Introduction
Having the best workout underwear for men can make or break your workout. Whether you’re lifting heavy at the gym, going for a run, or taking a yoga class, choosing workout-specific underwear ensures maximum comfort and support, and lets face it, those 5+ year old baggy boxer shorts just aren’t going to do it. When it comes to men’s workout underwear we have many choices, from compression shorts to jockstraps in a variety of fabrics including mesh, each type serves a unique purpose tailored to various activities. Let’s dive into the best workout underwear for men, exploring five key categories to help you find your perfect match: compression shorts, trunks, briefs, thongs, and jockstraps.
Why Workout-Specific Underwear Matters
Not all underwear is created equal—especially when it comes to workouts. Here’s why choosing the best workout underwear for men matters:
- Moisture Management: High-performance fabrics wick sweat away, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- Support and Stability: Designed to prevent discomfort and minimize movement during intense activities.
- Reduced Chafing: Seamless designs and smooth materials eliminate irritation, ensuring a pain-free workout.
- Flexibility and Fit: Athletic underwear adapts to your movements, allowing you to focus on your performance.
Categories of Workout Underwear for Men
1. Compression Shorts
Compression shorts are a staple for athletes and gym enthusiasts alike. Known for their snug fit, they provide muscle support and enhance circulation, reducing fatigue during high-impact activities like running, cycling, and HIIT.
- Key Features:
- Muscle stabilization and reduced vibration.
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics.
- Anti-chafing seamless designs.
- Top Picks:
- Nike Pro Dri-FIT: Great for intense cardio sessions. $30 at Nike.com
- Under Armour HeatGear: Lightweight and durable. $30 at Underarmour.com
- 2XU Compression Shorts: High-performance, high quality and recovery-focused. $59.99 at 2XU.com
2. Trunks
Trunks offer a balanced approach to workout underwear. With a slightly shorter leg than boxers, they’re ideal for moderate activities like weightlifting, yoga, or casual sports.
- Key Features:
- Compact fit that doesn’t bunch up under shorts.
- Breathable fabrics to prevent overheating.
- Just enough coverage for support without restriction.
- Top Picks:
- Lululemon Always in Motion Boxer: Perfect for all-day comfort. $28 at lululemon.com
- SAXX Quest 2.0 Trunks: Lightweight and moisture-wicking. $34 at saxxunderwear.com
- AsWeMove Dominate Trunk: state-of-the-art technology that eliminates heat. $39 at aswemove.com (you can read our detailed review of AsWeMove underwear here)
3. Briefs
Briefs are a go-to for men seeking maximum support with minimal fabric. Their ergonomic design makes them suitable for dynamic movements, from CrossFit to Tennis. There are many styles of brief to chose from including the bikini brief which is a great choice for workouts.
- Key Features:
- Firm hold for ultimate stability.
- Stretchable materials for unrestricted mobility.
- Compact fit ideal for high-temperature workouts.
- Top Picks:
- Leo Ultra-Light Brief: Specially woven to allow improved airflow. $19 at leomen.com
- BN3TH Pro Briefs: Designed for athletes with added pouch support. $28 at bn3th.com
- 2(X)IST Lightening Sport Brief: Breathable, proprietary Speed Dri ®nylon fabric. $28 at 2xist.com
4. Thongs
For men who value freedom of movement and minimal coverage, thongs are a bold but effective choice. They’re particularly useful for low-impact activities or for those who prefer no visible lines under tight workout clothes.
- Key Features:
- Lightweight design with a barely-there feel.
- Moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you dry.
- Minimal chafing for high-comfort performance.
- Top Picks:
- AsWeMove Dominate Zero Brief: Signature zero heat, zero feel. $37 at aswemove.com
- Obviously PrimeMan Thong: Ideal for hot yoga and stretching. $29 at obviouslyapparel.com
- Todd Sanfield Air Classic Thong: Supports without sacrificing comfort. $32 at toddsanfield.com
5. Jockstraps
Jockstraps offer unparalleled support for high-intensity sports, particularly those requiring significant movement and impact, like basketball, soccer, or martial arts.
- Key Features:
- Reinforced elastic waistband for a secure fit.
- Open-back design for optimal ventilation.
- Shock-absorbing pouch for protection.
- Top Picks:
- Bike Original #10 Jockstrap: A classic comfortable for all day wear. $25 at bikeathletic.com
- C-IN2 TransDRY® X-Jock: Sleek, supportive, and stylish. $32 at c-in2.com
- Nike Dri-FIT Essential Micro: Ideal for heavy-duty sports. $45 (3-pack) at nike.com
Materials to Look For
The fabric of your workout underwear is crucial. Here are the best materials to prioritize:
- Nylon and Polyester Blends: Lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
- Spandex: Adds stretch for maximum mobility.
- Anti-Microbial Treatments: Reduces odor, keeping you fresh throughout your workout.
- Avoid Cotton: While soft, it absorbs sweat and dries slowly, leading to discomfort.
Choosing the Right Underwear for Your Workout
- For High-Intensity Cardio: Go for compression shorts or jockstraps to minimize movement and maximize support.
- For Weightlifting: Trunks or briefs offer the right balance of stability and comfort.
- For Yoga and Stretching: Thongs or lightweight trunks provide flexibility and minimal restriction.
- For Team Sports: Jockstraps are a must for protection and ventilation.
Top Brands for Workout Underwear
When it comes to workout underwear, these brands stand out:
- Nike: Known for cutting-edge sportswear technology.
- Under Armour: Exceptional moisture-wicking fabrics.
- SAXX: Innovative pouch designs for enhanced support.
- Lululemon: Perfect blend of style and performance.
- adidas: Reliable, budget-friendly options.
Conclusion
Investing in the best workout underwear for men can transform your fitness experience. Whether you prefer the muscle support of compression shorts, the versatility of trunks, or the bold minimalism of a thong, there’s a perfect option for you. Don’t let ill-fitting underwear hold you back—upgrade your gym wardrobe and conquer your fitness goals with confidence.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Explore our top recommendations and take the first step toward a more comfortable workout!
