Boxers or Briefs? [Manpacks Labs Edition]

 

Most guys wear underwear. 93% of us, according to a few surveys circulating the web. But most guys don’t *think* about their underwear, so let’s take a moment to answer one of the classic questions: boxers or briefs?

First, the big three attributes.

1) Support. Whether you are exercising, walking a lot, well-hung or just like the snug fit, sometimes you want to make sure everything down there stays in its right place. Briefs win.

2) Breathability. Maybe it’s a hot wet Summer, or your co-workers keep the heat cranked to 78 degrees all winter. Or maybe you prefer to stay well circulated instead of crammed into some tighty whities. Boxers win.

3) Style. Unless you’re in the minority of people who really look good in briefs – or a larger percentage who simply don’t care – it’s better to steer clear of them.  Boxers are the safer choice that look good whether you’re heavy or thin. Boxers win.

 

And now some use cases:

• You’ve just peed. You shake it out, put it back in your pants, and your underwear is responsible for taking care of any drippage. Briefs absorb and contain, while Boxers let drips run straight down your leg. Briefs win.
• You’re wearing well-fitted pants. Boxers have lots of excess fabric that can bunch up, while Briefs stay put. Briefs win.
• You’re going to bed. Support is not an issue while you’re laying down, and Boxers allow maximum breathability to keep you cool, dry, and healthy. Boxers win.
• You want to reproduce. The argument that briefs can be constrictive, raising scrotal temperature and reducing sperm count, has some merit HOWEVER, your Dad probably wore briefs… so don’t worry too much about it. No winner.

BRIEFS 3, BOXERS 3 – a tie. 

 

BUT there’s no need to choose one over the other. Here’s what we prescribe:

Everyday active use: Boxer Briefs give you the best of both worlds – support and style. Note: if you live in a warmer climate or are walking around a lot, the Saxx Ultra Boxer Briefs (scroll to the bottom here) are expensive, weird, and amazing. The Viscose fabric is very lightweight, and mesh inserts keep you supported without any rubbing/sweating/rashing.

Everyday inactive use: Boxers are fine if you’re sitting behind a desk all day and just want to hang loose.

Sleeping: Boxers, no question.

Weekends: For going out, we recommend a pair of CK micro modal trunks, or some sleek PACT boxer briefs. If you’re on the heavier side, you might go with some quality boxers instead. Check them out here.

 

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