made from cotton since it provides the most comfort. If you're looking for skivvies purpose-made for workouts or outdoor adventures, then your best bet is to turn to synthetic materials (think: polyester) that are more breathable and moisture-wicking, so you don't have to deal with dreaded swamp crotch. "Fabric, fit, and function should be the main consideration when purchasing men's underwear," says Tom Patterson, the CEO & Co-Founder of Tommy John. "The best underwear is underwear that feels like you're not wearing anything at all."
Furthermore, Derek Ford, Jr., CEO of the men's underwear brand Carter Wear, designates "breathability, comfort, stretch, and ultimately design" as the main factors to consider when selecting the right underwear for you. "While wearability is important, so is the look of the garment and how it makes us feel while wearing it," he says.
Stretch: Consider getting underwear that you can move in easily. "Underwear should really move with a man versus squeezing everything to his body," says Barba. "We like to say comfort not compression because men don’t need to be squeezed in order to have something not bunch up."
Waistband: The most under-appreciated factor in boxer shopping is the waistband. Most waistbands fall into three categories: fabric stitched over an elastic band, an exposed elastic band sewn to the body of the boxer, or a wrapped elastic band. A wrapped waistband will generally be more comfortable for extended wear. The feel of the two styles of exposed elastic waistbands will depend on the material that is sewn into the band. Always feel the inside face of the waistband before you commit to a pair of boxers
Fit: When deciding on a fit for your boxers, think about what you'll be wearing over them. Most boxers have a baggier fit designed for comfort. These work well with shorts, sweatpants, track pants, relaxed-fit jeans, chinos, and slacks. If you prefer a slimmer fit pant then you can go with a slimmer fitting boxer but a boxer-brief is probably a better choice. Though do be warned: boxers tend to ride up when you're wearing slim pants but should give you less trouble if you're wearing them under looser, more relaxed silhouettes.
Maverick Li is a former Style & Commerce Editor of Men’s Health, where he covered clothing, footwear, watches, and grooming. He was previously the Assistant Commerce Editor at Esquire.
Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.
Ted Stafford is the Fashion Director of Men’s Health. He oversees all style and fashion content for the brand, and also styles their fashion stories. His active lifestyle informs his passion for translating great designs into real-life style, a favorite part of his job. Prior to joining Men’s Health he worked at GQ magazine and Calvin Klein
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