Boxers or trunks, find your leg length

Short answer: Boxers and trunks differ mostly in leg length, and the right one for you depends on your thighs, your clothes and what you do all day. Measure, try both, and pick the length that stays put without pinching or riding up.

Two styles, two lengths

Boxers have a longer and often slightly looser leg, while trunks are shorter and sit closer to the body. Both are everyday underwear, and neither is better than the other. The difference is where the leg ends on the thigh and what it does when you walk, sit and move.

How to measure leg length

Stand with your legs slightly apart and measure from the crotch down the inner thigh to where you want the leg to end. Write the number down and compare it with the size notes. You can also take a pair you already like and measure its leg the same way as a starting point.

Thigh shape and size

If you have strong thighs, a short leg can cut in and ride up, so a longer leg gives more calm. If you have slim thighs, a long leg can bunch up and bulge under your trousers. This is perfectly common, so let the shape of your thighs decide, not a word on the label.

What you wear on top

Under slim trousers or shorts, a long boxer can roll up, and a shorter leg lies smooth. Under loose trousers the length matters less. You can browse the range of bamboo underwear for men and choose by what you usually wear over it day to day.

Walking, cycling and sitting

If you move a lot, notice whether the leg rubs on the inside of your thigh. A leg that is too short can rub, and one that is too long can curl up. If you sit for long periods, the fabric must not pull at the crotch. Try sitting down where you can so you feel the fit before you decide.

With a vest or tank top

Many people combine underwear with a tank top to get a layer that lies smooth under a shirt or T-shirt. What matters here is that both sit close without squeezing. Look at the bamboo tank top for men, and choose the size that fits your upper body, not your underwear.

Socks and the detail at the bottom

If you have long legs, a long boxer and a low sock can make the leg feel layered at the bottom. It is a small thing, but it can decide whether the day feels calm. Also take a look at socks for men and women, so the whole leg sits in the same rhythm from top to toe.

Washing and fit over time

Wash underwear as the care label says, without fabric softener, and let it dry so the elastic lasts longer. The fabric can give a little over time, so a style that feels very snug at first may become more comfortable. If it still sits wrong after a few washes, a different length is the better choice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between boxers and trunks?

Boxers have longer, often looser legs, and trunks are shorter and sit closer. It is mostly a question of what feels best on your thighs and under your clothes.

Which length is best if I cycle a lot?

Notice whether the leg rubs on the inner thigh. Many prefer a leg that stays in place without riding up, and it is individual, so feel free to try both lengths.

Should boxers fit loose or snug?

They should sit comfortably without pinching or bunching, and the waistband should stay put. If you are between two sizes, try both and choose by how you move.

See our range of bamboo boxers.