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The Best Boxers For Men

Last updated on October 27, 2023

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The perfect pair of underwear can be tough to find. For many men, there’s a clear preference for boxers versus briefs, with some men choosing boxer-briefs as a great middle-ground option.

But there’s a scientific reason to veer toward briefs. Studies have shown that briefs are better for fertility, so men striving to conceive are often advised to shift to looser-fitting underwear and pants to boost their chances.

MORE: The Best Boxer Briefs

For most men, though, it’s all about comfort. You opt for boxers because they’re lightweight and loose-fitting, so chances are, you want cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. The more comfortable the fabric, the better.

There’s also the issue of the waistband. These are usually made of elastic, but some boxers have elastic that cuts into your skin, making them uncomfortable to wear. Better-quality boxers feature a waistband design where the elastic holds the underwear in place without sacrificing comfort.

The color of your boxer shorts comes into play, as well. Unless you wear lighter-colored bottoms that are transparent enough for your underwear to show through, a darker pattern or solid is better. Lighter underwear shows stains more easily, making them tougher to keep clean. You can find boxers in navy and black in your choice of solids and pattern varieties.

Even when you go with the most durable, stain-reducing pair of boxers, though, they’ll have a limited shelf life. Experts recommend taking inventory of your underwear at least once a year to look for signs of wear and stains that can’t be removed. Multipacks of underwear are so affordable, it’s worth it to invest in a new set rather than waiting until your current pairs are threadbare.

As you’re choosing a pair of boxers, it’s important to make sure you choose the right size. Boxers that are too small will feel constricting throughout the day, while oversized boxers might drift down when you stand up or walk around. Either way, you’ll be uncomfortable. If you’re switching brands, pay close attention to the measurements since designers can vary in their sizing.

Our Picks For The Top Boxers For Men

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Gildan Moisture Wicking Boxers For Men, 5-Pack

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Gildan

Moisture Wicking Boxers For Men, 5-Pack

This set includes five pairs of boxers in shades of blue. The cotton-polyester blend gives you comfort mixed with durability and ease of care. The elastic waistband is woven to keep your underwear in place while still providing comfort.

Overall Take

Comfortable Under JeansWhether you’re wearing jeans or pants, these boxers for men are designed to lay flat to keep you looking great.

 Runner Up

Fruit of the Loom Tagless Waistband Boxers For Men, 6-Pack

Fruit of the Loom

Tagless Waistband Boxers For Men, 6-Pack

Stock your underwear drawer with this assortment of boxers for men in a variety of color options. The cotton-polyester blend keeps it lightweight and the design ensures it doesn’t bunch while you move throughout your day. You can machine wash and tumble dry these boxers for a low-maintenance solution.

Overall Take

Everyday WearThis set of six boxer shorts is perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re working or playing.

 We Also Like

M MOACC Single Button Fly Boxers For Men, 5-Pack

M MOACC

Single Button Fly Boxers For Men, 5-Pack

You’ll get five pairs of 100 percent cotton boxers, each with a single button-fly design. The boxers are tagless, so you won’t have to worry about an uncomfortable tag scratching you throughout the day. Each pair of boxers is machine washable with a comfort flex waistband that stretches as you move to keep you comfortable.

Overall Take

No WedgiesThe three-panel rear helps keep your boxers for men where they belong to keep you from dealing with wedgies throughout the day.

  The Best Value

Active Club Breathable Cotton Boxers For Men, 6-Pack

Active Club

Breathable Cotton Boxers For Men, 6-Pack

A 100 percent cotton build makes these boxers both lightweight and soft, keeping you comfortable throughout the day. You’ll get a set of six shorts, each in a classy plaid pattern in subtle hues. The elastic waistband is designed to hug your waist without constricting it and double-stitched hems will keep the underwear intact through months of re...

Overall Take

Great for WorkoutsThe lightweight, breathable design of these boxers will keep you cool and comfortable whether you’re working or working out.

What to Look For

  • Underwear multipacks come in different forms. You can find sets of three, four, five or more, typically featuring the same shades and patterns. If you prefer solids, you can find those, as well.
  • Cotton is beloved for its soft feel, but it might wear more quickly than polyester. A cotton-polyester blend can give you the comfort you love while still offering durability.
  • Chances are, you won’t want to handwash your underwear every time you wear them. Look for boxers that can be machine washed and tumbled dry to keep things as convenient as possible.
  • If you’re planning to wear your boxers while working out or spending time outdoors in the heat, make sure you choose a lightweight, breathable pair.
  • Stitching can make a big difference in how well any garment holds up. This is true of boxer shorts, too. You’ll likely be wearing, washing and drying them regularly, so reinforced stitching can help you get months of wear out of your boxers.
  • Some boxers easily bunch up, especially if you’re wearing khakis or loose-fitting jeans. Boxers that are designed with a slimmer cut that hugs the legs can ensure they stay in place throughout the day, whether you’re standing, sitting or walking around.
  • Wedgies can be a problem with any underwear. Some boxers now feature a three-panel design on the rear to prevent creeping and keep the shorts where they belong.
  • Boxers lack in the support they provide, so if you’re doing something particularly aerobic, such as going for a morning run, you’ll either want workout pants that offer support or underwear you wear specifically for that activity.
  • Some men find boxers are better as sleepwear and loungewear. You’ll get that comfort while enjoying the support you need during the day with your briefs or boxer-briefs.

More to Explore

Underwear has come a long way from its earliest form, the loincloth. This was simply a piece of fabric draped over the groin and hips. The loincloth was adapted for various cultures in early history, only evolving during the Middle Ages, when knee-length trousers called Braies replaced the loincloth. Braies required a codpiece at the center and were initially thought of as pants. Eventually, though, they transitioned into early underwear.

The Industrial Revolution brought a big change in men’s underwear, including the invention of the union suit. This full-length button-up undergarment was similar in design to the thermal underwear seen today. But what was revolutionary about the union suit was the introduction of a flap in the crotch area that made bathroom visits easier.

More to explore