The best pouched boxer briefs to keep you comfortable and cool
Men’s underwear doesn't change much. It was boxers for a long time. Then briefs. The two morphed into the hybrid boxer briefs in the '90s and while there's been changes in length and style, the fundamentals have remained pretty similar. But over the past few years, a new breed of underwear has emerged. Modern boxer briefs and trunks, cut from lightweight stretchy material (think modal and viscose) that come equipped with inner pouches that are designed to tackle specific needs like support and separation. Designed specifically to prevent bunching, squishing and skin-on-skin stickiness or chafing, these pouches are not merely gimmicks. Saxx was the first brand we were aware of, but many others soon followed. The market is getting so big that even Hanes—responsible for nearly 40% off all men's underwear sales in America—has just introduced their version. So we had a few guys take some for a spin. Some pairs we liked, others we didn't. Here are the ones we think you need to know about.
Our Tester Says:
These are the most affordable pair, that's for sure. So if you want to try out the technology, these are a safe bet. The mesh pouch is nice, but the actual boxer fabric doesn't have enough stretch and the fit is a little long in the legs. And while the thicker waistband is comfortable, the screaming HANES logo is a little loud.
Comfort Flex Fit boxer briefs, $17.79 (for 3-pack) by Hanes
Our Tester Says:
Turns out, three Valet. writers already owned a pair. I wasn't one but I can now see why. These are the most discreet—their “BallPark Pouch” features barely-there lightweight mesh panels that don't cramp or push out your package. They simply separate your balls from your thighs. That, paired with the form-fitting cut allows freedom of movement and makes your butt look good. I really can't ask for more.
Ultra trunk,
$32 by Saxx
Our Tester Says:
These have “dual pouch technology,” which means everything gets its own space. I get what they're trying to do, and if you usually have to readjust yourself when wearing regular underwear, maybe you'll find it useful. But these were a little too involved for me. To be honest, it felt like my dick was sheathed in a tube sock and it was ... distracting. Plus, it wasn't exactly a flattering look for the package—I won't be wearing these on any dates.
Fast-Dry boxer briefs, $29.99 (for 2-pack) by Separatec
Our Tester Says:
This can only be described as a push-up bra for your package. There's engineering here and while I don't think I'd wear them daily, I have to say I didn't hate the experience. The 3.21 Fly Series is the brand's flagship model and the stretchy, lightweight trunks are designed to isolate everything. There's a circular-seamed hole for your penis, to separate it from your testicles, which are separated from your thighs. But I found you don't always have to use the hole. Of course, on extremely hot days (or when I want my package to be a bit more pronounced) it could come in handy.
3.21 boxer briefs,
$27 by Sheath
Our Tester Says:
For guys that are maybe a bit more well-endowed, this pair offers plenty of space to keep everything contained and supported. The U-shaped pouch wraps under your package for a slight lift to keep your balls in place. The fabric is silky but substantial and withstood a lot of washings because I kept going back to this one pair. These cost more than I usually spend, but I'll be buying additional pairs.
Classic trunk,
$30 by BN3TH
Our Tester Says:
These have a smaller opening for the pouch, but I liked that it didn't just separate, it actually supports you. Like a sports bra for your junk. I didn't use the horizontal fly, but I did appreciate the mesh panels and moisture-wicking properties during workouts.
Paradise Pocket Athletic Fit boxer briefs, $18 by All Citizens
Surveys show that between 5% and 7% of men don’t wear underwear at all.
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