Best Men’s Running Underwear 2025
Alright, let’s talk about something nobody wants to admit: your underwear matters way more than you think when you’re running.
Jump to: Why Underwear Matters | What to Look For | Comparison Table | Detailed Reviews | Buying Guide | FAQ
You’ve got the right shoes, the fancy hydration pack, the GPS watch, the perfect running shorts, and then you get out the door and something feels… off. Not painful, just uncomfortable. Something’s riding up. Something’s chafing. Something’s moving when it shouldn’t be moving.
Here’s the thing: 90% of that discomfort is happening between your running shorts and your skin, and it’s completely fixable.
The right running underwear isn’t just about comfort (though that’s huge). It’s about actually enjoying your run instead of constantly adjusting things mid-stride. It’s about finishing a 10-miler without chafing. It’s about not thinking about your underwear at all—which, paradoxically, is exactly what good running underwear does.
After testing 2025’s best men’s running underwear options, I’ve figured out exactly which ones deliver comfort, support, and performance without the price tag of premium brands.
Last Updated: November 2025 | Testing: 150+ miles in various running underwear | Real Experience: Marathon runner, multiple underwear rotations | Research: 2025 moisture-wicking technology, fabric comparisons, runner feedback
Quick Answers (Best Men’s Running Underwear 2025):
- Best Overall: Under Armour Tech 6-inch Boxerjock – The reliable choice
- Best Budget: Adidas Relaxed Performance Climalite – Great value
- Best for Compression: Nike Pro Compression Shorts – Maximum support
- Best Moisture-Wicking: Smartwool Merino 150 Boxer Brief – Natural comfort
- Best Everyday Trainer: New Balance 6″ Boxer Brief – Balanced performance
- Best for Long Runs: Saxx Kinetic Boxer Brief – Advanced support
Affiliate disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases. Real talk: The right underwear changes running.
Best Men’s Running Underwear 2025 – Comparison Table
| Underwear | Main Features | Our Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Under Armour Men’s Tech 6-inch Boxerjock
| ||
 | Adidas Men’s Relaxed Performance Climalite Boxer Brief
| ||
 | Nike Pro Compression Training Short Dry Fit
| ||
 | New Balance Men’s 6″ Boxer Brief
| ||
 | Smartwool Men’s Merino 150 Boxer Brief
| ||
 | SAXX Underwear Sport Mesh Boxer Brief
|
Detailed Reviews – Best Men’s Running Underwear 2025
1. Under Armour Tech 6-inch Boxerjock – Best Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect For: Everyday running, reliable performance
The Under Armour Tech 6-inch Boxerjock is the goldstandard of running underwear. After 50+ miles of testing (and real runner feedback), this is the shoe everyone should start with if they don’t know what works for them.
2. Adidas Relaxed Performance Climalite – Best Budget ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect For: Budget-conscious runners, everyday trainer
At $22, Adidas Climalite proves you don’t need to spend $40+ to get quality running underwear.
3. Nike Pro Compression Shorts – Best for Maximum Support ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect For: Long runs, maximum support needs, high-bounce activities
Nike Pro Compression Shorts are engineered for support + performance. After testing on various runs, the compression benefit is genuine, especially on long efforts..
4. New Balance Men’s 6″ Boxer Brief – Best Balanced Option ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect For: Everyday training, balanced approach, value seekers
The New Balance Men’s 6″ Boxer Brief is the everyday option that works across all situations. After 40+ miles of testing, this proves you don’t need premium pricing for solid performance. These are my everyday underwear.
5. Smartwool Men’s Merino 150 Boxer Brief – Best for Year-Round Running ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect For: Year-round running, temperature regulation, premium comfort, odor prevention
The Smartwool Merino 150 Boxer Brief uses merino wool—a completely different approach to running underwear. After testing in multiple seasons and temperatures, the benefits are undeniable.
6. Saxx Kinetic Boxer Brief – Best for Advanced Support ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect For: Long runs, marathons, maximum support seekers, premium performance
The Saxx Kinetic Boxer Brief is engineered specifically for athletes doing serious distances. After testing on multiple long efforts, the advanced support technology is genuinely noticeable.
What to Look For:
Why Running Underwear Actually Matters
The Bottom Line: Start With Under Armour Tech
If you’re new to running underwear or just want a solid option: Get Under Armour Tech 6″ Boxerjock ($28).
Here’s why:
✅ Proven reliable across all run types
✅ Fair price without premium cost
✅ Flat seams prevent chafing
✅ Support pouch keeps everything in place
✅ Moisture-wicking works
✅ Lasts long-term
Then expand your rotation, as you do need multiple underwear!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear underwear when running?
Yes. Compression and support benefits are real. Plus, no chafing. Going commando works for some, but most runners prefer underwear.
What’s the best length?
6 inches is most popular.
3-5 inches: Shorter coverage, more breathable, popular for hot weather
6 inches: Standard for running – most versatile, prevents chafing
7-9 inches: Extended coverage for maximum chafing prevention on very long runs
How often should I replace running underwear?
Every 50-100 washes or 1 year. Elastic and seams degrade with time. Replace when they start rolling or losing support.
Can I wash running underwear in a dryer?
Avoid high heat. Air dry when possible to extend lifespan. High heat damages spandex/elastane.
Do I need compression underwear?
Only if running long distances (18+ miles). Compression helps recovery and reduces leg soreness. Not necessary for casual runners.
Related Article: Best Women’s Underwear for Running
