10 Best Workout Underwear in 2026

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The Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs earn our Best Overall spot thanks to an anti-chafing mesh pouch that actually separates and supports during movement. For full mobility, the New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs offer 360-degree stretch, while the PUMA 5-Pack delivers serious value for daily rotation. These ten picks cover every active guy’s needs.

The right pair of workout underwear can make the difference between a focused set and a distracted adjustment session. Chafing, ride-up, and sweat-soaked fabric ruin momentum fast, but the wrong cut or material can also limit your range of motion under shorts or leggings. Getting this choice right matters more than most guys realize.

We built this guide by combing through manufacturer specs, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback across dozens of models. Our picks focus on what actually holds up during squats, runs, and long gym sessions: moisture management, anti-chafe construction, stretch, and stay-put design. No fluff, just the details that matter.

Top 10 Workout Underwear in the Market

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The Best Workout Underwear, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs

Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs
FabricPolyester/tencel/spandex blend
Inseam6 inches (regular leg)
Pouch DesignTotal Support Pouch with mesh panels
FeaturesMoisture-wicking, odor control, anti-chafe
WaistbandStretch, no-pinch, tag-free
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What We Like

  • Anti-chafing mesh pouch separates and supports
  • Moisture-wicking fabric with odor control
  • No-ride-up leg bands stay in place
  • Tag-free design reduces distractions

Trade-offs

  • No fly opening for easy bathroom use.

The Total Support Pouch uses a separate mesh panel design to keep everything cool and chafe-free, which is exactly what you need when you’re squatting, running, or cycling. Moisture-wicking fabric with built-in odor control helps you stay fresh through long sessions, and the stretch waistband won’t pinch or dig in. This is the pair you grab when you want reliable support without thinking about your underwear at all.

The design prioritizes pouch support and anti-chafe features, which means it may not suit those who prefer a fly opening for convenience. Compared to other options like the adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs, the Hanes focuses on support and cooling rather than quick-access convenience. For most gym-goers who value chafe prevention and all-day comfort, that trade is well worth making.

Best for: Active men who want anti-chafe support and moisture control during workouts.

Product photos

#2Best 360-Degree Stretch

New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs 3-Pack

New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs 3-Pack
Fabric90% polyester, 10% spandex
Inseam6 inches
PouchContoured with gusset
FlyYes
Pack size3-pack
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What We Like

  • 360-degree stretch for full mobility
  • Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry
  • Flatlock stitching prevents chafing
  • Soft jacquard waistband stays secure

Trade-offs

  • No odor-control treatment mentioned
  • No odor-control feature for long wear

A 90% polyester and 10% spandex blend with 360-degree stretch means these boxer briefs move exactly where you do no binding or tugging when you squat lunge or reach overhead. The contoured pouch and gusset support natural motion while the moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin so you stay dry through a full session. If you want underwear that disappears under gym shorts and lets you focus on the lift not the wedgie this is your pick.

Compared to the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs which also use moisture-wicking fabric but lack the 360-degree stretch this New Balance pair wins on unrestricted movement for dynamic workouts.

Best for: Athletes and gym-goers who need full range of motion and sweat management during dynamic workouts. Not ideal for those with synthetic-sensitive skin or who prefer a shorter inseam for hot-weather runs.

Product photos

#3Best Quick-Dry

adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs 3-Pack

adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs 3-Pack
MaterialMicrofiber poly-spandex blend
Inseam5 inches
Pack Size3 pairs
SizesS to XXL (28-44 in. waist)
CareMachine wash; tumble dry low
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What We Like

  • Quick-drying microfiber material
  • Tagless waistband, smooth stitching
  • No-ride-up leg construction
  • Athletic comfort fit stays in place

Trade-offs

  • No pouch or ball-separating design
  • Only three pairs per pack

The quick-dry microfiber build wicks moisture and dries fast after washing. So you can get through a sweaty gym session and have them ready for the next day’s rotation. The 5-inch inseam and no-ride-up leg construction keep the legs from bunching during squats, runs, or long hours on your feet, while the tagless waistband and smooth stitching eliminate the itch and distraction that cheap underwear brings. This pack suits anyone who trains hard, sweats a lot, and wants a low-maintenance rotation that doesn’t demand constant laundry attention.

The adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs 3-Pack is built for active guys who want a supportive-but-not-too-tight fit that stays in place through gym workouts, training, and everyday wear. The quick-dry microfiber material keeps you cool and dry, and the tagless waistband with smooth stitching means no scratchy tags or rough seams. Three pairs per pack cover a full rotation, so you’re set for the week.

Best for: Active men who sweat heavily and want underwear that dries fast, stays put, and feels smooth against the skin. Not ideal for those who prefer a separate pouch or ball-separating design.

Product photos

#4Best Breathable Mesh

adidas Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-Pack

adidas Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-Pack
FabricPerformance mesh
Inseam5 inches
PouchMesh-lined
WaistbandTagless, plush-soft
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What We Like

  • Mesh fabric circulates air for breathability
  • Quick-dry moisture management keeps you cool
  • Tagless waistband and smooth stitching prevent chafing
  • No-ride-up legs maintain fit through movement

Trade-offs

  • Mesh fabric offers less warmth for cold-weather use
  • Sizing limited to waist 28-44 inches

The performance mesh fabric is the standout feature here, actively circulating air and managing moisture to keep you cool and dry during high-output workouts, hot-weather training, or cardio sessions. That breathability makes these boxer briefs ideal for anyone who sweats heavily or trains in warm environments, with a mesh-lined pouch adding ventilation exactly where you need it most. The tagless waistband and smooth stitching eliminate irritation, so you can focus on your set instead of adjusting your underwear.

The performance mesh fabric circulates air for breathable comfort, so it keeps you cool and dry during high-output workouts and hot-weather training. Reviewers note that the tagless waistband and smooth stitching eliminate scratchy tags and rough seams, making it comfortable for long sessions. If you want maximum ventilation for intense activity, this design delivers; if you need insulation for cold-weather use, a denser fabric might be more suitable.

Best for: Active men who run hot during workouts or train in warm climates and need maximum breathability.

Product photos

#5Best 4-Way Stretch

Under Armour Performance Tech Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-Pack

Under Armour Performance Tech Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-Pack
FabricPerformance Tech Mesh
Stretch4-way stretch
Inseam6"
Pack size3-pack
FitFitted
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What We Like

  • Breathable mesh for superior ventilation
  • 4-way stretch moves in every direction
  • Chafe-free seams and no-roll hem
  • Tagless design for zero irritation

Trade-offs

  • Only one inseam length available (6")
  • 3-pack limits variety for daily rotation

The 4-way stretch construction moves better in every direction, so you never feel restricted during movement. The Performance Tech Mesh fabric is insanely soft and breathable for superior ventilation, keeping you comfortable during activity. This pick suits anyone who values unrestricted range of motion and wants underwear that stays in place without constant adjustments.

The trade-off here is that the fitted cut, while streamlined, might feel a bit snug if you carry more muscle through your quads or prefer a looser feel around the legs. Compared to the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs, which have a different design, the Under Armour pair offers a fitted fit and mesh ventilation. For most activities, that trade-off works in your favor, but if you want a different fit, the Hanes option is worth a look.

Best for: Active guys who need stretch and breathability during movement. Not ideal for those who prefer a loose, relaxed leg fit.

Product photos

#6Best Chafe-Free Support

SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-Pack

SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-Pack
MaterialLightweight mesh
Inseam5 inches
PouchBallPark Pouch Support
SeamsFlat, reversed stitching
FlyFunctional fly front
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What We Like

  • BallPark Pouch prevents chafing
  • Flat seams reduce skin irritation
  • Mesh fabric keeps you cool
  • No-ride-up design stays in place

Trade-offs

  • 5-inch inseam is shorter than some prefer
  • Mesh fabric lacks the compressive support some lifters want

The BallPark Pouch with curved seams and mesh wings is the standout feature here, it lifts and separates to stop the kind of rubbing that ruins a long run or heavy squat session. That makes these boxer briefs a smart pick for anyone who’s dealt with chafing during workouts, especially in warmer gyms or outdoor training. The lightweight mesh fabric breathes well, and the flat, reversed stitching keeps seams from digging into your skin. That lets you concentrate on your set instead of adjusting your underwear.

The mesh construction is lightweight and breathable, which keeps you cool during cardio or warm-weather training, but it doesn’t provide the compressive hold some lifters look for under tight gear. If you prefer a more supportive feel for heavy lifts, the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs offer moisture-wicking and odor-control fabric. For chafe-free comfort during cardio, cycling, or everyday active wear, the SAXX Core Performance Mesh delivers exactly what the name promises.

Best for: Active guys who prioritize chafe-free comfort and breathability during cardio or long workouts. Not ideal for lifters wanting maximum compression under tight gear.

Product photos

#7Best Anti-Dribble Design

SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly 3-Pack

SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly 3-Pack
FabricLightweight breathable mesh
PouchBallPark Pouch Pro with anti-chafe design
FlyStop Drop Technology (anti-dribble)
FitNo-ride-up leg openings
Pack Size3-pack
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What We Like

  • Stop Drop Technology prevents post-pee dribbles
  • BallPark Pouch Pro reduces chafing and supports
  • Breathable mesh keeps you cool and dry
  • Stay-put legs stop bunching during movement

Trade-offs

  • Mesh fabric offers less warmth than cotton blends
  • Mesh fabric pills with frequent machine washing

The integrated moisture-wicking structure is designed to help eliminate post-pee dribbles, which can be a real nuisance during a workout. That feature alone makes these boxer briefs a practical choice for anyone who values staying dry after a bathroom break. The lightweight breathable mesh fabric keeps air moving, so you stay cool even during heavy sets, and the BallPark Pouch Pro is engineered for a snug, supportive fit that also fights chafing. If you want workout underwear that handles the little gross moments without extra bulk, this design delivers.

The BallPark Pouch Pro delivers a snug, supportive fit that stays locked in during movement. It is ideal for gym sessions or running. That same engineered mesh construction prioritizes breathability and moisture management over softness or insulation, so it’s not meant for lounging around the house on a cold day. Reviewers note the no-ride-up leg openings move with you, preventing bunching during active use, while the moisture-wicking Stop Drop Technology helps eliminate post-pee dribbles for added confidence throughout the day.

Best for: Active guys who want anti-dribble protection and cooling mesh support for sweaty workouts. Not ideal for those who prefer a loose, cottony feel or a roomier pouch.

Product photos

#8Best Value Pack

PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack

PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack
Fabric90% polyester, 10% spandex
Pack Size5-pack
FitRegular fit boxer brief
FeaturesMoisture-wicking, quick-dry, tag-free
SeamsFlatlock seams
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What We Like

  • 5-pack for easy rotation
  • Moisture-wicking quick-dry fabric
  • Flatlock seams reduce chafing
  • Soft stretch fabric moves with you

Trade-offs

  • No fly opening for convenience
  • Only available in sizes S through XL

A five-pack means you can grab a fresh pair every workout day without scrambling for laundry. That is the kind of practical thinking that makes the PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs a smart buy for anyone building a reliable gym rotation. The moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric (90% polyester, 10% spandex) pulls sweat away so you stay comfortable through lunges, squats, or long cardio sessions, and the flatlock seams help prevent the chafing that can ruin a good training day. It is a straightforward, no-fuss design that focuses on staying put and drying fast. That is exactly what you want when you are more concerned with your deadlift than your waistband.

The trade-off is that this is a polyester-heavy blend, so if you run very hot or prefer natural fibers against your skin, the fabric might feel less breathable than a mesh or cotton-mix option. Compared to the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs, the PUMA boxer briefs take a simpler approach. They rely on active stretch and a regular fit rather than extra structure. That makes them a better fit for guys who want versatile, low-maintenance underwear that works for both the gym and everyday wear, without overcomplicating things.

Best for: Gym-goers wanting a budget-friendly, low-maintenance five-pack for daily training and casual wear. Not ideal for those who prefer a built-in support pouch or natural-fiber fabrics.

Product photos

#9Best Budget Performance

Gildan Men's Performance Boxer Briefs

Gildan Men's Performance Boxer Briefs
FabricLightweight performance fabric
Stretch4-way stretch
VentilationBreathable mesh panels
WaistbandTag-free plush waistband
Inseam6 inches
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What We Like

  • Lightweight performance fabric moves with you
  • 4-way stretch for enhanced mobility
  • Breathable mesh panels improve airflow
  • Tag-free plush waistband reduces irritation

Trade-offs

  • 6-pack means more upfront commitment to one style
  • Waistband fit depends on personal preference for plush

Six pairs in one pack give you a full week’s rotation without needing to shop again soon. The lightweight performance fabric and 4-way stretch let you move freely during squats or lunges, while the breathable mesh panels help dump heat where you need it most. This is underwear designed to stay out of your way, letting you concentrate on your workout without constant adjustments. For someone looking for a practical set of performance boxer briefs, this pack delivers the core features at a straightforward price.

The six-pack means you’re locked into one style and fit, so if the tag-free plush waistband doesn’t work with your usual shorts, you’ve got five more pairs to deal with. The New Balance 3-pack gives you fewer pairs, but the Gildan set offers more underwear for the same kind of commitment. It’s a straightforward choice for someone who wants functional performance underwear without fuss.

Best for: The buyer who wants a full rotation of lightweight, breathable boxer briefs for active use. Not ideal for those who prefer a pouch-style design or need a specific waistband feel.

Product photos

#10Best Anti-Chafe Stretch

Nike Men's All Day Micro Stretch Boxer Briefs

Nike Men's All Day Micro Stretch Boxer Briefs
TechnologyDri-FIT moisture-wicking
Leg HemsWide, no-ride-up
Pack Count3 pairs
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What We Like

  • Flat seams minimize chafing
  • Dri-FIT wicks sweat away
  • Wide hems prevent riding up
  • Stretch fabric moves with you

Trade-offs

  • Only 3 pairs in pack
  • No odor-control technology listed
  • No fly or pouch design mentioned

The flat seams and wide leg hems on these boxer briefs are designed to help minimize chafing and keep the underwear from riding up. Dri-FIT moisture-wicking technology helps you stay dry and comfortable during activity. The stretch fabric provides all-day, everyday comfort, so you can move without restriction. This is a straightforward pair for anyone who wants friction-free comfort.

Three pairs of boxer briefs come without odor control or a fly, so if you prioritize those features, the Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs include odor control and anti-chafing. The Nike pair focuses on chafe prevention with flat seams and wide hems to stop riding up, making them a straightforward choice for comfort without extra frills.

Best for: Active guys who prioritize chafe-free, stay-put comfort and don't need extra features like odor control or a fly. Not ideal for those who want odor-fighting technology or a built-in fly for convenience.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Workout Underwear

Our evaluation is research-based, drawing on technical specifications, manufacturer documentation, expert round-up analysis, and recurring patterns in owner feedback. We looked for what experienced gym-goers consistently praise or complain about across thousands of reviews and editorial assessments.

Four criteria mattered most for this category. Moisture management came first, fabric that wicks sweat and dries fast prevents chafing and keeps you comfortable through a full session. Stretch and mobility ranked second because restrictive underwear limits hip drive and leg extension during lifts and lunges. Anti-chafe construction, including flatlock seams and tagless designs, was third. Finally, we weighed fit retention: leg bands that stay put without riding up or rolling.

A research-led evaluation has honest limits. We cannot speak to how a waistband feels after fifty washes or how a specific pouch works for every body type. We prioritized models with consistent praise across multiple sources and flagged trade-offs that owners commonly mention.

What To Look For In Workout Underwear

Finding the right pair means balancing fabric performance, fit, and features against your specific training style and body. Here is what to check before you buy.

Focus on moisture-wicking synthetic blends, flatlock seams, and a leg band that stays put through deep squats and sprints. A support pouch helps if you value separation. Stretch fabric matters more than a specific brand name.

Moisture-Wicking Fabric

Cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, which leads to chafing and discomfort. Look for polyester, nylon, or microfiber blends labeled moisture-wicking or quick-dry. The adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs dry especially fast, while the Under Armour Performance Tech Mesh adds ventilation through breathable mesh panels. If you run hot or train in humid conditions, prioritize airflow over cotton-blend softness.

Anti-Chafe Construction

Chafing happens where seams rub and edges dig in. Flatlock stitching lies flat against the skin, and tagless waistbands eliminate an obvious irritation point. The SAXX Core Performance Mesh uses flat seams and a BallPark Pouch to prevent skin-on-skin friction. The Nike All Day Micro Stretch relies on flat seams and wide hems that stay put without digging. Check for these details before you buy.

Stretch and Mobility

Dynamic movements need fabric that moves with you, not against you. Four-way stretch and 360-degree stretch fabrics allow full range of motion during lunges, deadlifts, and yoga flows. The New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs excel here with a 360-degree stretch construction, and the Gildan Men’s Performance Boxer Briefs offer 4-way stretch at a budget-friendly price. A good stretch also helps the underwear return to shape after washing.

Fit and Stay-Put Design

A leg band that rides up mid-set defeats the purpose of wearing boxer briefs. Look for no-ride-up leg construction or wide hems that grip without constricting. The Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs and the adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs both use no-ride-up leg bands that owners say stay in place through heavy movement. Inseam length matters too, shorter inseams (around 5-6 inches) suit hot-weather runs, while longer ones prevent ride-up during squats.

  • Check the inseam length against your preferred shorts or leggings.
  • Look for a fly opening if bathroom convenience matters during long sessions.
  • Consider a separate pouch if ball separation and support are priorities.
  • Read care instructions, some mesh fabrics pill with frequent machine washing.

A good pair of workout underwear should disappear under your shorts, you should not think about it once during your set.

Workout Underwear Compared

The table below compares all ten picks across key specs like fabric type, stretch, pouch design, and pack size, so you can see at a glance which pair fits your training style.

ProductFabricInseamFeatures
Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer BriefsPolyester/tencel/spandex blend6 inchesMoisture-wicking, odor control, anti-chafe
New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs 3-Pack90% polyester, 10% spandex6 inchesMoisture wicking, anti-chafe
adidas Microfiber Boxer Briefs 3-PackMicrofiber poly-spandex blend5 inchesMoisture-wicking, quick-dry
adidas Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-PackPerformance mesh5 inchesQuick-dry, tag-free waistband
Under Armour Performance Tech Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-PackPerformance Tech Mesh6 inches4-way stretch, chafe-free seams
SAXX Core Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs 3-PackLightweight mesh5 inchesChafe-free, functional fly front
SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly 3-PackLightweight breathable meshN/AAnti-chafe, anti-dribble
PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack90% polyester, 10% spandexN/AMoisture-wicking, quick-dry, tag-free
Gildan Men's Performance Boxer BriefsLightweight performance fabric6 inches4-way stretch, tag-free plush waistband
Nike Men's All Day Micro Stretch Boxer BriefsN/AN/ADri-FIT moisture-wicking, no-ride-up

Frequently Asked Questions

What material is best for workout underwear?

Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and microfiber are best because they wick moisture away from the skin and dry quickly. Cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, which increases the risk of chafing during exercise. Look for moisture-wicking or quick-dry labels on the product description.

How often should I replace workout underwear?

Replace workout underwear when the elastic loses its grip, the fabric feels thin or develops holes, or odors linger after washing. For frequent trainees who wash after every session, a rotation of five to seven pairs should last six to twelve months before needing replacement.

Do I need a pouch or ball-separating design for working out?

A separate pouch reduces skin-on-skin friction and keeps everything in place during dynamic movement. It is especially helpful for running, cycling, and high-rep leg work. If you have never tried one, the SAXX BallPark Pouch or Hanes Total Support Pouch are good starting points.

Are boxer briefs better than briefs for the gym?

Boxer briefs offer more thigh coverage and prevent leg-band ride-up under shorts, making them the most popular choice for gym wear. Briefs provide less fabric and more ventilation, which some prefer for hot yoga or running. The choice depends on your activity and personal comfort.

How do I stop workout underwear from riding up?

Look for boxer briefs with no-ride-up leg construction, wide hems, or silicone grip bands. Longer inseams also help prevent the legs from creeping up during squats and lunges. Avoid loose-fitting cuts that shift with movement.

The Bottom Line

The Hanes Total Support Pouch Boxer Briefs are our Best Overall pick for active men who want anti-chafe support and moisture control without thinking about their underwear mid-set. If you need maximum freedom of movement for dynamic training, the New Balance Performance Boxer Briefs deliver 360-degree stretch that keeps up with lunges and deadlifts. For budget-minded shoppers, the PUMA Performance Boxer Briefs 5-Pack offers a full rotation of moisture-wicking performance at a strong value.

If your priority is cooling airflow during hot workouts, the adidas Performance Mesh Boxer Briefs circulate air better than anything else here. Guys dealing with post-pee dribbles during gym trips will appreciate the SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly with its Stop Drop Technology. And if you want a full rotation without spending much, the Gildan Men’s Performance Boxer Briefs 6-Pack delivers lightweight breathable performance at the lowest cost per pair.

The single most important factor is moisture management. Everything else, stretch, pouch design, inseam length, is secondary to fabric that keeps you dry through a full workout. Choose a pair that wicks sweat, and you have already solved most of the common complaints about gym underwear.