The 11 best boxers for a comfortable and relaxed fit

While not insignificant in price, the 24/7 Woven Boxers from Mack Weldon are one of the best pairs we've tested.

"Whereas other boxers from other brands have come and gone from my rotation in that time, with waistbands stretched out, fabric worn bare, and other such issues, these garments are going strong, maintaining their support, comfort, and color, too, and that despite lots of use and washes," writes freelance author Steven John.

The brand takes the basics seriously, as they were originally founded on making ultra-soft, performance-minded underwear with a proper fit. Here, that means these cooling boxers use advanced COOLMAX technology, yet also come in a design streamlined enough to wear under pants. The smooth waistband won't fold over or bunch up in our experience, while the anti-odor finish is a nice design touch.

Read more in our full Mack Weldon underwear review. 

UNIQLO might already be supplying some of your favorite outfits on a budget. Unsurprisingly, their men's underwear section is also clutch for basic essentials.  For under $10, these cotton boxers for men (made with a stretchy elastic waistband) are a standout deal to top off your underwear drawer. The low price on each individual pair makes it worth buying multiple pairs at a time.

More than 300 reviews at a clip of nearly 5 stars speaks volumes about the popularity of this pair. Bombas boxers prove to be super-soft, breathable and relaxed. It's the use of a TENCEL Modal fabric blend that makes the difference – a sustainable fiber made from beech tree pulp, which is then bolstered with Spandex for stretch, rounding out the softest pairs of men's underwear we've tested.

"The material itself feels soft against skin, but other design elements like minimal seams, no tags, and a wide waistband also add to the comfort," says men's style editor Amir Ismael.

Read more in our full Bombas underwear review.

SAXX's pouched underwear is famously supportive and comfortable, and its boxer shorts are cut from the same cloth. There's still that signature BallPark pouch support in front, and the soft, stretch synthetic fabric echoes how SAXX normally makes its fan-favorite boxer briefs. Flat seams should provide a secure fit at the waistband, and these are also cut with what the brand calls "ample room" at the thigh.

Read more in our full Saxx review.

Boxers quite literally have roots in the boxing ring, and these check all the right boxes for a more close-fitting pair of boxer shorts. They hit at mid-thigh, with a thick elastic waistband for a secure fit. They also come in a 3-pack for an easy purchase that just might make you come back for another set or two. That's comfortable, athletic support from boxers multiple days a week.

For those times when you want boxers for men with a fit that's breathable and relaxed, but still supportive enough to wear all day long, opt for nature's wonder fabric in a versatile pair of boxer briefs. It can be tough to find underwear that reduces chafing, so a boxer-like pair of briefs is a safe bet – especially in moisture-wicking, anti-microbial Merino wool. And as to that anti-chafing touch, its flatlock seams prevent riding up or bunching.

While buying in bulk can sometimes lead to a loss in quality, that's not the case with this trio of boxers for men from Nordstrom. It seems the department store does a bit of everything these days, from dress shirts to pants and chinos – and they've got your sleepwear covered, too. Choose from three shades of blue or blue-black in a breezy 100% cotton fabric and a classic roomy fit.

This Amazon exclusive deal from a trusted basics brand like Pair of Thieves uses the company's famed cotton and viscose blend for extreme softness. You'll also find a no-roll waistband and an innovative quick-draw button fly. Here you have all the features you want in a pair of the best boxers for men, plus the convenience and unbeatable prices from Amazon.

Finding the right fit in the underwear department can be a struggle for bigger guys or those with wide, athletic builds. Not anymore though, as the athletic performance designers at Adidas made this trio of boxers specifically with the plus-size boxer wearer in mind. Stretch quick-dry fabric helps you move around with ease while staying cool, and smooth stitching combines with a tagless waistband for a smooth feel against your skin.

Despite its name, this pair has the look and feel of classic boxer shorts, with the added features most folks seek from briefs. TomboyX took great care to test out this pair on all body types. They're available in a size XS to 6XL, and have the thoughtful touch of a decorative fly. These details go nicely with a blend of OEKO-TEX Certified cotton and spandex for stretch and durability. Even the waistband is super soft and silky-smooth.

Read more in our full Tomboy X review.

Pact's Everyday Boxers live up to their name, starting with the fact that they come in an affordable four-pack for plenty of comfort and performance, well, every day. This variety pack of the best boxers for men includes plaid and solid pairs you can alternate throughout your wearing cycle, all made with soft, organic cotton and a practical vertical-button fly. A relaxed fit makes them perfect for sleepwear, too. 

The best boxers for men tend to feature a wider, more loose fit, so honing in on the best pants to wear over them is important. 

Extremely slim pants or jeans aren't going to be the best fit for boxers – they will inevitably bunch and ride up, and the silhouette will look strange and feel uncomfortable. Jeans or chinos with a wide, straight leg or even a tailored "relaxed" fit are more often a wise bet with boxers.

For a snug fit, avoid wearing slim suit pants with boxers, and consider selections from our guide to the best boxer briefs for men instead.

When considering length, seek pairs that hit about mid-thigh or higher (as with a 4 or 5-inch inseam) As per their construction, look for boxers with a waistband that's wide enough to avoid rolling over or bunching up. Some boxers are constructed with a relaxed fit around the thigh, while others (especially athletic pairs) fit more closely. 

As with any wardrobe basics you rely on a daily basis, the quality and durability of the best boxers' material will make a lasting difference. Cotton can be bolstered with spandex or TENCEL fibers for extra stretch, or even a Merino wool blend for its moisture-wicking capabilities.