The Best Underwear for Men – What to Look For

Short answer: The best underwear for men has three hallmarks: a soft, breathable material such as bamboo viscose, a fit that neither squeezes nor bags, and a quality that holds its shape after many washes. If a pair ticks all three, you are in good hands.

The material is the most important choice

Underwear sits against your skin all day, so the material matters more than anything else. Bamboo viscose is soft, moves moisture away and holds odour back — a combination neither ordinary cotton nor polyester can match. See the comparison in our post on bamboo underwear as the softest base.

Fit: snug enough, never too tight

Good underwear follows the body without leaving marks on the skin. The waistband should lie flat, and the leg edge must not cut in. Our guide to the right fit in underwear goes through the cuts one by one.

Quality and brands that deliver

Look for reinforced seams and elastic that is sewn into the waistband instead of just stitched on. Among our brands, JBS and Resteröds are good places to start — both with long experience in men's underwear. See the full range of bamboo underwear for men.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best material for underwear?

Bamboo viscose is one of the best choices: soft against the skin, breathable and moisture-wicking, so you stay dry and fresh.

How should good underwear fit?

Close to the body without squeezing. The waistband and leg edges should lie flat without leaving red marks on the skin.

How often should underwear be replaced?

When the elastic goes slack, the fabric thin or the shape crooked. With a gentle wash, good bamboo underwear lasts a long time.