Shopping for Mens Underwear
Shopping for men's underwear is a science, whether you're buying for yourself or the man in your life. Despite the stylistic explosion in undergarments, it's more important to base your purchase on their essential function. Figuring out when to replace worn underwear is useful too. Before you set off to purchase fresh undergarments, here's what you need to know to buy effectively.
How to Buy Men's Underwear
Always look to your own personality and preferences, or that of your man. Do you prefer rugged support, or comfort? Daily activity levels help determine what type of underwear should be purchased. Briefs and brief-boxer hybrids are great for the most active. Boxers remain the select style for rest and relaxation. The wearer's personality can also help when selecting shapes and colors, but remember that these aspects come second to functionality.
With underwear, just like other clothing, try diversifying your wardrobe. Lifestyle causes a man to prefer boxers or briefs, but there's nothing wrong with having both. In fact, owning both will outfit men for all conditions. Changing into boxers at night may be a thrill after wearing briefs during the work day.
It's worth remembering how much underwear the average guy should own too. Men living a sedentary to modestly active lifestyle should have at least ten pairs. Gentleman prone to exercise and travel need even more.
Popular Brands
Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss consistently produce high quality briefs. Fruit of the Loom isn't far behind, but some fashion commentators consider it a less premium brand than the other two. It's recommended that you shy away from the old bleached white color in favor of gray or black.
For boxers, look to Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. These manufacturers offer a wide array of woven boxer shorts in adventurous stripes, plaid, conservative gray, and more. Boxers like Tommy Hilfiger's Athletic Knit variety are longer than average. This appeals to many men because it helps them feel more covered in boxers resembling shorts.
With socks and undershirts, brand name is less important. Look for durability and value, which Fruit of the Loom offers in affordable multi-packs. As with briefs, shy away from white in favor of darker hues, unless preferences demand it.
When to Replace Underwear
Replacing worn, stained, or ripped underwear is common sense, but many men are slow to part ways with archaic undergarments. Men or their partners who are questioning when it's time to get new underwear should remember this rule: if it's questionable, just dump it. Frayed, hole filled, or visibly weakened fabric should be tossed. If socks are losing their elasticity or thickness, it's time to replace them.
Undershirts often end up with unnatural lifespans too. Use the same guidelines for socks and underwear here. Beware their susceptibility to staining. No matter how clean you keep them, sweat is an inevitable destroyer. Get rid of an undershirt whenever a significant stain appears that can't be bleached out.
Shopping for men's underwear is a breeze, if you know what to look for. Remembering when to replace worn underwear is important too, since timely rotations can help avoid poor hygiene and embarrassing situations.
