In a world where comfort is king, finding the right pair of underwear can feel like an endless quest. Too tight, too loose, or just plain uncomfortable. Many of us Aussie men know the struggle of searching for that perfect fit. If you've ever felt frustrated by subpar underwear that doesn’t live up to the hype, you're not alone. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you, compiling a list of the five best men's underwear options available in Australia right now. Whether you're after all-day comfort, the softest fabric, or the most durable pairs that can stand the test of time, this guide has got you covered. We'll start with the best, and work our way down.
1. Debriefs
The Pinnacle of Comfort and Quality
Topping our list is Debriefs and their range of MicroModal AIR trunks and boxer briefs. When it comes to striking the perfect balance between comfort, quality, and durability, Debriefs is a standout. After wearing their MicroModal AIR trunks and boxer briefs, it's clear why this brand has been steadily gaining a loyal following. If you're someone who refuses to settle for anything less than the best, Debriefs should be on your radar.
Key Features:
- MicroModal AIR Fabric: Made from sustainably sourced Beech Trees, this fabric is incredibly soft and breathable, keeping you comfortable all day long.
- Perfect Fit: Designed to contour to your body without feeling too tight or too loose, offering just the right amount of support.
- Longevity: These undies are built to last, maintaining their softness and shape even after many washes.
- Ethical Production: Manufactured in Turkey using high-quality European materials, Debriefs ensures that their production meets stringent ethical and quality standards.
If you’ve ever owned underwear that quickly loses its shape or softness, you know how frustrating it can be. After months of regular wear and washing, my Debriefs have held up impressively! There are no signs of sagging, fraying, or losing that initial softness. One long-time customer, Marcus, shared a similar experience in his review: "These are the most comfortable undies I've ever bought. Great in winter or summer, perfect fit and very long wearing. I've had some of these for over 4 years and they have not deteriorated at all and the elastic is still as new."
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and softness
- Durable and long-lasting
- Ethically made with high-quality materials
- Maintains fit, feel and stretch after repeated washes
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other brands
- Limited colour and style options
Made in: Turkey
2. Vanta
Innovative Design with a Unique Comfort Factor
Vanta has made quite a name for itself among Aussie men, thanks to their clever design and focus on functionality. Their signature feature, the Kanga pouch, is designed to separate and support, making these undies a standout choice for men who are looking for a "nicely supported" feeling. If you’ve ever found yourself constantly adjusting throughout the day, Vanta’s got a solution that’s worth a try, though it’s not without its quirks.
Key Features:
- Kanga Pouch Design: This unique feature separates and supports, reducing the need for readjustment.
- Fabric Options: Vanta offers two main fabric choices - bamboo for a softer, more natural feel, and a synthetic blend for added sweat management.
- Versatile Styles: Available in trunks, boxer briefs, and briefs, catering to different preferences.
- Well-Reviewed: With over 12,000 five-star reviews, Vanta’s comfort factor is clearly resonating with their customers.
For those who’ve struggled with finding underwear that offers enough support, Vanta’s Kanga pouch could be the answer. I wore Vanta’s bamboo trunks for a few weeks and noticed how well the pouch kept everything comfortably separated, even during a long day at work with plenty of walking and moving around. That said, the design isn’t for everyone. Some customers, like Adam, have praised the pouch for its comfort and innovation, while others have pointed out that it can feel a bit too revealing. One reviewer mentioned, "The Kanga pouch takes some getting used to, but once you do, it’s pretty comfy. On the flip side, it can make you feel a bit on display, especially in gym shorts."
Pros:
- Innovative pouch design that offers unique support
- Soft bamboo fabric option available
- Wide range of styles to choose from
- Highly rated
Cons:
- The pouch design might not suit everyone’s preference
- Mixed reviews on the long-term durability of the fabric
- Some users find the pouch too revealing, which can be uncomfortable
Made in: Vietnam & China
3. Step One
A Popular Choice with Some Room for Improvement
Step One has quickly become one of Australia’s most talked-about underwear brands, largely due to their heavy presence on social media and TV. Their Bamboo underwear, featuring a lycra gusset designed to prevent chafing, has won over many men who struggle with discomfort during daily activities. While Step One has a lot going for it, there are a few things you might want to consider before jumping on the bandwagon.
Key Features:
- Bamboo Fabric: Known for its softness and breathability, bamboo offers a comfortable wear, especially in warmer climates.
- Lycra Gusset: The unique lycra panel is designed to reduce chafing, making these undies particularly appealing for those who lead an active lifestyle.
- Wide Range of Sizes: With an inclusive size range, Step One ensures that almost every man can find a pair that fits well.
- Customer Reviews: With over 30,000 reviews, Step One has clearly made an impact, though opinions are somewhat divided.
Step One's promise to prevent chafing caught my attention, especially given how active my days can be. After wearing them for a week, I could see why so many guys swear by them—the bamboo fabric is soft and the lycra gusset really does its job. However, like some customers have pointed out, I noticed that after a few washes, the fabric began to lose a bit of its initial softness. One reviewer shared a similar experience: "Step One undies felt like a dream when I first put them on. But after a month or so, they started to show signs of wear. They’re still comfortable, but not quite as luxurious as they were out of the box."
Pros:
- Excellent at preventing chafing, making them ideal for active men
- Soft and breathable bamboo fabric, great for everyday wear
- Inclusive size range ensures a good fit for most men
- Widely praised for initial comfort
Cons:
- Durability concerns after several washes, with some reports of the fabric losing its softness
- Higher price point compared to similar products
- Mixed feedback on long-term quality and consistency
Made in: China
4. Knobby
Fun Designs with a Subscription Offering
Knobby has carved out a niche for itself in the Australian market with its vibrant and quirky designs, making underwear fun again. While their subscription service is popular, you can also purchase individual pairs if you prefer to pick and choose your favourites. But beyond the eye-catching patterns, how do these trunks and boxer briefs really stack up in terms of comfort and quality?
Key Features:
- Funky Designs: Knobby is known for its bold, creative patterns that stand out in a drawer full of basics.
- Subscription Model Available: For those who enjoy surprises, Knobby offers a monthly subscription, but single purchases are also an option.
- Cotton Blend Fabric: Their trunks and boxer briefs are made from a cotton blend, providing a balance of softness and durability.
- Affordable Pricing: Knobby’s offerings are reasonably priced, making it easy to add a bit of flair to your underwear drawer without breaking the bank.
I decided to try Knobby without committing to the subscription, opting instead for a one-off pair to see what all the buzz was about. The design was undoubtedly fun and different from anything else I own. While the cotton blend fabric was comfortable, it wasn’t as soft or luxurious as some of the other brands I’ve tried. That said, for the price and the uniqueness of the design, they’re a solid choice. A customer named Matt shared a similar sentiment: "I bought a pair of Knobby undies because I loved the design, and they’re definitely fun to wear. But if you’re after something super soft, they're lacking compared to other brands."
Pros:
- Unique, fun designs that stand out
- Affordable pricing with the option for a subscription or single purchases
- Comfortable cotton blend fabric
- A great way to add variety to your underwear collection
Cons:
- Not as soft or luxurious as some other brands
- The focus on bold designs might not appeal to everyone
- Limited options for those who prefer plain or classic styles
Made in: China
5. Tradie
Affordable Basics with an Aussie Twist
Tradie has long been a go-to brand for Aussie blokes looking for no-fuss, reliable underwear. With a range of affordable basics, Tradie is widely available and easy to pick up during your next grocery run or visit to Big W. While they deliver solid value for money, especially for those who prioritise price and practicality, they might not be the most durable option in the long run.
Key Features:
- Affordable Pricing: Tradie offers some of the most budget-friendly options on the market, making it easy to stock up without spending a fortune.
- Wide Availability: Tradie’s products are readily available in major retailers across Australia, including supermarkets and department stores.
- Range of Styles: From basic trunks and boxer briefs to longer leg compression styles, Tradie caters to various preferences and needs.
- Durable for Everyday Wear: Initially durable for daily life, though longevity may be an issue with repeated use.
I grabbed a pair of Tradie trunks during a grocery run, intrigued by their reputation for being reliable and budget-friendly. For the price, they deliver exactly what you’d expect - no-frills comfort that gets the job done. However, after several washes, I noticed the fabric starting to lose its shape and the waistband becoming less stretchy. In some cases, the material even became a bit see-through, which is less than ideal. Tom, another Tradie customer, had a similar experience: "These undies are my go-to for daily wear, but they don’t hold up as well as I’d like. It doesn't take long for them to start losing their shape and the waistband gets loose. They’re cheap, but you get what you pay for."
Pros:
- Extremely affordable, great for those on a budget
- Widely available across Australia
- Offers a range of styles to suit different needs
Cons:
- Fabric isn’t as soft or comfortable as higher-end brands
- Durability issues: fabric can become see-through, lose shape, and waistband may lose stretch after repeated washes
- Lacks the premium feel of more expensive options
- Limited in terms of design variety and innovation
Made in: China
When it comes to choosing the right underwear, it’s not just about comfort. It’s about finding the perfect mix of style, quality, and durability that suits your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for the absolute best in luxury with Debriefs, innovative design with Vanta, or fun patterns with Knobby, this list has something for everyone. Step One offers a solid choice for active men, while Tradie provides a budget-friendly option for those who prioritise affordability, albeit with some trade-offs in durability.
Bonds
Bonds is notably absent from this list which may surprise a few of you. They’re a brand that many Aussie men, myself included, grew up wearing. However, due to a significant drop in quality and comfort over recent years, I found myself searching for alternatives, which lead me to the brands featured here. Like many others, I’ve moved on from Bonds, seeking better options that meet the standards I now expect.
Ultimately, the best men’s underwear in Australia is the one that meets your specific needs, and this guide should help you make an informed decision.
Overall Top Picks
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Comfort: Debriefs
Their MicroModal AIR fabric is second to none. Plus, the exceptional fit makes Debriefs the most comfortable option on this list.
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Quality: Debriefs
Known for their durability and long-lasting comfort, Debriefs stands out as the highest-quality option.
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Functionality: Vanta
Vanta’s innovative pouch design offers unique support and functionality, making them ideal for men seeking extra comfort.
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Style: Knobby
With their bold and creative designs, Knobby’s trunks are perfect for anyone looking to add some flair to their underwear drawer.
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Price: Tradie
For those on a budget, Tradie provides affordable basics that are easy to find across Australia, though with some compromises on durability.
