Author

UNBJP

Browsing

2908(3)

This is not my first pair of Zylas underwear but it is my first time reviewing them for UNB. As with my other pairs of Zylas, I am proud to report that the 2908 boxer brief does not disappoint. One thing that I love about Zylas as a brand is that their underwear is multipurpose. It functions great as everyday underwear but also holds up well at the gym and could even work as beachwear (a lot of Zylas styles come in great colors with unique designs that make it easy to show them off).

I wore this pair for a particularly busy Saturday that included some errands and shopping. The 2908 did a great job holding up to the activity of running all over town during a busy day and I have also since worn them around the house for a day loafing and also was pleased with how comfortable they were. This pair goes above and beyond however and was also very comfortable to wear to the gym. My routine on this day featured both weights and cardio which put the pair through their paces and I never had to adjust. Also, this pair wicks moisture like it’s its job… which I suppose it is.

The pair that was supplied for this review was a large (which the tag indicated is 36-38 inches) and fit true to size. The fabric is a nylon/polyester/elastic mix (83/10/7%) which gave great stretch which made the boxer both ideal for everyday wear and working out without any binding or bunching. Finally, though not specified to what level of protection, the tag indicates that the 2908 also provides UV protection (see previous mention of use as beachwear).

The 2908 comes in bright orange with gray, blue and black vertical stripes. The logo waistband features the same shade blue and provides a comfortable, snug fit. This pair also features vertical vents that are slightly more sheer than the body of the garment that run parallel with the stripes and provide breathability without revealing anything they shouldn’t.

The Zylas 2908 is definitely a great pair of boxer briefs for any guy in search of a great-looking, versatile pair that is as comfortable in the office as in the gym. If you don’t own any Zylas, I would definitely suggest trying on a pair for yourself.

2908(1)2908(5)2908(7)

Pros:

  • Comfortable fabric
  • Wicking/breathing great for the gym
  • UV Protection
  • Great fit

Cons:

  • Overall, a great pair. My only complaint is that it needs to be washed on gentle (which isn’t really a complaint

Ratings:

  • Daily Fit – 10
  • Sizing – 10
  • Construction/Materials – 10
  • Styling – 9
  • Daily Performance – 10
  • Overall – 9.8 (A+)

This pair was furnished by Zylas.

99002

The pair I am reviewing today is the Candyman 99002 Silver Boxer and there is no other way for me to describe this boxer than fun. Candyman not only produces great underwear like the 9674 Boxer that I reviewed at the beginning of the year, but they also specialize in “Costume” underwear. The Costume Collection ranges from an orange prison outfit singlet (complete with handcuffs) to a fringed cowboy themed boxer.

While the silver boxer is not categorized as part of the costume collection I think it would fall into it because it isn’t really an everyday underwear but sure is fun looking. This pair is metallic silver with a black net/mesh fabric over the pouch and two rear zippers. The zippers don’t serve much of a practical role, as a matter of fact if you unzip them the back panel will fall off, but they definitely add a unique/fresh look to the pair.

I wore this pair this weekend while running some errands and met my friends for lunch. With a 93% polyester, 7% elastic mix, the fit is snug yet stretchy, however, like most polyester it doesn’t breathe like other materials. Because of the snug stretch, I had no actual issues with the legs riding up while wearing this pair.  However, if you happen to be lounging in a chair however and leaning to one side, you will definitely feel the seams created by the hard plastic zippers. As I mentioned earlier, this is not an “everyday” pair of underwear but for more “special occasions.”

99002(4) 99002(5) 99002(6)

Now, it’s time to talk about sizing. As spring has just sprung, I am dealing with a little winter weight and am between a 36-38 right now but find that I can easily also go between a large or extra large depending on the brand. My previous Candyman review was on an XL pair which we very comfortable. The 99002 that I reviewed however was a large pair and while the material does have a nice stretch, it was less forgiving than the previous pair that I reviewed. So if you are like me and you are in between sizes, definitely opt for an XL.

One of the areas that I feel could be improved was the zippers. There is no fabric guard between the zipper and your skin; and though I don’t think you’ll be using the zippers often, it is possible that you could catch you skin or hair easily. Also, and there is the easy solution of simply cutting it out, the tag is placed inconveniently in the seam of the pouch.

I would not recommend this underwear for everyday wear but I do not believe that was the intent of Candyman when they created this pair. If you are looking for a great unique pair of boxers for the club or a seaside patio party, these might just be the pair for you.

Pros:

  • Fun and unique style
    • Metallic
    • Black net pouch
    • Zippers
  • Elastic provides a great stretch to the boxer

Cons:

  • Polyester does not breathe
  • No zipper guard
  • Inside tag in the pouch

Ratings:

  • Fit – A
  • Sizing – B
  • Construction/Materials – B-
  • Styling – A
  • Performance – C-
  • Overall – B

This pair was furnished by Candyman.

0001-garcon_model_green_yellow_brazil_trunks_iconic_metallic_collection_2

I had such high hopes for the Garcon Model Brazil Trunk when I received it as it is quite an attractive looking pair. Available only in yellow with green piping (Brazil – get it?) the trunk features a comfortable metallic logo waistband as well a color contrast logo on the seat of the trunk . Additionally there is no annoying tag to deal with. These great details are probably why they are the most popular item on the GM store. However, the pleasing looks is where my love affair with this trunk ends because despite these advantages I had issues with the general fit of the pair.

I own quite a few pairs of boxers/trunks/shorts and in my opinion these barely qualify as a trunk; the cut is much more like a brief. When I first put these on, I even double checked the package to make sure I received a trunk. Additionally, for a large, the fit was pretty tight, especially at the leg opening – to the point that when I took them off at the end of the day, they had definitely bunched up around my legs adding to the brief appearance. Also, if you’ve read any of my previous reviews you know that I am a fan of underwear with pouches and while the Brazil trunk does have a semblance of a pouch, it likewise is tight and somewhat uncomfortable.

While I do wear large in most of my underwear, obviously I could alleviate many of my issues by purchasing an XL however, sadly they are not available bigger than a large. Overall, I would say that they are well made and the 82% Nylon/18% Spandex is remarkably soft. If they fit you, they are a great pair of underwear; however, the awkward fit means that for me personally they will be living at the back of my underwear drawer.

Pros:

  • Metallic waistband
  • Tagless

Cons:

  • Not really a trunk
  • Tight fit
  • Small pouch

Ratings:

  • Fit – 2
  • Materials – 5
  • Construction – 5
  • Look – 4
  • Daily Wear – 3
  • Overall – 3.8

Garçon Model furnished this pair for review.

8364_1_

When I opened my latest review pair the other day, I was excited to see this hot number (horrible pun intended) by PiKante. Their 8364 boxer is an eye-catching micro mesh of a 93% Polyester/ 7% Spandex mix that is available in a light blue color with yellow contrast stitching and logo waistband. While I am a fan of logo waistband, the PiKante logo could probably use a little editing as it contains but a chili pepper as the “i” and an underwear-clad male form as the “t” – but that’s just my two cents.

On the day I wore the boxer I found myself doing errands and going to the grocery store.  As they day wore on I found that it felt like the leg had rode up a tad and felt somewhat bunched at my thighs. Much to my surprise when I changed that evening the boxers were not actually bunched at all, I’ll admit it, I have meaty thighs and I believe in my case that the leg openings were a little too snug and that after a full day of errands, I really started to notice it. With that said, there was no chaffing or the like, it was just mildly uncomfortable; however, as comfort is paramount for me in my underwear, that did lead to my fit/daily wear ratings below.

I do however, have to compliment PiKante on the micro mesh that was chosen for the boxer. While it is partly shear, it is very discrete and does not feel like it is revealing too much or letting any part of your anatomy hangout – at least not anymore than it’s well-designed pouch is suppose to. Additionally, sometimes mesh boxers tend to have a flimsy feel to them and I am happy to report that these have a hardy build that definitely holds its own.

Overall, I really wanted to like these boxers, especially because of the color combo, but the leg fit is an issue for me. I hope that it might have just been this pair because I like the other features and would like to wear these more regularly than I will because of the fit.

Pros:

  • Sturdy construction
  • “Discrete” mesh

Cons:

  • Snug leg openings

Ratings:

  • Fit – 3
  • Materials – 5
  • Construction – 5
  • Look – 5
  • Daily Wear – 3
  • Overall – 4.2

This pair was furnished by PiKante.

9674(1)

I always enjoy getting to review a brand that is new to me and the 9674 Boxer is my first pair from Candyman. Overall, Candyman makes quirky and unique underwear that runs the gambit from colorful designs to costume underwear. The 9674 falls into the colorful category. The bright red boxers feature a black contrast zig-zag stitching and white horizontal lines on the leg panels (The 9674 is also available in a white/black combination).

I wore the 9674 for a vigorous day of errands around town, then out to dinner and overall they were a very comfortable pair. They did have a very small amount of ride-up but because of the short trunk-like cut, it was very minimal and not even noticeable until I was changing at home that evening. Additionally, the 93% Polyester/ 7% Spandex mix made for a very snug yet pleasing fit.

As always, I am happy when a pair of boxers has a nice pouch and the 9674 hit the mark with one that is roomy and offers just enough support. One interesting feature that is not readily noticeable from the pictures, is that the horizontal lines on the leg panels are actually pockets. There is something about this that is somewhat amazing to me as they are constructed in such a way that adds absolutely not extra bulk to the boxer and does not detract from the comfort or clean lines. The only question I have is why? While I could not conceive a reason to do such a thing (as reaching into your pants to take a call my be somewhat awkward in most social situations), the pocket fits an iPhone 5 nicely.

At the end of the day, this is a very solid and comfortable pair of boxers, nothing groundbreaking but I’ll be keeping them on the top of my pile.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Sturdy snug construction
  • Pockets!

Cons:

  • Pockets?

Ratings:

  • Fit – 5
  • Materials – 5
  • Construction – 5
  • Look – 5
  • Daily Wear – 5
  • Overall – 5

Candyman furnished this pair for review.

acreview

So, this review is a two-fer because I will be reviewing both the Boxer and Brief of the Andrew Christian RetroPop line with Show-It Tech. Did you catch the last three words of that sentence? Show-It Tech? I don’t have a need for underwear with any “enhancing” features and therefore I normally don’t buy any type of underwear with them. However, as the name suggests, the RetroPop Boxer and Brief have a great retro 70-80s design and I couldn’t resist having a couple pairs. Both the brief and the boxer are made of 100% cotton and are available in limited edition Black/Turquoise, Yellow/Turquoise and Turquoise/Black color combinations.

I have worn both the brief and boxer a lot since I received them. Both for “active” days and just chillin’ on the couch days. I’ve also put them through, what I consider to be the ultimate comfort test on a six hour drive to Ohio for the holidays and I have to admit, they certainly passed the test and are extremely comfortable.

As for the previously mentioned Show-It Tech, it is definitely on the low-end of tech but does a good job on the “Show-It”. Essentially, the underwear features a contour pouch and a rib of fabric that runs under your testicles to slightly lift and cradle your package. This design also provides a nice amount of support not normally present in a traditional boxer or brief. One small caveat with Show-It Tech however is that you should definitely pay attention to the style of pants you are wearing and to what type of event, because with the right pair of pants, it does a great job of “showing it” to the public.

There are a couple of drawbacks that I experienced but luckily they did not detract from the overall positives of these underwear. First, despite being listed has machine-washable online, the tag reads hand-wash. I’ll admit however, I don’t care how much I like a pair of underwear, I will never hand-wash them. Underwear should be easy and attractive so like all my pairs of underwear, I threw them in on the gentle cycle and line dried them. Being 100% cotton, these pairs have come through like a champ.

Also, the sizing seems a little off to me. I purchased an XL which is listed as a 34-36. The waistband was a comfortable fit, however there was definitely extra fabric in the body and seat of the underwear and while this was was not uncomfortable, it was definitely not as form-fitting as on the models. Finally, the construction seems sturdy enough, but I will admit it is slightly wanting however they definitely should not discourage you from buying it.

Overall, I would certainly recommend the RetroPop Boxers and Briefs to anyone – just maybe buy a size down.

Pros:

  • Awesome retro look
  • Show-It Tech
  • Very Comfortable

Cons:

  • Wonky sizing
  • Hand-wash “only”

Fit 4
Materials 5
Construction 4
Look 5
Daily Wear 5
Overall 4.6

Get your pair at Andrew Christian.

2108 (3)

I am very excited to be reviewing my first pair of boxers for UNB.  Today’s pair is the Front Mesh Boxer from Clever. This pair is made of 94% cotton and 6% spandex blend for a snug fit. These boxers are available in a black/gray and green/black color combinations and feature a comfortable logo waistband. And as the name suggests, the front panels are made of mesh.  I am always a big fan of mesh in undies.

I have worn the Clever Front Mesh Boxer several times since I received them. Personally, I like to put a new pair through the paces and wore this pair both for a relaxing day lounging on the couch and some busy days around town where I spent my time on and off the metro, walking all over the city and taking a couple sit-down meetings for good measure.

With that said I must admit that I’m a bit torn about this pair. The snugness that I previously mentioned is a double-edged sword. The seat felt a little too snug, like I was always on the verge of (and please forgive the crude terminology) a wedgie and they tend to ride up on the legs just a tad and the snugness meant they did not return when I stood up. This was especially noticeable when I was lounging around my house; however, when I wore them on my more active days, I did not notice the wedgie or riding up. Not too say this snugness is all negative because this pair made my ass look amazing – seriously, I received comments.

Another detail that deserves further mention is the mesh front. As usual when mesh is used in undergarments, this promoted great circulation and kept all the equipment cool on the days that I found myself running for the train. The mesh was comfortable like a pair of comfortable basketball shorts, and while it is definitely noticeable, it isn’t so bad that I would avoid wearing them to the gym. Additionally, the construction is also very sturdy which can sometimes be lacking with mesh.

Overall, I still find myself in the middle of this review. They looked amazing but weren’t always the most comfortable which to me is a big factor.

Pros:

  • Great construction
  • Made my butt look awesome
  • Eye-catching

Cons:

  • The seat was too snug
  • Ride up on legs

Ratings

  • Fit – 3
  • Materials – 5
  • Construction – 5
  • Look – 5
  • Daily Wear – 3
  • Overall – 4.2

Clever furnished this pair for review

T0759_4

I have only one other pair of Jack Adams and am relatively unfamiliar with the brand. So I was a little uncertain with this  jock . I find some ‘features’ of modern jockstraps to be gimmicky and this pair the straps that make the “X” for which this jock is named. I thought the jock looked over-designed and almost like complicated lingerie. However, I couldn’t have been more delightfully wrong/surprised.

This jock features an ample, knitted pouch that is very soft and provides a great cradling fit. Composed of 70% Polyester, 15% cotton and 15% rubber. I joke that the knitted material is more like the most comfortable sweater than a jockstrap. The leg straps are tighter than I expected, being a beefier guy, I expected that they would be uncomfortable; however, they provide great lift to my rear and keep the pouch snug and comfortable. My only complaint is that I wish the straps were slightly larger to help prevent some minor rolling which I experienced.

The great feature that makes this a truly stand-out jockstrap is the functional fly that makes for easy access in the restroom. The fly that creates the “X” that I previously said gave the complicated lingerie- look, is available in eye-catching Black/Yellow, Black/Red and Black/White that actually gives it a decidedly edgy, athletic look.

Pros:

  • Super soft and unique pouch
  • Functional fly

Cons:

  • Small legstraps
  • Somewhat gimmicky design

Overall, this is a great new take on a classic and I will definitely be buying several more for my drawer.

Fit

5

Materials

5

Construction

4

Look

4

Daily Wear

5

Overall *Out of 5*

4.6

Find this jock at the 10Percent.com site!

This week’s Underwear of the Week is a great new boxer brief from Cellblock 13. As always we have the underwear genius of Timoteo to thank for the Cellblock 13 Fugitive Short.

Once again, we are presented with a bold hybrid of traditional activewear and stylish fashion, dare we say fetish, wear. Cellblock 13 is never shy and doesn’t back away from form or function. Available in eye-catching colors and constructed of an 80/20, Nylon/Spandex combo, this pair is as comfortable under your night-out clothes as they are under your workout gear.

I cannot wait to get my hands on this new line, but in the meantime the reasons below are why the Cellblock Fugitive Brief are our Underwear of the Week:

  • Mesh panels are great for both ventilation and for turning heads
  • Great contour pouch
  • Sturdy 2 inch waistband
  • Interlocking rear stitching that provides lift and support
  • Available in Red/Black, Blue/Black, and Yellow/Black combinations

Get your pair from JockstrapCentral for $38.

Hello everyone. My name is JP and I am the newest contributor to UNB. I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself.  I’m 31, a bit of a geek and I live in our fine nation’s capital with my husband. I’ve been a reader of UNB for about two years after stumbling onto the site looking for a review of 2(x)ist. Recently, while weathering hurricane Sandy, I decided to take a chance and click the “join UNB” link. The rest is history as they say and here I sit penning my introduction and preparing to share my love of men’s underwear with the denizens of the Internets.

Unlike John and Brandon’s introduction, I’m not really sure I have a genesis story to share about how I got interested in underwear. Maybe it is because, as Brandon referred to it, “…. the very organic attraction of gay men to designer underwear.” but I remember being interested in underwear even before I could identify as gay (however, maybe there was another reason I was always so interested in the Jockey section of the J.C. Penny big book).

Even as a preteen, I remember being at what passed for a supercenter in the late 80’s and going to the men’s underwear section trying to figure out how I could buy a pair of Spalding Briefs (they had mesh panels if I remember correctly) without raising questions from my mother. Once I was in high school and had my own car, I started to build my collection. There was something extremely exciting about wearing a pair of Hilfiger or Calvin Klein boxer briefs under my school uniform and knowing that unbeknownst to the rest of my classmates, I was wearing an expression of my individuality.

During my college years, I continued to grow my collection however I was relegated to the more traditional department store staples that were readily available in North Eastern Ohio (and one or two online purchases from International Jock).  It was not really until I moved to DC that the style and brands of my collection started to diversify. The city offers both a much wider selection of high-end department stores and smaller boutique-like stores with a great selection. Also, living in an urban environment lends itself well to mail-order shopping. My collection now includes almost all styles, except maybe bikinis/thongs.

With such a vast collection, I’ve developed many opinions and look forward to sharing my feedback on my favorite styles and any new pairs I add to my underwear drawer. I hope you find it fun and informative and maybe it’ll help you become a wiser underwear fan.