If you’re an underwear brand preparing to launch a new product but aren’t sure which style to choose, this guide will walk you through different types of boxers, covering over 20 popular styles to inspire your next collection.
1. Boxers by Weave Construction
Boxers can be classified by their weave construction, with woven and knit fabrics offering different levels of comfort, stretch, and breathability.
1.1. Woven Boxers (Classic/Loose Fit)
Woven boxers are the traditional style of men’s underwear, designed to be loose, breezy, and completely non-restrictive. They are typically made from non-stretch woven fabrics such as cotton, silk, or satin, which allow maximum airflow and a relaxed feel throughout the day.
Most woven boxers feature a fly, either buttoned or open, combined with an elastic waistband for comfort. Some variations, like the gripper front, include fasteners along the waistband that open completely, while others, such as the yoke front, use a tailored front panel with fasteners to create a more structured and adjustable fit.
Woven boxers are most commonly made from 100% cotton for breathability and durability. Blends like 95% cotton with 5% silk or polyester are also used to enhance softness, drape, and longevity while maintaining the classic loose fit.
1.2. Knit Boxers (Stretch/Relaxed Fit)
Knit boxers are slightly closer-fitting than traditional woven boxers, offering a relaxed fit that hugs the body without feeling restrictive. They are constructed from knit fabrics, often cotton blends, which naturally provide stretch and flexibility. Common knit types used in boxers include jersey, interlock, rib, and piqué.
This design makes knit boxers ideal for lounging or casual movement, as the fabric adapts to the wearer’s shape and allows freedom of motion while maintaining comfort.
Knit boxers are usually made from 95% cotton with 5% elastane for gentle stretch, or 90% cotton with 10% modal for a softer, more luxurious feel. Some performance-oriented versions may use polyester-spandex blends to improve elasticity, recovery, and moisture-wicking properties.
2. Boxers by Style and Fit
Boxers can also be classified by style and fit, from loose and relaxed to snug and form-fitting, each designed for specific comfort and support needs.
2.1. Classic Boxers
Classic boxers are the traditional style of men’s underwear, designed for a loose, airy fit that provides maximum comfort and freedom of movement. They usually feature a button or open fly and an elastic waistband, making them perfect for everyday wear or lounging at home. Some variations, like the gripper front, allow the waistband to open completely, while others, such as the yoke front, use a tailored panel with fasteners for a more structured and adjustable fit.
Classic boxers are commonly made from 100% cotton for breathability and durability. Blends such as 95% cotton with 5% polyester or silk are also used to enhance softness, drape, and longevity, maintaining the relaxed, comfortable fit that defines this style.
2.2. Midway Briefs
Midway briefs offer more coverage than traditional briefs while being shorter than boxer briefs. They provide a snug fit around the waist and hips with moderate leg length, helping prevent thigh chafing. This makes them versatile for daily wear or light activity. Many designs include a contoured pouch or supportive panel to ensure comfort and proper fit throughout the day.
Midway briefs are typically made from cotton-elastane blends, usually 92-95% cotton with 5-8% elastane, providing stretch, shape retention, and softness. Premium versions may use 85-90% micro-modal with 10-15% spandex for a smooth, breathable, and second-skin feel that enhances comfort and mobility.
2.3. Boxer Briefs
Boxer briefs combine the longer leg of traditional boxers with the snug, supportive fit of briefs. They are designed to fit closely against the body, providing support while preventing thigh chafing. This makes them versatile enough for everyday wear or light sports activities. The construction blends coverage and flexibility, giving the wearer comfort and stability throughout daily movement.
Most boxer briefs use cotton-elastane blends, typically 92-95% cotton with 5-8% elastane, to provide stretch, shape retention, and comfort. Premium versions often incorporate 85-90% micro-modal with 10-15% spandex for an extra soft hand feel, better moisture management, and a second-skin fit.
2.4. Trunks (Short/Fitted)
Trunks are a shorter, body-hugging variation of boxer briefs, sitting lower on the hips and using minimal fabric for a sleek, modern look. They fit snugly without bunching, making them a great choice for slim-fitting pants or active wear. Their design emphasizes a contemporary aesthetic while offering adequate support and comfort for daily wear.
Trunks are commonly made from 90-95% cotton with 5-10% elastane for a close, supportive fit. High-end versions may use 85-90% micro-modal or bamboo with 10-15% spandex to achieve a soft, breathable, and flexible fabric ideal for form-fitting designs.
3. Boxers by Fly & Closure Designs
Boxer designs vary in their fly and closure styles, combining function, comfort, and style. Some focus on traditional openings for convenience, while others emphasize a sleek, modern fit without a fly, catering to different activities and preferences. Choosing the right fly or closure can impact accessibility, support, and overall comfort.
3.1. Open Fly (Vertical)
The open vertical fly is a classic style, featuring a vertical overlapping fabric panel, usually without buttons or fasteners, allowing quick and easy access. This fly is most commonly seen in traditional woven boxers and provides a relaxed, breathable fit. Its simplicity and comfort make it ideal for everyday casual underwear, unisex designs, and traditional collections where ease of wear and a classic silhouette are priorities.
3.2. Button Fly
The button fly features one or more buttons securing the flap, creating a structured and tailored look. It is particularly popular in classic woven boxers, offering a slightly formal or refined aesthetic while maintaining functionality. This style is well-suited for premium or heritage collections, catering to customers who prefer a neat, timeless design with added security and support.
3.3. Horizontal (Top) Fly
The horizontal fly, often found in boxer briefs, runs horizontally across the pouch. This design combines easy access with enhanced support, giving a modern twist to traditional openings. It works particularly well in fitted or performance underwear, where comfort, mobility, and a streamlined fit are essential, making it ideal for activewear or everyday briefs.
3.4. Snap Fly
The snap fly uses snaps along the waistband for opening and closing, designed for convenience and adaptability. This style is especially useful for individuals who prefer adjustable or accessible underwear, or for inclusive and adaptive fashion lines. Snap fly boxers are suitable for casual, performance, and functional underwear collections where practicality meets comfort.
3.5. Closed Fly / No-Fly
The closed fly eliminates the opening entirely, creating a smooth, supportive fit that prevents bunching. This design is increasingly popular in performance and athletic boxers, where a sleek fit under tight clothing is essential. It enhances support during active movement, making it ideal for athletic wear, high-mobility underwear, or sports-focused collections while maintaining a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
4. Boxers by Purpose & Use Case
Boxers can be tailored for different purposes, from everyday comfort to athletic performance, sleepwear, or fashion-forward designs
4.1. Everyday Comfort Boxers
Everyday comfort boxers are designed for all-day wear, prioritizing softness, breathability, and non-irritating seams over compression. Typically made from woven cotton, cotton blends, or lightweight jerseys, they offer gentle stretch, smooth hand feel, and consistent comfort throughout daily activities.
These boxers are suitable for menswear and unisex designs, ideal for casual, office, or home use. Their simple construction ensures maximum freedom of movement, low maintenance, and durability, making them a staple for core underwear collections.
4.2. Athletic & Performance Boxers
Athletic and performance boxers are engineered for high-mobility activities, featuring moisture-wicking fabrics, odor-control finishes, and supportive pouch designs to prevent thigh chafing and maintain secure fit during exercise. Common materials include cotton-spandex blends, microfiber polyester, or performance triblends, offering breathability, four-way stretch, and quick-dry properties.
These boxers are ideal for sports, gym, running, or outdoor activities, catering mostly to menswear and unisex activewear lines. Their design balances functionality, support, and comfort to enhance performance while remaining lightweight and unobtrusive under athletic clothing.
4.3. Sleep & Lounge Boxers
Sleep and lounge boxers are made from soft woven cotton, modal, bamboo blends, or lightweight jersey, focusing on airflow, relaxed fit, and gentle waistbands for overnight comfort or lounging at home. These boxers prioritize softness and breathability over compression, ensuring a non-restrictive fit during rest.
They are suitable for menswear, womenswear, and unisex loungewear collections, and are often used in premium sleepwear lines or casual homewear ranges. Their lightweight construction also makes them easy to layer or pair with robes and lounge sets, combining practicality with comfort.
4.4. Fashion & Statement Boxers
Fashion and statement boxers emphasize branding, prints, special waistbands, and distinctive color palettes, prioritizing visual appeal and style while maintaining reasonable comfort. They can feature graphic prints, embroidery, contrast trims, or luxury fabrics like modal-cotton blends and bamboo blends.
They are often included in trend-led or limited-edition collections, suitable for menswear, womenswear, or unisex fashion lines. Their design balances aesthetic impact, branding opportunities, and everyday wearability, allowing brands to offer products that are both fashionable and functional.
Thygesen Textile Vietnam – An Experienced Underwear Manufacturer
Thygesen Textile Vietnam is a custom boxer and underwear manufacturer in Vietnam, offering full OEM/ODM production services from fabric sourcing and sampling to bulk manufacturing.
Why you should partner with Thygesen for boxer manufacturing:
- Full-Service Custom Manufacturing: Thygesen provides end-to-end services, from fabric sourcing and sampling to bulk production, packaging, and delivery, ensuring a seamless OEM/ODM experience.
- Wide Range of Styles & Features: We produce boxers in various fits and styles, including classic, boxer briefs, trunks, with options for logo printing, embroidery, branded waistbands, and functional finishes such as antimicrobial or odor-control treatments.
- Material Sourcing & Development: Beyond sourcing materials through a wide network domestically and internationally with certifications as required, Thygesen can also develop fabrics, add functional features such as moisture-wicking or antimicrobial finishes, and use their expertise to advise brands on the best materials for comfort, performance, and design.
- Strict Quality Control: Every stage of production is closely monitored using rigorous quality standards, including incoming material inspections, in-line checks during sewing, final garment inspections, AQL or third party checks, ensuring consistent, high-quality products that meet international brand expectations.
- Ethical & Transparent Practices: Thygesen emphasizes responsible sourcing, sustainability, and ethical manufacturing throughout their supply chain. All products are made in the SA800 and WRAP factory.
- Proven Track Record: By partnering with global brands such as Boody, TomboyX, Tommy Hilfiger, DKNY, Calvin Klein, Fjällräven, Girlfriend Collective, and Ninepine, Thygesen has gained extensive experience in managing international production and handling import/export regulations.
In conclusion, selecting the right boxer style can make or break a new underwear launch. Turn your boxer designs into reality with Thygesen. Learn more at thygesenapparel.com or contact us at sale@thygesen.com.vn.
