A quality pair of boxer briefs are a welcome addition to any man’s underwear drawer.
No matter your physique, the right pair of boxer briefs should not only ride up but also be made from breathable quality materials, have a waistband that won’t dig into your skin and have a pouch that won’t make your manhood uncomfortable – like the Tommy John Second Skin boxer briefs.
In this review and guide, we not only take a look at some of the best boxer briefs currently available but also share a few tips on what you need to look out for when buying boxer briefs in order to get the best (and appropriate) fit.
Let’s get started:
5 Tips for Finding the Perfect Boxer Briefs
1. Material
By their very nature, boxer briefs are a blend of materials. When reviewing the fabrics, here’s what you can expect in terms of performance:
- Cotton: Breathable and inexpensive, cotton usually makes up the majority of any boxer brief. In addition, this fabric prevents heat or moisture buildup making everything feel cool and odor-free.
- Modal: A variant of Rayon, modal is a synthetic fiber that is both soft and smooth. It’s also highly absorbent of body moisture. Despite the upsides, modal isn’t that durable, requiring regular replacement.
- Spandex: This flexible fabric gives boxer briefs their close-to-the-body fit. The inclusion of Spandex is what makes boxer briefs different from traditional boxers.
2. Waistband
Be sure to take a close look at the waistband when selecting a pair of boxer briefs. Too narrow, and the boxer briefs will cut into your skin – making them quite uncomfortable when worn throughout the day. On the other hand, too high of a waistband, and it will roll every time you bend over.
Ideally, you should be looking for a happy medium here regarding the size of the waistband.
3. Cut & Style
Select a pair of boxers that complement your body type. If taller, go with a longer pair of boxers. For shorter men, a more modest-sized boxer will be more comfortable. Too much fabric in any selection may cause bunching under your pants.
4. Support
When buying a pair of boxer briefs, it’s essential to get a pair that has a 3D pouch for your member. With the extra space, you won’t experience restriction, pulling, or overheating throughout the day.
Fun Fact: According to apreliminary study listed on the National Institutes of Health website, researchers confirmed that tighter briefs would result in lower sperm counts.
5. Other Important Features
Take just a minute to think about the following features before buying:
- Fly Type: Some men like the open-access fly, and others like their fly sewn shut to prevent mishaps. Boxer briefs come in either of these varieties. If one is more important to you than the other, make sure to read the product description before making your purchase.
- Flat Seams: This reverse stitching allows for greater comfort on the inside of the boxer brief.
- Moisture Wicking: If the boxer brief contains modal or other synthetic fibers, it should be able to draw moisture from the skin to prevent chaffing.
Comparing Boxer Briefs
| Product | Material(s) | Sizes Available | Colors Available | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tommy John Second Skin Boxer Briefs | 90% Micro Modal / 10% Spandex | SM – XXL | 29 | Best Overall |
| Calvin Klein Cotton Stretch Boxer Briefs | 100% Cotton | SM – XL | 23 | Most Breathable |
| Adidas Sports Boxer Briefs | 91% Polyester / 9% Spandex | SM – 4XL | 16 | Best Athletic / Performance |
| 5Mayi Men’s Boxer Briefs | 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex | SM – 4XL | 10 | Best Affordable (Cheap) |
| Jockey Cotton Boxer Brief | 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex | SM – XL | 7 | Best Low Rise |
The Best Boxer Briefs Reviewed
1. Best Overall: Tommy John Second Skin Boxer Briefs
Founded by husband and wife duo Tom Patterson and Erin Fujimoto, Tommy John changed the way of what undergarments should be. Instead of being bold, ill-fitting, and either too tight or too loose, they introduced a line of clothing that provides a much better fit, is more tailored, and is fashionable (without going overboard).
One of their most popular products, and perhaps the reason you may have heard their name before, is with their incredible Second Skin boxer briefs.
At the time of initial publication, these boxer briefs have received over 1,800 reviews – with a terrific rating.
Men’s praises on these boxer briefs range from “feel and fit great” to a much more emphatic “best underwear ever!”
So, what makes them so unique and worth the investment?
First the fabric:
Relying on a blend of micro modal (90%) and spandex (10%), these boxer briefs will feel incredibly soft (silk-like) while still being breathable.
Unlike cotton and other natural fabrics that may start to pill over time, these unique boxer briefs will retain their look and structure after several washes.
In addition to the great fabric choice, the waistband is also equally well-made. Being a touch wider than most, it won’t cut into your hips making it comfortable while wearing all day long. Furthermore, the waistband has enough structure in it to not roll, either.
But perhaps one of the most unique features on these boxer briefs when compared to all others we reviewed was the fly.
Unlike most that have a vertical fly that is to the side, the Tommy John Second Skin boxer briefs feature a horizontal fly (dubbed ‘Quick Draw) that allows for easier access.
If there were any drawbacks, it would be their intended use. While we also reviewed athletic boxer briefs within this guide, the Tommy John Second Skin boxer briefs are only intended for everyday wear. But not all is lost, if you want to stay within the family; Tommy John does make a performance-based boxer brief with its 360 Sport Collection line.
Key Facts
- Material(s): 90% Micro Modal / 10% Spandex
- Sizes Available: SM – XXL
- Colors Available: 29
- Best For: General Use
Pros
- Soft and well-constructed
- Will conform to the natural contours of your body
- Unique fly allows for quick access
Cons
- Expensive
What You Need To Know
If you want the best when it comes to a daily boxer brief, then the Tommy John Second Skins are going to be your top pick. The anti-pilling micro modal fabric will feel great on your skin throughout the day.
3. Most Breathable: Calvin Klein Cotton Stretch Boxer Briefs
Made from 100% cotton, these highly breathable boxer briefs allow for excellent airflow throughout the groin area.
The increased airflow will help to prevent any heat or condensation buildup around the natural folds of your skin, a common breeding ground for bacteria that may cause mild irritation (jock itch) along with the prevention of any foul odors from accumulating.
While cotton can come in many varieties including chino twill, Supima, and many more, the cotton that Calvin Klein used within these boxer briefs is extremely soft – making it comfortable when worn throughout the day.
Although as breathable as these may be, it is worth noting that there is a lack of any elastic fibers woven in.
This means that these boxer briefs may be susceptible to rolling up, especially during athletic or high-performance demands.
Think of these as more of a 9-to-5 workday or casual weekend boxer brief.
Lastly, the fly on the front pouch does open for easy access.
What customers are saying: Customers appreciate the softness and comfort of these boxer briefs, with some even considering them the best brand ever. However, there are concerns about the fit, such as being too tight in the waist or legs and shrinkage after washing.
Key Facts:
- Material(s): 100% Cotton
- Sizes Available: SM – XL
- Colors Available: 23
- Best For: Casual or Daily Wear
Pros
- 100% cotton and highly breathable
- Mid-length suitable for most men
- Machine washable
Cons
- No elastic may cause rolling up
What You Need To Know
If you are looking for 100% cotton boxer briefs, then these ones from Calvin Klein are a great selection. The highly breathable fabric allows for maximum airflow and will be “comfy” to wear.
3. Best Athletic / Performance: Adidas Sports Boxer Briefs
Built for high-performance situations from the ground up, the Adidas Sports Boxer Briefs was a huge hit with a lot of men.
First, the material:
These boxer briefs from Adidas feature a blend of polyester (91%) and spandex (9%).
While many may discount polyester and think it unbreathable or sweaty…
…you would have been right about 40 years ago.
While it is true that polyester is made synthetically (source), the technology for this fabric has improved greatly over time.
In fact, when you put these boxer briefs on and start to build up a sweat, the fabric will wick away moisture from the skin, keeping your groin area dry and not prone to chafing.
Beyond the high polyester composition, the 9% spandex also gives this boxer brief plenty of elasticity (but doesn’t overdo it), ensuring that they don’t roll up if you are wearing them under pants or any other tight outer garments.
One feature that makes this great for performance is the pouch area. Double-lined for additional support, it will keep your manhood in place without it getting in the way or being jostled around causing mild discomfort.
Given that these are built for athletic scenarios rather than casual use, there is no fly opening on the front.
At a mid-thigh length and available in 16 different colors, you can find a pair that can complement your activewear or team’s uniform.
What customers are saying: Customers appreciate the comfortable fit, breathability, and quality materials of these boxer briefs. They are highly recommended for various activities such as running, hiking, and working out. However, a few customers noted that some similar products may not hold up well over time.
Key Facts
- Material(s): 91% Polyester / 9% Spandex
- Sizes Available: SM – 4XL
- Colors Available: 16
- Best For: Athletic / Active Performance
Pros
- Build for high-performance scenarios
- Wicks away moisture
- Pouch keeps your groin secured without crushing force
Cons
- Not the best for casual use
What You Need To Know
Whether you are going running, playing an organized sport or lifting weights, these high-performance boxer briefs by Adidas do a great job in supporting you while being active. The moisture-wicking material helps to prevent chafing and further increases comfort.
4. Best Affordable (Cheap): 5Mayi Men’s Boxer Briefs
For those men on a budget and tired of their old economy mega-packs that they have been picking up at the local supercenter, then the 5Mayi makes for the perfect upgrade.
Unlike so many economy brands that rely on just cotton (nothing wrong with that, of course) and no other materials to provide structure or support can leave the boxer briefs feeling a bit lifeless after a few washes.
With the 5Mayi boxer briefs, you get a composition of fabrics that are normally found in some of the higher-end brands (think Hugo BOSS, Ralph Lauren, etc.) – a mix of 95% cotton and 5% spandex.
This strikes a perfect balance of both breathability along with a material that will conform to the natural contours and curves of your pelvic region without bunching or rolling up.
It is available in sizes ranging from Small to 4XL making it one of the best boxer briefs that we reviewed to work with just about any body type.
While the color selection is fairly limited to just 10 choices (especially compared to some brands that offer over 20 different color varieties), they are conservative and won’t draw attention.
The support is well-constructed and won’t constrict your manhood. Also worth noting is that the fly does open and they are tag-less.
Available in multi-packs of five, when you order these boxer briefs, you will think it was priced incorrectly considering the value you are receiving.
What customers are saying: Customers have mixed opinions about these boxer briefs, with some praising their comfort and fit, while others criticize the quality due to tearing and discomfort. Reported issues include waistbands that roll, irritating stitching, and inaccurate sizing.
Key Facts
- Material(s): 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex
- Sizes Available: SM – 4XL
- Colors Available: 10
- Best For: Men on A Budget
Pros
- Really affordable
- Great blend of materials
- Wide size variety
Cons
- Limited colors
What You Need To Know
If you are looking for a pair of boxer briefs that won’t cost an arm and a leg, then these are a terrific pick. They are made from quality materials and the sturdy construction will feel like a second skin without feeling too constricted.
5. Best Low Rise: Jockey Cotton Boxer Brief
Whether you plan on wearing these with a pair of your low-rise denim, or you simply want a pair of boxer briefs that won’t dig into your lower abdomen or hip, these make for a perfect pick.
As evident in numerous positive reviews that men have given, these low-rise boxer briefs are a crowd-pleaser.
Relying on a combination material of 95% cotton and 5% elastane, these boxer briefs will also feel incredibly comfortable when on your skin.
The added breathability that cotton naturally exhibits will ensure adequate airflow to not only neutralize odors but to also inhibit the growth of bacteria.
With a key-hole fly design, you do have front access to your member through the 3D pouch.
While the branding on the waistband is a bit aggressive, especially when compared to some of the more conservative offerings, it is wide enough to add additional comfort and structure when wearing the boxer brief.
Available in sizes ranging from SM to XL, it is a bit limiting compared to other brands like 5Mayi.
What customers are saying: Many customers find these boxer briefs to be comfortable, with a nice fit and sufficient stretch. Some note their satisfaction with the 100% cotton fabric and variety of colors. However, a few customers have experienced issues with durability and the fly design.
Key Facts
- Material(s): 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex
- Sizes Available: SM – XL
- Colors Available: 7
- Best For: Low Rise Jeans
Pros
- Low-rise cut perfect for jeans or shorts
- Highly breathable fabric is comfortable
- Reviewers loved them
Cons
- Branding on the waistband is bold
What You Need To Know
If you are looking for a quality boxer brief that is available in a low-rise cut, then these will be the perfect boxer briefs for you. Jockey has found a winner as evident by the overly positive reviews from other men as well.