For normal days, you may not care about what type of underwear you’re putting on. Or whether it’s made of breathable, stretchy fabrics. Or if the pair is clean or dirty. But when choosing the best men’s underwear for hiking, you do start to wonder.
When hiking, it’s important that your undies offer support, comfort, and ventilation. Some men choose to skip wearing underwear. They replace it with a pair of shorts that come with built-in briefs.
Now going commando altogether is a personal decision. I mean if you’re comfortable with hiking without any underwear. Then good for you. Otherwise, do take into consideration the underwear designs I’ve reviewed below.
Table of Contents
The Best Hiking Underwear for Men – Top 10 Recommendations
| NAME | RATING | MATERIAL | SPECIAL FEATURE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Icebreaker Merino Men’s Anatomica Boxers | #10 | Merino wool, nylon, lycra | Temperature regulation |
| Minus33 Merino Wool 702 Acadian Men’s Lightweight Boxer Brief | #9 | Merino wool | Anti-chafing flatlock seams |
| Apex Men’s Merino Wool Boxer Briefs | #8 | Merino wool | Thigh-length coverage |
| Arc’teryx Phase SL Boxer | #7 | Polyester | Lightweight, quick-drying |
| Smartwool Merino 150 Boxer Briefs | #6 | Merino wool, nylon | Temperature regulation |
| Saxx Underwear Quest 2.0 Boxer Brief | #5 | Nylon, spandex, polyester | Friction-free pouch support |
| ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go Sport Mesh Boxer Brief | #4 | Nylon, spandex, lycra | Quick-drying |
| David Archy Men’s Ultra Soft Mesh Quick Dry Sports Boxer Briefs | #3 | Polyamide, spandex, mesh | 3D support pouch |
| Under Armour Men’s Original Series Boxerjock Boxer Briefs | #2 | Polyester, spandex | 4-way stretch |
| Adidas Men’s Sport Performance Boxer Briefs | #1 – Editor’s Choice | Polyester, spandex | Double-lined support pouch |
10. Icebreaker Merino Men’s Anatomica Boxers – Best hiking underwear made of merino wool
Pros:
Merino wool removes odor, moisture, and dries quickly.
Stretch fabric blend with a contoured fit.
Contoured pouch with a fly for support.
Cons:
A little short in length.
Fabric tends to ride up.
Made using merino wool, these boxer briefs are moisture-wicking and insulating. In fact, merino wool is even temperature-regulating, breathable, elastic, and odor-resistant. So exceptional protection and comfort in the outdoors. This is what you should be expecting.
You can be mountain biking, trail running, skiing, or hiking in them. Whatever wildlife adventure you plan on taking up, these boxers are prepared for that. The inclusion of nylon and lycra offers both stretch and a contoured fit.
The merino wool used is ultra-light and ultra-soft. It keeps sweat and moisture away from your skin. And dries up pretty quickly. What’s equally remarkable is the contoured pouch design. This has a functional fly to add convenience.
It’s a terrific pair of underwear that’s incredibly comfortable to wear. It holds up quite well and doesn’t even stink after long hours of wear. Thanks to merino wool. Once you try these out, you might never want to wear anything else. Particularly for trekking, hiking, and other travel.
9 Minus33 Merino Wool 702 Acadian Men’s Lightweight Boxer Brief – Best hiking underwear to prevent chafing
Pros:
Merino wool controls odor and wicks away moisture.
The athletic fit is very relaxed.
Flatlock seams prevent chafing.
Cons:
The waistband is not wide enough.
The fly doesn’t keep your parts hidden.
Here’s the first most important thing about these lightweight boxer briefs. It’s the flatlock seams. They prevent chafing, which is much-needed at the time of hiking. At the same time, flatlock seams make the undergarment stronger. That means more durable.
The Acadian Boxer Brief is all about performance and comfort. They keep your genitals and thighs dry and cool. While also delivering all the comfort and support you require. Especially as an outdoor adventurer.
It’s an ideal choice for running, biking, hiking, and the like. In fact, you can even wear them on a daily basis. The boxer briefs are that comfortable! It’s because the base layer is very practically designed. It’s breathable, moisture-wicking, and thermal.
Moreover, the athletic fit of the underwear is all about compression. But the fit is quite regular and relaxed. And bonus points for easy care. The pair doesn’t fade, shrink, bleed, or lose its original shape. It remains comfy and soft for a very, very long time.
8. Apex Men’s Merino Wool Boxer Briefs – Best hiking underwear for sensitive skin
Pros:
Breathable, soft merino wool comfort.
The front pouch offers stability and support during movements.
Streamlined, form-fitting, thigh-length fit.
Cons:
Thin fabric, thus prone to tearing.
It’s not necessary for cheap hiking underwear to be an inferior choice. And the proof of that is this Apex Merino Wool Boxer Brief. It delivers itch-free comfort. This is very useful for those with sensitive skin. And even more useful for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, etc.
The underwear keeps you dry, cool, and comfortable down there. Be it for traveling, working out, or after a long, busy workday. Only high-quality merino wool is used. This brings into the picture temperature regulation. Along with odor-resistance, breathability, insulation, elasticity, and moisture-wicking properties.
The ergonomic, supportive fly enables better protection. But what seems to be a unique quality here is the longer length of the boxer briefs. That prevents thigh rubbing and chafing. If you ask me, this is the perfect pair to have for fitness, work, outdoor, and travel activities.
The fast-drying and moisture-wicking capacities are genuinely appealing. Comfort and practicality are combined. To make the underwear such a popular choice among hikers. And also among campers, trekkers, fitness enthusiasts, and the like.
7. Arc’teryx Phase SL Boxer – Best lightweight hiking underwear
Pros:
Superlight polyester is wind and water-resistant.
Enough stretch for unrestricted mobility.
Quick-drying, even for high-output activities.
Cons:
There’s no-fly for convenience.
These boxer briefs are specifically crafted for performing high-intensity activities. So it’s only natural to assume you can put them on for your hiking adventures. They’re also a great choice for everyday wear in my opinion.
The base layer of the undies is lightweight yet performance-driven. This layer is made of polyester. And that is extremely resistant to water and wind. Polyester is also very useful. For wicking away moisture and sweat during sporting activities.
A quick-drying, lightweight base layer like this creates exceptional moisture management. And the fact that the boxer briefs are lightweight means easy to pack as well.
Extra points for the anti-chafing label, gusseted crotch, and flatlock seams.
6. Smartwool Merino 150 Boxer Briefs – Best hiking underwear for temperature regulation
Pros:
Flatlock seams, wide waistband for a comfortable fit.
Lightweight merino wool insulation.
Long-lasting shape-retaining capacity.
Cons:
They tend to bunch up.
It didn’t take time for a brand like Smartwool to realize just how performance-driven merino wool really is. The fabric is soft, thermo-regulating, odor-neutralizing, and moisture-wicking. It helps in keeping the body warm when cold outside. And cool when hot outside.
Apart from that, the merino wool used in this case is also sustainable. It feels very comfortable and lightweight against the skin. So it’s no surprise that the fabric is employed for manufacturing the best men’s underwear for hiking.
These boxer briefs consist of flatlock seams and a wide elastic waistband. The former minimizes chafing. While the latter, along with the functional fly, makes the pair extremely comfortable to wear.
Moreover, there’s lightweight insulation. Thanks to the merino material and nylon core. Nylon fabric, just so you know, increases durability. It’s quite a surprise how just a pair of boxer briefs for hiking can do SO MUCH. The SO MUCH being managing moisture, resisting odor, and regulating body temperature.
5. Saxx Underwear Quest 2.0 Boxer Brief – Best underwear for athletes
Pros:
Flatlock seams prevent chafing.
Moisture-wicking construction to keep you cool and dry.
The ballpark pouch offers friction-free support.
Cons:
Legs are very likely to ride up when sitting.
It’s the best underwear for climbing, hiking, trekking, and all other types of sports. The Saxx Underwear Quest 2.0 Boxer Briefs is a name that comes up quite often. Especially when talking about underwear for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers.
The underwear features technology responsible for reducing friction. Not only that, but this technology also offers functional comfort. Be it for performing athletic movements or running between office meetings.
The moisture-wicking fabric and anti-odor technology combine. To keep you fresh down there for longer. Speaking of which, only super-soft fabrics are used for construction. This suggests maximum breathability.
What’s also praiseworthy is the 9-panel construction for better support. Particularly around the glutes, quads, thighs, and hamstrings. No doubt, this is high-performance underwear. That provides a modern fit most men demand these days.
4. ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go Sport Mesh Boxer Brief – Best low-rise hiking underwear
Pros:
Lightweight fabric and an active fit.
Odor-resistant and quick-drying.
The chafe-free smooth waistband and flatlock seams.
Cons:
Legs are prone to riding up.
Waistband tends to twist after washing.
There’s simply no denying that ExOfficio makes it to every such review article. Especially those underwear lists that are specifically created for outdoor or sporting activities. And why not when it’s the best men’s quick-dry underwear!
There’s more to the pair you might want to know right away. First off, the lower rise and active fit deliver superior support. Perfect for off-road treks and multi-day trips. The boxer briefs have an odor-resistant fabric construction. That keeps you fresh, cool, and comfortable.
But it’s the quick-drying material that makes the most impact. After all, hiking is a physically challenging task. Much like working out. So you can wear this particular pair for both. Breathable mesh is like the cherry on the cake here.
ExOfficio’sSilvadur technology eliminates odor. Every feature, as is evident, supports and comforts you during high-intensity activities. That’s for sure!
3. David Archy Men’s Ultra Soft Mesh Quick Dry Sports Boxer Briefs – Best pack-of-3 hiking underwear
Pros:
Fast-drying, breathable fabric.
3D pouch for freedom of movement.
Snug yet comfortable fit.
Cons:
Too thin and lightweight material.
You get not one, not two, but three David Archy underwear. These boxer briefs have a lot going. In terms of comfort, support, breathability, performance, durability, and more.
The use of ultra-fine polyamide means excellent permeability. The fabric wicks away moisture and sweat. At the same time, polyamide is highly elastic and durable. That means the undies are an ideal choice for outdoor activities. And for strenuous exercise.
The 3D pouch is extra roomy for allowing greater lower-body movements. But just because it’s so roomy doesn’t mean it’s not supportive enough.
Moreover, the stitching is flat and seamless to keep chafing at bay. On top of that, the seamless hip design embraces your hips completely. And this means no wedgies and total comfort. Whatever the whole picture, here’s the thing that stands out. It’s the high-technology, fast-drying fabric.
And to make the experience even better, the legs are longer for fuller, more fitting support. You’ll be thankful I reviewed a pack of 3 because just a single pair won’t be enough.
2. Under Armour Men’s Original Series Boxerjock Boxer Briefs – Best performance-driven underwear
Pros:
4-way stretch for freedom of movement.
Anti-odor technology to keep stinks away.
Smooth, lightweight HeatGear fabric.
Cons:
Sizing runs large.
The tag is huge and irritating.
What’s the thing that’s so special about these Under Armour boxer briefs? It’s the exclusive HeatGear fabric. This technology by the brand is created for superior performance. It’s a smooth and lightweight fabric that athletes find the most useful.
The undies’ 4-way stretch construction allows you to move in every direction. Be it for workouts or hiking. On top of that, polyester wicks away moisture and sweat quickly. Then there’s spandex too. For providing all the stretch you demand during your adventures.
Under Armour is all about innovative technology. The proof of this is the anti-odor capability of the underwear. So you can prevent the formation of an unpleasant stink. Along with preventing the growth of microbes that give rise to bad odor.
I would also like to mention performance waistband. This particular feature causes no chafing or irritation. In fact, it feels super smooth and comfortable against your skin. In my opinion, this is truly the best hiking underwear money can buy.
1. Adidas Men’s Sport Performance Boxer Briefs – Editor’s Pick
Pros:
The waistband is tagless.
Double-lined support pouch.
Anti-chafing, quick-drying, and super soft.
Cons:
Sits quite low on the waist.
Stitching is prone to unraveling quickly.
If you can’t decide boxers or briefs for hiking, then here’s the solution. Why not buy the best boxer briefs for your wildlife adventures! As long as there are styles like this one manufactured by none other than Adidas. You never have to get confused between boxers and briefs. Especially for sports activities or outdoor adventures.
It’s a pack of 2 I’m reviewing. So double the fun here!
The underwear is super soft and stretchy. Both deliver unparalleled comfort. Along with an incredibly flexible fit. The waistband, to top it off, is tagless and very soft. Then there’s the super smooth stitching as well. And this eliminates chafing.
Moreover, the leg construction of the undies maintains a consistent, no ride-up fit. That implies no bunching either. And what you might appreciate the most is the double-lined pouch in the front. This kind of support is hard to come by when struggling to find hiking underwear.
The pair is breathable, snug, and anti-chafing. And these things truly matter when you’re out there climbing and trekking. So you can breathe a sigh of relief. Because you’ve finally found your all-purpose underwear.
What Type of Fabric Is Best for Hiking Underwear?
Let’s talk about the materials used for underwear that work best for hiking…
Synthetic Fabrics
Allow me to make it very clear that hiking underwear gets its breathability from synthetic materials. These include nylon and polyester. The less common ones being rayon and polypropylene. Then there are some undies that use spandex for a comfortable stretchy fit. Spandex also fits very snugly without feeling constrictive.
The beauty of such synthetic fabrics is that they’re odor-resistant, durable, and quick-drying as well.
Merino Wool
Known for its itch-free, ultra-fine, and soft quality, merino wool is a very popular choice. It’s often combined with other materials such as nylon or spandex. This special blend enhances durability, fit, and flexibility.
Merino wool underwear for hiking wicks away moisture like no other pair. The fabric is also temperature regulating. And keeps bad odor-causing bacteria at bay.
But it’s not as durable as the synthetic options. Due to the wear and tear that takes place because of constant rubbing.
What Type of Underwear Is Best for Hiking?
Should you wear briefs or boxers for hiking, camping, trekking? It’s a simple, very commonly asked question. What style of undies you wear obviously, is a personal decision to make. Only when you experiment are you able to find the actual solution for your junk on the trail.
Nevertheless, the general rule of thumb is wearing boxer briefs. It’s because boxer briefs offer the best of both worlds. That is the excellent support of briefs and the added coverage of boxers. The former keeps you comfortable. While the latter keeps you chafe-free, thus even more comfortable.
So if you end up wearing briefs for your hiking trip. The chances are you might not get enough coverage in the thighs. The outcome of this is painful chafing. And if you wear boxers, then you’re highly likely to dislike them too. Because of the lack of support. And due to the looser fit, which tends to cause the underwear to bunch up.
What Underwear Fit Is Best for Hiking?
No denying that a proper fit down below welcomes a whole list of benefits. No chafing, comfort, support, breathability, and more. So how do you go about choosing a pair of hiking underwear that fits well? Here’s the answer to yet another frequently asked question…
A snug fit, but not very tight either
Underwear that is form-fitting but, at the same time, doesn’t feel too tight. This is the kind of fit you should be looking for to prevent discomfort. However, that doesn’t mean buying a few sizes bigger than your normal size. Because if you do that, rubbing and bunching can be quite a nuisance. By causing a tremendous amount of skin irritation.
Many outdoor and fitness enthusiasts wear compression underwear. It works best for active sports. Such as working out, running, cycling, etc. So why not try out the compression fit for hiking!
But there is a downside to wearing compression underwear for too long. You might find that constant pressure a little uncomfortable after a point.
A proper fit enhances ventilation
Do you really think loose underwear is going to do a better job of providing breathability? In comparison to underwear that fits just right? I don’t think so. Let me explain.
If you want the underwear to wick away sweat and moisture. Then the fabric has to come in contact with your skin first. This means a form-fitting pair is the most suitable.
A longer cut prevents thigh chafing
Are you often dealing with chafing because of your workouts or outdoor adventures? Doesn’t matter if the answer is yes or no. Because inner-thigh chafing should be avoided at all costs. And the only way to do that is to wear underwear with longer-cut legs.
The underwear should cover your inner thighs to eliminate the possibility altogether. Such as boxer briefs. And this solution works for both men and women.
Other Features of the Best Men’s Underwear for Hiking
Now that the main aspects have been covered. Here are some additional yet equally important features that most hiking underwear designs are outfitted with:
Tagless
This paves the way for an itch-free hiking experience.
Wide, Flat Waistband
When the waistband is narrow, expect it to dig into your skin. And when it’s bulky and thick instead of being flat, look forward to nothing but discomfort. So make sure the band is wide, flat, and feels smooth against your skin.
Flatlock Seams
The most attractive quality of flatlock seams in undies is that they don’t press into the skin. These are wide, flat seams that prevent chafing and itching.
Functional Fly
Unfortunately, there are many underwear options not designed with a fly. Normally, this may be okay for some men if not most. But when hiking, camping, trekking, etc., you need that fly for convenience.
Speaking of convenience, here’s a video all avid hikers might want to watch…
Conclusion
A pair of high-quality underwear, no doubt, is a good hiking companion. High-performance, comfortable, breathable, and durable boxer briefs are a great choice. Such as the Adidas Men’s Sport Performance Boxer Briefs.
You can wear these without feeling any form of restriction in terms of movement. And they’re miles away from making you feel grossed out after staying on for too long. All thanks to the stretchy fabric and moisture-wicking technology.
And if you don’t like these. Then you have many other equally outstanding options to choose from. All of which are boxer briefs, thus ideal to provide a supportive fit. Along with enough leg coverage to prevent chafing.
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