9 Best Men’s Athletic Underwear (for Running & Sports)

After 23 hours of research evaluating 112 products, we picked Adidas Men’s Sport Performance Athletic Boxer Brief Underwear as our top choice.
According to a study done by the Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise Journal, positive mood changes can occur with running, or any active sport performed regularly. We all need to get moving move.
However, not picking the best athletic underwear can seriously affect your routine.
Should your running underwear be moisture-wicking underwear, spandex, or do other options provide the best underwear for running and active sports?
Here’s what we mean:
Long runs can cause irritation and chafing. It only takes one run in cotton underwear to know what we’re talking about.
A good pair of sports underwear can make all the difference: Specifically, the best underwear for running and other active, high friction sports.
Be sure to check out our related articles on Best Workout Shorts, Best Yoga Shorts, and Best Compression Shorts!
There is no reason to suffer during your regular workout or sports routine. And, now’s the time to invest in a good, supportive pair of athletic compression underwear to hold everything in place during your next run!Our editors independently research, test, and recommmend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
A List of 9 Best Men’s Athletic Underwear (for Running & Sports)
#9
Nike Pro Compression Training Short Dry Fit
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Uses plant-based
- Ergonomic 4-way stretch streamlined design for excellent support
- Comfortable to wear; affordable compression
- Eliminates chafing and irritation.
These compression shorts are not only affordable, but also offer a very sexy fit. Featuring 4-way stretch fabric, they provide maximum comfort and medium compression that is anti-chafing, moisture-wicking and irritant-free.
Cons- If you have a muscular backside, you may want to choose a different product.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
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90% Polyester, 10% Elasthan
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These compression shorts feel like a second-skin due to the tight-fit (well, tight enough to make men buy a larger size than their usual pair). However, they still provide relaxed, flexible movement whenever you do extensive training or exercise.
These briefs have medium compression that is flexible, with elastic sufficient enough to hold everything in place. Surely, your stuff will thank you later.
#8
CompressionZ Men’s Compression Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPRESSION.
- Perfect mix of support & comfort.
- Comfortable to wear .
- Professional Athletic Sports Underwear.
- Some users have noticed pilling after multiple washes. Most users say these briefs run a tad large so make sure to take this into consideration when looking at sizes.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- GREAT AS BASE LAYER – Shorts are ideal spandex underwear in warm or cool weather. Comfortable to wear under athletic shorts to reduce chafe. Sweat wicking fabric is to keep you dry during workouts.
- 4 WAY STRETCH FABRIC – Our sports underwear features a nylon spandex blend for max mobility. Breathable fabric keeps you comfortable all day, which make these the perfect pair of base layer shorts.
- DESIGNED FOR ATHLETES – Our compression exercise shorts are loved by athletes worldwide for rowing, running, weightlifting, soccer & more. Long length ensures full coverage for upper leg muscles.
- TRUSTED QUALITY & SATISFACTION – Our workout underwear is backed by superior quality. For a more relaxed fit, we suggest ordering one size up than what’s suggested in our size chart.
#7
1994Fashion Men’s Compression Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Uses plant-based
- Elastic closure
- Two pockets on both sides
- STRETCHY MATERIAL
- Just snug enough to hold everything in.
- Increase the wear resistance and durability of the running tights shorts.
The oil formula is a little messy and may stain clothes.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- compression shorts are made with 85% polyester & 15% spandex, wicks sweat away to keep you dry.Non-abrasion fabric material has excellent durability and will not tear due to high intensity exercise. Machine washable.
- FEATURE – The compression undershorts with exterior pockets for holding mobile phone, cards, and other items.
- FLEXIBLE & ELASTIC – Men’s gym underwear for men with elastic along the waist and thighs, which’s elastic is firm and snap back easily, while still feeling comfortable.
#6
ExOfficio Men’s Give-n-go Boxer Single Pack
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Will keep you cool and dry in extremely humid, hot temperatures
- Breathable and quick-drying within 2-4 hours
The fabric is so lightweight, so these can be extremely delicate and start to pill. Not a compression short, will give you a looser fit.
Cons. Not a compression short, will give you a looser fit.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- These breathable men’s boxer shorts are great for traveling by plane, hiking, exploring cities, or any time comfort, freshness, and moisture wicking are your top concerns
- Odor reducing antimicrobial treatment keeps boxers feeling fresher longer
- Breathable/wickable mesh improves airflow and keeps you dry
- Quick drying fabric is ready to wear within hours so you can wash, go, and pack less
- Waistband stretches to fit and retains shape for durability.
#5
Roadbox Men’s Compression Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Smooth and ultra-soft fabric provides extreme comfort with very little weight without restriction
- Tight Fitting,like a second skin.
- Cool Dry Athletic Baselayer Workout Underwear
- The fabric is so lightweight, so these can be extremely delicate and start to pill.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- ique flatlock and outer seam design. Effectively supports the inside of the thigh during workout, reducing friction between the skin and shorts. Perfectly fits the waist when worn, and instantly enjoys a smooth touch. Make you feel less discomfort caused any friction. Wearing excellent mens spandex underwear allows you to focus more on sports.
- This workout compression underwear perfect for Running, Basketball, Fitness, Walking, Biking,Yoga,Marathon, Triathlon,Volleyball, Gymnastics, Hockey, Combat Sport, Rugby, Tennis and everyday casual wear.
#4
adidas Men’s Sport Performance Midway Underwear
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Elastic doesn’t stretch and underwear won’t shrink or scrunch
- Very comfortable; an excellent pair of athletic underwear.
- Good elasticity, soft and pliable, incredibly comfortable, long-lasting waistband, excellent ventilation
- Sizes run small and no front opening.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- The underwear are made from 92% polyester, with 8% Spandex to give it just the right amount of stretch. The fabric will wick moisture away from “the gentlemen”, keeping you nice and cool no matter how hard you run or train..
#3
TSLA Men’s Cool Dry Compression Sport Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Flatter your backside.
- Light, stretchy fabric.
A tactical cologne that uses plant pheromones to attract attention (you know the kind).
Cons- An affordable and flattering compression short that can be worn as either shorts or running underwear.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- Flawless ergonomic design engineered for comfort, performance, and all-day support
- Breathable Non abrasion fabric material with excellent elasticity and durability
- Mix of Polyester & Spandex. (Fabric may differ depending upon make and style) Excellent elasticity with enhanced range of motion.
#2
Under Armour Men’s Tech 9-inch Boxerjock
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Climalite technology great for hot and cold .
- Light, stretchy fabric.
- These have no fly pouch making it a little more complicated when it’s time to go.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane
- Imported
- Machine Wash
- Insanely soft, breathable fabric & articulated mesh fly panel & gusset
- No side or back seams for ultimate comfort
- 4 way stretch construction moves better in every direction
- Material wicks sweat & dries really fast
- Anti odor technology prevents the growth of odor causing microbes
#1
adidas Men’s Sport Performance Boxer Briefs Underwear
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Ultra-soft fabric perfect for wicking away sweat.
- Plush soft tagless waistband and super smooth stitching deliver superior comfort.
- No ride up leg construction keeps fit consistent and prevents bunching; Double lined pouch for support.
- Prone to stretching out and some reviewers report durability issues.

EXPERT RATINGS
5/5 Get From AmazonDescription
- FORMULA –
- 91% Polyester, 9% Spandex
- Imported
- Machine Wash
- The sport performance 2 pack is what you need if you’re looking for all purpose, do anything underwear
- Super soft, stretchy and quick drying