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Blog 13 Popular Types of Men's Underwear (Style, Fit & Comfort)
different types of men’s underwear

13 Popular Types of Men's Underwear (Style, Fit & Comfort)

Wearing the wrong underwear is like walking on pebbles; it throws off your entire day. Yet, a staggering 46% of men wear the same underwear for over a year. Men stuck in a cycle of constant adjusting, chafing, and clamminess are unaware of better options.

Today, there’s a style for every body type. This guide will list 13 different types of men's underwear, from the support of briefs to the freedom of boxers. We will help you find the right pair that suits you best. All-day comfort and confidence.

Exploring 13 Top Types of Men’s Underwear

Choosing underwear might seem simple. But the truth is, style and fit matter more than you think. The right underwear helps you move through your day. Here’s a closer look at the various types of men’s underwear to help you pick the perfect pair for any occasion.

1. Boxers

boxers

Boxers are the original men’s underwear.

  • Loose and breezy
  • Made from cotton or soft blends
  • Offer minimal support
  • Offer maximum breathability
  • Best for lounging or sleeping

Tip: Opt for plaid boxers to bring personality to classic comfort.

2. Boxer Briefs

boxer briefs

Boxer briefs combine the length of boxers with the support of briefs.

  • Made with stretch fabric
  • Prevent thigh chafing and stay put
  • Great for everyday wear
  • Ideal for active men seeking stability

Note: Boxer briefs can bunch up under tight pants if the leg is too long

3. Briefs

briefs

Briefs are a timeless option.

  • Offer full solid frontal support and a snug fit
  • Include mesh panels for breathability
  • Provide high leg openings
  • Can be layered under pants
  • Easy to pair with casual or formal wear
  • Suitable for men who prefer a secure and classic style without extra fabric

4. Trunks

trunks

Men’s trunk underwear sits middle of the thigh with a body-hugging fit.

  • Shorter than boxer briefs
  • More supportive than boxers
  • Seamless and unlined for invisible wear under clothing
  • Best for men of style

5. Thongs

thongs

Thong underwear features minimal back coverage with a thin strip connecting the front panel to the waistband.

  • Available in various styles and materials
  • Camo thong for men adds tactical flair to a daring silhouette
  • Worn to avoid visible panty lines (VPL) under tight-fitting clothing or white pants
  • Perfect under tight swimwear or hot yoga
  • Great for reducing visible lines
  • Popular for everyday wear

6. Pouch Underwear

pouch underwear

Pouch underwear features extra fabric in the crotch to create a supportive and comfortable space.

  • Prevents sweating and discomfort
  • Dual-pouch design keeps everything separated and maintains shape
  • Offer better support and comfort
  • Great for athletes or those who seek extra support and comfort to prevent sticking and chafing

7. Tanga

tanga

Men's tanga briefs combine the fit of briefs with the flair of thongs.

  • Feature fabric bands around the waist for support
  • The waistband is thin but wider than that of a G-string
  • Offer moderate back coverage
  • Ideal for daily and active wear

8. Padded Underwear

padded underwear

Padded underwear for men is designed to enhance curves and enhance the shape of the wearer's rear.

  • Features removable silicone pads at the back
  • The padded underwear combines comfort and allure
  • Provide a fuller look with no visible lines
  • Give a naturally lifted look
  • Popular in drag or performance
  • Men's padded underwear is best for sports like cricket or baseball

9. G-Strings

g strings

A minimalist piece with a narrow strip of fabric at the back that passes between the legs and is attached to a thin waistband around the hips.

  • Thin waistband and small front coverage
  • Made from lightweight and stretchy materials (nylon or spandex)
  • Prevents VPL under clothing
  • Adds a sensual touch to outfits
  • Chosen for minimal visibility and a sleek silhouette
  • Commonly used for lingerie or swimwear
  • Ideal for wearing under tight or naturally shaped clothing

10. Jockstraps

jockstraps

Originally created for athletes. A jockstrap for vasectomy recovery offers targeted support and comfort.

  • Designed for maximum support and minimal coverage
  • Minimizes movement and pressure with a supportive front pouch and open back
  • Popular for men who want comfort and protection.
  • Ideal for sports or post-surgery recovery

Why use a jockstrap after a vasectomy?

Medical professionals often recommend a jockstrap for vasectomy recovery to stabilize the scrotum, reduce swelling, and speed healing.

Tip: Look for soft and breathable versions with wide waistbands when needed.

11. Thermal Underwear

thermal underwear

Men's thermal underwear is a specialized base layer designed to keep the body warm.

  • Worn close to the skin to trap heat
  • Made from insulating materials (merino wool, polyester, or nylon)
  • Pulls sweat away
  • Ensure comfort by preventing cold air from penetrating
  • Retain warmth without adding bulk
  • Best for keeping you warm and dry in winter or sports activities

12. C-Strings

c strings

You may need this type of underwear if you are going to be a bold model. It's an invisible underwear that has a flexible "C" shaped frame with no side bands.

  • Brief front and built-in C-ring
  • Uses adhesives on the sides to stay in place
  • No back coverage
  • Usually available in bright neon colors
  • Often worn for erotic appeal or clubwear

13. Men's Mesh Underwear

mens mesh underwear

Men's mesh underwear is summer underwear available in different styles.

  • Lightweight and breathable men’s underwear
  • Enhances airflow while keeping you supported
  • Athletic mesh underwear designed to keep you cool and dry
  • Perfect for hot weather or active lifestyles

Briefs vs Boxer Briefs

From everyday wear to active days, the right underwear supports and empowers you. Here’s a short comparison to help you decide which fits your needs best.

Need Choose Briefs Choose Boxer Briefs
Support Moderate High
Thigh Coverage None Full (prevents chafing)
Under Suit Yes Yes
Active Use No Yes

Bottom line: Boxer briefs win for versatility. Briefs win for minimalism.

Trunk vs Boxer Brief

trunk vs boxer brief

  • Go for Boxer Briefs if: You’ve got stronger or thicker thighs, need extra chafe protection, and prefer a longer leg fit that stays perfectly in place all day.
  • Opt for Trunks if: You have a slimmer or shorter build, like a modern, shorter cut that prevents bunching, and often wear higher-cut shorts for a sleek look.

Thong vs G-String

Thongs and G-strings provide minimal coverage. They offer freedom and style. A camo thong for men or men's g-string underwear is ideal for bold fashion choices.

  • Thongs: A V-shaped underwear made of a thin band of fabric. They offer slightly more rear coverage.
  • G-strings: The most minimal, with a T-shaped back made essentially of string. They offer virtually no coverage.

Top Fabrics for Men’s Underwear

The style of underwear determines fit, but fabric determines all-day comfort. The right underwear fabric keeps you at ease and ready for anything your day throws at you. Check out these materials and see how each fabric stacks up in comfort and breathability.

MicroModal

Experience the gold standard of daily comfort with fabric that’s silky, super soft, and gentle on the skin. Designed for everyday wear, it offers excellent moisture-wicking properties to keep you fresh and high breathability for unmatched ease throughout the day.

Cotton

Soft and natural in feel, this material acts like a gentle “sweat sponge,” retaining just the right amount of moisture against the skin to keep you comfortable. It’s the perfect choice for cool, relaxed, or low-activity days when you want effortless comfort without feeling dry or tight.

Synthetics (Polyester/Nylon)

This material is enduring and strong, designed to hold its quality and shape over time. It provides excellent moisture control, ensuring your comfort throughout strenuous exercise. Its superior sweat-wicking qualities make it perfect for exercise, sports, and high-performance use, even though it lacks breathability for all-day wear and can retain odours if worn for extended periods of time.

How to Choose the Right Underwear for You?

Consider these 4 key factors to pick the right pair.

Activity

  • Gym: → compression or boxer briefs
  • Office: → trunks or briefs
  • Sports: → Performance boxer briefs (Nylon/Spandex) or Jockstraps

Body type

  • Thicker thighs: → longer inseam
  • Slim build: → trunks or briefs
  • Invisibility Under Clothes: → Seamless Trunks or Thongs
  • Breathability & Freedom: → Boxers (loose fit) or Mesh Boxer Briefs
  • Everyday All-Round Comfort: → Trunks or Boxer Briefs in Modal or Cotton Blend

Fabric

  • Cotton (breathable)
  • Polyester (moisture-wicking)
  • Mesh (ultra-ventilated)

Occasion

  • Surgery recovery: → a jockstrap for vasectomy
  • Beach: → camo thong for men or trunks

Final Remarks

Now you know 13 different types of men's underwear that can help you choose men’s underwear that’s functional and comfortable. Consider your body type when shopping to get the best fit and maximum comfort. Many top brands in the USA are offering a wide range of premium quality and comfortable options.

Men’s underwear has evolved far beyond basics. Whether you swear by plaid boxers for Sunday mornings or dare to wear men’s G-string underwear with confidence, there’s a style for every need.

To help you make the right choice, the team of experts at Vel Clothing is available. Just drop us an email at sales@velclothing.com. We will be happy to assist you with.