When it comes to men’s underwear, there are a few important boxes to tick.
They have to be comfortable, breathable and let's face it, they have to look good. Luckily, undies crafted using bamboo nails the holy trinity, and then some. Luxuriously silky, moisture-wicking, antibacterial, kind to sensitive skin, not to mention eco-friendly, there’s no downside to the wonder fabric.
We caught up with Bam and Boody, two labels who are experts in the field, to get some top tips on the textile - and took the liberty of rounding up our favourites in the list below.
What are the benefits of wearing bamboo underwear?
According to David Gordon, founder of BAM, “Bamboo is naturally breathable, moisture managing and temperature regulating, meaning you won’t get so hot and sweaty even while in the gym or out for a run. In tests we’ve run during workouts, our bamboo fabrics also typically smell less than cotton or polyester blends.”
Tom Emmanuel, Operations Manager at Boody, couldn’t agree more: “Our bamboo viscose is antibacterial, hypoallergenic, thermoregulating, breathable and UPF50+. The structure of the fibres contains micro-gaps, which provide ventilation and help to evaporate moisture that causes bacteria to multiply. It also has an inherited natural barricade against bacteria and anti-fungal bio-agent - both of which aid odour control.”
What are the environmental benefits of bamboo?
Gordon continues, “Firstly, it’s the planet’s fastest-growing crop, and it needs little to no irrigation or pesticides, meaning it’s much lower impact when compared to cotton or trees. It absorbs five times more carbon than hardwood trees and releases 35 per cent more oxygen. Unlike many trees and crops, it can be harvested without damaging root systems or surrounding habitats.”
Emmanuel dives deeper: “Bamboo is a type of grass, and as such new bamboo stems can be harvested repeatedly. An acre will yield 10 times more than an acre of cotton and needs a third of the amount of water to grow. It’s also a self-replenishing resource meaning it requires no irrigation and minimal natural rainwater.”
Have you noticed an increase in the popularity of bamboo underwear?
For both brands, it’s good news. Emmanuel says, “Our men’s boxers and briefs are by far our most popular men’s products - the sales of the Men’s Original Boxer has more than doubled in recent years.” It’s a similar story for Gordon: “Our men’s underwear has been a really good seller for years now, and is consistently getting five-star reviews from customers. Next season we’re expanding the number of styles we offer to meet demand.”
Keep scrolling to add bamboo underwear to your collection.
Bam Hipster Fitted Bamboo Boxers
Luxuriously soft with smooth flatlock seams and a snug boxer brief fit, Bam’s boxers will keep your boys comfy in more ways than one.
Buy now £17.98, Bam
Boody Men's Everyday Boxers
Boody’s viscose derived from bamboo boasts supreme silkiness and long-lasting shape-retention. These are sure to be in your weekly rotation for years to come.
Buy now £13.97, Boody
Finisterre Bamboo Boxer
Known for its sustainable outlook, Cornish label Finisterre practices eco-friendly manufacturing across the board - bamboo underwear included.
Buy now £30.00, Finisterre
Farah Men’s 2 Pack Farah Classic Striped And Plain Bamboo Keyhole Trunks
From the flatlock seams to the seamless design, not to mention the silky smooth fabric, Farah’s trunks are exceptionally comfortable.
Buy now, Sockshop
Spairs Men's 3 Pack Spairs Plain Bamboo Fitted Trunks
At £9.99 for three pairs, Spairs’ multipack is amazing value - and they don’t compromise on quality, either. It’s a no-brainer.
Buy now £9.99, Amazon
Bamigo Paul Boxers
Pairing a slim fit with a longer inseam, Bamigo’s boxers will stay in place perfectly to ensure optimum comfort from AM to PM.
Buy now £36.99, Bamigo
