I can only assume that anyone who’s made their way to this article has been a victim of chafe at one stage or another - so you don’t need me to tell you that underwear can literally rub you up the wrong way.
Perhaps you’re a seasoned runner, are partial to a spinning class or simply sweat more than your average Joe - no matter what’s causing you to perspire down under, the searing pain is something we’d all quite like to avoid. Our top tip? It’s all in your choice of undies.
Anti-chafing boxers are crafted using super-soft fabrics that have breathable, moisture-wicking and comfy credentials to keep your, ahem, delicate areas feeling fresh all day long - clammy commutes and HIIT gym classes included.
The best styles will feature flat-locked seams for reduced irritation, an anti-roll waistband for optimum support and odour-control technology for keeping any unwanted aromas at bay - because, no matter how sweaty your boys may be, smells coming from that area are never the one.
The good news? The options on the market cater for everyone. From Sunspel’s design which is crafted using natural fibres to the super-silky barely-there boxers by Manscaped which will soothe even the most sensitive of undercarriages, every guy’s gonads can enjoy a rub-free experience on the daily.
Find your family jewels’ newest companion in our edit below.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Best men’s underwear brands: Boxers, briefs and more from designer brands
Best hair removal creams for men
Best men’s grooming brands to know for your bathroom cabinet
Best summer fragrances for men 2023: Tom Ford, Aesop and more
Best electric shavers for men, from budget to top of the range
Best men’s pyjamas 2023: comfortable sleepwear and loungewear
JustWears Boxer Briefs
When JustWears' co-founder Alex was working in finance, he found that his underwear just did not fit properly. So, when he and best pal Yang couldn't find a solution, they decided to design their own brand of underwear made from soft cellulosic fibre, MicroModal Air.
Made from sustainable Austrian beech trees, this fabric is not only good for the environment, but it's also five times softer than cotton. The designs have an optional pouch component and have been made to be both anti-chafing and anti-ride-up. Plus, you can get 30 per cent off when you purchase a nine-pack of JustWears' Boxer Briefs. Sounds like a win to us.
Buy now £16.95, JustWears
Nike 3 Pack Dri-FIT Boxer Shorts Mens
Nike’s Dri-Fit range should be on your radar whether layered under sportswear or suits. Crafted using a moisture-wicking polyester blend with a touch of elastane for added comfort, these boxers will keep you rub-free from AM to PM. The best part? You can get all three pairs for just £25.99.
Buy now £25.99, JD Sports
Lululemon Always In Motion Boxer 5"
Lululemon may be best known for its activewear but don’t sleek on its premium underwear that is crafted using luxury sustainable fabrics. The super soft textile that’s derived from responsibly sourced wood is sweat-wicking, quick-drying and naturally breathable - and the added lycra means they won’t lose their shape either.
Buy now £25.00, Lululemon
Uniqlo Airism Boxers
If you’re yet to try Uniqlo’s Airism range, you’re in for a treat. From the t-shirts to the underwear, the fabrics are super lightweight and extremely comfortable - and you’ll never want to take them off. Not only will you stay cool and dry, but they‘ll also keep any unwanted whiffs at bay thanks to the built-in deodorizing technology.
Buy now £12.90, Uniqlo
Autograph 5pk Autograph Supima® Cotton Blend Trunks
Marks & Spencer’s premium range, Autograph, is a go-to for quality everyday designs. They are made using a Supima cotton blend, which is a superior type of cotton that has long fibres for extra strength and softness. This ensures that these boxers are both supportive and smooth, especially as it’s paired with lycra.
Buy now £35.00, Marks & Spencer
Manscaped Performance Boxer Briefs
When it comes to caring for your nether regions, the expert in the field is Manscaped. From the shaver to the groin cleanser, the ball toner to the anti-chafing deodorant, introducing your buds below to anything from this grooming specialist will give them instant relief - and the boxers are no exception.
The micro-fiber blend textile will keep you cool in the heat while the no-roll waistband will provide maximum support.
Buy now £32.00, Amazon
Asket The Boxer Brief 3-Pack
Ethical label Asket designs pieces to last - so while this three-pack is a slightly higher price point, they’ll retain their shape and softness for years to come. Featuring barely-there flat seams and a comfy organic cotton blend fabric, you’ll barely remember you’re wearing boxers at all. Commando core.
Buy now £55.00, Asket
Falke Men Boxer Ultralight Cool
German brand Falke has been designing underpinnings since its foundation over 125 years ago - and one of its newest releases is men’s boxers. Constructed using an innovative recycled polyamide mix that’s cooling, fast-drying and moisture-wicking, these would keep you cool, calm and collected whether you’re heading to a HIT class or simply commuting to the office.
Buy now £32.00, Falke
Sunspel Stretch Cotton Trunks
Designing basics that stand the test of time is heritage label Sunspel’s M.O. - and the brand’s range of underwear is a case in point. Built for an active lifestyle, these fitted trunks are snug and supportive thanks to the luxurious cotton elastane blend fabric - and the flat-locked finish delivers a truly seamless feel. A worthy investment.
Buy now £40.00, Sunspel
Everlane The Supima Longer Boxer Brief
One of the 12 basics included in Everlane’s ‘Uniform’ collection, these boxers are backed by a confident 365-day guarantee so, whether a hole appears or the colour starts to fade, the brand will replace them with a brand new pair. Featuring a Supima cotton blend that has just the right amount of stretch, a no-roll waistband and 4-inch inseam, these briefs will become your new favourite.
Buy now £22.00, Everlane
