We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Fashion Clothing Athleisure & Loungewear The 15 Best Men’s Underwear of 2024 Start at Less Than $4 a Pair From Amazon Essentials to Tommy John, these underwear options are comfortable and worth the money By Jessie Quinn Jessie Quinn Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based contributing shopping writer at PEOPLE with over 10 years of experience covering all things beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. At PEOPLE, she collaborates with the PEOPLE Tested team to share our top recommendations for everything from the best shapewear to the best dark spot correctors. People Editorial Guidelines Updated on July 12, 2024 03:34PM EDT In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews What to Know FAQ Take Our Word For It Photo: People / Kristin Kempa Underwear is something we could all afford to think a little more about, as it can not only impact how our clothes fit and feel, but it can also impact health. In the case of men’s underwear especially, quality can make or break the overall support and comfort factors. “A man should choose high-quality underwear for many reasons, including enhanced protection, style, and comfort,” says Michael Krychman, MDCM, Vice President of Medical Affairs and Mental Health and clinician physician at HerMD. “High-quality underwear can also provide many health benefits, such as lowered risk of infection and protection against chafing.” To make underwear shopping a little easier, we scoured the internet for dozens of styles and designs, carefully considering everything from material to construction to special features like moisture-wicking and four-way stretch to find the best men’s underwear. Through our research, we found that these men's underwear options are especially worth investing in. Keep reading to learn more about the best men’s underwear. Our Top Picks Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Men's Tag-Free Boxer Briefs at Amazon $19 Jump to Review Best Bulk: SALE Hanes Boxer Briefs at Amazon $40 $34 Jump to Review Best Boxer Briefs: Everlane The Supima Boxer Brief at Everlane.com $24 Jump to Review Best Second-Skin: Tommy John Second Skin Boxer Briefs at Amazon $102 Jump to Review Best Cotton: Pact Everyday Boxer Briefs at Zappos $55 Jump to Review Best Briefs: Saxx DropTemp Cooling Cotton Brief at Amazon $30 Jump to Review Best for Working Out: Under Armour UA Tech Boxerjock at Amazon $50 Jump to Review Best Cooling: Bamboo Cool Men’s Underwear at Amazon $37 Jump to Review Best Four-Way Stretch: lululemon Always in Motion Boxers at Lululemon $74 Jump to Review Best Boxers: Gap Cotton Boxers at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Budget Amazon Essentials Men's Tag-Free Boxer Briefs PHOTO: Amazon $18 at Amazon If you’re shopping for budget-friendly underwear on Amazon, the Amazon Essentials Men’s Tag-Free Boxer Briefs is our top pick. Constructed from 100 percent cotton and featuring a slim fit, these comfy boxers have knitted-in stretch, giving them enough flexibility to move without restriction while also keeping their shape and providing support. The casual boxer briefs are made for everyday wear, and we love them because they have a comfortable waistband that keeps them in place, and the overall material quality is comparable to much more expensive options. Size Range: XS–2XL | Colors: 10 | Material: 100% cotton | Type: Boxer brief Best Bulk Hanes Boxer Briefs PHOTO: Amazon $34 at Amazon $20 at Target $30 at Walmart For the best value pack, we recommend Hanes Boxer Briefs, which come in a pack of five, six, seven, or 12 on Amazon. Available in an assortment of colors and prints, the boxers feature a lightweight and breathable cotton-polyester blend that is ultra-soft and comfortable with sweat-wicking capabilities. Additionally, these boxer briefs also feature a flexible waistband and are designed to stay in place without riding up or twisting. Size Range: S–3XL | Colors: 10 | Material: Cotton, polyester | Type: Boxer brief Best Boxer Briefs Everlane The Supima Boxer Brief PHOTO: Everlane $24 at Everlane.com The best boxer briefs are definitely the Everlane Supima Boxer Briefs, which are constructed from the softest blend of Supima cotton with stretchy elastane. We love these because they have a classic style and a tailored fit with an unbranded waistband that doesn’t roll or twist for everyday comfort. Since the boxer briefs are designed with Supima cotton, they’re twice as durable as regular cotton boxers, so these will last a lot longer and can withstand more wear and tear, too. While the price tag is on the higher end, these Everlane boxer briefs feel as luxe — if not more — as their higher-end counterparts. Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: 5 | Material: Supima cotton, elastane | Type: Boxer brief Best Second-Skin Tommy John Second Skin Boxer Briefs PHOTO: Nordstrom $102 at Amazon $36 at Nordstrom $34 at Zappos The Tommy John Second Skin 4-Inch Boxer Briefs have a 4-inch long leg length and are constructed from the softest Tencel modal and spandex blend. We love these because the material is ultra-high-quality and designed to not only hold its shape over time but also prevent it from pilling. These boxer briefs also feature a waistband that actually stays in place as well as a second-skin feel that doesn’t bunch or roll. Thanks to their breathable material, these boxers are excellent for everyday wear as they not only keep you fresh and comfortable, but they also work well for physical activity since they’re so lightweight and airy. The Tommy John boxer briefs are also designed with a Quick Draw Fly for added support. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, including several neutrals and some fun prints. Size Range: S–2XL | Colors: 5 | Material: Tencel modal, spandex | Type: Boxer brief Best Cotton Pact Everyday Boxer Briefs PHOTO: Pact $55 at Zappos View on Wearpact.com If you prefer cotton underwear, we recommend the Pact Everyday Knit Boxers, which come in a four-pack and are constructed from GOTS-certified organic cotton and a little bit of elastane for the most comfortable stretch. Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory, the sustainable cotton underwear features a snug yet flexible fit that lays flat against the skin and creates a nice base layer for wearing under jeans, trousers, and cargo pants. Since the underwear is cut from cotton, it’s also incredibly breathable and keeps you feeling fresh. Size Range: S–2XL | Colors: 4 | Material: Organic cotton, elastane | Type: Boxer brief Best Briefs Saxx DropTemp Cooling Cotton Brief PHOTO: Saxx $30 at Amazon $30 at Zappos $30 at Saxxunderwear.com The Saxx DropTemp Cooling Cotton Brief is our top pick for the best briefs. Not only is it constructed from a modal and cotton blend, it also features a cooling technology that actually keeps you feeling fresh, even on a hot summer day. The Saxx underwear is also designed with the brand’s BallPark Pouch, which is a scientifically designed system that creates a supportive hammock within the underwear for a more comfortable fit. Additionally, these briefs have an ergonomic fit that shapes and sculpts around the body and flat seams that go virtually undetected. Size Range: XS-2XL | Colors: 2 | Material: Modal, cotton, elastane | Type: Brief Best for Working Out Under Armour UA Tech Boxerjock PHOTO: Amazon $50 at Amazon View on Walmart $30 at Underarmour.com If you want a pair of sweat-wicking boxers that can move with you while exercising, the Under Armour Men’s UA Tech 6-Inch Boxerjock boxer briefs is the way to go. These are cut from a soft and highly breathable polyester and elastane blend material with four-way stretch, so they’re flexible and won’t restrict the body while working out. Additionally, the boxers are sweat-wicking and quick-drying and feature a seamless leg design for added comfort. These are also some of the more inclusive underwear styles in terms of size range, as they are offered up to 5XL. Size Range: XS–5XL | Colors: 5 | Material: Polyester, elastane | Type: Boxer brief Best Cooling Bamboo Cool Men’s Underwear PHOTO: Amazon $37 at Amazon View on Walmart Effective cooling clothing is a must-have, especially in warm climates. The Bamboo Cool Men’s Underwear are cut from breathable and cooling bamboo viscose with stretchy spandex, this men’s underwear option comes in boxer briefs, briefs, and trunks and is available in a reasonably priced four-pack. In addition to their breathable construction, the underwear is also sweat-wicking, so it keeps you cool and dry, making it an ideal pair of men’s underwear for exercise, travel, or all-day wear. Plus, the backside features a seamless design, giving them a more comfortable fit for long wear. Size Range: S–3XL | Colors: 7 | Material: Bamboo viscose, spandex | Type: Boxer brief Best Four-Way Stretch lululemon Always in Motion Boxers PHOTO: Lululemon $74 at Lululemon The best underwear with four-way stretch is the Lululemon Always In Motion Boxer, which comes in both 5- and 7-inch lengths and come in multi-packs of three. These comfortable and stretchy boxers are cut from a buttery soft modal, and elastane blend with sweat-wicking technology, quick-drying capabilities, and an ergonomic pouch for excellent support. The boxers also have a snug yet flexible fit that feels like a second skin against the body and has a sleek waistband that holds everything in place without ever shifting, no matter how much you move. Size Range: XS–3XL | Colors: 7 | Material: Modal, elastane | Type: Boxer Best Boxers Gap Cotton Boxers PHOTO: Gap View on Gap.com Our top pick for the best boxers are the Gap Cotton Boxers, which feature a traditional loose-fit design and come in a pack of three with lots of fun prints, including plaid, stripe, and floral. Constructed with a smooth poplin weave, these boxers are lightweight and breathable, with a nice thick waistband for a more comfortable fit. Whether you’re looking for a pair of everyday boxers to wear under clothing or want something comfy and relaxed for lounging or sleeping, these boxers are a fantastic pick. Size Range: XS–XXL | Colors: 7 | Material: Cotton, polyester | Type: Boxer Best Modal Alo Day and Night Boxer Brief PHOTO: Alo Yoga $28 at Aloyoga.com If you love super-soft underwear, then modal is the way to go. Our top pick for this category is the Alo Day and Night Boxer Brief, which is cut from a modal jersey and features a comfortable and supportive fit. Designed to fit snugly across the body without restriction, these boxers boast a four-way stretch that moves with the body and maintains comfort, even while participating in low-impact workouts such as yoga. We only wish they were available in a more extensive size range. Size Range: S–XL | Colors: 3 | Material: Modal jersey | Type: Boxer Best Trunk Bombas Cotton Modal Blend Trunk PHOTO: Bombas View on Bombas.com Our top pick for the best trunk is the Bombas Men’s Cotton Modal Blend Trunk, which features the softest, most comfortable material for all-day comfort. As the name suggests, these trunks are cut from a Tencel modal, cotton, and elastane blend that is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking. The men’s underwear also features a friction-reducing Flyless Pouch and fewer seams than other styles for added support and a more comfortable fit. Size Range: S–3XL | Colors: 12 | Material: Tencel modal, cotton, elastane | Type: Trunk Best Flannel L.L. Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Boxers PHOTO: L.L. Bean $30 at L.L.Bean For a pair of comfortable and warm flannel boxers to lounge in, consider the L.L. Bean Men’s Scotch Plaid Flannel Boxers. Available in many different colors and plaid prints — including a trendy patchwork option — these boxers are cut from a soft and comfortable Portuguese flannel, which is a longer-staple cotton with tons of strength and durability. While these boxers are ultra-warm and best for lounging, they are still thin enough to fit comfortably under pants for colder climates, too. However, they do only come in plaid prints, and are relatively pricey for one pair. Size Range: S–3XL | Colors: 7 | Material: Cotton Portuguese flannel | Type: Boxer Most Supportive Mack Weldon Stealth Boxer Brief PHOTO: Mack Weldon View on Mackweldon.com If you’re looking for a pair of supportive underwear, you’ll find it in the Mack Weldon Stealth Boxer Briefs, which come in both 8- and 6-inch lengths. Constructed from Q-Nova recycled nylon with polyester and spandex, these boxers are designed for active lifestyles and can even be worn with board shorts for surfing or swimming. The underwear features body-mapping technology and has seamless construction with a second-skin feel. Size Range: S–2XL | Colors: 2 | Material: Q-Nova recycled nylon, polyester, spandex | Type: Boxer brief Best Prints MeUndies Boxer Brief PHOTO: MeUndies $26 at Amazon View on Meundies.com For those who love prints, MeUndies has you covered with their classic boxer brief style in over 100 different prints. From bananas to sharks to aliens, the brand carries a wide variety of underwear prints — but that’s not the only reason to love them. In addition to their bold print options, the boxer briefs are also constructed from the softest and most durable MicroModal and elastane blend that lays flat against the body, provides breathable comfort, and offers lots of support. Additionally, these boxers feature a generous pouch designed to form to any figure and have a comfortable waistband that doesn’t roll, flip, or shift in any way. Size Range: S–4XL | Colors: 10 solids, 100+ prints | Material: MicroModal, elastane | Type: Boxer brief What to Know About Men’s Underwear Style and Type When searching for the best men’s underwear, Krychman says that style is one of the first things to consider, as this will help you narrow down your search based on your needs. Style-wise, men’s underwear comes in a few options, including boxer briefs, briefs, boxers, and trunks. However, within these styles, there are all sorts of different types, such as ultra-supportive and sweat-wicking for workouts or more comfortable options for lounging. For the best boxer briefs for working out, consider the Under Armour Men's UA Tech 6-Inch Boxerjock, which is cut from a highly breathable polyester and elastane blend material with four-way stretch. If you prefer a more lounge-worthy style, we recommend the L.L. Bean Men's Scotch Plaid Flannel Boxers or even the Gap Cotton Boxers, which have a looser fit. Material After you figure out what style you want, Jonathan Shokrian, the CEO at MeUndies, says you want a material that’s durable but also soft, breathable, and stretchy. “Look for underwear made from high-quality, breathable materials like cotton, modal, or moisture-wicking fabrics, as they can ensure comfort and prevent irritation or excessive sweating,” he tells PEOPLE. In addition to material, Shokrian says it’s also important to look at the construction and stitching as you want to ensure the underwear can withstand regular washing and maintain its shape over time. For high-quality, breathable underwear constructed from super soft modal blends, consider our picks from Tommy John, Saxx, Alo, Lululemon, or MeUndies. We also love the Amazon Essentials, which are constructed from 100 percent cotton for a more casual and breathable everyday option. Number of Panels If a pair of underwear doesn’t have four-way stretch, you can look at the number of panels to get an idea of how much movement it can withstand, says Billy Barba, the founder and CEO of men’s underwear brand UnderGents. While there is a time and a place for fewer panels — which Barba says will pull across the body with movement — having minimal panels isn’t ideal for some situations, such as travel or exercise. Frequently Asked Questions What underwear is best for men under dress pants? The best men’s underwear style for under dress pants really depends on personal preference. However, most often, they go with either briefs or boxer briefs. “Briefs fit well under pants as they are minimalist and don’t need a lot of room or space in the pant leg,” notes Barba. “Of course, a great boxer briefs will be close to the leg and can feel great under dress pants, and even modern boxer shorts will work well,” he adds. That being said, Barba warns against loose woven boxers (like the Gap Cotton Boxers) for wearing under dress pants because they can feel uncomfortable under tailored designs, and, in some cases, can look bulky or bunch up at the groin. Which underwear are best for men? Underwear preference is an individualized choice and can vary from person to person. With that said, briefs and boxer briefs tend to be the most popular and have several advantages, including “increased support for the genitals and decreased chafing,” says Krychman. “Briefs may even provide cooling support during the heated summer months and may be better for those who are prone to overheating.” How long should men keep their underwear? In general, experts recommend replacing old underwear with new ones every six to 12 months. “There are benefits to changing your underwear at this cadence, as doing so may help to prevent rashes,” says Krychman. “When underwear comes in close contact with your skin, many bacteria can routinely grow, even after regularly washing your underwear,” he adds, explaining how this accumulation of bacteria can often lead to rashes, allergies, and even urinary tract infections. Take Our Word For It Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. To find the best men’s underwear, Jessie researched dozens of options across different styles, carefully considering the fabric, fit, construction, and additional key benefits such as sweat-wicking and cooling technology. Jessie also interviewed Michael Krychman, MDCM, vice president of medical affairs and mental health and clinician physician at HerMD, Billy Barba, the founder and CEO of UnderGents, and Jonathan Shokrian, the CEO at MeUndies, to learn more about what to look for in the category and ask some of our most pressing questions about underwear — including how often men should replace them. Our Expert Panel Michael Krychman, MDCM, vice president of medical affairs and mental health and clinician physician at HerMD Billy Barba, the founder and CEO of UnderGents Jonathan Shokrian, the founder and CEO of MeUndies The 13 Best Flip-Flops for Men of 2024, Tested by Real People