Underwear is the first thing you put on, the last thing you take off and, well, is closer to you than anything else in your life. But unless you’re desperate, your underwear usually overstays its welcome.
Let’s be real: shopping for underwear isn’t all that fun.
It’s confusing, overly-saturated and fraught with the possibility of a poor purchase.
This is why, when searching for the right type of undergarments, you need to ask yourself: what’s important to me and my southern partner?
BEST MEN’S UNDERWEAR
Here, we’ve searched the internet to put together a list of underwear that is comfortable and won’t disintegrate after one wash.
BEST BOXER BRIEFS
Calvin Klein 3-pack Boxer Briefs, The Iconic, $99.95
You really can’t get anymore iconic than Calvin Klein. Besides the household name, there’s a reason they’re at the top of the game: they just get underwear. Ticking all the boxes across durability, breathability and style, you’d be hard pressed finding a better pair.
Uniqlo Supima Cotton Boxer Briefs, Uniqlo, $9.90
When it comes to underwear, going budget isn’t always the best idea, but as per usual Uniqlo is the exception to the rule. Designed with added stretch, I suggest going a size up for added comfort!
BEST BRIEFS
CDLP 3-pack Y-Brief, CDLP, $120
A new player in the game, but don’t let that fool you – CDLP has taken the competition by storm. Using a fabric called Lyocell, sourced sustainably from wood, the underwear boasts a silk-like feeling without compromising on the benefits of a cotton-wear. A game changer that I recommend.
Calvin Klein Cotton Classics 4-pack, Myer, $89.95
Back on the list, Calvin Klein is revered for its briefs. Stocked in the largest range of colourways, you will not be starved for choice. However, with durability in mind, I highly recommend sticking to black.
BEST TRUNKS
Tommy Hilfiger 3-pack Premium Essentials Trunks, Myer, $99.95
The reviews don’t lie! Seriously loved by the public, the microfibre waistband will ensure maximum all-day comfort on the hips. Also, let me not understate the posterior support: who doesn’t love a 24/7 lift in the behind?
Polo Ralph Lauren 3-pack Stretch Trunks, The Iconic, $99.95
Ralph Lauren engenders so much adoration from its legions of followers, that it was only natural they released an underwear line: and boy am I thankful. Made with stretch cotton, the underwear allows for both support and comfort. A top-drawer essential.
BEST BOXERS
Hanro Sporty Cotton Boxers, The Iconic, $89.95
I cannot overstate just how soft these boxers are. Using mercerised cotton (it’s increases fabric strength and gives it a silky appearance), the HANRO Sporty Cotton boxers are serious players in the comfort and durability department. Light-weight cotton will always be a winner and is a fantastic everyday option.
Boden 3-pack Woven Boxers, Boden, $80
Now, if you’re bored of the plain spread that the underwear market is offering, Boden has you covered. With a nod to the classic boxer design, these boxers are made with a refined waistband that ensures they won’t glide south.
BEST ATHLETIC/SPORTS UNDERWEAR
Built to Move Boxer “5, Lululemon, $39
These underwear are built for high-sweat movement, with a focus on both comfort and breathability. Sweat-wicking Lycra fibre, and extreme room in the pouch, Lululemon is ensuring we’re ticking boxes here people.
ExOfficio Give-n-Go Boxer Brief, Amazon, $45
Performance underwear should be intuitive: it should move with your body, not against it. ExOfficio’s underwear range honours the athlete, providing compact underwear that is quick to dry and a second skin.
WHAT IS THE BEST FABRIC FOR UNDERWEAR?
It depends. For day-to-day wear, I suggest 100 per cent cotton. They’re light, breathable and surprisingly regulate temperature quite well – thank god for that. For something more heavy duty – worn during exercise, say – technical fabrics are where it’s at. They’re designed for function, and are ace at wicking away any moisture that may come about when hitting the gym.
HOW MANY PAIRS OF UNDERWEAR SHOULD YOU OWN?
At any given time, there should be 10-12 pairs in your wardrobe. When considering workouts, social activities, and general day-to-day living, this number is the hill that I will die on. Trust me!
HOW DO YOU KEEP WAISTBANDS FROM OVER-STRETCHING?
Elastic waistbands love a cold wash, and low-heat dry settings. Really, anything anti-heat, and they will thrive. Also, just be gentle on the tug.
Kurt Hughes is a Sydney-based journalist who has his finger on the trigger when it comes to the trends and styles. He has worked for brands such as We Are Kindred, General Pants, and Ksubi, as well as written for Fashion Journal, GQ and i-D, and is knee-deep in the brands that inform our culture.You can follow him on Instagram at @kurthughes.
Originally published as 9 best underwear brands for men to buy in 2022
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