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The 20 Best Boxers for Men in 2023, Tested by Style Experts
It's time for a much-needed underwear upgrade.
Comfort starts at your base layer, and for optimal around-the-house lounging, we suggest snapping up the most comfortable boxers for men. In the age old debate of ‘are briefs better than boxers?’ we’re going to say there is no right answer. However, if you’re looking for something looser to let your man bits move freely, opt for boxer shorts for some room to breathe as you lounge at home, whether cut wide or slim, depending on your taste.
Regarding material, the most comfortable boxer shorts will be a classic, breathable cotton style, a knit jersey fabric, or even a moisture-wicking material (like Merino wool) to prevent a sweaty situation. And as far as style goes, have fun with it! Now, don't go overboard and wear bright neon boxers or boxers with sports logos on them, but rather we're recommending classic patterns and small graphics (like the Printed Boxers at J.Crew). Owning a couple pairs of fun boxers is a subtle way to add more personality to your dress.
We’ve highlighted the best boxers shorts for men, including a silk pair if you’re really wanting to elevate your underwear game. It's time to trash those 0ld ratty pairs you've had for years! You deserve this underwear upgrade.
Best Underwear for Men | Best Boxer Briefs | Best Thermal Underwear | Best Socks | Best Pajamas | Best T-Shirts | Best Undershirts
What to Look for:
Fabric: Unlike other styles of underwear, boxers are usually made from cotton or a majority-cotton blend. Cotton really is the perfect fabric for boxers because of its natural properties. Cotton breathes really well, which helps regulate temperature. It's durable in a way that way that synthetic fabrics are not, meaning it may tear or fray around the edges but it will not stretch out and loose it's shape. Cotton is also the easiest fabric to clean because you can just throw it in the washing machine at any temperature, with any detergent, and then machine dry with no worries. So stick to 100% cotton or a blend with at least 75% cotton in it when shopping for boxers.
Fit: When deciding on a fit for your boxers, think about what you'll be wearing over them. Most boxers have a baggier fit designed for comfort. These work well with shorts, sweatpants, track pants, and relaxed-fit jeans, chinos, and slacks. If you prefer a slimmer fit pant then you can go with a slimmer fitting boxer but a boxer-brief is probably a better choice.
Look: Despite what every underwear ad ever has told you, most people are not going to see your underwear. When someone does see them however, they better make the right impression. There are plenty of boxers out there with funny and silly prints on them that work totally fine when the only people seeing them are you and your mom when she does your laundry. It is also totally fine to hang on to a few of these into adulthood for casual loafing around. For the most part, if you're a boxer guy, you need to have mostly respectable boxers in dark, solid colors or featuring simple patterns.
Waistband: The most under-appreciated factor in boxer shopping is the waistband. Most waistbands fall into three categories: fabric stitched over an elastic band, an exposed elastic band sewn to the body of the boxer, or a wrapped elastic band. A wrapped waistband will generally be more comfortable for long wears. The feel of the two styles of exposed elastic waistbands will depend on the material that is sewn into the band. Always feel the inside face of the waistband before you commit to a pair of boxers.
Pros
- Under $20
- Wide array of colors and patterns available
- Keeps shape after multiple washes
Cons
The most comfortable boxers should have generous room in the leg for optimal movement, a flexible waistband and no scratchy tag. These Hanes tartan boxers for men, sold as a five-pack, tick all those boxes. No wonder they’re best sellers.
- Quantity: 5 pairs
- Fabric: 100% cotton
Read more: Best Clothing Brands for Men
Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Knit Boxer
Pros
- Long lifespan
- Made with soft jersey-knit cotton
- Wide array of colors available
- Flexible movement thanks to stretch gusset
Cons
Working from home has brought our appreciation for comfort to a whole new level, and knit boxer shorts were created to provide just that. This extra soft version from Mack Weldon comes in a bunch of colors and patterns. These also make for great stocking stuffers.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: jersey-knit cotton
Read more: Best Stocking Stuffers
Sunspel Cotton Boxer Shorts
Pros
- Soft waistband
- Excellent fit
- Long lifespan
Cons
- Expensive
If you're looking for a classic pair of crisp white boxers, then we'll point you toward this pair from Sunspel. Yes, they're a bit expensive, but they feel great, look great, and will last through many washes.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% cotton
Read more: Best White T-shirts
SmartWool Merino Boxer
Pros
- Made with breathable Merino wool
- Natural anti-odor properties
- Great for outdoor activities
Cons
Every guy should own a merino wool garment in their wardrobe. Start with a pair of boxers and say hello to moisture wicking, anti-odor control, and supreme comfort with these bad boys.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% merino wool
J. Crew Printed Boxers
Pros
- Wallet-friendly
- Unique, fun designs
- Comfortable cut and feel
Cons
If you're looking for a cheap-yet-stylish pair of boxers, this J.Crew option won't break the bank. They offer several tons of unique prints and designs that are fun and trendy. Plus, you get a discount if you buy multiples.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% cotton
Read more: Best T-shirts
These boxer shorts from Patagonia are some of the best boxer briefs to prevent sweating and keep you cool, whether you’re lounging or getting in some serious activity. They’re made from moisture-wicking, breathable, spandex stretch jersey.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: tencel
Read more: Best Boxer Briefs
If this blue and white striped pattern is good enough for an oxford shirt then it is good enough for your boxers. If you have a matching oxford shirt to wear with these, then that's even better!
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% cotton
Bamboo is one of the most sustainable materials you can use for anything because it grows incredibly fast with little maintenance. It also makes a very durable and breathable fiber for clothing called bamboo viscose.
- Quantity: 3 pairs
- Fabric: bamboo viscose/cotton/spandex blend
Urban Outfitters Happy Face Icon Woven Boxer Short
Urban Outfitters Happy Face Icon Woven Boxer Short
If your boxers are covered in smiley faces then it might be better to keep them to yourself. One smiley face, on the other hand, is a fun little detail that you wouldn't mind showing off.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% cotton
Woven from an ultra-soft, breathable fabric and cut to have a slight formed fit, these Bombas boxers are a solid choice for guys who want a slim boxer that's not going to bunch up under their pants. Small details like a button fly and a curved hem at the leg openings show a superb attention to detail. We also enjoy the fun colors that are offered.
- Quantity: 3 pairs
- Fabric: cotton/modal/spandex blend
Calvin Klein Cotton Classics Multipack Knit Boxers
Calvin Klein Cotton Classics Multipack Knit Boxers
For lazy days at home, the most comfortable boxers are going to be cut wide with room to spare. Considering loungewear is the new workwear, we should all be given an award for wearing underwear at all.
- Quantity: 3 pairs
- Fabric: 100% cotton
These boxers are essentially polka dot but with a twist. The Polo pony logo is so iconic that it works well printed on anything, even your underwear.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% cotton
There comes a time each winter, especially in the north, where flannel boxers are practically essential and L.L.Bean's are as good as they get. When you're scrapping the frost off your car every morning, you'll be glad you're wearing a pair of these.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: flannel
Fruit of the Loom Exposed Waistband Woven Boxers
If you want to buy in bulk, look no further than this six-pack from Fruit of the Loom. Quality cotton and a soft elastic waistband for less than $22? We love this value buy.
- Quantity: 6 pairs
- Fabric: cotton/poly blend
If you’re a boxer guy but want a tight enough fit to keep a sleek silhouette under jeans and pants, these Jockey boxers are a good bet. The tapered leg eliminates bulk but the fit is still roomy for comfort and ease of movement.
- Quantity: 4 pairs
- Fabric: cotton/poly blend
Read more: Best Pajamas
American Eagle Outfitters Plaid Stretch Boxer Short
A two-tone plaid is a nice alternative to dots and stripes when you're looking for a textured boxer. Here is a perfect example from American Eagle, and they also have some stretch woven into the cotton for mobility.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: stretch cotton
Read more: Best Sweatpants
Harno is known for using the softest and most comfortable fabrics. The specially treated cotton used in these boxers, known as mercerized, is as soft and luxurious as cotton gets. Good thing the waist band is wrapped!
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% mercerized cotton
Nice Laundry Personal Edition Pocket Lounge Short
Nice Laundry Personal Edition Pocket Lounge Short
These lounge shorts were designed to be the most comfortable boxer alternative for dudes. Four-way stretch nylon is breathable and moves with you. You can even monogram them. Hey, why not? They might be your new uniform for the foreseeable future.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 4-way stretch nylon
Read more: Best Hoodies
These affordable boxers come in a wide array of patterns and colors to fit your every mood. Comfort is key and this poplin cotton is light and airy.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% cotton
Vineyard Vines Printed Boxers
These boxer shorts will get you in the mood for sunnier days ahead with a series of bright, tropical prints. Plus, they fit well under jeans.
- Quantity: 1 pair
- Fabric: 100% cotton
Read more: Best Jeans
As Men's Health's Deputy Editor, Commerce, Christian Gollayan oversees all shopping content on menshealth.com. He relocated back to New York by way of Portland, where he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in InStyle, Food & Wine, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.
John Thompson is the Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he covers fashion, grooming, gear, and technology. He was previously the Style & Gear Editor at BroBible.com, and a commerce writer for TheManual.com. His interests include shopping for rare vintage clothes and following his favorite baseball team, the Kansas City Royals.
Brad is a contributing style commerce editor. After a decade working for menswear brands including J.Crew and Ralph Lauren, Brad switched from selling fashion to writing about it. His words have appeared in Huckberry, Heddels, and The Manual.
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