Joybuy Insights

Choosing underwear and shorts: a practical guide to comfort, fit and use

When you search online for underwear and shorts, you’ll soon come across dozens of brands, multipacks and sports styles. But an attractive price or familiar name doesn’t automatically mean you’ve found the right fit. The wrong size, unsuitable fabric or insufficient attention to care can leave a garment forgotten at the back of your wardrobe.

This guide helps you compare your options, from men’s boxer shorts and women’s hipsters to men’s swim shorts, casual shorts and 2-in-1 running shorts.

Common pitfalls when choosing underwear and shorts

1. Focusing only on the brand or discount

A brand name such as FILA or Reebok can inspire confidence, but the style, fabric composition and size chart still matter. Two products from the same brand can have different rises, leg lengths or fits. Always compare the product specifications rather than looking at the offer alone.

2. Assuming “breathable” means suitable for every situation

A fabric may be described as breathable, but that doesn’t automatically mean the garment is suitable for intense exercise or swimming. Cotton often feels soft for everyday wear, while polyester is commonly chosen for swimwear and quick-drying shorts. If you’re looking for freedom of movement, check whether the fabric contains elastane too.

3. Choosing a size without checking your waist or hip measurements

A size M isn’t the same across every brand. For example, size M in the Lee trunks is listed for a waist measurement of 76–81 cm. Hip measurements can also be important when choosing sports shorts. If possible, measure against your skin or over thin clothing, then use the size chart for the specific product.

The key specifications to compare

Materials: cotton, polyester and elastane

For everyday underwear, cotton boxer shorts or a cotton blend are practical choices. Cotton feels soft and is often blended with elastane for extra stretch. According to the product description, the FILA boxer shorts in this selection are made from a cotton and elastane blend.

For sports and swimming, the focus is usually on a lightweight, quick-drying fabric. According to the product information, the Reebok swim shorts are made from 100% polyester and feature an elasticated waistband with a drawstring. That makes them worth comparing for the pool, beach and outdoor activities.

Pay attention to the lining too. An inner brief can provide more coverage, while an unlined style offers more room. 2-in-1 running shorts, such as the Under Armour Launch 7", have an outer short with a built-in, close-fitting inner short.

Waistband and fit

A good elasticated waistband should feel secure without digging in. An internal drawstring is useful if you want to adjust the fit while walking, exercising or swimming. Also check:

  • Does the waistband sit at your preferred height?
  • Do the legs ride up when you move?
  • Is the fit loose, regular or close-fitting?
  • Are seams and labels positioned where they might rub?
  • Does the style have pockets or a phone pocket if you need one?

For everyday wear, stretch trunks and boxer shorts are often practical. Women’s hipsters usually have shorter legs and less coverage than mid-thigh styles. Shaping shorts for women can have a close fit, so check the size carefully and follow the care instructions.

Care and expected lifespan

How long a garment lasts depends on its material, how often you wear it and how you wash it. Always follow the care label, as online product descriptions may contain general information. Some styles shouldn’t be tumble-dried or need to be washed at a low temperature. According to the product information, the Reebok swim shorts can be washed at 30 °C and shouldn’t be ironed.

Wash underwear and sportswear with similar colours. Avoid unnecessarily high temperatures for stretchy fabrics. Styles with specially bonded panels, such as certain shaping shorts, may need to be hand-washed. For these styles, the manufacturer advises against machine washing, tumble-drying and dry cleaning.

Recommended choices for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
FILA Boxer shorts 5-pack Black Size M

FILA Boxer shorts 5-pack Black Size M

Why it suits this profile: A 5-pack is a practical choice if you want several pairs of everyday boxer shorts without comparing individual styles. According to the product description, the fabric is made from cotton and elastane.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric composition and pack size are clearly stated. Before buying, check that size M is right for your waist measurement.

Key benefit and highlights

5 pairs, black, a cotton-elastane blend and an elasticated FILA waistband, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Urban Classics Solid Organic Cotton Boxer Shorts 5-Pack

Urban Classics Solid Organic Cotton Boxer Shorts 5-Pack

Why it suits this profile: If material details matter to you, this 5-pack is made from 95% organic cotton and 5% elastane, according to the product description.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fibre composition, weight of 160 gsm and care advice are all listed. Wash at a cool temperature and follow the care label to preserve the stretch.

Key benefit and highlights

5 pairs of black boxer shorts, organic cotton according to the product description, and 5% elastane for stretch.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use
Under Armour Men's Launch 7 inch 2-in-1 Shorts

Under Armour Men's Launch 7" 2-in-1 Shorts

Why it suits this profile: This style is designed for running and other sports where you want an outer short with a close-fitting inner layer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size chart includes waist and hip measurements. This helps you avoid choosing a close-fitting style based on the letter size alone.

Key benefit and highlights

7-inch outer short, built-in knit inner short, mesh panels, drawstring and internal phone pocket, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Swimmers and holidaymakers
Mens Reebok Swimshort Yestin Humble Blue L

Mens Reebok Swimshort Yestin Humble Blue L

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this style is designed for swimming, pool workouts and relaxing at the beach.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You can check the fabric, lining and care instructions before buying. The elasticated waistband also has a drawstring so you can adjust the fit.

Key benefit and highlights

100% polyester for the main fabric and lining, machine washable at 30 °C, and a pull-on style with a drawstring, according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about underwear and shorts

How often should I replace my underwear?

That depends on how often you wear and wash it, and on the condition of the fabric. It’s practical to replace underwear when the elasticated waistband becomes loose, the seams start to wear or the fit changes permanently. Follow the care label and avoid unnecessarily high temperatures to reduce wear on elastane and elastic.

What’s suitable for exercise: cotton or polyester?

Cotton boxer shorts are often comfortable for everyday wear because they feel soft. For intense exercise, polyester or a technical blend may be more practical if you’re looking for a lightweight, quick-drying fabric. Also look for ventilation panels, a close-fitting inner layer and a drawstring waistband.

How do I choose the right size online?

Measure your waist and, for shorts, your hips too. Compare these measurements with the size chart for the specific product. Also check whether the fit is described as fitted, regular or loose. If you’re unsure, the size chart is a more reliable guide than the size you usually wear in another brand.