What men's underwear is actually called

Short answer: Underwear is the broad word for what men wear below the waist, and the name of a style depends on the cut. Briefs are short and close fitting, boxers have loose legs, and boxer briefs fit close with a leg that covers the thigh. Here is a simple guide to the names.

Underwear is the broad word

Underwear is often used as a catch-all for everything men wear below the waist. In daily life people also say pants, shorts or just undies, and most people understand what you mean. The words cover many cuts, so it is the cut that decides how a pair of underwear fits and feels.

Briefs are short and close fitting

Briefs are the classic triangular shape without legs, which sit close and give a little support. They take up very little room under clothes and are often worn under slim trousers or for sport. They do not cover the thigh, though, so some people feel rubbing if they walk or cycle a lot.

Boxer briefs fit close and have legs

Boxer briefs are a mix: close fitting like briefs, but with a leg that covers the top of the thigh. Many people call them briefs with legs, and it is the shape you often find in bamboo boxer briefs. They usually stay well in place and cause less rubbing between the thighs when you move.

Boxer shorts have loose legs

Boxer shorts have loose, slightly wide legs and an elastic waist. They give plenty of room and air, and many find them comfortable to sleep in and wear at home. Under slim trousers they can bunch up, so it is a matter of fit whether you prefer them to close fitting briefs.

Long underwear for cold weather

Long underwear reaches past the knee or all the way to the ankle and works as an extra layer under trousers when it is cold. It is also called long johns or thermal underwear, depending on who you ask. In winter you can combine it with long sleeve models on top, so the body has an even layer.

Why the words change from country to country

In Danish people say underbukser and herretrusser, in Norway underbukse, and in Sweden kalsonger. In English it is underwear, boxers or briefs, and in German Unterhose or Boxershorts. That can make searching hard, so use several words when you look for a specific style.

How to choose the right style

Think about what you need them for. For daily life and the office, boxer briefs are often a safe choice, for the night boxer shorts can be airier, and for sport many want a close fitting leg. Choose by fit rather than by name, and feel free to try a new type if the old one does not work.

Once your underwear is sorted

When you have found your style, you can think about the rest of the basics too. A pair of bamboo socks with the same soft feel makes the day more even, especially if you are on the move a lot. Bamboo in clothing is viscose from bamboo, and many choose it because the fabric feels soft on the skin.

Frequently asked questions

Are underwear and boxer shorts the same thing

Not quite. Underwear is the broad word for men's underwear, and boxer shorts are one specific shape of it. What matters in the end is the cut and the fit.

What is the difference between boxer shorts and boxer briefs

Boxer shorts have loose, wide legs, while boxer briefs fit close and have a shorter leg. Boxer briefs usually stay in place better, and boxer shorts give more air and room.

Which style is best for everyday wear

That depends on you. Many choose a close fitting style with legs for the day and a looser one for the night. Try a few, and choose by fit and comfort rather than by the name.