Underwear guide

Boxers, trunks or briefs:
which to choose?

The differences between the cuts, and what works under a suit, for sport and every day.

✔ Cuts compared✔ By situation✔ No jargon

The trunk is the most versatile cut: a short leg and close-fitting fabric, so it doesn't ride up under trousers. Long boxer briefs suit sport and fabrics that chafe, briefs suit those who want as little material as possible, and loose boxer shorts are mainly for home. For most men, a trunk or short boxer brief covers almost every situation.

The cuts

Four cuts, four uses

The names vary from brand to brand; what really sets them apart is the leg length.

CutLeg lengthWhat it offersLess suited to
TrunkShort, at the top of the thighStays in place under trousers, little fabricVery stiff fabrics without elastane
Long boxer briefDown to mid-thighPrevents chafing, stays put during sportVery fitted trousers, the leg shows through
BriefNoneLeast fabric, dries quicklyLong walks and intense sport
Loose boxer shortsLoose, flowing cutComfort at home, plenty of airWearing under trousers, it bunches up

By situation

Which cut for which moment?

The right choice depends less on taste than on what the day demands.

Under a suit

A fitted trunk with no seams that show, in a colour close to your skin tone under light trousers.

Suits: anyone who wears fitted trousers

For sport

A long boxer brief with elastane that stays in place and doesn't ride up.

Suits: runners, cyclists, the gym

In summer

A light, breathable fabric in a short cut, ideally in a light colour.

Suits: hot days

Every day

A trunk or short boxer brief: the cut that raises the fewest questions.

Suits: almost everyone

When travelling

Pieces that dry quickly and roll up small, two strengths of synthetic fabrics.

Suits: travelling light

For sleeping

A loose cut or nothing at all, depending on habit.

Suits: evening comfort

What really matters

How do you recognise a good boxer brief?

The cut accounts for half the comfort, the finish for the other half.

  • A wide, flat waistband that doesn't roll over or dig in
  • Flat seams on the inner thighs, where the friction occurs
  • A leg opening that holds without a tight elastic, otherwise it rides up or marks the skin
  • A share of elastane so it gets its shape back after washing
  • A fabric that doesn't turn see-through when stretched

At UNDY

Boxer briefs, not briefs

The subscription delivers branded boxer briefs only.

Boxer briefs, not briefs

With the UNDY subscription, branded boxer briefs arrive every month, for example from HUGO, BOSS, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Nike, Adidas or Puma. Briefs and loose boxer shorts are not included. Sizes range from S to XL, and anyone who receives a gift subscription chooses their own size.

The most affordable

Sock subscription

One pair of branded socks a month.

CHF 39.90
3-month term · no automatic renewal
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The most gifted

Boxer subscription

One pair of branded boxer briefs a month, sizes S to XL.

CHF 49.90
3-month term · no automatic renewal
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The most complete

Combined subscription

One pair of boxer briefs and one pair of socks every month.

CHF 82.90
3-month term · no automatic renewal
View →

Frequently asked questions

What people often ask

What is the difference between boxer briefs and trunks?
The leg length. The trunk stops at the top of the thigh, the long boxer brief reaches down to mid-thigh. Both have a leg, unlike briefs.
Which cut should I wear under a suit?
A fitted trunk with as few visible seams as possible. It doesn't ride up and doesn't show under thin trousers.
Which cut is best for sport?
A long boxer brief with elastane. It prevents chafing on the inner thighs and stays in place while you move.
Are briefs out of fashion?
No, but they are worn less often. They remain the cut with the least fabric, useful in strong heat or under very fitted trousers.
Which cut should I choose if I'm unsure?
A trunk. It is the cut that works in the greatest number of situations and the one most brands offer.

Read more

Other useful pages

How to wash your boxers →How many boxers do you need? →Underwear subscription Switzerland →

Branded boxer briefs, every month.

From CHF 39.90 for three months, delivered to your letterbox with free shipping.

View gift subscriptions → How it works