Men's lingerie buying guide: types, sizing and materials (2026)

The table below gives an overview of the six most popular types of men's lingerie, including style, coverage and the occasions each type suits best.

Every type is available in a wide range of materials and colours. Further sections in this guide discuss each type, material choice and how to find the right size.

The boxer (also trunk or brief) is the most widely worn subcategory and the natural starting point for anyone new to men's lingerie. There are three main variants:

• Boxer brief (trunk): close-fitting, mid-length, partially covers the upper thigh. Comfortable during sport and active days.
• Brief (slip): higher cut, more compact and without leg sections. A classic men's underwear shape.
• Boxer short: looser fit with a shorts-style length; more freedom of movement but less suited under tight clothing.

For daily wear, cotton, microfibre or modal are the most popular choices: breathable, soft and easy to wash. Pay attention to the waistband, it should not dig into the skin. Choose your correct waist size and always consult the brand's own size chart, because sizing can vary considerably between manufacturers. Read more about finding your size in the sizing section below.

The jockstrap originated as athletic support and has a distinctive silhouette: a supportive front pouch, two elastic straps running alongside the buttocks and a low or open rear. The open rear design makes it popular in both sporting and erotic contexts.

When to choose a jockstrap?
- When you want support without heat build-up around the buttocks.
- When you appreciate the sensual look of the open rear.
- Under sportswear or during intensive training (its original purpose).
- As statement underwear for a special occasion.

Jockstraps are available in cotton, microfibre, lace, mesh and leather (or leather-look). For daily support, a cotton or microfibre model works best; for a sensual occasion, lace or mesh options are popular. If you plan to wear a jockstrap during any activity involving close contact with others, choose a hypoallergenic material. We cover materials in more detail in the materials section.

The thong (also tanga or G-string) features a narrow rear band that sits between the buttocks and provides minimal rear coverage. This makes it ideal for avoiding visible underwear lines under tight clothing.

When to choose a thong?
- Under tight trousers, joggers or swimwear where regular seam lines show through.
- As sensual underwear or as a gift for a special occasion.
- When you consciously prefer less fabric.

Be aware that a thong is not equally comfortable for everyone when worn all day. Make sure the pouch and side band fabric is skin-friendly (for example, a soft microfibre or cotton blend) to prevent irritation. Beginners can opt for a tanga style with slightly wider side bands for extra comfort.

Hygiene note: thongs offer less protection than a boxer and the fabric must be properly breathable. Wash thongs on a delicate cycle (30 degrees) and air-dry whenever possible.

Body (bodysuit/body-stocking):
A men's body fits closely over the entire torso, from shoulder straps or a V-neck down to the crotch. It is worn both as an undergarment and as lingerie on its own.

• Popular for erotic photography and role play.
• Available in stretch-lace, net, wet-look or microfibre.
• When trying on, ensure there is enough room in the crotch area: too tight feels constricting, too loose looks untidy.

Mesh/net shirt:
A transparent shirt of open-weave or fine-mesh fabric. Usually worn loosely, combined with a jockstrap or shorts.

• Popular for clubwear and sensual looks.
• Provides ventilation while showing the skin beneath.
• Care: wash on a delicates or fine-wash cycle (max. 30 degrees) and dry flat.

Both types are aimed at presentation and experience rather than everyday function. They are available in the men's lingerie collection.

A men's harness is an accessory worn over the upper body or chest and is generally not intended as underwear. Harnesses are made of leather (or vegan leather-look), elastic rope, neoprene, PVC or metal rings.

When to wear a harness?
- As a visual statement in a BDSM or fetish context.
- As a layering accessory over clothing or with just a jockstrap or shorts underneath.
- As a photogenic prop for erotic or artistic photography.

Check the dimensions: most harnesses are adjustable, but with a leather model, check the maximum chest circumference and shoulder width in the product specifications before ordering.

Material safety: vegan PVC alternatives may contain phthalates or other plasticisers if they are not certified as phthalate-free; for direct skin contact, choose certified phthalate-free leather-look or genuine leather. The harness is not intended for use on open or damaged skin. Clean harnesses by hand with a damp cloth only; machine-washing damages the hardware.

Browse the full range in the lingerie collection.

How to measure your size:
The waist is the most reliable basis for men's underwear. Use a tape measure around the narrowest part of your torso, usually slightly above the navel. Keep the tape measure loosely positioned, not pulled tight.

Then refer to the size chart of the specific brand. An indicative guide (note: varies by brand and cut):

These figures are indicative; always consult the specific brand's size guide, as clothing sizes can differ considerably between manufacturers. If you are between two sizes, it is generally better to choose the larger one, especially with close-fitting styles (brief, jockstrap), to ensure comfort and good support.

For more on sizing, see the lingerie size guide.

The material determines how underwear feels and how long it lasts. The overview below helps you choose based on intended use:

• Cotton: breathable, absorbent, soft against the skin. Ideal for daily use. Downside: less stretch than synthetic fabrics; retains moisture slightly.
• Modal: extra-soft cellulose fibres, gentle on skin, drapes well. Similar to cotton but softer and more airy.
• Microfibre (polyester/nylon blend): close-fitting, quick-drying, nearly seamless. Ideal for sport and under tight clothing. Less breathable than cotton.
• Lace: decorative, lightweight, sensual. Available in nylon lace or stretch lace. Choose lace that feels soft; rough edges can irritate.
• Mesh/net: open weave, transparent, ventilating. Usually nylon or polyester. Great for layering and presentation.
• Leather and leather-look (PVC): for harnesses and fetish lingerie. Genuine leather is durable but requires maintenance with leather cleaner; vegan PVC is easier to clean but check that it is phthalate-free.
• Elastane/spandex blend: typically added to other fabrics for stretch and fit retention.

Care advice for lingerie: lingerie and delicate fabrics (lace, mesh, microfibre) should be washed on a delicates or fine-wash cycle (30 degrees), ideally inside a laundry bag. Air-dry only and never put in a tumble dryer: heat damages elastic and fine weaves. Leather should not be washed but cleaned with a damp cloth.

Men's lingerie is for everyone, regardless of body shape, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. It is simply underwear or an accessory, just like any other item of clothing. Why people wear it varies:

• Daily wear: comfortable, well-fitting undergarments you wear throughout the day.
• Self-expression and confidence: a deliberate clothing choice that reflects your personality or mood.
• Sensual experience: for yourself or with a partner; the feel of sensual lingerie can intensify the experience.
• Special occasions and couple moments: a jockstrap, body or harness as a gift idea or for a special evening.
• Performance and sport: an athletic jockstrap or compression brief for support during physical activity.
• BDSM and role play: harnesses, jockstraps and specific fetish items as part of an erotic experience.

There is no 'right reason' to wear men's lingerie. It is about what you enjoy and what feels right for you. Browse the full range in the men's lingerie category.

Note: this is general buying and usage information, not medical advice. For any skin reactions caused by clothing, consult a doctor or dermatologist.