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Men's underwear: comparing styles and materials

Men’s underwear isn’t all the same: choosing the right material and style can truly make a difference when it comes to comfort, freedom of movement, and durability. Whether you're heading to a workout, a day at the office, or an elegant evening out, the right underwear will keep you feeling comfortable at all times. But what’s the best fabric for men’s underwear? Let’s find out together.

Briefs, boxers or boxer shorts: what’s the difference?

Modern or classic? Protection and support, or comfort and versatility? Depending on your needs and personal preferences, each underwear style has its own features that can help guide your choice.

What are briefs and when should you wear them?

Briefs, or classic underwear, are a more traditional style of men’s underwear. This snug-fitting model contours the male groin and fully covers the glutes, offering front support while leaving the thighs free. They’re especially suitable for physical activity or under tight trousers, thanks to their ability to stay in place without bunching up during movement. Unlike other types of underwear, briefs offer less protection against the cold and may feel too “revealing” for some men who prefer more coverage. Cool, lightweight, and comfortable, Julipet’s white or blue briefs are specifically designed to keep your skin dry and breathable, giving you all the comfort you need throughout the day. For those who enjoy a touch of playfulness, there are also colorful and original briefs featuring submarine, dinosaur, or toy car prints—perfect for adding a bit of fun to your wardrobe.

Fitted boxers: fit and practicality

Fitted boxers can be compared to briefs with short legs of varying length. They combine support and coverage in a single garment, offering both comfort and control. Their modern and practical look—both aesthetically and functionally—along with the snug fit around the legs, makes them one of the most popular underwear choices among men. However, the variable leg length may restrict movement for some, or, if made from synthetic fabrics, may lead to excessive sweating in the intimate area. Julipet's slim fit stretch cotton boxers offer lightness and flexibility, with a second-skin effect thanks to the absence of rear seams.In addition to the solid color versions—available in black, navy, and white—the same model is also offered with a blue fish print, perfect for adding a touch of originality and freshness while standing out with elegance.

Boxer shorts: comfortable and loose-fitting underwear

Unlike the previous styles, boxer shorts are loose and lightweight, resembling shorts, perfect to wear with relaxed clothing or for sleeping in total freedom. They are highly breathable and ideal for warm climates, where moisture can cause excessive sweating or irritation in the groin area. However, they offer no support, making them less suitable for active days or sports activities. Additionally, they cannot be worn under formal suits or tight trousers, as they may show through. Julipet offers a range of boxer shorts that are roomy yet comfortable, allowing the skin to breathe without feeling restrictive, such as the pure cotton pinstripe boxer in shades of gray: an elegant underwear piece, even if it’s not visible.

These shorts are perfect for maintaining a discreet and refined look on any occasion, but you can also experiment with some light, delicate patterns to add a touch of flair. Examples include the high-quality pure cotton poplin boxers with a red-blue micro pattern and the wide pure cotton checkered boxers.

How to choose the right men’s underwear for your body type?

Understanding which underwear best suits your body type is essential for comfort, style, and personal confidence. For a slim physique, it’s preferable to choose fitted styles that enhance your shape and provide structure, avoiding loose models that can create an unflattering “baggy” effect. A muscular build may benefit from medium-leg fitted boxers to prevent marks on the thighs and allow freedom of movement. Seamless boxers are ideal for those who are very active, offering maximum comfort and flexibility thanks to the softness of the fabric. Finally, for those with a pronounced abdomen and wide hips, soft, supportive bands work best. Opt for fitted boxers with a mid or high waist, or briefs with a snug cut that leave no marks. Low-rise or overly stretchy underwear should be avoided in this case, as they can cause discomfort.

Which men’s underwear should you choose for sports?

For sports, it’s important that underwear provides support, prevents thigh chafing, and stays in place without rolling up or slipping down. This way, they offer all the comfort and mobility needed during movement. Besides the style, the fabric also plays a crucial role. To prevent bad odors, irritation, or discomfort, it’s best to choose microfiber, technical fabrics, or lightweight and soft natural fibers.

Briefs or boxers: which is better if you want to feel supported?

If you’re looking for maximum support, the choice depends on personal factors. Briefs provide strong front support and, despite not having fabric on the thighs, stay securely in place even during dynamic movements. They’re perfect for those seeking precise, direct support. Fitted boxers, if made with technical fabrics, offer a good level of containment and protection against chafing, but their lack of targeted front support can be a drawback for those needing greater stability.

What is the best fabric for underwear?

Among the various fabrics available on the market, some are especially suitable for underwear. First and foremost is cotton: natural, hypoallergenic, and gentle on the skin, cotton is very durable through washes and offers excellent breathability, making it perfect for warmer seasons. Modal is another fabric that pairs well with certain types of boxers or briefs, thanks to its lightness and softness. It regulates moisture and dries quickly, while maintaining its shape even after many washes. On Julipet’s website, you can find many options perfect for any season and occasion, such as mercerised cotton briefs, silky and refined to the touch, or the boxer model made from micromodal jersey with a slim fit cut—a modern garment with impeccable softness.

How to measure men’s underwear size?

Underwear should feel like a second skin—neither too tight nor too loose on the body. To get the right size, it’s helpful to measure key areas such as the waist, hips, and thigh circumference. When shopping online, it’s always advisable to consult the specific size charts provided on the website, like the ones available on Julipet’s product pages, which guide you in choosing the size that best fits your measurements.