What a tai brief is and how it differs from a hipster

Short answer: A tai sits higher on the leg than a hipster and covers a little less at the back. The cut follows the line of the hip bone upwards instead of running straight out, which gives a different feel and a different look under clothes.

The leg opening angles upwards

Where the hipster has a straight leg opening, the tai curves up towards the hip. That makes the leg look longer and gives more freedom of movement, because the edge does not lie across the thigh. Many find the briefs follow the body more naturally when walking and sitting. See bamboo briefs.

The waistband sits differently

The waistband on a tai usually sits a little higher than on a hipster, but still below the waist. The sides are narrower, because the leg opening rises high. That means less fabric on the hip and a lighter feel. In return, the waistband has to fit well, since there is less fabric holding the briefs in place.

Coverage at the back

The tai covers less at the back than a hipster, but more than a Brazilian cut. It sits in the middle, which is why many find it the most versatile. It feels less like shorts than the hipster, yet it is not so minimal that it takes getting used to.

Under clothes

Because the leg opening is angled, it shows less under tight trousers than a straight edge does. The edge follows the shape of the leg instead of cutting across the thigh. It is a practical advantage many people overlook when choosing on looks alone. See bamboo underwear for women.

When the hipster is better

The hipster is the better choice if you want as much coverage at the back as possible and briefs that feel calm under loose trousers and skirts. The wide shape spreads pressure over a larger area. If you sit a lot, the low waistband can also feel more comfortable than the narrower sides of a tai.

When the tai is better

The tai is the better choice under close fitting trousers and dresses, and when you want more freedom at the leg. Many wear it for walks, cycling and long days on their feet, because the edge does not pull across the thigh. It is also a good compromise if the hipster feels like too much.

Fit decides a lot

A tai that is too tight can dig in at the hip, because the sides are narrow. One that is too loose can slip. Choose by hip measurement and try the cut before drawing conclusions about size. The same size can feel different in a tai and a hipster.

How to choose between them

Buy one of each in the same size and wear each for a week. It is quicker than reading, and your body soon tells you what feels better. Pay attention to the edges when you sit and walk. The measurements are in the guide to briefs and underwear.

Caring for the cut

Wash both cuts at 40 degrees without softener and dry them on low heat. Heat wears out the elastic in the leg opening, and on a tai the edge matters even more, because it carries more of the fit. Hanging the briefs to dry helps the edges keep their shape longer.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a tai and a hipster?

The tai has a leg opening that curves up towards the hip. The hipster has a straight edge, sits lower at the side and covers a little more at the back.

Which cut shows least under trousers?

The tai, because the angled leg opening follows the shape of the leg instead of cutting across the thigh. A laser cut edge makes the difference even smaller.