Cozyest underwear for men in 2023 and how to choose quality

A solid foundation for any outfit starts with quality underwear. Many male stylists stress the importance of having top-notch undergarments as the cornerstone of their wardrobe. However, not every man is equipped with the knowledge to pick the best underwear. Retailers note that many men simply stick to the style they first chose in their youth, often because it's the same style as an advertisement they saw.

So, what do experts say?

Here’s what we found out! Mack Weldon states that they put in over 10,000 hours of design and testing to create the best pair of underwear available. Their AIRKNITx model ticks all the necessary boxes when it comes to underwear. The combination of a supportive pouch and anti-odor, anti-moisture fabric make these boxer briefs both comfortable and breathable.

Additionally, the no-roll waistband and secure grip at the legs keep them in place. The AIRKNITx has received endorsement from former NFL football player Desmond Howard and continues to make the underwear even more effective, including mesh in its design.

Choosing the ideal underwear

So, we made a short guide to finding your perfect underwear:

A crucial factor in outfit comfort is the type of underwear you choose. With personal preference and daily activities in mind, there are eight different types and sub-types of underwear to choose from. Here's a rundown of the most popular options:

Boxers: The classic men's underwear style, boxers are loose and relaxed with short legs. Ideal for lounging at home.

Briefs: Similar to a swimmer's speedo, briefs provide coverage and support while allowing for ease of movement. However, they can fit tightly around the groin area.

Boxer Briefs: A combination of boxers and briefs, these have a longer leg and a snug fit, like compression underwear, making them great for working out. Opt for a 7" or 9" leg to prevent thigh chafing during intense workouts.

Trunks: Like boxer briefs, but with a shorter leg and overall fit that covers less skin. Often seen worn by Calvin Klein models in advertisements.

When choosing underwear, consider the style that best suits your body shape. Low-rise options are suitable for those with smaller backsides to avoid a saggy or wedgie bottom. The length of the underwear is mostly a matter of preference, except in the case of performance underwear for rigorous activities.

Lastly, look for boxer briefs and trunks with contour pouches and proper seams to keep your manhood secure and prevent awkward adjustments throughout the day.

Choosing the fabric

Underwear is a key part of a man's wardrobe, and the comfort it provides is largely dependent on the fabric it is made from. So, the best starting point for comfort is the choice of materials - the fabric you choose affects factors such as moisture, softness, and temperature.

100% cotton is a popular option, but it may not always be the best choice. Cotton is breathable, but it does not manage moisture well and can lead to discomfort. Instead, menswear stylist Patrick Kenger suggests looking for blended fabrics that offer better moisture management and comfort. Amarasiriwardena also recommends materials like Tencel and Merino, known for their breathability, moisture management, and odor control.

Blends of nylon and spandex are a more modern option, providing moisture-wicking properties and ease of movement. If blends are not your preferred choice, Kenger suggests 100% Merino wool as an alternative due to its natural moisture-wicking and breathable properties.

Modal and micro-modal are also excellent choices for underwear, offering a silky, lightweight feel and resistance to shrinkage and moisture. Lyocell, an alternative to modal, is stronger, more tear-resistant, and softer, but also more expensive.

When looking for underwear for athletic activities, it's important to choose a pair made from synthetic materials with four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and anti-odor technology. In general, it is best to opt for soft, stretchy, breathable performance fabrics for travel, athletic activities, or daily wear.