MEN'S UNDERWEAR FABRICS

The right material for your underwear can make all the difference in comfort, durability, and how you feel throughout the day.

Let's dive into some of the most popular fabrics – cotton, bamboo, wool, and woven – and explore their strengths and weaknesses.

Bamboo is becoming increasingly popular due to its sustainability and ultra-soft feel. It’s incredibly breathable, moisture-wicking, and naturally antibacterial, which makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin or for wearing during workouts.

While bamboo is soft and luxurious, it can be less durable than other fabrics, especially when exposed to high heat in the wash. Bamboo underwear can also be pricier due to the production process.

• Ultra soft
• Very breathable & moisture wicking
• Sustainable production

• Somewhat less durable
• Slightly more expensive

Wool, especially Merino wool, is known for its temperature-regulating properties. It keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer, making it a versatile choice. Wool is also naturally moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and soft against the skin.

Despite its many benefits, wool can be more expensive and requires special care, such as handwashing or delicate cycles, to maintain its quality. Some men might find wool too warm for hotter climates.

• Regulates temperature
• Ultra soft
• Odor resistant

• Expensive
• Can be too hot

Cotton is a staple in men's underwear for good reason. It's soft, breathable, and highly absorbent, making it great for everyday wear. Cotton is also durable and easy to care for, holding up well through repeated washes.

While cotton is breathable, it tends to retain moisture, which can be uncomfortable in hot or humid conditions. It also lacks the stretch and recovery of some other fabrics, which means it can lose its shape over time.

• Breathable
• Affordable
• Durable

• Not as moisture-resistant as wool or bamboo
• Stiffer than other options

Woven fabrics are typically lightweight and breathable, offering a more structured fit. These materials can add a touch of timelessness to your underwear drawer, often used in more tailored designs like boxers.

Woven fabrics tend to be less stretchy, which can limit movement and comfort compared to knit materials. They also don't wick moisture as effectively and can wrinkle easily, which might be a drawback for some.

• Lightweight
• Breathable
• Structured

• Less stretchy
• Not as moisture-resistant as wool or bamboo

#1 Bamboo: The ultimate blend of comfort, breathability, and eco-friendliness, perfect for all-day wear.

#2 Wool: Soft and excellent for temperature regulation and active wear, though less convenient for maintenance.

#3 Cotton: A reliable and versatile choice that balances comfort and durability.

#4 Woven Fabrics: Great for structure and style, but less flexible and moisture-wicking compared to other materials.

Your choice of material can have a big impact on your comfort, so consider what matters most to you – whether it's softness, breathability, or ease of care – and pick accordingly.

For more information about types of undies, check out our article on the pros and cons of men’s underwear types here.