Looking for the best boxer briefs money can buy in 2020? We've got you covered (pun intended).
Not only do you wear underwear more than any other article of clothing, but it also covers one of the most important parts of your body.
It’s crucial that your underwear is comfortable, but too many guys settle for ill-fitting, low quality underwear that was probably under questionable working conditions.
I used to be one of those guys. I wore whatever cotton boxers I could find in a multipack on sale at the department store. I thought this was as good as it gets for underwear.
These days, though, there are so many amazing underwear options for men. This is awesome, but it means you have to figure out which brands are best for you (and worth your money).
But first…
Quick Take
Want the short list? Here are our top three picks for the best boxer briefs you can buy right now:
RibbedTee is now on their third iteration of their boxer briefs, the G3, and it's quite possibly the most comfortable underwear I've ever worn.
These Hanes ComfortFlex Boxer Briefs are super comfortable and surprisingly durable for the price (roughly $3/pair on Amazon).
These luxurious under garments are cut from Micro Modal AIR, which is thinner and softer than silk.
Read on to see the complete list…
Why Boxer Briefs?
Every guy is going to have their own preferences when it comes to which type of underwear takes the crown (and jewels), but for me it's boxer briefs, hands down.
Boxers are too baggy to wear with slim fit pants, so those are out.
I don't like the way traditional briefs feel tight along each side of the crotch, and I don't think they look as flattering as boxer briefs.
Trunks are okay too, but I find that the shorter leg tends to ride up much more than longer boxer briefs.
So for me, boxer briefs are definitely the best type of men's underwear. But what are the best boxer brief brands?
The Best Boxer Briefs
I’ve tried many, many different pairs of boxer briefs, from long standing popular brands to relative newcomers (some of which are incredible).
My two main criteria for great boxer briefs are:
- Comfort (soft, no chaffing or riding up)
- Durability (no fading, pilling or stretching after a few washes)
If it also looks great, that’s a bonus. If I can work out in them, that's a double bonus!
So without further adieu, here are the best boxer briefs for guys, in my opinion:
#1: Hanes ComfortFlex Boxer Briefs
Most of the boxer briefs on this list are somewhat premium (between $15-35 per pair).
I understand that many guys can't or don't want to spend that much money on underwear, and I have good news!
These Hanes ComfortFlex Boxer Briefs are super comfortable and surprisingly durable for the price (roughly $3/pair on Amazon).
I've worn these for a couple of years, and I still rotate them in with my higher end underwear.
They are definitely my top pick for the best affordable boxer briefs on the market right now.
#2: RibbedTee G3 Men’s Boxer Briefs
I’ve been wearing RibbedTee for years, so I was pretty excited when I heard they were launching their first ever line of underwear a few years ago.
In fact, RibbedTee founder, Mike, asked for some help dialing in the measurements for their small size. I tried on some samples and gave my feedback, and I was really happy with the end results.
RibbedTee is now on their third iteration of their boxer briefs, the G3, and it's quite possibly the most comfortable underwear I've ever worn.
They’re made from a type of nylon called CoolNylon. It’s very dry and smooth, sort of like the Lululemon boxer briefs. It has some stretch, but not as much as micro modal.
It’s extremely comfortable. You almost forget you’re wearing underwear. I think the fabric has a lot to do with that, but also the design.
There aren’t any tags on the inside of the underwear, and the waistband is just a thin hem, not an elastic band like you’re used to.
Somehow, these don't ride up, even when hitting squats at the gym. Plus, there's enough room in the crotch to never feel any tightness or discomfort.
In terms of looks, these are better than ExOfficio but not as good as Tani (then again, what is?). But they’re very, very comfortable and extremely durable.
#3: Lululemon AIM Boxer Briefs
I know what you’re thinking – isn’t Lululemon where your girlfriend goes to buy overpriced yoga pants?
Well yes, it is. And maybe Lululemon realized that all those guys waiting for their ladies to try stuff on might want to buy themselves something nice. Who knows?
But they created some of the most comfortable and durable underwear I’ve ever worn.
Actually, I have to give my dad credit for finding these. I thought I had the underwear game figured out, but he swore by these boxers, and I have to say: he was right.
They’re made from Mesh Modal fabric, which is very soft and dries quickly, but they have Lycra woven in for stretch and durability.
They’re really good at wicking moisture too, so you can work out or hike in these bad boys.
They're also available in a 7″ inseam if you prefer a slightly longer leg. I like the 7″ version with pants, but not with shorts (since I wear shorts above the knee).
If you’re searching for a well-rounded pair of boxer briefs, I recommend Lululemon.
#4: Tani Silkcut Boxer Briefs
If Lululemon is the laid back girl next door, Tani is that babe at work who you’re pretty sure is out of your league but might have been flirting with you the other day…
These luxurious under garments are cut from Micro Modal AIR, which is thinner and softer than silk.
They’re 6% elastane, so they’re pretty stretchy compared to something like ExOfficio.
In fact, they’re so soft and thin that I was sure they wouldn’t hold up well over time, but I was wrong.
I have two pairs that I’ve rotated through my underwear drawer regularly for a couple of years, and they’ve maintained their shape and color perfectly.
What really sets Tani apart from the crowd is how they look. The only word I can think of to describe these silk cut boxer briefs is “sexy.”
If looks are a priority, I highly recommend Tani. If you want something yo can exercise in, these might not be your best bet.
#5: ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs
I got my first pair of ExOfficio boxers at REI, right before a hiking trip. I had heard great things about the brand from Tim Ferriss, who recommended them especially for travelers who like to pack light.
And he was right. These boxer briefs wick moisture, they don’t retain much odor, and they dry super fast, which makes them extremely easy to clean.
They’re a nylon/spandex blend, so they have a little stretch, but I’d say they’re closer to the Lululemon feel than the Tani or RibbedTee.
Also, these aren’t exactly sexy. They’re workhorses, and they’re awesome for travel, but they’re not winning any beauty contests.
I have two pairs, and I’ve worn them a lot. They’ve started to show signs of age, but that’s to be expected after a lot of use.
Since these are my go-to travel underwear, they get a lot more wear than my fancy stuff.
They’re super comfortable and durable, and they’re reasonably priced, especially on Amazon. I highly recommend trying them out, especially if you like to travel light.
#6: Saxx Boxer Briefs
There’s a whole category of men's underwear that offers extra support by way of additional lining or built in “pouches” for your boys (plural) and even your boy (singular).
Several companies, like Saxx, have built their entire brand around this feature.
Personally, I’m okay with the traditional, pouch-less boxer brief. But some guys swear by the extra support, so if you haven’t tried it for yourself, it might be a worthwhile endeavor.
I do have one pair of Saxx that I keep in my rotation, but it’s an honorable mention because I kind of have mixed feelings about it.
While the minimal, lining style pouch is pretty comfy, and they are very flattering underwear, I'm just not sure the pouch is necessary.
I just wanted to include them so you know that this type of underwear is a thing, and it might be worth checking out, especially if you're prone to sweating down there.
#7: Pair of Thieves Cool Breeze
Here's another new-ish brand that makes surprisingly comfortable and very handsome boxer briefs for guys.
I've found that these ride up less than many other brands, and the wide variety of available colors/patterns are actually very flattering.
The Cool Breeze Boxer Briefs have a mesh like feel, and I much prefer this fabric to traditional cotton. It's great for daily wear, travel and working out.
Considering the fact that some of the underwear on this list cost $25+ per pair, I think that Pair of Thieves multipacks are a pretty good deal.
What did I miss?
You really can't go wrong with any of these brands, and I really do think it's worth investing a bit of hard earned cash in higher quality undies.
What's your favorite pair of boxer briefs? Let me know in the comments below!
Frankly, no fly no buy.
What about uniqlo’s boxer briefs? I’ve heard good things about them
Love my uniqlo airism trunks!
Brock, how about some reviews on the different types from Mack Weldon?!
I’m with Flyman. No fly, no buy, and I don’t buy synthetics. Modal I would consider because I believe it’s made from plant fiber. The Costco Champion boxer briefs about 6 years ago were perfection. Champion then got bought out and changed the design and now they aren’t as long, stretchy, or tightly woven. I haven’t tried any high end merino boxer briefs but I do spend the extra money on merino long underwear since I work year round outdoors. Any suggestions would be welcomed.
I’m surprised that you did not mention TommyJohn. I purchased two pairs and I really like them.
I also recommend uniqlo Airism and mesh underwear. They’re extremely affordable and so comfortable.
Do you have recommendations on the best undershirts? I have the hardest time finding small, but not too short undershirts.
The problem I often have is the length is too long for me so they’re practically touching my knees. Which brands are best for short men?
Honestly, I have found American Eagle boxer briefs to be my favorite.Especially the longer length version. They don’t ride up and when they are on sale or clearance you can get them for next to nothing.