

But the real X factor is the functional fly, a rarity in the button closure-dominated boxer shorts space, making access easier in times of, ahem, urgency. For one, the brand's classic-fit boxers are cut from the same type of lightweight, woven cotton it uses in its button-ups, and the relaxed fit offers ample room to stretch around in.

Plenty of big-name brands offer a riff on the staple, but Ralph Lauren's remains one of our favorites for a few reasons. Materials: 100% cotton Sizes: S-XXL Fly: Functional, open Colors: Variesīoxer briefs may dominate underwear drawers around the world, but there are scores of dudes who remain staunch boxer shorts devotees-and would happily trade support for a little extra air flow. (In this case, the security and support of tighty-whities and the coverage of boxer shorts.) Say less. Like the polo shirt or the loafer, they're hybrids that pull the best characteristics of multiple garments by wrapping them in one shiny package that's more than the sum of its parts. More Boxer Briefs We Loveīoxer briefs are the reigning champ of the men's underwear circuit. Add to that a super soft cotton blend with just the right amount of stretchy elastane, a waistband that's equal parts robust and comfy, and a price (for two pairs!) that's tough to beat, and you get an iconic pair of trunks that won't be relinquishing its throne anytime soon. Cue the now-standard-issue below-the-navel stance, the wider waistbands (and yes, the logos on those waistbands), and the idea that underwear should show off your goods, not hide them. started cutting them the way guys wanted to wear their underwear in the first place (read: not at their belly button). Plenty of it had to do with those ads, but most of the change happened because Klein and Co. The American designer's foray into men's undergarments turned them from something guys had to wear to something they wanted to wear (and okay, yes, still had to), and maybe even wanted to show off. The best men's underwear that covers all the bases we just listed above? It still comes from the brand that changed the men's underwear game in the first place: Calvin Klein. Materials: 95% cotton, 5% spandex Sizes: S-XL Inseam: 4" Fly: Functional side Colors and Patterns: Varies The Best Old-School Underwear: Sunspel superfine cotton trunks, $50.The Best Confidence-Boosting Underwear: Tom Ford silk-satin boxers, $310.The Best Underwear for Hitting the Gym: Lululemon Always In Motion boxer, $28.

The Best Budget Underwear: Uniqlo AIRism boxer briefs, $15.The Best Boxers: Polo Ralph Lauren classic fit boxer (3-pack), $45.

