Men’s underwear styles explained: jockstraps, briefs, thongs and more

Underwear is the first thing you put on and, if the night goes well, one of the first things to come off. The right cut changes how you feel all day. Here’s every style we stock, from the most coverage to the least.

Boxers

Loose, with legs like shorts and plenty of room. Boxers are great for lounging and sleeping, but they give little support, so they’re not the pick for the gym.

Boxer briefs

A close fit with legs that cover part of your thighs. Boxer briefs give you support and coverage, stay put under jeans and suit almost any day.

Briefs

No legs, a supportive front pouch and a higher cut on the thigh. Briefs lift your package and show off more leg. Bikini briefs are a lower, skimpier version.

Jockstraps

A waistband, a pouch and two straps under your cheeks, leaving your ass completely on show. Built for sport, adopted by gay guys everywhere. Our jockstrap guide covers fit and styles in detail.

Thongs and G-strings

A pouch at the front and a thin strip or string at the back. No visible lines under tight trousers, and as cheeky as underwear gets.

Getting the fit right

• Go by your waist measurement on each product’s size guide, not the size you wore years ago.
• The waistband should sit flat without rolling or digging in.
• The pouch should hold everything without squeezing or gaping.
• Between sizes? Size up for comfort, especially in styles with a snug pouch.

Fabrics

• Cotton: soft, breathable and easy to wash, ideal every day.
• Mesh: light, airy and a little see-through.
• Lace: soft, sheer and made to be seen.
• Nylon and spandex blends: smooth, stretchy and quick to dry.

Tip: Build a rotation: a few everyday cottons, a jockstrap for the gym and something lacy or sheer for when you want to feel sexy.