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You don’t have to wear uncomfortable Plus Size Men’s Underwear just because you are a big guy. If you measure your size by the number in front of XL—2XL, 3XL, 4XL, etc.—you have quite a few options. You just need to know where to look and I’ll tell you where in this blog post.
What to Look for in Plus Size Men’s Underwear
Let’s start with the basics of men’s underwear first. Regardless of your size, you want to know the different components of men’s underwear and how they affect your comfort. Pay attention to these aspects below.
Length and Style
The four main styles of men’s underwear are briefs, trunks, boxer briefs, and boxer shorts. Nowadays, there are additional mainstream styles such as bikini briefs, jockstraps, and thongs. I’ll be honest and note that most plus size men’s underwear focuses on boxer briefs (MeUndies is an exception!). If you are wondering which style is best for you, I recommend experimenting with different styles.
Note that if your legs and thighs are chubby, you may suffer from skin irritation, known as chafing. Chafing can happen if your skin rubs the wrong way against your clothing or other skin. Boxer briefs help protect you from chafing because a fabric barrier covers your skin. In fact, long-leg boxer briefs that have 7-inch or longer legs often are even better because they protect more of your skin. You can read my Guide to Long-Leg Boxer Briefs here.

Finally, if your thighs are chubby and you suffer from boxer briefs riding up, long-leg boxer briefs may also help. That is because the leg band sits below the thickest part of your thighs, which acts as a natural barrier to riding up. I also wrote a Guide to Preventing Boxer Briefs from Riding Up, which you can read here.
Material and Fabric
Gone are the days of 100% cotton underwear. Today, men’s underwear comes in a variety of fabrics, which may greatly impact comfort. However, you may also get overwhelmed with the amount of choices. Here is a basic cheat sheet on what to buy:
- Everyday office and home wear: Bamboo, modal, and cotton underwear are the best choices. I prefer bamboo and modal underwear, which are thinner and softer than cotton. Regardless of your choice, get something with at least 5% Spandex/Elastane content. Almost all bamboo and modal underwear have this, as do “cotton stretch” versions of cotton underwear. The Spandex/Elastane allows the base fabric to stretch, which is crucial for all-day comfort.
- High-sweat situations: If you are in a high-sweat situation, you may want moisture-wicking underwear instead to help keep you dry and cooler. Almost all moisture-wicking underwear will be some version of polyester, polyamide, or nylon. Polyester is ubiquitous and cheaper compared to polyamide and nylon. However, I find that polyamide and nylon are of higher quality and feel better. Either way, you’ll want at least 10% Spandex/Elastane content, with 15% or higher even better.
Fly Types
I wrote a complete Guide to Men’s Underwear Fly Types, which you should read here. The two most common fly designs for plus size men’s underwear are the standard vertical fly and no fly at all. The Internet estimates around 20% of men use their fly, so if you don’t, there is no need to fret about this. In fact, if you don’t use a fly, getting underwear without a fly might be more comfortable. I personally prefer underwear without a fly.

Ball Pouch Design
High-tech ball pouches are the latest trend in men’s underwear. I strongly encourage all guys to buy underwear with some type of pouch, instead of just a flat front. Your body isn’t flat, so why is your underwear?
Yet, there is a wide range of pouch designs, from simple pouches just with more room for your balls and penis to meticulously-designed pouches with fabric separation. Pouches with fabric separators are designed to prevent your balls from sticking to your inner thighs and groin. If you suffer from this, especially during high-sweat situations, buying such a pouch could be excellent for you.
For more information, read my full Guide to Ball Pouches. Or, if you want more insight into underwear with large pouches, read my review of Real Men Underwear here.

Waist Size
Besides checking the size (2XL, 3XL, 4XL), also check each brand’s actual waist size on their sizing guide. Most men don’t even think about this, but letter sizes are not standard. One brand’s 2XL could be another brand’s XL. Checking this before purchasing can save unwanted returns and heartache when you discover your underwear doesn’t fit.
Below is a size guide from some popular plus size men’s underwear brands as stated on their website. Note how much variation there is. Ultimately, this is only a guide and the only true way to determine size is to get a pair and wear it.
Brand | XL (size in inches) | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL |
---|---|---|---|---|
MeUndies | 35-37 | 38-41 | 42-44 | 45-47 |
Saxx | 38-42 | 42-46 | 46-50 | 50-54 |
Gruff + Tumble | 38-40 | 41-43 | 44-46 | 47-50 |
Under Armour | 38-40 | 42-44 | 46-48 | 50-52 |
Jockey | 40-42 | 44-46 | 48-50 | 52-54 |
Recommended Brands Selling Plus Size Men’s Underwear
Several men’s underwear brands sell underwear larger than XL, which is great. But it isn’t just brands that cater to larger men – some mainstream underwear brands also have extended sizes too. This is awesome for larger guys because they can enjoy the same comfort and bold styles guys size XL and below enjoy too.
MeUndies
Sizes and Styles: Up to 4XL: briefs, trunks, boxer briefs, boxer shorts, thongs, and jockstraps—wow!
I am putting MeUndies first because they are the only men’s underwear brand I’ve seen that makes all kinds of plus size men’s underwear. Most other men’s underwear companies only give large guys one choice: boxer briefs. But MeUndies doesn’t only offer boxer briefs up to size 4XL; they offer briefs and trunks, and even thongs and jockstraps. How cool is that?

Buy Now: MeUndies Thongs in size up to 5XL.
MeUndies makes most of its famous underwear out of modal, which is fantastic and way softer than cotton. Additionally, MeUndies is known for its fun and outrageous prints. You can easily express yourself without having to resort to boring black and gray undies. On the other hand, if you prefer more sophisticated solid colors, MeUndies has that too!

Buy Now: MeUndies Modal Boxer Briefs in sizes up to 5XL

Buy Now: MeUndies Briefs in sizes up to 5XL
Saxx Underwear
Sizes and Styles: up to 2XL: briefs, trunks, boxer briefs, and boxer shorts. 3XL and 4XL: boxer briefs only.
I am a big fan of Saxx underwear! Their main claim to fame is their BallPark Pouch. This I-shaped pouch is one of my favorite pouches because of the mesh “guardrails” that separate your balls from your legs. If you have problems with skin sticking together in this area, especially when sweaty, look into getting a separated pouch. (Read my complete Guide to Men’s Underwear Pouches here.)

Saxx sells sizes up to 2XL on almost its entire collection, including men’s underwear, pants, shorts, and swimwear. But if you are looking for 3XL or 4XL sizes, you are limited to Ultra or Daytripper boxer briefs.

Buy Now: Saxx Ultra Boxer Briefs are super comfortable and available up to sizes 4XL!
If you have read my exhaustive Guide to Saxx Underwear, you’ll know I strongly recommend the Ultra/Vibe collection for everyday underwear (skip the Daytripper boxer briefs). Made from 95% bamboo viscose and 5% Spandex/Elastane, it is super soft and underwear you don’t have to think or worry about. It also comes in so many colors and patterns—including sizes 3XL and 4XL—that you’ll have plenty of fun wearing them every day.
- ULTRA SUPER SOFT BOXER BRIEFS FLY 3 PACK: Men’s underwear designed for complete comfort and total freedom of movement, these are boxers for men who want to unwind all day, every day.
- RELAXED FIT: Made from super soft moisture wicking fabric featuring a fly and anti-roll waistband, these men’s boxer briefs underwear have a 5” seam and sit comfortably mid-thigh.
- BALLPARK SUPPORT: Our boxer briefs come equipped with the patented BallPark Pouch to reduce friction and keep your man-parts in place with breathable mesh panels for chafe-free comfort.
- BUILT-IN TECH: This underwear has a Three-D Fit for complete ergonomic comfort, and Flat Out Seams to prevent irritation. The easy-care boxers are machine wash and tumble dry for zero hassle.
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 21:39 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gruff + Tumble
Sizes and styles: XL to 4XL, boxer briefs and compression shorts only.
Gruff + Tumble is an underwear company that explicitly caters to guys wearing underwear sizes from XL to 4XL. While other companies use the same design for sizes XS to 4XL, Gruff + Tumble only designs underwear for sizes XL to 4XL. That’s correct—you can’t even buy underwear smaller than XL from Gruff + Tumble.

Even though Gruff + Tumble is a small, boutique company, they still offer a good selection of boxer briefs and compression shorts in these larger sizes. I especially appreciate that they use Lenzing modal fabric in their boxer briefs—readers know how much I love modal underwear.
Note that Gruff + Tumble offers “Journeyman Boxers.” However, if you are not of Gen Z age, these “boxers” are indeed boxer briefs. For Millennials like myself, I always think of boxer shorts when I see the word “boxers,” so I want to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Shop Now on Gruff + Tumble’s website.
Note that the Journeyman Boxers are a bit more relaxed in fit than the Statesman Boxer Briefs. Additionally, the Journeyman Boxers are made from a modal-cotton blend, whereas the Statesman Boxer Briefs are pure modal (and 7% Spandex). 7% Spandex is above-average for modal boxer briefs – 5% is the average – which should provide additional stretch and comfort.
- PROPORTIONALLY DESIGNED FOR BIG & TALL MEN - Proportionally designed to fit larger frames will guarantee this pair to be the most comfortable boxer briefs you'll ever wear.
- RADICALLY SOFT LUXE FABRIC - The Statesman is composed of non-pilling, micro modal and spandex making them the softest, smoothest luxe fabric.
- HORIZONTAL FLY & CRADLING POUCH - Our quick access fly gives you easy reach when you need it most. The fly opens quickly and comfortably for an easy bathroom break while the cradling pouch provides all the space to keep the jewels supported.
- TRUNK-FLEX BOXER WAISTBAND - Designed to be study at a full two inches tall, we've eliminated the annoying roll so the garment stays put and hugs the frame.
- BIG MAN SIZING DONE RIGHT - Our sizing is measured by waist size. Bend your waist to reveal the crease of your natural waist line and measure around your body along that line. Large fits 35-38", XL fits 38-40”, XXL fits 41-43”, 3XL fits 44-46” and 4XL fits 47-50”waists.
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 23:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Under Armour
Sizes and styles: up to 5XL, boxer briefs only.
Under Armour has been quite popular for many years. However, I only purchased my first pair of Under Armour underwear a few months ago. Wow! Why didn’t I purchase some previously? I now understand why UA Boxerjocks are so popular – they are fantastic underwear. (Read my review of UA Boxerjocks here.)
- Lightweight, Performance Tech fabric is insanely soft and breathable
- Tagless, 4-way stretch construction moves better in every direction
- No-roll hem & Chafe-free seams
- Performance waistband with wordmark branding
- Fitted: Streamlined fit that’s not too tight or too loose
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 21:39 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Boxerjocks are 90% polyester and 10% Spandex/Elastane, so they will feel smooth and silky rather than soft like cotton or bamboo. Some guys don’t like wearing polyester-based underwear every day because it can be less breathable than cotton, modal, or bamboo. If so, you may want to rotate with bamboo or cotton-based pairs from other brands.
I also like that UA Boxerjocks are pretty affordable for high-quality underwear, around $15/pair when buying a three-pack. Under Armour also has a great selection of solid colors and some patterns on the larger sizes, so you can create a playful underwear collection.
- Lightweight, Performance Tech fabric is insanely soft and breathable
- Tagless, 4-way stretch construction moves better in every direction
- No-roll hem & Chafe-free seams
- Performance waistband with wordmark branding
- Fitted: Streamlined fit that’s not too tight or too loose
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 21:39 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Jockey
Sizes and styles: up to 2XL: briefs, trunks, boxer briefs, and boxer shorts. 3XL to 5XL: boxer briefs only (there are 5XL briefs but the reviews aren’t good).
If you prefer solid men’s underwear without the frills and need to spend a small fortune with a boutique brand, Jockey makes a lot of plus size men’s underwear. But Jockey underwear isn’t a joke – I own many pairs of Jockey boxer briefs, which are fantastic.
If you are looking at XL or 2XL sizes, you’ll have an expansive selection from which to choose. My favorites are Jockey modal boxer briefs for everyday wear and Jockey microfiber boxer briefs for high-sweat situations. Both models come in 3-inch, 6-inch, and 9-inch versions, depending on your preference. However, if you have thicker thighs, I recommend buying the 9-inch versions to prevent them from riding up.
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 23:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 23:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
And if you are into briefs, good news! Jockey offers many styles of briefs up to size 2XL. For example, Jockey’s RapidCool briefs are made from 80% polyester and 20% Spandex. 20% spandex is exceptionally high for men’s underwear, providing amazing stretchiness.
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 23:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Your selection is far more limited if you need 3XL, 4XL, or 5XL sizes. However, Jockey sells its “Chafe-Proof” pouch microfiber boxer briefs – you can read my full review here – up to size 5XL, which is terrific. Jockey also offers several solid colors, including bright colors like orange and tulip – express yourself!
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 23:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You’ll mostly need to stick to the Jockey “Big Man” ActiveStretch lineup. The ActiveStretch underwear is made from 95% cotton and 5% Spandex, providing additional stretch than 100% cotton underwear. If you wear cotton underwear, I always recommend using a “cotton stretch” blend. The added Spandex will provide additional comfort over a 100% cotton pair.
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 23:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
However, the Big Man briefs only have 3% Spandex, below average for men’s underwear (5% is average). Their reviews are not great on Amazon, and many of the negative reviews come from guys 3XL and up. I probably wouldn’t recommend these briefs.
Last update on 2025-01-29 at 23:41 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Final Thoughts on Plus Size Men’s Underwear
I reviewed five men’s underwear brands that big guys should check out. You don’t have to settle for boring and cheap underwear just because you wear multiple XLs. Get underwear that makes you both feel awesome and is very comfortable.
And because I wear a size medium, I’d love to hear from plus size guys. What are your favorite brands? What advice would you give other large guys? Leave a comment below or email me at hello@mensunderwearguide.com
My Latest Blog Posts
- Plus Size Men’s Underwear: What to Buy
- Men’s Underwear Fly Types: What You Must Know
- Under Armour BoxerJock 6-inch Review: Even for Non-Athletes?
- Amazon Prime Men’s Underwear: What to Buy Prime Day 2024
- Hanes Total Support Pouch: Total Support on a Budget (Review)
- Pair of Thieves Quick Dry Boxer Briefs – Review
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