Best men’s underwear brands: Boxers, briefs and more from designer brands

Pants, undies, banana hammocks, snake slingers… whatever you refer to them as, they’re undeniably essentials, the fig leaf we reach for upon rising from our slumber.

You may think the question of underwear is simple, but the right pair requires some thought.

There are several factors to consider: first, body shape – if you have large thighs like I do, you’ll probably favour briefs to give you more room and freedom of movement.

Then there is the material feel and breathability factor, in which case boxers may be a more appealing prospect. Of course, the hybrid boxer-brief style covers all bases.

The more slender or gym-honed may prefer a trunk style. These are shorter and more suited to wear under skinny jeans and slim-cut trousers, proving that you should pair your pants with your exterior apparel accordingly. After all, no one wants VPL (visible pant line) or an irritating waistband that rubs against your belt.

And yes, we’re all thinking it when perusing the shelves of infinite options: how quick and convenient is the ‘release hatch’ when nature inevitably calls?

Below is our hot list of the best men’s underwear brands that will not only leave you feeling like an oiled-up David Beckham, but they’ll also offer an array of styles and materials guaranteed to ‘hold your plums’ in place all day long.

Price code

• £ = pants for pennies
• £££££ = credit card keks

See our edit below