Boxer Briefs
Boxer briefs for the best of both worlds
Many a celebrity interview has been the victim of the "boxers or briefs" question. It's not clear whether this question actually reveals deep secrets about the men who answer it or not. Many men claim allegiance to one form of underwear over the other, and it usually all comes down to comfort. Boxers are loose and long, briefs are short and tight. If you want the best of both worlds, why not try a pair of boxer briefs? While traditional boxer shorts have an elastic waistband and loose-fitting legs, men's boxer briefs fit relatively tightly all the way down the leg. They offer the support of briefs, but aren't nearly as restrictive. This relative tightness also prevents the legs from riding up.
Brands of Boxer Briefs
Each of the major undergarment manufacturers offers their version of the boxer brief. The Jockey boxer brief is described as providing good support without being too tight. Men choosing a Hanes boxer brief are probably looking for underwear that is a bit loose without being too expensive. No matter your choice of brand, if you want more support, look for a boxer brief that is mostly cotton with some stretch material, such as Lycra, to help your underwear hold their shape through repeated use and washings.
Boxer Briefs vs. Boxers
The line between boxer briefs and modern boxers is becoming a bit blurry, as some modern boxers are beginning to take on a more fitted look. However, the difference is obvious when comparing a boxer brief to the classic boxer (which got its name from the kind of shorts that boxers wear, by the way) which is a much looser-fitting garment. This type of boxer looks much more like swim trunks or shorts, and typically has an elastic waistband and loose, flowing legs.
Men with sturdier thighs may find boxer briefs to be too tight and restrictive, and should try out a classic boxer to check comfort. It is also important to check the sizing of boxer briefs before purchasing. Most come in small, medium, large and extra large, and each of these sizes corresponds to a waist size (such as 36 to 38 inches for large). It's usually a safe bet to purchase the size that is the same as the waist on your pants, and go from there.
