Men usually think of their underwear in terms of either loose boxer shorts or tight briefs. But what they may not realize is that there’s a lot of choice available in between. The right pair can make you feel confident and comfortable, not to mention look great once the pants come off.
Boxer briefs are arguably the most popular shape in male underwear today (based on high street sales – online retailers like DGU’s favour more diverse shapes). They sit snugly across the groin and tummy, defining the waist and smoothing out love handles, while offering a great deal of support. A firm favourite for sport, these close-fitting undies have been a staple since 1935.
A variation on the classic boxer brief, long boxers have a longer leg (that could be 3cm, 6cm or 9cm) which covers most of the thigh. They’re skin tight but not restrictive and are often worn as male loungewear or nightwear these days.
While the choice of men’s underwear has always been a personal and private matter, it has been influenced by visual culture. For example, the low-slung jeans worn by rapper Marky Mark in the early 1990s prompted other fashion brands to add logos to the front of their men’s bamboo underwear
The choice of men’s underwear can also be affected by health and wellness concerns. For example, if you’re trying for a baby, men who wear boxer briefs should take note of research that suggests this style can inhibit sperm production. A quick solution for this is to use a bit of baby powder or petroleum jelly in the morning to form a barrier and help prevent friction against your groin.