Underwear that rides up, bunches or chafes can quickly become uncomfortable. The main causes are usually fit, leg length, fabric and support.
The good news is that choosing the right style can make a big difference. Here’s what to look for.
Why Does Underwear Ride Up?
Underwear can ride up when it is too tight, too loose, too short in the leg or made from fabric that does not move well with the body.
Chafing is slightly different. It is usually caused by repeated friction, heat and moisture — especially during walking, travelling, exercise or long days on your feet.
1. Check the Fit First
Your underwear should feel secure without digging into your waist or thighs.
- Too tight: the legs may pull upwards and the waistband can dig in.
- Too loose: the fabric may move, bunch or lose support.
Remember that sizing varies between brands, so the same labelled size may fit differently in Calvin Klein, BOSS, SAXX or Tommy Hilfiger.
2. Choose the Right Style
Trunks
Trunks have a shorter fitted leg and work well for everyday wear. They are a good choice if you like a close fit without too much fabric on the thigh.
Boxer Briefs
If ride-up or thigh friction is a regular problem, boxer briefs are worth trying. The longer leg gives more coverage and can help keep the fabric sitting securely on the thigh.
Briefs
Briefs have no leg fabric to ride up the thigh. They can be a good option if you prefer minimal coverage, although the fit still needs to be secure around the seat and waist.
3. Consider a Longer Leg
For many men, a slightly longer boxer brief stays in place better than a very short style.
Longer legs can also create a fabric barrier between the thighs, which may help reduce friction during walking, travelling or exercise.
However, longer is not automatically better. If the fabric bunches on your thighs, a shorter trunk may suit your body shape better.
4. Choose the Right Fabric
Cotton Stretch
Cotton with added elastane is one of the best everyday options. It combines softness and breathability with enough stretch to stay close to the body.
Shop Cotton Stretch Underwear →
Modal
Modal is particularly soft and smooth against the skin, making it a good choice if comfort is your main priority.
Performance Fabrics
For gym, running, travelling or active jobs, look for moisture-wicking fabrics, four-way stretch, smooth seams and supportive construction.
Shop Men's Performance Underwear →
5. Look for Better Support
A contoured or anatomical pouch can help keep everything supported and reduce unnecessary movement.
This can be particularly useful during exercise or for men who find standard flat-front underwear uncomfortable.
What About SAXX?
SAXX is designed around support and movement. Many SAXX styles use features such as the BallPark Pouch®, Flat Out Seams® and structured fits designed to stay comfortable throughout the day.
For example, the SAXX Non-Stop Stretch Cotton Boxer Brief combines a supportive pouch, flat seams, four-way stretch and a 5-inch inseam for everyday comfort.
View SAXX Non-Stop Boxer Briefs →
Best Choice by Use
- Everyday: cotton stretch trunks or boxer briefs.
- Softest feel: modal trunks or boxer briefs.
- Long days or travel: supportive boxer briefs with slightly longer legs.
- Gym or sport: moisture-wicking performance boxer briefs.
- Thigh chafing: longer-leg boxer briefs with smooth seams.
Still Not Sure What to Choose?
If your underwear regularly rides up, bunches or feels uncomfortable, you may simply need a different cut, fabric or level of support.
Our Underwear Finder asks a few quick questions and recommends styles based on the fit and feel you prefer.
Quick FAQ
What type of underwear is least likely to ride up?
A correctly fitted boxer brief with enough leg length to sit securely on the thigh is a good starting point for many men.
Why do my boxer briefs keep riding up?
Common reasons include incorrect sizing, short leg length, tight leg openings or fabric that does not recover well after stretching.
Are trunks or boxer briefs better?
Trunks are shorter and lighter on the thigh. Boxer briefs provide more leg coverage and may be better if ride-up or thigh friction is your main concern.
What fabric is best for everyday comfort?
Cotton stretch is a reliable everyday choice. Modal is ideal if you prefer an especially soft and smooth feel.
The right underwear should stay comfortable without needing constant adjustment. Start with the correct size, then choose the style, leg length and fabric that suit your body and how you spend your day.
