It’s easy to get caught up in the details, focusing on finding the perfect shirt, pants, and shoes to complete the ensemble. However, you’re off to a bad start if you don’t have decent clothing down there. Starting with the basics is the key to pulling off a great outfit. Why? Because your underwear will set the tone and will determine your comfort for the rest of your day. So, let’s talk about men’s underwear in this article, and know which is better.
There has always been a heated debate over whether boxers or briefs are the better underwear option. And most men fall on opposite ends of the spectrum depending on how important comfort, coverage, support, and breathability are to them. Many men, however, are unaware of the differences between these two types of underwear.
What Are Briefs vs. Boxers?
Purchasing underwear may appear to be a simple task for any man. However, it can be a lot more difficult than you think. But there are plenty of underwear options available, depending on your personal style and preferences. And it would be great to know what they are.
Briefs
There’s a good reason why most guys own at least one pair of briefs. These undergarments are soft and can be worn under any clothing, whether you’re working out or attending a social occasion. These are the most conventional and comfortable type of underwear that avoids friction between thighs. You would also want to take note that they have an overlap fly.
Briefs come in a variety of styles, designs, and colors. Depending on your preference, they are available in a low, medium, or high rise. You can pick from a wide range of brands, colors, and designs.
When you wear one, you can expect that the backside and package are covered, but the upper thigh is not. It’s the ideal option if you want everything to be lifted and supported. Also, it is the perfect undergarment to wear to keep everything in place. Make sure to shop around for the ones that fit you best so that you can feel comfortable in your underwear.
Boxers
Boxers, unlike briefs, are looser fitting and provide less support. They cover more of your thigh, roughly a third to half, and are more breathable than just about any other underwear. If you’re looking for something with a loose fit that’s easy to exercise in, boxers are the way to go.
They give you a lot of freedom of movement and many airflows to keep you from sweating too much. While boxers are often associated with grandpa’s underwear, there are a variety of styles available, including slimmer, trendier cuts. Also, they are available in every color as well as in novelty prints.
Advantages of Briefs vs Boxers
If you are thinking about what type of underwear you should be wearing, you should first consider the benefits that come along with it. So, we breakdown the advantages of briefs and boxers for you. Read on!
Fit
The most significant distinction between briefs and boxers is their fit. While both reach the middle of the thigh, boxers are cut loosely like a pair of shorts, whereas briefs are fitted snugly from waistband to hem.
The looser fit of boxers can improve moveability and even make you forget you’re wearing something down there. Some men, however, prefer the close comfort that briefs can give them. Briefs are the perfect choice for those who don’t like to play around with loose styles.
Comfort
Boxers are more comfortable than briefs because they provide more space and freedom on the inside. That isn’t to say that briefs aren’t comfortable; they are, after all, soft and cushioned, but they aren’t something you would wear when you’re alone at home and you want to unwind.
On the other hand, Boxers can be a little uncomfortable when walking or doing any physically vigorous exercise because your genitals can dangle and cause you some discomfort or awkwardness, unlike with briefs.
Breathability
Many men prefer boxers to briefs because they are more breathable and more comfortable: boxers have a short-like fit that allows for more easy-breeziness. If breathability is important to you, you may realize that boxers must be chosen over briefs.
Both boxers and briefs can be breathable and comfortable if you choose the right pair. Just keep in mind that going commando in your search for breathability isn’t the healthiest and the best option.
Boxer Briefs: The Combination of Briefs vs. Boxers
After knowing the difference between briefs and boxers, let us talk about another undergarment time that looks like a combination of briefs and boxers – the boxer briefs.
Boxer briefs combine the form-fitting comfort of briefs with the length and coverage of traditional boxers. The main advantage of boxer briefs is that they provide support and even coverage. They sit about halfway down the thigh because of the longer leg, reducing leg-to-leg contact, chafing, and ride-up. This is why they’re the perfect choice for men with bigger legs or active lifestyles.
And today, there are a variety of fabric options for boxer briefs, and it can be tempting to choose a synthetic material because they’re typically marketed as activewear. While synthetic fabrics are great for the gym, they aren’t ideal for everyday use. When it comes to boxer shorts, opt for a natural fabric like Micro Modal or Bamboo that wicks moisture away from the skin and breathes well to keep you feeling fresh and dry all day.
Boxer shorts will always be the most comfortable due to their looseness and roominess. Still, their lack of cupping can be a problem, particularly for people who lead an active and athletic lifestyle.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right underwear may be more difficult than you think. It’s not just about briefs vs. boxers vs. boxer briefs. There are many different types of underwear to choose from. And whichever option works best for you, always keep in mind the comfort you could give you. Cause at the end of the day, it is what matters most.
READ ALSO: What’s the Hole in Boxers Called and What’s it For?
