Tired of my uncomfortable underwear. What are the best, most comfortable boxer briefs for men?

If your underwear is uncomfortable, the biggest upgrades usually come from better fabric, a longer inseam (to stop riding up), a soft waistband, and a pouch that gives support without squeezing. Here are some of the best boxer briefs depending on what “comfortable” means to you.

• Tommy John Second Skin 6-Inch Boxer Briefs - $59.50 (Nordstrom)
• MeUndies UltraModal Core Boxer Brief - $26.00 (Target)
• ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Boxer Brief - $32.50 (Backcountry)
• Pair of Thieves SuperFit Mesh Boxer Briefs - $24.99 (Pair of Thieves)
• Unbound Merino Men's Boxer Brief - $45.00 (Unbound Merino)

Best overall comfort

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• Extremely soft modal fabric
• Supportive contour pouch without feeling restrictive
• 6-inch length helps prevent thigh chafing and riding up
• Great “wear all day and forget about them” option

Softest / closest to wearing nothing

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• Very smooth, stretchy modal fabric
• Lightweight and comfortable for lounging or office wear
• Good choice if cotton feels rough or stiff

Best if you sweat or travel

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• Breathable, quick-drying synthetic fabric
• Excellent for hot weather, workouts, and travel
• Less “luxurious soft” than modal, but very practical

Best value comfort pick

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• Lightweight, stretchy, breathable mesh
• Good balance of price and comfort
• A strong choice if your main problem is feeling hot or restricted

Best premium natural fabric

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• Merino wool regulates temperature and handles moisture well
• Helps resist odor buildup
• Especially good for travel or people who dislike sweaty fabric

My quick picks by problem:

• Riding up: choose a 6"–8" inseam (Tommy John, ExOfficio, Saxx-style designs)
• Chafing: look for flat seams + longer legs
• Too tight/squished: try modal with a roomier pouch
• Too sweaty: merino or performance nylon
• Want the “luxury pajama” feel: Tommy John or MeUndies

A good starting purchase would be one pair of Tommy John Second Skin, one Pair of Thieves SuperFit, and one ExOfficio Give-N-Go—they feel noticeably different, so you can figure out which style your body likes best.

The best and most comfortable boxer briefs for men include top performers like the [Jockey EverActive Zero Chafe Boxer Brief Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ](https://google.com/goto?url=CAES2gEB6zswFScmdaek0alv81o7BpjFp3W93vBoFs2WMN8zUweVyrTHD2ePHtqyFH-KfMbGrobo7gez9kI5i7oP1JESciwQ2GmO5L_MNYiU_2zhs_xGZFhCX1fZmU3NBtzuxwdFEk7EWzYfrBrpD4QINc2TJ8twqIFkWhGZ2uRTW2vEJS4AbKNOspBjFYVZaOWF2LZ8escsLnorFKw16HpQbuhy4ECu22dTLPjIDX6O14EydOwapVsXYDt9wt9zCd-7E3wR4AoDoLMGtG-ebkvvcN3vGbkyLFxyxVcteg), [Duluth Trading Buck Naked Boxer Brief Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ](https://google.com/goto?url=CAEScgHrOzAVmN9Y1VizmWE_OtyeuAHViR708_F0wRaeiMigAD28lVXmNrHzprU0NIhEAZYBegJEOrcNd7qkDUtFfz99cpsbOjgB_uxH2kSDJ_xf6dblCnZoiNh_htBgkS-IpAAMiCEZgfvPK0fXv1uQZ90KiA) , and [Hanes Ultimate Comfort Flex Fit Total Support Pouch Boxer Brief Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ](https://google.com/goto?url=CAESvgEB6zswFRcOaoI10FapMP4lhOCi5n-QrYGMzhKcXLGuM83cDPn6ikqsM_8fJGqUbCPoXlkT0SoSZgCp5bxx-2sQg78i49y9feFst03wXU-zl794VPbR1HSOkivhDK1Hdln9eBvtgAvbjmmsKbVwrCdWqq8AeD6i0R-C_OosJc4E5v9shDes1Rjdx4AOu714VeOE9PpU5mvtkFNhZn3c5bwPtDP94oXyoLf_1dWsvfoPJ2hrOvMdgpm-V5jNkAXN) , which feature advanced anti-chafe pouches, moisture-wicking fabrics, and stretch-fit engineering.

Top Comfort Choices

Add to list Jockey EverActive Zero Chafe uses a specialized pouch and smooth microfiber to stop leg rubbing and ride-up during long days.

Add to list Duluth Trading Buck Naked features a flexible nylon-spandex fabric that feels weightless and wicks sweat fast.

Add to list Hanes Ultimate Comfort Flex Fit utilizes soft TENCEL Lyocell and a supportive mesh liner to keep everything in place without pinching.

If you'd like, let me know:

• Do you prefer microfiber, cotton, or synthetic mesh fabrics?
• Are you looking for anti-chafing support pouches?
• What inseam length do you prefer (e.g., 3-inch trunks vs. 6-inch legs)?

SAXX Vibe Go to product viewer dialog for this item. and Duluth Trading Buck Naked Go to product viewer dialog for this item. are widely regarded as top-tier choices for men looking to permanently upgrade from uncomfortable underwear, thanks to specialized pouch and anti-chafing engineering.

The best options on the market span a few distinct categories depending on what is driving your current discomfort (riding up, sweating, or rough fabric):

Best for Support & Preventing Shifting

Famous for their patented BallPark Pouch , these modal-blend boxer briefs lock everything in place and completely eliminate skin-on-skin friction. They have a remarkably soft hand-feel and a no-roll waistband.

Best for Heat & High Activity (Anti-Sweat)

Made from a slick nylon/spandex blend, these feel like "wearing nothing at all". They excel at wicking sweat, dry instantly, and feature a specialized crouch gusset that prevents riding up when you're moving around.

An ultra-lightweight synthetic mesh engineered with targeted airflow zones. If you run hot or need a pair that transitions seamlessly from a heavy workout to a long workday, these are unmatched.

Best for Everyday Softness

Crafted from non-pilling micro modal fabric, these are silky-smooth, incredibly stretchy, and designed with a horizontal quick-access fly and a stay-put waistband that never digs into your skin.

If you want to narrow this down, tell me:

• What is the main issue with your current underwear? (Riding up, rolling waistbands, sweating/chafing, or rough fabric?)
• Do you prefer cotton, synthetic/performance, or modal/silky materials?

If comfort is the priority, I’d look for soft modal/micromodal, a smooth waistband, flat seams, and a 5–7" inseam. Those features tend to reduce bunching, riding up, and chafing.

My top picks

• Tommy John Second Skin 6-Inch Boxer Briefs - $59.50 (Nordstrom Rack)

• Smartwool Active Boxer Briefs - $40.00 (Nordstrom)

• Pair of Thieves SuperFit Boxer Briefs - $26.99 (Target)

• Tommy John Essential Second Skin Modal Boxer Briefs - $27.97 (Nordstrom Rack)

• Abercrombie 5-Inch Modal Boxer Briefs - $65.00 (Abercrombie & Fitch)

• 🥇 Tommy John Second Skin 6" — My pick if you want the classic “I forgot I’m wearing underwear” experience. Silky modal, lots of stretch, a contoured pouch, and a waistband designed to stay put.

• 🌡️ Smartwool Active/Merino — Best if you run hot or sweat. Merino is exceptionally good at moisture and temperature management and resists odor. OutdoorGearLab rated Smartwool Active Merino its overall winner.

• 💨 Pair of Thieves SuperFit — Excellent comfort/value choice. Lightweight, stretchy microfiber, flatlock seams and a stay-put waistband. Current retail options are around $25–27 for two pairs.

• 🧸 Abercrombie Modal — Great if you mainly want soft, lightweight everyday underwear. It's 90% modal/10% elastane with a 5" inseam.

• 💰 Tommy John Essential Second Skin 3-pack — A particularly good deal if you want to try the Tommy John feel without paying full single-pair pricing.

If your current underwear bothers you because…

• It rides up: go with 6–8" inseam and a snug-but-not-tight leg opening. Tommy John or Pair of Thieves.
• It chafes: prioritize flatlock seams and a longer leg. SAXX's pouch design is also particularly good for separating your thighs from your anatomy; independent testing gave its Non-Stop Stretch a 9/10 comfort score.
• You get sweaty: Smartwool merino or lightweight synthetic/microfiber. ExOfficio's Give-N-Go 2.0 was particularly impressive for breathability and drying speed in testing.
• You hate tight/restrictive underwear: choose modal rather than compression/performance styles. Tommy John Second Skin is a strong bet.
• You hate waistbands: look for a soft, wide waistband rather than thin elastic.

If I were replacing an entire uncomfortable underwear drawer today: I'd buy Tommy John Second Skin 6" for everyday wear, Smartwool Merino for hot/sweaty days and travel, and Pair of Thieves SuperFit as the less-expensive option. Current expert testing broadly backs those fabric/construction choices.

Absolutely. I searched current 2026 reviews and shopping results, and the biggest comfort upgrades are usually softer modal/lyocell fabrics, a non-digging waistband, a good pouch, and enough inseam to prevent thigh chafing. Independent testing also found Smartwool, SAXX, Tommy John, and ExOfficio among the strongest performers.

My top picks

Tommy John Second Skin 6-Inch

$59.50

SAXX Ultra Super Soft

$36.00

Quince Ultra-Soft Micromodal 6-Inch

$39.90

MeUndies UltraModal Boxer Brief

$26.00

Smartwool Everyday Merino

$50.00

Pair of Thieves SuperFit Long

$26.99

1. Tommy John Second Skin — best for pure softness
If your current underwear feels stiff, scratchy, or restrictive, this is where I'd start. The modal fabric is silky/stretchy, with a contour pouch and waistband designed to stay put. Independent testing specifically described the Second Skin fabric as silk-like.

2. SAXX Ultra Super Soft — best for support + comfort
The BallPark Pouch is the big selling point: it separates your anatomy from your thighs and provides support without the cramped feeling of traditional underwear. The current 3-pack is also relatively reasonable at $36 in the shopping results.

3. Quince Ultra-Soft Micromodal — best value premium feel
At about $39.90 for three, this is probably the first one I'd try if you want luxury softness without paying $25–40 per pair. It's 6-inch, form-fitting, breathable Micromodal with stretch.

4. MeUndies UltraModal — best everyday comfort
Very soft modal, generous pouch, and a 4.7/5 rating from thousands of current shopping reviews. There's also a version with a functional fly if that's important to you.

5. Smartwool Merino — best if you run hot/sweaty
Merino is surprisingly excellent for underwear: it manages moisture, regulates temperature, and resists odor. OutdoorGearLab actually ranked Smartwool Active Merino #1 overall after testing 18 boxer briefs.

6. Pair of Thieves SuperFit Long — best budget/chafing option
If your main problem is thighs rubbing or boxer briefs riding up, the longer inseam is worth trying. The current 2-pack is around $27.

If I were buying for myself

I'd narrow it to:

• 🥇 Maximum softness: Tommy John Second Skin
• 🥈 Best overall/support: SAXX Ultra
• 🥉 Best bang for buck: Quince Micromodal
• 🔥 Hot/sweaty: Smartwool Merino
• 🦵 Thigh chafing/ride-up: Pair of Thieves Long or Tommy John 8"

One caveat: ExOfficio deserves an honorable mention for breathability, and independent testing found the older Give-N-Go 2.0 exceptionally breathable and quick-drying. However, the current ExOfficio Everyday Boxer Brief has drawn complaints about its redesigned fit and lack of a fly, so I'd be cautious about buying it specifically for comfort without checking the current version.

If you tell me your biggest problem—riding up, waistband digging in, sweating, chafing, lack of support, or just scratchy/uncomfortable fabric—I can narrow this down to the 2–3 pairs most likely to solve it.

Upgrading from uncomfortable underwear is a total game-changer. The secret to ultimate comfort usually comes down to moving away from stiff, cheap 100% cotton and into advanced fabrics like Micro Modal, bamboo, or high-performance synthetic blends that breathe, stretch, and stay put.

The top-rated, most comfortable boxer briefs on the market span a few different categories depending on what is driving you crazy about your current pairs:

1. The Undisputed Luxury Pick: [Tommy John Second Skin Boxer Brief Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ](https://www.tommyjohn.com/collections/underwear-mens-styles-boxer-brief?srsltid=AfmBOopLUA_r9JX7bO2F6YRJ3o2pO99IHoNOSQWtfHXxP__x8Sa5PvQD)

• The Fabric: 90% non-pilling Micro Modal, 10% spandex.
• Why they’re great: If your main gripes are bunching, rolling waistbands, and rough fabric, Tommy John rules this space. The Tommy John Second Skin line is remarkably silky, breathable, and features a horizontal "Quick Draw" fly and a contoured pouch that keeps everything in place without needing constant adjustments.
• The Catch: They are a major investment per pair.

2. The Anti-Chafe & Pouch Innovator:

• The Fabric: Viscose/Elastane (Vibe) or Micro Modal blend (Ultra).
• Why they’re great: Saxx is famous for its patented BallPark Pouch —a 3D mesh structure that separates your skin from skin-to-thigh contact. If you deal with chafing or standard boxer briefs that ride up your thighs throughout the day, the internal mesh panels lock the fit securely in place.

3. The Everyday Athletic Favorite:

• The Fabric: Quick-drying, anti-stink modal or mesh blends.
• Why they’re great: Originally designed for movement, these have become daily drivers for a lot of guys because they feel weightless. They don’t stretch out by midday, they breathe exceptionally well under jeans or work slacks, and the waistband doesn't dig into your skin.

4. Best Value & Amazon Favorite:

• The Fabric: 92% Modal or Bamboo Rayon, 7%–8% Spandex.
• Why they’re great: If you want that high-end, silky-soft modal feel without paying $35 to $40 a single pair, David Archy multipacks on Amazon give you 85% of the luxury comfort of Tommy John or Saxx at a fraction of the cost. They feature a supportive dual-pouch and a no-ride-up cut.

5. Best for Running Hot:

• The Fabric: 91% Nylon, 9% Spandex (infused with microscopic jade).
• Why they’re great: If you overheat easily or sweat through your clothes during the day, these literally feel cool to the touch and use high-tech moisture-wicking to completely nix chafing.

Real Experiences “Tommy John Second Skin . Most comfortable I've ever worn.” “Saxx Ultra Go to product viewer dialog for this item. is the answer. Only thing I wear these days. Light as air, breathe well, and in addition to support & keeping your junk in front, the pouch prevents chafing on the sided.”

To help narrow down the best choice for you, tell me:

• What is your main issue with your current underwear (riding up, rolling waistbands, sweating too much, or rough fabric)?
• Do you prefer a natural/silky feel (Modal/Bamboo) or a tight/supportive athletic feel?

Finding a pair of boxer briefs you can completely forget you're wearing is a game-changer. Comfort usually comes down to three things: anti-ride legs , a waistband that doesn't dig or roll , and fabric that handles heat and sweat.

The top-rated and most comfortable men's boxer briefs on the market are categorized below by what they do best:

Best for Pouch Support & Separation

Add to list Famous for their internal mesh panels ("BallPark Pouch") that cradle everything and prevent skin-on-skin friction. They provide supreme separation and support, though you'll want the performance mesh or stretch versions to avoid any riding up.

Add to list Made from ultra-soft non-pilling micro modal, these are expensive but widely considered the gold standard for luxury comfort. They feature a contour pouch and a stay-put waistband that literally never rolls or digs in.

Best for Breathability & Hot Weather

Add to list Engineered with targeted cool zones, these are insanely lightweight, airy, and moisture-wicking. If you run hot or live somewhere humid, these nylon-mesh hybrids keep you dry all day.

Add to list Built with a supportive, quick-drying modal/nylon blend that moves like athletic wear but feels smooth enough for office work or lounging. They act as total workhorses and don't lose their shape in the wash.

Best Everyday Value & Budget Picks

Add to list Available at major retailers like Target, these are super silky, incredibly affordable, and great at wicking moisture.

Add to list A favorite hidden gem on Amazon , offering modal-level buttery softness that rivals $40+ brands at a fraction of the cost.

Add to list An absolute steal if you want a lightweight, synthetic athletic feel that dries fast and resists bunching.

Community Voices on Underwear Comfort

When looking for real-world endurance and comfort, everyday users on Reddit often emphasize fabric choice and fit over hype:

“David Archy modal. Hands down the highest quality most comfortable underwear I've ever had. They keep their shape, wash great, and last forever. A little on the expensive side but worth twice as much in my opinion.” “Mack Weldon Go to product viewer dialog for this item. are the only boxer briefs I can tolerate. Their fabric is insanely comfy. They don't really ride up my leg and if they do, I don't feel it. They ain't cheap but worth a try.”

To help narrow down the ideal pair for you, let me know:

• Do you prefer natural fabrics (cotton/modal/bamboo) or performance synthetics (mesh/athletic)?
• Are you mostly wearing them for office/everyday wear or working out/hot weather?

Absolutely. If your current underwear is uncomfortable, I’d prioritize soft fabric, a non-pinching waistband, a pouch that actually gives you room, and legs that don’t ride up.

My top picks

SAXX Ultra Super Soft Boxer Brief

$36.00

ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Boxer Brief

$30.00

Mack Weldon AIRKNITx 8" Boxer Brief

$38.00

Nike Dri-FIT Essential Micro Boxer Briefs

$36.97

1. SAXX Ultra Super Soft — best overall for pure comfort
If your biggest complaint is things feeling cramped or rubbing, this is where I'd start. The BallPark Pouch separates and supports everything up front, while the fabric is exceptionally soft. It currently has thousands of reviews and a 4.4/5 rating.

2. ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 — best for staying cool/dry
A fantastic choice if you get sweaty or spend a lot of time sitting/walking. It's lightweight, stretchy, moisture-wicking and quick-drying. OutdoorGearLab rated it its best performance synthetic boxer brief.

3. Mack Weldon AIRKNITx — best lightweight premium option
Very breathable and light, with an 8" inseam that helps prevent thigh ride-up. It's a particularly good choice if you hate underwear creeping up your legs.

4. UNIQLO AIRism Ultra Seamless — best inexpensive option
At about $15, these are hard to beat for everyday comfort. They're extremely light, breathable, and have essentially no seams/waistband to dig into you. Men's Health specifically picked them as its best lightweight moisture-wicking option.

If I were buying for myself

• Maximum comfort: SAXX Ultra Super Soft
• Hot/sweaty: ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0
• Thick thighs / ride-up problem: Mack Weldon AIRKNITx or Duluth Buck Naked
• Cheap but surprisingly good: UNIQLO AIRism
• Don't like synthetic fabric: UNIQLO Cotton Boxer Briefs — soft cotton/spandex with a particularly comfortable wide waistband.

One important tip: don't automatically size down for a "supportive" fit. If your waistband leaves marks, your pouch feels crowded, or your thighs feel squeezed, you're probably wearing the wrong size or cut.

If you tell me what specifically makes your current underwear uncomfortable (rides up, waistband digs in, sweaty, chafing, too tight in the crotch, etc.), I can narrow it down to the 2–3 best pairs for your particular problem.

The best, most comfortable boxer briefs for men rely heavily on advanced technical fabrics and ergonomic pouch designs that prevent ride-up, chafing, and bunching . Top-rated options include the ultra-lightweight Mack Weldon AIRKNITx Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ($38), the pouch-supported Saxx Ultra Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ($32), the frictionless Step One Bamboo Viscose Boxer Briefs Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ($19), the incredibly soft David Archy Micro Modal Go to product viewer dialog for this item. ($40 for a 3-pack), and the seamless-moving Lululemon Built to Move Boxer Go to product viewer dialog for this item. (~$38).

Top Comfort Brands & Features

Built with a breathable micro-mesh structure and targeted cool zones, this synthetic blend feels weightless, resists shrinking, and stays completely dry during workouts or long workdays.

Famous for its patented BallPark Pouch (an internal mesh panel that prevents skin-on-skin friction), it provides exceptional, locked-in separation without feeling restrictive.

Crafted from 95% bamboo viscose, these feature specialized UltraGlyde anti-chafe panels on the inner thighs and an internal hidden pouch that supports without squeezing.

An affordable luxury option using a 90% modal and 10% spandex blend that mimics the feeling of wearing nothing at all, featuring a dual-pouch construction to keep things cool.

A premier athleisure choice that functions as a workhorse daily pair, keeping its shape, resisting odor, and offering a stay-put fit through heavy movement.

User Perspectives “Saxx Ultra is the answer. Only thing I wear these days. Light as air, breathe well, and in addition to support & keeping your junk in front, the pouch prevents chafing on the sided.”

“Lululemon is by far the best I've found. When I discovered them I threw out my Under Armour and Adidas boxer briefs and bought a dozen pairs.”

If you can tell me what specific issue you face most (such as inner thigh chafing, legs riding up, or waistbands rolling down), I can recommend the exact brand and fabric that will solve it.

Absolutely. If comfort is the priority, I’d move away from stiff cotton and overly tight waistbands and look for modal, merino, or stretchy nylon, plus flat seams and an inseam that prevents ride-up.

Here are my top picks right now:

Tommy John Second Skin Luxe Rib 4-Inch Boxer Brief

$38.00

SAXX Ultra Super Soft Boxer Briefs 3-Pack

$92.00

Smartwool Men's Everyday Merino Boxer Brief

$50.00

ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Boxer Brief

$30.00

MeUndies UltraModal Core Boxer Brief

$26.00

Pair of Thieves Super Fit Long Boxer Briefs

$26.99

🥇 Best overall for pure comfort: Tommy John Second Skin

My first choice for everyday wear. The modal fabric is exceptionally soft, stretchy and lightweight, while the contoured pouch gives you support without feeling restrictive. The 6" version gets particularly strong customer feedback for comfort and fit.

Best if: You want underwear you basically forget you're wearing.

🥈 Best if you hate chafing: SAXX

SAXX's big advantage is its BallPark Pouch, which separates things from your thighs and provides support. Its flat seams also help minimize rubbing. Independent testing rated the SAXX Non-Stop Stretch particularly highly for comfort and support.

Best if: Your current underwear causes rubbing, squeezing, or uncomfortable contact between your thighs.

🥉 Best for hot/sweaty days: ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0

These aren't as luxurious-feeling as Tommy John, but they're fantastic if you get hot. They're lightweight, moisture-wicking and quick-drying, and REI specifically recommends them for travel.

Best if: You sweat a lot, travel, exercise, or hate feeling damp.

🌡️ Best natural fabric: Smartwool Merino

Merino is surprisingly good for underwear: soft, temperature-regulating, moisture-managing and odor-resistant. Independent testing named Smartwool Active Merino its best overall men's boxer brief.

Best if: You want something comfortable in both hot and cool weather.

💰 Best value: Pair of Thieves

A very good inexpensive option. The Super Fit uses stretchy, moisture-wicking microfiber, flatlock seams and has a longer version that can help prevent ride-up.

Best if: You want excellent comfort without spending $25–40 per pair.

My quick recommendation

If I were replacing an entire underwear drawer, I'd start with 2 pairs of Tommy John Second Skin 6" and 1 pair of SAXX. Wear them for a few days and see which style your body prefers.

One important tip: If your biggest complaint is legs riding up, don't automatically buy shorter boxer briefs. A 6–8" inseam often stays put better than 3–4", particularly if your thighs rub.

If you tell me what specifically makes your current underwear uncomfortable (ride-up, tight waistband, sweaty, balls sticking to thighs, chafing, too much compression, etc.), I can narrow it down to the best 2–3 pairs for your particular problem.