THE SSENSE GUIDE TO ALL THE BEST MEN’S UNDERWEAR

Cut from an organic cotton blend, Isabel Marant’s Billy Boxers show that simplicity is often the way forward when it comes to underwear. Comfort takes precedence over any embellishment, with contrasting Marant text to the elasticated waistband being the only detailing here. Short in the leg, and tight without being restrictive, this is exactly why many favor boxer briefs.

A.P.C. eschews bright color palettes and big details in almost all of its ready-to-wear—and its underwear selection is no different. The Cabourg boxer briefs feature a slightly extended leg to minimize the chance of uncomfortable bunching but the pure cotton construction is the real highlight.

Famed for its luxury tailoring, ZEGNA is the underwear choice of someone who prefers the finer things in life. The same care that goes into an expertly made blazer is afforded to these understated boxer briefs. A structured pouch makes these some of the best men’s underwear for ball support—it may not be glamorous, but it’s very important.

Burberry’s long history of refinement puts it in prime position to deliver the upper echelon of luxury boxer briefs. Without a Nova check in sight, the iconic British label locks in a typically self-assured design cut from soft stretch cotton with a woven text logo front and center.

Boxer shorts are a more classic form of men’s underwear. Instead of stretch cotton blends, a looser fit provides comfort and allows for a fit that many consider to be more flattering. ERL’s printed poplin take on the style exemplifies the refinement of a good pair of boxer shorts, featuring a button fly and elasticated waistband to boot.

These cotton poplin boxer shorts are so beautifully made that there’s little distinction between them and a pair of summer shorts. The pure cotton makeup and subtle detailing, like the logo flag to the outside seam, are hallmarks of ZEGNA’s often unrivaled quality.

Carhartt Work In Progress finds its roots in hard-wearing workwear. As such, it’s got all the right acumen to be trusted in making long-lasting underwear that prioritizes comfort and craftsmanship over embellishment. These loose-fitting, pure cotton white boxer shorts feature the brand’s unmistakable logo patch to the elasticated waistband and a one-button fly.

Some people are of the opinion that the more space, the better, while others prefer to run a tighter ship. If you fall within the first group, then AAPE By A Bathing Ape’s Moonface Boxers should not be overlooked. The wide legs are styled like real boxer shorts—the ones worn in the ring—with a thick elasticated waistband.

For too long, men’s briefs took a backseat. In 2024, though, there’s been a resurgence in the style. Not only do briefs show a sexier, more daring side to men’s underwear, but they also provide premium support in a streamlined package. This pair from Comme des Garçons Shirt perfectly exemplifies how clean the brief can be.

Featuring an unusually high-waisted silhouette, these embroidered briefs from Marine Serre push our expectations of underwear for guys. No longer should men’s underwear be solely practical; it should be seen as an important accessory to have pride in.

Compounding that concept is this pair from LGN Louis Gabriel Nouchi. The young label has become well-known for its men’s briefs, which feature a sculptural cutout detail to the left hip. This kind of decorative detailing makes the subtle yet significant suggestion that this pair is designed to be seen.

Versace’s iconic Greca detailing covers the waistband of this pair of black briefs, putting Medusa at the center. The minimal stretch cotton build is a complementing feature, rounding out the luxe Miami feel.

Praying’s penchant for printing provocative phrases on bikinis, underwear, and more has garnered its fair share of controversy and virality. In this case, a three-pack of plaid boxers features the phrase “All men die, some men never live.” It’s a philosophical spin that’s certainly out of place on a pair of boxers, but that’s the point, we think.

In the arena of all-time great men’s underwear, a three-pack of Calvin Klein boxer briefs in the simple black colorway is undoubtedly near the top. There’s so little to pick a problem with here, from the pure cotton built and the price point to the understated visuals.

From the glamor of bridal couture to the less glamorous but no less important category of men’s multipack boxers, Vivienne Westwood’s label is a master of all things. Soft cotton, good support, and minimal detailing are a recipe for success.

CDLP’s belief that men should feel sexy in their underwear is a surprisingly refreshing one. It’s the reason why, alongside the luxurious Lyocell boxer briefs that the brand is known and loved for, there are more adventurous options like this pack of men’s jockstraps executed to the highest standard with anti-bacterial, breathable, and moisture-wicking TENCEL™.