Best Men’s Underwear in Canada

Underwear is so much more than just a layer of clothing. Even though they stay hidden most of the time, they have a crucial role to play when it comes to your everyday comfort.

When you‘re successful in finding a pair that provides comfort, support, along with an attractive style, your confidence automatically soars. But you also want something with high durability and a wallet-friendly price tag.

From classic boxer briefs to casual and comfortable boxers, we’ve reviewed the 5 best underwear options for men in Canada, including the best Canadian brand.

For background information, see our comparison table and buying advice.

Best men’s underwear

• Best overall – David Archy Men’s Boxer Briefs
• Best boxers – Hanes Red Label
• Best briefs – Fruit of the Loom Basic White
• Best boxer briefs – Calvin Klein Men’s Modern Cotton
• Best Canadian brand – Saxx Underwear Men’s Boxer Briefs

Best men’s underwear comparison

Best overall – David Archy Men’s Boxer Briefs With Fly

Editor’s Note: I purchased 2 x 4-packs and have been wearing them daily for over 2 years now – about 90+ wears and numerous washes per pair. I can say that other than the printed-on tag at the back wearing off, and the seat wearing noticeably thinner in a couple pairs (but no holes!), the rest are in like-new condition – no waistband warping, not a stray thread in sight and the fit and support feels very close to when I bought them (no shrinking). They are also quite flattering from all angles according to my partner. I will be buying more once these wear out – whenever that might be.

• Material: 95% Bamboo rayon, 5% Spandex
• Package of: 4
• Size range: S-XXL
• Colour options: 4

Size

Available in size S to XL. Some users have found out that the fit tends to be a bit snug. Keeping this in mind, we would recommend you to go for a size bigger if you’re in-between sizes on their sizing chart.

Material and durability

The fabric is very soft, breathable and light thanks to the 95% bamboo rayon and stretchy thanks to the 5% spandex. Bamboo rayon is a cellulosic fibre that is naturally sourced from bamboo. This fabric gives you supreme comfort by boosting air permeability and wicking away sweat and is known to be very durable.

Bamboo rayon is also nearly 50% more breezy compared to cotton and these never feel hot or damp as they dry out so quickly.

Style and fit

This boxer brief-style pair provides great coverage and contours to your body without feeling restricting – almost like a second skin. You’ll almost forget you’re wearing them.

It has a 3D contour pouch design that keeps your package comfortable without feeling sticky and sweaty.

The pouch provides solid support – as if you’re package is “hanging in a hammock” – without feeling like they’re applying pressure or squeezing. The pouch is also on the generous side, which means the seams can get closer to the leg which helps keep your package separate from the goods without feeling constricted.

Completing the look is a no-roll waistband that has a barely-noticeable black-on-black brand name running across. It has a high stretch elastic that feels comfortable against the stomach and doesn’t dig in. There are only 4 colour options: black, dark grey, light grey, and dark blue, so they’re not too exciting, but they get the job done.

There is some room for improvement in terms of seam placement and softness. A few customers have complained that the vertical seam that runs along the front from the waistband to under the crotch pocket between the legs rubs against their sensitive parts, causing discomfort.

The seams are double-stitched and strong, but the prominence of the threading may cause issues for some so that’s something that the manufacturer may need to work on.

Lifestyle and value

You can easily wear this super comfortable pair all day long! Whether you’re sitting for long hours at work, lounging around at home in your underwear or being active outdoors, these will not disappoint.

Paying around $10 for a pair of underwear may seem steep, but the fit, condition and softness are way better and have lasted far longer than the cheap Fruit of the Loom or Hanes options you get at Walmart. Multiple reviewers say that they’re just as comfortable as SAXX underwear, but for a fraction of the price.

Best boxers – Hanes Red Label Men’s Knit

• Material: Solids – 100% Cotton; Heathers – 75% Cotton, 25% Polyester
• Package of: 5
• Size Range: S-5XL
• Colour options: 8

Size

This pack of five boxers are available in sizes S-5XL. Although customers have been happy with the sizing, some found out that the size can be a little bigger. Considering these already have a loose cut, this can be an issue when you move. 

Material and durability

If you opt for the solid versions, they are made out of pure cotton. Due to this pure knit construction, the pair feels breathable and gentle after putting it on.

On the other hand, the heathers version has a 75% cotton and 25% polyester blend. This Cotton-rich ComfortSoft® knit has been designed to feel like the softest pair of boxers that you can find.

In terms of durability, the underwear is made to last. One would feel that the knit fabric being so soft, won’t be able to withstand frequent washing, but it stands against all odds and stays as good as new. Also, the stitching is great which only adds to its lasting.

The feel is also quite stretchy ensuring that the pair moves with your body. This minimizes any chance of wear and tear.

Style and fit

Flaunting a classic, loose cut, these boxer-style underwear are a combination of practicality and easy everyday wear versatility. The elasticated waistband features a contrast Hanes repeat logo tape and also gives you a non-binding fit.

These don’t have any tags on them to reduce friction, while the fly has been engineered to never gap. Basically, this pair will keep you comfortable throughout the day making it the go-to underwear option for many men.

Available in basic as well as assorted colours, you can choose according to your personal style.

Lifestyle and value

These are more suitable to be worn under casual wear such as chinos and jeans. The loose fit might feel restrictive when you wear it under suit pants, but nothing that you cannot manage.

We think that these will be worth every penny you spend. The deal is sweetened further with the five-pack offer ensuring you have one fresh for every weekday. 

Best briefs – Fruit of the Loom Men’s Basic

• Material: 100% Cotton
• Package of: 4, 8 or 9
• Size Range: S-5XL
• Colour Options: 3

Size

Of course, we are going to put a Fruit of the Loom underwear on our list of the best men’s underwear in Canada! It would’ve been blasphemous otherwise!

You can take your pick from S to 5XL. A few buyers did find the fit to be somewhat large.

Material and durability

These are made out of 100% cotton to ensure a man can wear them on a daily basis without feeling uncomfortable. The material feels incredibly comfortable with a non-binding waistband to keep it firm against your stomach. Even the latter is super comfortable and provides support without digging into the skin.

You get a dual defense protection system with this pair – moisture-wicking and long-lasting odour protection facilities. This system helps to further enhance your comfort that’ll make the underwear your favourite everyday wear set. 

You’ll love the durability of these briefs, for sure! Even after frequent bouts of washing, you won’t find any discolouration, tears, or fading. Complementing the high-quality material is the excellent stitching that keeps the pair looking as good as new.

Style and fit

You get a pair of classic briefs that give you full coverage and pinch-free leg openings. The support shaped fly and full-cut fit reduce any need for constant adjustments all day. It also doesn’t include any tags that would cause any scratching, inflammation or itching problems.

You have three very basic colour options. This, in turn, makes these suitable to be worn on a daily basis. You can take your pick from a full white set, a full off-white set, and an assorted set that features different colours of blue.

Lifestyle and value

If you have a 9-to-5 job or go to college or a school, you would want something that feels like a second skin. The pure cotton fabric along with a fuss-free design of this underwear makes it a perfect match. For full support and complete coverage, we highly recommend this astonishingly comfortable pair.

You can select from a 4-pack set, 8-pack set, and 9-pack set. In our opinion, these are well worth the price and you should certainly add them to your underwear collection.

Best boxer briefs – Calvin Klein Men’s Modern Cotton Stretch

• Material: 95% Cotton, 5% Elastane
• Package of: 2
• Size Range: S-XL
• Colour Options: 7

Size

These are available from S to XL. Some buyers have found out that these run a size larger, but then again 91% didn’t find any issues. We highly recommend that you check the size chart before you place your order to ensure you don’t end up with the wrong size.

Material and durability

Made with 95% cotton and 5% elastane for added stretch, the fabric is breathable, comfortable, and moves with your body. The only problem here is the inconsistent fabric quality.

Regarding durability, these have a mixed bag of reviews. While a majority of the buyers couldn’t have been more happy with the quality that they received, some found the material to lose shape after frequent washing. 

Style and fit

With the boxer briefs style, you get the best of both worlds. It has an overall relaxed fit to give you good movement. Its length also gives you ample coverage. You can easily team these with skinny jeans or form-fitting pants. There are cases where the underwear might roll up, so make sure that you get the right size. 

Featuring the iconic Calvin Klein logo waistband, you can take your pick from quite a few colours like grey, black, white, navy, and yellow.

Lifestyle and value

The comfortable fabric makes it suitable to be worn on every occasion whether you go to the office or stay home.

Considering the high-quality fabric, brand reputation of CK, and superb reviews, this underwear is unquestionably worth every cent you pay in our opinion.

Best Canadian brand – Saxx Underwear Men’s Boxer Briefs

• Material: 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex
• Package of: 1
• Size Range: XS-XXL
• Colour Options: 15

Size

These are available in sizes XS to XXL.

Material and durability

The micromesh fabric is made out of 88% polyester and 12% elastane which makes them perfect for active use. The pin-dot mesh and moisture-wicking material of this pair add to the breathability keeping you cool and dry.

The other advantage of the extremely durable fabric is the anti-odour facility. So, even after you are soaked in sweat, you won’t have to worry about any undesirable smell.

This underwear has a flat seam construction that features reverse stitching. With the softer side of the stitching against your skin, you won’t have to face any itching, chafing, or friction.

It uses high-quality threads which increases the durability considerably. The 5” seam further gives you sufficient space for movement without having the material rip apart.

Style and fit

These are finished with photorealistic prints that are perfect for individuals who aren’t afraid to explore their bold sides. You can choose from a funky fruit print or a colourful candy print. There are also florals, maple leaves, and beer cans!

Cut in a classic boxer briefs shape and slim fit, you get a design that will grab your waist, thighs, and legs comfortably. To be more precise, these have an ergonomic nine-panel construction that gives you 3D support at every angle. 

Every pair of underwear from Saxx has a patented BallPark Pouch that will keep your man-parts in chafe-free comfort and a minimum friction zone all day long.

Lifestyle and value

Another factor to be kept in mind is that these have been designed to keep you comfortable for intense gym sessions. The moisture-wicking fabric along with the snug fit will make sure that the boxer briefs stay exactly where they’re supposed to and hold everything in place.

These are pricey, to say the least. But, if you consider the plethora of advanced tech, and quality of material and craftsmanship, you should surely try them out if your budget permits.

What to consider when looking for men’s underwear?

Size

If you‘re buying a pair from a different brand then what you normally opt for, you should take a look at their size chart to figure out your size. Assuming that every brand has the same sizing criteria simply isn’t the case.

You can read the customer reviews to figure out whether or not the undergarment runs true to size as well. The other consideration would be to look for shrinkage complaints, and if there is then go a size up.

Material and durability

You’ll be surprised by the material range in which men’s underwear is available. Some of the most common materials include cotton, polyester, nylon, modal, silk, and even antimicrobial fabric.

Cotton is a go-to material for its soft-feel and breathable attributes. Sometimes, cotton underwear comes with added stretch that gives you an even better fit. On the other hand, a polyester material gives you more flexibility and is moisture-wicking that keeps you cool and dry.

Silk, modal, and nylon feel incredibly smooth and soft against the skin, each having their own sets of pros and cons. Some work great for everyday wear, and some not so much. Antimicrobial underwear is a newer innovation that promotes hygiene and minimizes odour in the lower region.

The fabric you choose is also relevant for the support and comfort that you‘ll receive. For example, cotton gives you maximum support whereas, modal is more limited. You can also take into account your living conditions. For example, if you live in cooler weather, you can opt for lycra or flannel-based underwear, while cotton would be more suited for warmer regions. 

Keep an eye out for higher quality and durable fabrics that are less prone to fading and shrinkage issues.

Style and fit

The style and fit of underwear are definitely one of the most elaborate considerations. Boxer shorts, briefs, boxer briefs, and thongs are the four broad categories where you can take your pick from.

Boxers

Boxer shorts are cut in a way to offer little support and are mostly on the loose side which makes them perfect for sleeping or wearing under pleated pants. 

Briefs

Also known as jockey shorts, have minimal coverage and give excellent support that would work best for men who have a 9-to-5 job or love wearing skinny jeans.

Boxer briefs

Boxer briefs combine the best of the above-mentioned underwear styles. They have a snug and supportive fit that suits nearly all body types and clothing choices. 

Thongs

Thongs are certainly not for everybody consisting of thin fabric strips, with bulge-fitting cuts. It’s best suited for men with well-sculpted bodies who’re comfortable in wearing them

After style, you should also consider the colour. From trusty whites and blacks to bold neons and wacky patterns – it all boils down to your personal taste.

Lifestyle and value 

While wearing the same type of underwear daily isn’t wrong, it would just make more sense to have a pair that’s created to suit the different activities you do.

Active/athletic

If you work out or play sports, you should try to buy underwear that can make the activity easier and more comfortable for you. This can include moisture-wicking ability, full support, or any other specialized tech. The only problem with this kind of underwear is that it feels snug which doesn’t make it feasible for everyday office wear. 

Casual/relaxed

Casual or relaxed underwears keep you super comfortable as they have higher breathability. These mostly have loose hems so it doesn’t feel restrictive against the thighs. There might be issues with the support, but it can be made up by getting a pair that has an ergonomic design and seamless stitching.

Sedentary

If you have to sit for extended periods, it’s important to find underwear that won’t have any ill effects on your package. The most prominent one being lower sperm count – avoiding anything that too tight should prevent this.

Formal

For a formal event, you need underpants that go well with a suit without compromising on your comfort. These are generally made out of premium fabrics like modal or silk to give you a streamlined effect. The only downside of it is you can’t wear them on a daily basis.

Always look at your underwear as an investment that can be broken down into cost per wear. The durability is higher for materials that are high-quality and less prone to fading and shrinkage issues. Those that are made out of thinner, cheaper material may seem like a good deal, but don’t pay off in the long run.

FAQs

How often should you wash your underwear?

The only answer to this question is to wash it when it’s dirty. There is no specific timeline or day system that you need to follow for your laundry.

After an intense gym session or playing a sport, your underwear is bound to be sweaty. In such situations, you should watch it immediately because that underwear can lead to bacterial accumulation that may cause skin infections.

We will, however, advise you to wash your underpants after each wear to maintain personal hygiene.

Is there a ‘right’ time to replace your underwear?

A good rule of thumb, when it comes to throwing away one’s underwear, is to replace them at least once every year or two.

You can check them to see whether there is any fading, sagginess, cuts or holes, and if you spot any, take it as a sign to discard them. The other tell-tale signs include a loose elastic waistband, stains, or a pair that no longer fits due to weight loss or weight gain.

It’s also important for you to know that your underwear is a clothing item that should never be donated.

How many pairs of underwear should you own?

You should have at least 14 pairs of underwear. The idea here is to have a fresh pair for every day of the week along with backups for travel and exercise.

What to read next

• Best Yoga Pants for Men

Over to you

Do you prefer boxes, briefs or boxer briefs? What is your go-to everyday wear underwear brand? Let us know in the comments below!