Unless you’re a) David Gandy or b) one of those guys who has to take it too far by stripping on a night out, your men’s underwear is not for public consumption. However, that doesn’t mean you’ve got the license to wear the living daylights out of whatever overstretched, greying grundies that you can get your mitts on. Underwear matters, just like loungewear does.

And, it’s not just in case you get lucky or hit by a bus that you should pay attention to what lies beneath. Compiling the perfect men’s underwear line-up will do wonders for how you feel in your clothes and will soon put a stop to your boxers getting funny ideas about moving far further northwards than your trousers.

To make sure your underwear etiquette is on point, we’ve put together absolutely everything you need to know about getting your undies in check. And funnily enough, it turns out that your mum doesn’t know best. At least not when it comes to this.

Different Men’s Underwear Styles

Of all the seminal moments in a man’s life – graduations, weddings, having a child – none means more than the first time he chooses his own men’s underwear.

But what worked for prepubescent you isn’t your best choice now. Your body’s changed. Your needs have changed. Somewhere there’s a fit that’s more snug. More supportive. More flattering. Let Olivia Francis, founder of underwear experts Hamilton & Hare, be your guide.

Briefs

“This is the traditional Y front. It’s not for everyone but it offers great support and a neat fit. Particularly good for men with large thighs.”

Boxer Shorts

“Traditional boxer shorts offer maximum coverage, comfort and breathability but can often bunch and ride up, so do not work well with slim trousers,” Francis says.

“[Look for] a modern, tailored cut that is much more flattering and works well with slimmer leg-wear. This means they will complement any body shape, being both flattering and extremely comfortable.”