When the air is hot and humidity levels are high, the right pair of underwear will remain virtually undetectable — which is how it should be. The best men's underwear for hot weather is better suited for handling moisture, friction, and heat. Granted, since the vast majority of brands are marketed as "cooling," it can be difficult to tell the gimmicks from the worthwhile options.
What to consider when choosing a pair of underwear
First, you'll need to pinpoint a style, and it seems the age-old boxers versus briefs debate is about more than mere fashion. Science has shown that men who wear looser-fitting underwear have a higher sperm concentration and overall count; this is due to the fact that the scrotum is designed to remain at a distance from the rest of the body in order to retain a cooler temperature.
That doesn't necessarily mean that you should stop wearing briefs and trunks altogether; it just means that, especially in warmer weather, breathable fabrics and cooling qualities are paramount in tighter-fitting styles. Overall, loose boxers will be the coolest but also the most likely to chafe due to excess fabric.
Once you've narrowed down your preferred style, the next biggest factor will be material choice. Bamboo is likely the best natural fabric because it's highly absorbent yet quick-drying and soft. For that reason, it's a good choice for those with skin sensitivities who find cotton too stifling. Fibers like modal and polyamide are close seconds in terms of cooling qualities, and they can be either synthetic, natural, or a mix of the two. Finally, some brands utilize polyester or other entirely-synthetic fabrics, which can help with temperature control so long as they feature mesh or similar ventilating weaves.
With all that in mind, these are eleven of the best men's underwear choices for hot weather.
The loose-fitting boxers
The last thing you want on a hot summer day is to be wearing tight clothing that clings and sticks to your body — and that includes underwear. These Bombas boxers are made from cotton modal and have a relaxed fit with plenty of breathing room.
They won’t feel constricting and are designed to look as lightweight as they feel. A button fly and curved hem at the leg openings prevent these boxing from looking bulky underneath jeans and shorts.
One reviewer wrote: “These are the most comfortable boxers I have ever worn. You can’t even feel that you are wearing them. No more crotch bite when I’m sitting in the car for an extended period of time. I threw away 12 pairs of Jockey woven boxers.”
Sizes: Small — 3X-Large | Colors: 7
The moisture-wicking boxer briefs
To most people, the phrase "hot weather" translates to sweat. If your top priority is keeping everything dry and cool, David Archy quick-dry boxer briefs are your best bet. They're made from a polyamide mesh, which allows for both optimal ventilation and moisture-wicking. They're available both with and without a fly, and their mid-thigh fit absorbs sweat over a larger surface area but dries three times faster than cotton. Get them in three-packs of varying colors.
One reviewer wrote: "I'm a landscaper in GA so in the summer I'm covered in sweat within 20 minutes of working. I bought a pack of these to try out because my old boxer briefs started chafing my inner thighs when I would sweat. I now have 3 or 4 packs of these and I couldn't be happier. They're incredibly comfortable, breathable, and surprisingly sturdy.”
Sizes: Small — XX-Large | Colors: 21
The silky smooth boxer briefs
Boxers and briefs each have their own sets of pros and cons. Luckily, Bombas created a pair of breathable boxer briefs that borrow the best of both styles. Made from a cooling blend of cotton and modal, this underwear has a soft and silky feel and is designed to keep you feeling supported without being too tight. The comfortable waistband won’t dig or roll either and there are no tags and only minimal seams for optimal comfort.
One reviewer wrote: “I'm picky on what brief I like and don't, so skeptical ordering online. But love Bombas socks so figured I'd try their briefs. And was very glad I did; soft, comfortable, waist doesn't fold over nor legs ride up. Great brief!!”
Sizes: Small — 3X-Large | Colors: 11
The cooling briefs
— Also available on Walmart, $47 (3-Pack)
Briefs are typically the most likely to trap heat, since they're the tightest-fitting men's underwear. That said, if they're your preferred style, the UnderGents CloudSoft brief is specifically designed to remain as cool and comfortable as possible.
Instead of denser fabrics like cotton or polyester, they're made from a plant-based micro-modal that wicks away moisture and breathes with improved air permeability; the fabric is also great when it comes to preventing unwanted odors. Finally, when compared to other brands, the looser fit allows for more hanging room, which is a feature that buyers appreciate.
One reviewer wrote: "Best briefs I've [ever worn]. Light and comfortable. Great pouch design ... I don't sweat in these briefs and they don't ride up!"
Sizes: Small — 3X-Large | Colors: 9
The 3-pack of cotton modal trunks
If you’ve reached the point where you’re finally ready to say, “out with the old and in with the new,” this three-pack from Bombas has you covered. Made from the soft but breathable cotton modal, these trunks are investment-worthy underwear made to last and they’re perfect for hot weather. The waistband is specially designed to stay in place without rolling down or digging into your skin and their overall fit is described as “not-too-tight, not-too-loose.” Plus, you won’t have to worry about any tags, uncomfortable seams, or an irritating fly; instead, enjoy the comfort of Bombas’ patented “Flyless Pouch.”
One reviewer wrote: “Finally underwear that is super comfortable and seems durable. Out with all that old hole-ridden trash. I’m replacing it all with Bombas underwear.”
Sizes: Small — 3X-Large | Colors: 7
The bamboo boxer briefs
As previously discussed, bamboo is one of the best cooling natural fabrics. That's because it's extremely absorbent to wick away moisture but also dries very quickly and has a silky-soft feel. Eyushijia boxer briefs are woven from 95% bamboo fiber and contain 5% spandex to allow for a body-conforming stretch. Basically, they've earned a 4.3-star overall rating because they're so unbelievably comfortable — even in stifling weather.
One reviewer wrote: "Loving the underwear. The ventilation keeps me feeling comfortable and the rest of the material is silky smooth. I would recommend this for anyone looking to stay cool in the summer”
Sizes: Small — XX-Large | Colors: 7
The boxer briefs with a long inseam
— Also available on Kohls, $30
Polyester typically has a slick, frictionless feel — and when constructed correctly, can help to prevent chafing and discomfort. These adidas Sport Performance Mesh boxer briefs come in a pack of three and have several great features that help to minimize chafing during movement. They feature a light, form-fitting mesh fabric that wicks moisture, a tagless waistband, smooth stitching, and leg holes that are designed to resist riding up. They're also longer than the average boxer briefs to offer more protection and thigh coverage.
One reviewer wrote: "These boxers are amazing if you have to walk for long periods. My job requires me to walk over 10 miles a day and these boxers allow me to not worry about my legs anymore.”
Sizes: Small — XX-Large | Colors: 6
The 4-pack of briefs for under $20
— Also available on Fruit of the Loom, $17
Quality cooling underwear can cost upwards of $15 for a single style, but Fruit of the Loom's breathable four-pack comes out to just over $4 a pair. It's made from 91% cotton and contains some spandex for a skin-friendly stretch, but the special micro-mesh fabric helps to wick moisture and improve heat distribution.
If briefs aren't your go-to style, this brand offers great deals on three other popular fits: standard boxer briefs, long-leg boxer briefs, and short-leg boxer briefs.
One reviewer wrote: "I'm not going to lie, these are probably the most comfortable briefs I have ever worn. This was a great value at eight in a set for the price paid. This was money well spent and I would purchase this brand and style again in the future.”
Sizes: Small — XX-Large | Colors: 1
The cooling boxers with a relaxed fit
— Also available on Chill Boys, $25
When it comes to preserving your body's natural temperature, loose-fitting boxer briefs are the best option. The extra fabric typically means they're not a good fit for athletic activities, but Chill Boys cooling boxers are the best hot-weather pick for sleeping, traveling, relaxing, running errands, and going out.
They're made from high-performance polyester that's woven into a ventilating mesh construction. As a result, they're quick-drying, breathable, and resistant to moisture and odors. The tag-free design and large fly keep things especially comfortable.
One reviewer wrote: "These are unquestionably the best underwear and best boxers I have ever owned. [...] I have used these on 14-day hiking trips during the summer and they kept me comfortable and dry the entire time. If you want comfortable, cool underwear that is a good value, then these are the only pair you need to purchase.”
Sizes: Small — 3X-Large | Colors: 3
The big and tall boxer briefs with temperature control
For those looking for a larger option with cooling capabilities, the Zonbailon big boxer brief is one of the most popular products in the men's big and tall underwear category. These boxer briefs are made with cooling, quick-drying bamboo fabric, have a tagless design, and are made to stay put throughout the day.
One reviewer wrote: "5 Stars all around. I work in law enforcement, giving me the comfort and breathability to wear during those hot summer months. Best quality and I have slowly rotated away from cotton adding these boxers to the mix.”
Sizes: Medium — 3X-Large (Big and Tall) | Colors: 9
The sporty bikini
The Jockey performance sport bikini is well-suited for high-intensity workouts because it's moisture-wicking, made from a cooling mesh fabric, and has built-in odor control. Its moderate coverage functions as a jock-strap in the front to keep everything in place, but the wider back absorbs more moisture to prevent chafing. Finally, the low-rise waistband won't show over that of athletic shorts. Get it in 12 different colors, from basic shades to bright patterns.
One reviewer wrote: "These are just awesome - the fabric is soft and light and feels like air when wearing, they dry quick and keep moisture away, and the fit is really amazing. These are great when working out, or just under shorts or pants and in the oppressive summer heat they really do help make you feel cooler.”
Sizes: Small — X-Large | Colors: 12
FAQs
Are boxers or briefs better in hot weather?
When choosing between boxers and briefs, boxers are by far the more cooling option and have a looser fit, which makes them the ideal underwear for hot weather. However, keep in mind that you’re also more likely to experience chafing while wearing boxers. If this is a concern for you, personally, you may find that boxer briefs made from a breathable material are better in hot weather.
What type of underwear is most breathable for men?
Cotton is normally the top of my mind choice for breathable underwear for men. Bamboo is a soft and absorbent natural fabric that shares similar qualities to cotton and functions as a great alternative for those with skin sensitivities.
How we narrowed down the best men’s underwear for hot weather
We conducted independent research and looked over reviewer feedback to determine the best men’s underwear for hot weather. Based on our research, we were able to establish certain criteria to help guide our product selection keeping fabrics-used and other cooling qualities top of mind. We also made it a priority to choose a selection of styles including boxers, briefs, trunks, and even bikinis to accommodate various preferences and styles.
Other articles you might like
Hot weather can make for deeply sticky and uncomfortable days. But if you’re shopping for summer wardrobe, we’ve reviewed the best dress socks for hot weather and these stylish shorts that are made to keep you cool on hot days.
Study referenced:
Mínguez-Alarcón, L., Gaskins, A., Chiu, Y., Messerlian, C., Williams, P., & Ford, J. et al. (2018). Type of underwear worn and markers of testicular function among men attending a fertility center. Human Reproduction, 33(9), 1749-1756. https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/dey259
