The 12 Best Boxer Briefs Truly Are the Best of Both Worlds

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Boxer briefs are the happy medium between two ends of the underwear spectrum. Indeed, there are battle lines: some men like things loose and long-ish, and others prefer short and clingy. Different strokes for different folks, right?

Most guys in the boxers versus briefs debate, however, find the boxer brief totally acceptable. Boxer briefs, as the name clearly expresses, meld the best of both worlds: coverage and cling. The style provides the necessary, ahem, support, while not being too revealing. And there’s also much more of a variety, from colors and materials to different inseam lengths—even the size and configuration of the center pouch can shift.

Fit is relative, of course, but the best boxer briefs should make you feel like you’re wearing nothing at all. They shouldn’t pinch, nor should they be bulky. Also, many new options are made of technical fibers—including modal and tencel—that are moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, or a combination of both. It ain't just about standard cotton anymore. So, if you’re looking for some fresh skivvies, we have all those options and more in the selection below.

Comfort Flex Fit Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs (3-Pack)

Hanes is an OG in the underwear game, and it's been going for over a century (!) by offering comfortable and cooling options at a price that's tough to beat.

CK Axis Boxer Briefs (3-Pack)

Calvin Klein, perhaps the most iconic name in underwear today, has kept its reputation by consistently making sleek styles that act like a second skin. Because nothing should come between you and your Calvins.

The Boxer Brief

It's no surprise the brand that specializes in considered basics makes a pretty damn solid pair of boxer briefs.

AIRKNITx HD 8" Boxer Brief

An expertly executed pair of boxer briefs from a brand that does 'em better than almost any else.

Heritage Boxer Briefs

Leave to the always-outdoorsy Flint and Tinder to offer up retro-inspired boxer briefs, made of 100 percent soft-brushed cotton, that remind us of summer camp.

6" Mid-Length Boxer Briefs 2-Pack

If you prefer a boxer briefs with a little extra coverage, Tommy John's 6" pair are for you. These have a silky soft, breathable fabric that feels like a second skin, but still has plenty of support thanks to a contour pouch.

3" Boxer Briefs (3-Pack)

Personally, I only wear Skims underwear. What can I say? Kim K's underwear empire produces damn good, comfortable, durable basics. This trio of boxer briefs, for example, is stretchy and breathable, designed to move with you.

Classics Boxer Briefs

Savage x Fenty's boxer briefs are for comfort that you don't have to think twice about. With an elastic waistband and super-soft fabric, these are a style you're definitely going to stock up on.

Anytime Boxer Brief

And for something wearable and seamless for the everyday, Allbirds has boxer briefs with deodorizing fabric, moisture-wicking tech, and a stretchy feel.

AIRism Boxer Briefs

Another standout pair from a brand that knows basics best. These ones have deodorizing technology as well as features to enhance comfort, like temperature regulation and moisture-wicking fabric.

Dri-FIT Essential 3-Pack Stretch Cotton Boxer Briefs

Not one, not two, but three pairs of boxer briefs! Nike is elite when it comes to all things comfortable and active—two things your boxer briefs should absolutely be.

Stretch 4" Boxer Briefs

J.Crew's boxer briefs have it all: a sleek, basic design, a comfortable cotton fabric, and a logo waistband that speaks for itself.

What to Look For

Every man has a different preference for underwear. Some don't even like boxer briefs at all, but if you made it all the way to the end of this page, I'm willing to venture a guess that you do.

Typically, a good pair of boxer briefs should be made to fit your habits and routine. If you're an athlete, for example, Nike's would make a great pair, because they have Dri-Fit technology that wicks away sweat. If you're someone who takes a while to get around to laundry day, go for a multi-pack, like the ones Hanes and Abercrombie & Fitch have to offer—they'll make your life so much easier.

Regardless, because of how intimately your boxer briefs sit on your body, you want a soft, breathable fabric that won't pill, rip, or ride up. Elastane waistbands ensure stretchiness and all-day comfort, and materials like cotton and polyester make for great lightweight fabrics that move with you.

More Like This

• If you're not so much a boxer briefs guy, check out some of our favorite boxer shorts.

• Or, if you just want all of our underwear recommendations, we've gathered up the 15 best underwear for men.

• And if you're hitting the gym, opt for our favorite pairs of moisture-wicking underwear.

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