10 Best Workout Underwear For Men in 2026

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The best workout underwear for men needs to do one thing above all else: stay put and keep you comfortable while you move. Our Best Overall pick, the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs, wins with a separating pouch that reduces chafing and moisture-wicking fabric that handles sweat. For maximum airflow, the SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs takes the Best Breathable Mesh award, while the PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack offers the Best Value Pack for daily rotation.

The real problem with most everyday underwear at the gym is that cotton soaks up sweat, seams dig in, and legs ride up mid-squat. What actually matters is fabric that dries fast, a fit that stays anchored, and construction that prevents chafing on every rep and run.

This guide is research-based, drawing on manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback. We break down the key criteria and highlight ten top-rated options so you can choose with confidence.

Top 10 Workout Underwear For Men in the Market

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The Best Workout Underwear For Men, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs

Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs
FabricPolyester/tencel/spandex blend
PouchTotal Support Pouch with mesh panels
Inseam6 inches (regular leg)
FeaturesMoisture-wicking, odor control, anti-chafe
FitNo-ride-up leg bands
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What We Like

  • Separating pouch reduces chafing
  • Moisture-wicking and odor-control fabric
  • Stretch waistband won't pinch
  • Leg bands engineered to stay put

Trade-offs

  • Polyester blend can feel less breathable than mesh
  • Pouch design adds bulk under slim-fit pants.

The Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs use a separating pouch design with breathable mesh panels to keep everything in place and reduce friction, which is exactly what you want when you’re squatting, lunging, or running. The moisture-wicking fabric and built-in odor control help you stay cool and fresh through a sweaty session, and the stretch waistband moves with you without digging in. For most gym-goers looking for reliable, all-day support that won’t ride up, this is the pair you grab without thinking.

The Total Support Pouch separates, supports, and cools with breathable mesh panels, which helps prevent chafing during activity. The moisture-wicking fabric and odor control keep you fresh, and the no-ride-up leg bands stay in place so you can move freely. For a combination of support, chafe protection, and odor control at a reasonable price, these boxer briefs earn their place as a go-to workout underwear for most men.

Best for: Men who want reliable anti-chafe support and moisture management for daily gym sessions. Not ideal for those who need a longer inseam or prefer a fly opening.

Product photos

#2Best 360-Degree Stretch

New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs

New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs
Fabric90% polyester / 10% spandex
Inseam6 inches
Weight0.5 pounds (3-pack)
Stretch360-degree
StitchingFlatlock (no-chafe)
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What We Like

  • 360-degree stretch for unrestricted movement
  • Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry
  • Flatlock stitching prevents chafing
  • Contoured pouch and gusset support natural motion

Trade-offs

  • No cotton or natural fiber in the blend.

A 90% polyester and 10% spandex blend with 360-degree stretch means these boxer briefs move with you through deep squats, lunges, and overhead presses without binding or riding up. The moisture-wicking technology pulls sweat away from the skin, while the contoured pouch and gusset support natural movement, so you can focus on your lift, not on adjusting your underwear. That combination makes them a strong pick for anyone who values full range of motion during high-intensity gym sessions or long runs.

The fabric blend is 90% polyester and 10% spandex, so it breathes well and stretches in every direction for unrestricted movement. If you want a soft cotton-like feel, these won’t deliver that, the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs use a different construction, but the New Balance pair prioritizes stretch and airflow. They’re built for activity, not lounging.

Best for: Active men who want maximum stretch and moisture management during workouts. Not ideal for those who prefer natural-fiber underwear or have very sensitive skin.

Product photos

#3Best Quick-Dry Performance

adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs

adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs
FitAthletic comfort fit
FabricQuick-dry microfiber
Inseam5 inches
Pack Size3 pairs
SizesS to XXL
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What We Like

  • Quick-dry microfiber wicks moisture fast
  • No-ride-up leg construction stays put
  • Tagless waistband and smooth stitching
  • Supportive but not too tight fit

Trade-offs

  • No fly opening mentioned in specifications
  • Big & Tall sizes sold separately

A 5-inch inseam with no-ride-up leg construction means these boxer briefs stay exactly where you put them through squats, runs, and long gym sessions. The quick-dry microfiber fabric pulls sweat away from your skin and dries fast after washing, so you can rotate through a three-pack without waiting. This makes them a smart pick for anyone who sweats hard and needs underwear that keeps up without bunching or clinging.

The adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs are built to stay put and keep you dry, with a no-ride-up leg construction and quick-dry microfiber material that handles gym sessions, training, and everyday wear without bunching or overheating. The 3-pack covers a full rotation of active days, and the tagless waistband and smooth stitching eliminate scratchy tags and rough seams for distraction-free comfort.

Best for: Active men who want fast-drying, stay-put underwear for sweaty workouts and daily wear. Not ideal for those who prefer a fly opening or a larger pack size.

Product photos

#4Best Breathable Mesh

SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs

SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs
FabricLightweight breathable mesh
Inseam5 inches
PouchBallPark Pouch with mesh wings
SeamsFlat reversed stitching
FlyFunctional fly front
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What We Like

  • Lightweight mesh keeps air moving
  • BallPark Pouch lifts and separates
  • Flat seams reduce chafe and irritation
  • No-ride-up fit stays in place

Trade-offs

  • 5-inch inseam shorter than some prefer for thigh coverage
  • No odor control feature for extended wear

A 5-inch inseam and lightweight mesh fabric mean these boxer briefs let heat escape while you move through a heavy squat set or a long run. The BallPark Pouch uses curved seams and mesh wings to lift and separate, which cuts down on the clammy stickiness that can ruin focus mid-workout. Flat seams and a no-ride-up fit further reduce distractions, so you can push harder without constantly adjusting. This is the pair to grab when your priority is staying cool and chafe-free under shorts or joggers, especially during sweaty cardio or hot-weather training.

The 5-inch inseam is shorter than some prefer for thigh coverage, but it keeps the Core Performance Mesh boxer briefs light and breathable for high-intensity workouts. Compared to the Hanes pair, which has a 10-inch length and weighs 0.4 pounds, the SAXX is built for maximum ventilation. If you want a shorter leg and don’t mind less thigh coverage, this design delivers cooling airflow. For a longer inseam, the Hanes offers a different fit.

Best for: Athletes and gym-goers who prioritize breathability and chafe protection during sweaty workouts. Not ideal for those who need opaque coverage under thin shorts or prefer a longer inseam.

Product photos

#5Best Allover Mesh Ventilation

Under Armour Project Rock Tech Mesh Underwear

Under Armour Project Rock Tech Mesh Underwear
Material88% Recycled Polyester, 12% Elastane
Inseam5 inches
Pack Size2 pairs
FeaturesAllover mesh, 4-way stretch, sweat-wicking
WaistbandPerformance waistband
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What We Like

  • Allover mesh for maximum ventilation
  • 4-way stretch moves with you
  • Sweat-wicking and quick-dry fabric
  • No side or back seams for comfort

Trade-offs

  • 2-pack only, fewer pairs than some packs
  • No odor control feature mentioned

The allover mesh construction is the standout here, every inch of fabric is designed to let air flow through, which matters when you’re sweating through a heavy squat session or a long run. That mesh pairs with 4-way stretch material so the underwear moves with your body instead of binding or bunching up. The sweat-wicking and quick-dry properties help keep you feeling dry, not clammy, and the lack of side or back seams reduces irritation where chafing often hits. This underwear works well for anyone who prioritizes breathability during high-intensity workouts.

You get only two pairs in the pack, which means you’ll need to buy more if you want a full rotation. That puts it at a higher upfront commitment compared to something like the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs, which come in larger packs and focus more on support and odor control than airflow. If your main concern is staying cool and ventilated during sweaty gym sessions, the Project Rock Tech Mesh delivers exactly that, just be ready to supplement the pack if you train daily.

Best for: The guy who runs hot during workouts and wants maximum airflow from every inch of fabric. Not ideal for someone who prefers a larger pack or prioritizes odor control over ventilation.

Product photos

#6Best Mesh Support

adidas Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs

adidas Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs
FabricPerformance mesh
Inseam5 inches
PouchMesh-lined
Pack3-pack
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What We Like

  • Breathable performance mesh fabric
  • Mesh-lined pouch for ventilation
  • Tagless waistband and smooth stitching

Trade-offs

  • Stretch poly-spandex blend not for cotton lovers
  • No fly opening for convenience

The performance mesh fabric circulates air while the mesh-lined pouch adds ventilation right where you need it most, making this a smart pick for sweaty cardio sessions or hot-weather training. It’s designed for active movement, with smooth stitching and a tagless waistband that won’t distract under gym shorts or tights. If you run hot during workouts or prioritize breathability over plush feel, this pack delivers consistent support without trapping heat.

The same mesh construction that keeps you cool can feel less cozy during cool-downs or in air-conditioned gyms, especially compared to denser fabrics like the microfiber in adidas’s own Microfiber Boxer Briefs. That pair offers a smoother, warmer handfeel for those who prefer less airflow. But if your priority is staying dry and ventilated through high-output training, the Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs lean into that strength without compromise. They cover sizes from S to XXL, so most body types can find a secure fit that moves with them.

Best for: Active men who want maximum breathability and ventilation during high-output workouts. Not ideal for those who prefer a thicker, warmer fabric feel in cooler gym environments.

Product photos

#7Best Value Pack

PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack

PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack
Pack Size5-pack
Fabric90% polyester, 10% spandex
FeaturesMoisture-wicking, quick-dry, flatlock seams
FitRegular fit boxer brief
CareMachine wash warm, tumble dry low
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What We Like

  • 5-pack for easy wear-wash rotation
  • Moisture-wicking and quick-dry fabric
  • Flatlock seams reduce chafing
  • Soft, non-constricting waistband

Trade-offs

  • No odor-control technology included
  • No fly opening for convenient bathroom use

A 5-pack of moisture-wicking boxer briefs means you can grab a fresh pair every workout without scrambling for laundry. PUMA uses 90% polyester and 10% spandex with flatlock seams and a soft waistband, so you get stretch that moves with lunges and quick-dry comfort that won’t leave you clammy mid-session. For the guy who wants a reliable rotation without overthinking fabric tech, this pack delivers consistent performance at a practical value.

These skip extras like odor control or mesh panels found in some competitors. Compared to the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs, which include anti-chafing and odor control features, the PUMA pack focuses on straightforward moisture management and a non-constricting fit. But for everyday gym sessions and a no-fuss rotation, this is a solid, affordable way to stock your drawer.

Best for: Gym-goers who want a budget-friendly 5-pack of sweat-wicking boxer briefs for daily training. Not ideal for those needing odor control or a tight compression fit.

Product photos

#8Best Anti-Dribble Design

SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Briefs

SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Briefs
FabricPerformance mesh
PouchBallPark Pouch Pro
Anti-dribbleStop Drop Technology
FitNo-ride-up legs
Pack3-pack
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What We Like

  • Stay-put legs prevent bunching
  • Stop Drop Technology helps eliminate post-pee dribbles
  • BallPark Pouch Pro has anti-chafe design

Trade-offs

  • Mesh fabric can show through thin shorts
  • No odor control feature listed

The performance mesh, while breathable and lightweight, is thin enough that it might show outlines under lighter or tighter workout shorts. That is something to keep in mind if you prefer a more discreet look. Compared to the Hanes model, which offers odor control and moisture-wicking, the SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh focuses on anti-dribble design but does not include any odor-fighting treatment. If post-pee dribbles are your main frustration, this pair helps address that; if you need odor control too, the Hanes option includes that feature.

Best for: Men who want active underwear that helps stop post-pee dribbles and keeps them dry during workouts. Not ideal for those who prefer a loose, relaxed fit or need built-in odor control.

Product photos

#9Best Budget Pick

Gildan Performance Boxer Briefs 6-Pack

Gildan Performance Boxer Briefs 6-Pack
FabricLightweight performance fabric
Stretch4-way stretch
Mesh panelsBreathable mesh panels
WaistbandTag-free plush waistband
Inseam6-inch inseam
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What We Like

  • Lightweight performance fabric
  • 4-way stretch for mobility
  • Breathable mesh panels
  • Tag-free plush waistband

Trade-offs

  • No fly for easy bathroom access
  • No moisture-wicking feature mentioned

A 6-pack of boxer briefs with lightweight performance fabric and 4-way stretch means you can stock your drawer with gear that moves through squats, lunges, and cardio without binding or overheating. The breathable mesh panels add airflow where you need it most, and the tag-free plush waistband keeps irritation off your skin. For anyone building a no-fuss gym wardrobe on a budget, this pack delivers the essentials without the premium price tag.

If you prefer the support and access of a specialized pouch or fly, the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs might suit you better. But if your priority is a lightweight, stretchy, affordable six-pack that handles sweat and movement without extra bells and whistles, this is a smart way to cover your bases.

Best for: Budget-conscious gym-goers who want a lightweight, stretchy six-pack for sweaty workouts.

Product photos

#10Best Natural Cooling

BAMBOO COOL Cooling Boxer Briefs

BAMBOO COOL Cooling Boxer Briefs
Material92% bamboo viscose, 8% spandex
Breathability20-30% more breathable than cotton
Cooling2-3°C cooler than cotton
Pouch design3D U-shaped fly pouch
Leg constructionNo-ride-up, four-way stretch
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What We Like

  • 20-30% more breathable than cotton
  • 2-3°C cooler for hot workouts
  • No-ride-up leg construction
  • 3D U-shaped fly pouch for freedom

Trade-offs

  • No odor-control feature mentioned for long sessions
  • No odor-control feature listed for long wear

Compared to cotton, these boxer briefs run 2-3°C cooler and are 20-30% more breathable, which means less heat buildup during active wear. The 92% bamboo viscose blend pulls moisture away from skin, so you stay drier than with standard cotton underwear. For anyone who finds cotton too warm or synthetic fabrics uncomfortable, this material offers a noticeable cooling effect without relying on chemical treatments.

These boxer briefs don’t include antimicrobial or odor-control features found in some other brands, like the SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs. If you plan to wear them multiple days without washing, you may notice odor buildup faster than with treated fabrics. For regular use with normal laundering, the cooling and softness from the bamboo viscose blend provide a comfortable alternative to cotton.

Best for: Active men who want a breathable, cooling fabric that is softer than cotton. Not ideal for those who need built-in odor control for extended use without washing.

How We Evaluated Workout Underwear For Men

We started with the specifications: fabric blends, inseam lengths, and construction details like flatlock stitching and gussets. Manufacturer data told us about moisture-wicking claims, stretch percentages, and odor-control technologies. Then we looked at patterns from expert round-ups and thousands of owner experiences to see what actually holds up under real sweat and movement.

Four criteria mattered most for this category. Chafe prevention came first, seam placement and pouch design directly affect whether you can finish a workout without irritation. Moisture management was second: a fabric that wicks and dries fast keeps you cool and reduces skin friction. Fit retention ranked third, leg bands that don’t ride up and waistbands that don’t pinch are non-negotiable for compound lifts and cardio. Finally, durability mattered because workout underwear gets washed more frequently than casual pairs.

A research-led evaluation like this has honest limits. We haven’t tested these pairs ourselves, and individual fit varies by body type and activity. What we can offer is a clear picture of each product’s strengths and trade-offs based on what’s known about its design and how owners describe their experience.

What To Look For In Workout Underwear For Men

Choosing the right pair comes down to matching fabric, fit, and features to your specific workouts. Here’s what to prioritize.

Look for moisture-wicking synthetic blends (polyester, nylon, or microfiber), flatlock seams to prevent chafing, leg bands that stay put without pinching, and a supportive pouch design that separates or contours.

Fabric and Moisture Management

The fabric is the foundation. Cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, which leads to chafing and discomfort. Most performance underwear uses polyester, nylon, or microfiber blends that wick moisture away from the skin and dry quickly. Some add odor-control treatments, which help if you wear the same pair through long sessions or back-to-back workouts. Mesh fabrics offer maximum breathability for high-sweat activities, while denser knits provide more coverage and opacity under thin shorts.

Fit, Inseam, and Ride-Up Prevention

A boxer brief‘s leg bands and inseam length determine whether it stays put. Look for bands engineered to grip without pinching; silicone dots or wide elastic bands work well. Inseams typically range from three to nine inches; shorter inseams suit compression-style fits, while longer ones prevent thigh chafing for runners or cyclists. A no-ride-up construction is critical for exercises like squats, deadlifts, and cycling, where fabric migration can ruin focus.

Pouch Design and Support

The pouch is where workout underwear differs most from casual pairs. Separating pouches lift and isolate the anatomy, reducing friction against thighs and preventing the “smooshed” feeling during movement. Contoured pouches offer a more traditional supportive shape. Some designs include a fly opening for convenience, while others omit it for a smoother front panel. The right choice depends on your personal preference for support level and bathroom accessibility.

  • Check the inseam length against your gym shorts and thigh size.
  • Look for flatlock or no-side-seam construction to eliminate rubbing points.
  • Verify the waistband is tagless and won’t dig in during bent-over positions.
  • Consider whether a fly opening matters for your routine.
  • Check the fabric opacity by holding it up to light if possible.

A good rule of thumb: if you can forget you’re wearing it mid-workout, it’s the right pair.

Workout Underwear For Men Compared

The table below compares key specs and features across our top picks, making it easier to see which pair matches your priorities at a glance.

ProductFabricInseamFeatures
Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer BriefsPolyester/tencel/spandex blend6 inchesMoisture-wicking, odor control, anti-chafe
New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs90% polyester / 10% spandex6 inchesMoisture Wicking, no-chafe flatlock stitching
adidas Microfiber Boxer BriefsQuick-dry microfiber5 inchesQuick-dry, no-ride-up leg construction
SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer BriefsLightweight breathable mesh5 inchesFlat reversed stitching, functional fly front
Under Armour Project Rock Tech Mesh Underwear88% Recycled Polyester, 12% Elastane5 inchesAllover mesh, 4-way stretch, sweat-wicking
adidas Performance Mesh Boxer BriefsPerformance mesh5 inchesQuick-dry, tag-free waistband, no-ride-up legs
PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack90% polyester, 10% spandexN/AMoisture-wicking, quick-dry, flatlock seams
SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer BriefsPerformance meshN/AStop Drop Technology, no-ride-up legs
Gildan Performance Boxer Briefs 6-PackLightweight performance fabric6-inch inseam4-way stretch, breathable mesh panels
BAMBOO COOL Cooling Boxer Briefs92% bamboo viscose, 8% spandexN/AMoisture wicking, no ride up, four-way stretch

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fabric for workout underwear?

Synthetic blends like polyester, nylon, and microfiber are best because they wick moisture, dry quickly, and resist odor better than cotton. Mesh variants offer extra breathability for hot workouts.

How often should you replace workout underwear?

Replace pairs when the elastic loses tension, leg bands no longer stay put, or the fabric develops holes or thinning. Most performance underwear lasts six to twelve months with regular washing.

Do you need a fly opening in workout underwear?

It depends on preference. A fly offers convenience for bathroom breaks between sets. Many performance-oriented pairs omit it for a smoother front panel that reduces bulk under shorts.

Can you wear cotton underwear for exercise?

Cotton is not ideal for exercise because it absorbs sweat and stays damp, increasing the risk of chafing and discomfort. Synthetic performance fabrics are a better choice for any activity that raises your heart rate.

What inseam length is best for workout boxer briefs?

A five- to seven-inch inseam works well for most men, balancing thigh coverage with freedom of movement. Shorter inseams suit compression fits, while longer ones help prevent thigh chafing during running or cycling.

The Bottom Line

The Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs is the best overall pick for men who want reliable anti-chafe support and moisture management during daily gym sessions. Its separating pouch and moisture-wicking fabric handle the two biggest complaints about workout underwear: chafing and sweat.

If your budget is tighter, the Gildan Performance Boxer Briefs 6-Pack delivers lightweight stretch and breathable mesh panels at a great value. For those who prioritize maximum ventilation, the SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs offers unmatched airflow with its BallPark Pouch design. And if you want a full week’s rotation in one buy, the PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack is the way to go.

The single most important factor is finding a pair that stays put and manages moisture. Everything else, pouch style, fly opening, inseam length, comes second to a fit that doesn’t shift or chafe through every rep, set, and mile.