The 6 Best Running Underwear for Men on Amazon in 2026

Illustration: two folded pairs of plain cream and navy athletic boxer briefs stacked on a pale wooden bench beside a pair of simple running shoes, drawn as a soft 3D render. Not a real product.

As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases. Our picks are independently researched, written by TwelveTabs AI and never sponsored.

The top picks

Our top pick is the Under Armour Performance Tech Long-Leg Boxerjock, a long-leg boxer brief whose listing names chafe-free seams and a no-roll hem. Every pair in the Amazon results we read was cut for men, so this is a guide to running underwear for men. We read 120 Amazon search cards for “running underwear”, set aside sponsored repeats, compression shorts, thermal layers and cotton boxers with no athletic wording, and compared 10 finalists.

The New Balance is a four-pack of 5-inch mesh boxer briefs with no fly, and the ExOfficio has flatlock seams and a wide waistband. The SAXX adds a mesh pouch and a fly, the adidas is a three-pack in performance mesh, and the Reebok is a low-rise brief for runners who want no leg fabric.

The method

How this pick was made

Under Armour Performance Tech Long-Leg Boxerjock is the top pick. This is the work behind that choice.

  1. 96Amazon search results read, across 1 search
  2. 10finalist pages read in full
  3. 38shopper reviews read
  4. 3expert sources cross-checked: iRunFar, Weeviews, Runner's World

Run on October 5, 2026. AI read the listings and what shoppers say, then wrote this guide. Full method and limits

Our picks in detail

The WinnerBest for a long-leg cut with chafe-free seams
Under Armour Performance Tech Long-Leg Boxerjock

Under Armour Performance Tech Long-Leg Boxerjock

Best for: A long-leg cut with chafe-free seams

  • $33.00
  • 4.7 (9,001 reviews)5-star 83% · 1-star 2%
  • 900+ bought last month
  • Prime
  • Pros Chafe-free seams and a no-roll hem
  • Cons Fabric blend not named in the listing text we read

Prices and ratings as of October 5, 2026.

Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing names chafe-free seams and a no-roll hem.
  • The fabric is called Performance Tech, with 4-way stretch and a tagless build.
  • A performance waistband and a fitted, streamlined cut are listed.
  • Sizes run from X-Small to 4X-Large on the size menu.

Drawbacks

  • The listing text we read gives neither the fabric blend nor the leg length in inches.
  • Amazon’s own summary is mixed on the fabric, and some wearers find it very thin.

Skip it if you want a shorter leg. The New Balance is a 5-inch cut.

Amazon's review summary

Customers find these underwear keep everything in place and don't ride up or bunch, with soft, breathable material that keeps them cool and dry. They appreciate the length, with one customer noting the tall waistband provides good coverage, and they work well for working out. The fabric receives mixed feedback - while some customers like it, others find it very thin.

Top AlternativeBest for a no-fly mesh boxer brief in a four-pack
New Balance 5-Inch Mesh No-Fly Boxer Brief 4-Pack

New Balance 5-Inch Mesh No-Fly Boxer Brief 4-Pack

Best for: A no-fly mesh boxer brief in a four-pack

  • $17.00
  • 4.6 (23,191 reviews)5-star 80% · 1-star 2%
  • 700+ bought last month
  • Prime
  • Pros Polyester-spandex mesh, tagless and breathable
  • Cons No fly opening

Prices and ratings as of October 5, 2026.

Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing names a polyester and spandex blend that is tagless and breathable.
  • An elastic waistband and a no-ride inseam are listed.
  • The listing calls the pairs fade resistant through washing and drying.
  • Four pairs come in one pack, in sizes from Small to 5X-Large.

Drawbacks

  • There is no fly, so there is no quick opening on a trail stop, and iRunFar calls fly or no fly a personal choice.
  • Amazon’s own summary is mixed on durability, with some reports of seams coming undone.

Skip it if you want a fly. The SAXX has one.

Amazon's review summary

Customers find these boxer briefs to be the best they've owned, with a comfortable fit that keeps everything in place and doesn't ride up the thigh. They appreciate the soft feel, describing them as almost like sleeping naked, and find them suitable for both working out and casual daily wear.

Top AlternativeBest for flatlock seams for long runs and travel
ExOfficio Give-N-Go Sport 2.0 6-Inch Boxer Brief

ExOfficio Give-N-Go Sport 2.0 6-Inch Boxer Brief

Best for: Flatlock seams for long runs and travel

  • $34.50
  • 4.5 (1,313 reviews)5-star 76% · 1-star 5%
  • 100+ bought last month
  • Prime
  • Pros Flatlock seams that reduce chafing
  • Cons Fit is mixed in Amazon's summary

Prices and ratings as of October 5, 2026.

Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing says flatlock seams reduce chafing and the wide waistband retains its shape.
  • The fabric is described as synthetic, with a snug active fit and a lower rise.
  • The listing pitches it for travel, with easy care and a claim that two pairs cover a trip.
  • iRunFar names the Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6-inch boxer brief from ExOfficio its runner-up for men.

Drawbacks

  • Amazon’s own summary is mixed on fit, and some wearers say it is not true to size.
  • The listing text we read does not name the fabric blend.

Skip it if you want a short 5-inch leg or a multi-pack. The New Balance is both.

Amazon's review summary

Customers find these boxer briefs to be excellent quality, with a silky smooth feel that's comfortable and breathable. They dry quickly and are terrific for travel, with one customer noting they can be washed in a sink while traveling. The fit receives mixed feedback - while some say the waistband has a nice give, others find them not true to size.

Top AlternativeBest for a mesh pouch that keeps things from shifting
SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly 2-Pack

SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly 2-Pack

Best for: A mesh pouch that keeps things from shifting

  • $47.95
  • 4.5 (830 reviews)5-star 74% · 1-star 5%
  • Prime
  • Pros Pouch with mesh panels listed to eliminate chafe
  • Cons Some reports of holes within weeks in Amazon's summary

Prices and ratings as of October 5, 2026.

Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing describes Multi-Sport Mesh that keeps everything put and dry during sport.
  • A BallPark Pouch Pro with breathable mesh panels is listed to eliminate chafe.
  • The slim fit is form-fitting around the thighs.
  • It has a fly, which the New Balance lacks.

Drawbacks

  • Amazon’s own summary is mixed on durability, with some reports of holes within weeks.
  • It is a two-pack, so you get fewer pairs than in the adidas or the Reebok.

Skip it if you want a roomier or standard-length leg. This cut is slim.

Amazon's review summary

Customers find these boxer briefs to be of good quality, comfortable, and supportive, with one customer noting they keep everything comfortably in place. They receive positive feedback for their athletic suitability, with one mentioning they're great for running, and customers appreciate their functionality, with one noting they work well with all types of pants and shorts.

Top AlternativeBest for breathable performance mesh for hot-weather training
adidas Performance Boxer Brief 3-Pack

adidas Performance Boxer Brief 3-Pack

Best for: Breathable performance mesh for hot-weather training

  • $24.00
  • 4.5 (1,658 reviews)5-star 76% · 1-star 5%
  • 300+ bought last month
  • Prime
  • Pros Performance mesh made to circulate air
  • Cons Sizing is mixed in Amazon's summary

Prices and ratings as of October 5, 2026.

Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing names performance mesh that circulates air for hot-weather training.
  • A mesh-lined pouch, stay-put legs and smooth stitching are listed.
  • The waistband is tagless and plush-soft.
  • A bullet gives sizes small to XXL, covering waists of 28 to 44 inches.

Drawbacks

  • Amazon’s own summary is mixed on sizing, and one critical snippet says a newer pack ran tight at the legs.
  • The page also offers a Long Boxer Brief style, so check which style you add to the cart.

Skip it if you want a brief with no leg or a longer leg. The Reebok has no leg and the Boxerjock is long-leg.

Amazon's review summary

Customers praise these boxer briefs for their classic Adidas quality, comfort, and breathability, noting they hold up well after multiple washes and are perfect for both daily use and workouts. They find them worth the price and appreciate how they stay in place without riding up or falling down.

Top AlternativeBest for a brief cut with no leg fabric to rub
Reebok Low-Rise Athletic Briefs 5-Pack

Reebok Low-Rise Athletic Briefs 5-Pack

Best for: A brief cut with no leg fabric to rub

  • $31.68
  • 4.6 (2,766 reviews)5-star 80% · 1-star 3%
  • 100+ bought last month
  • Prime
  • Pros Brief cut with a contour pouch
  • Cons Size menu runs only to X-Large in the text we read

Prices and ratings as of October 5, 2026.

Pros, cons and what reviewers say

Why it made the list

  • Its listing names moisture-wicking technology and quick-dry, breathable fabric.
  • A contour pouch is listed for support without chafing.
  • The waistband is no-roll and the seams are listed as durable.
  • Five pairs come in one pack, in a brief cut with no leg.

Drawbacks

  • The size menu in the text we read runs only to X-Large.
  • Amazon’s own summary is mixed on size and durability, with some reports of seams coming apart.

Skip it if you want leg coverage, since a brief has none. The New Balance has a 5-inch leg.

Amazon's review summary

Customers find these briefs to be the best they've ever had, with a comfortable fit that stays in place and doesn't ride up. They appreciate the quick-drying fabric that stays drier than cotton, and consider them worth the price. The material receives positive feedback, with one customer describing it as a perfect polyester and spandex blend.

Compare the picks

Prices and ratings as of October 5, 2026. They change often, so check today's price on Amazon.

Our picks, side by side
PictureProductOutcome
1Under Armour Performance Tech Long-Leg BoxerjockUnder Armour Performance Tech Long-Leg BoxerjockCut: Long-leg boxer brief · Fabric: Performance TechPrice $33.00900+ bought last monthRating 4.79,001 reviews5-star 83% · 1-star 2%Winner. Best for: A long-leg cut with chafe-free seams
2New Balance 5-Inch Mesh No-Fly Boxer Brief 4-PackNew Balance 5-Inch Mesh No-Fly Boxer Brief 4-PackCut: 5-inch boxer brief, no fly · Fabric: Polyester, spandexPrice $17.00700+ bought last monthRating 4.623,191 reviews5-star 80% · 1-star 2%Best for: A no-fly mesh boxer brief in a four-pack
3ExOfficio Give-N-Go Sport 2.0 6-Inch Boxer BriefExOfficio Give-N-Go Sport 2.0 6-Inch Boxer BriefCut: 6-inch boxer brief · Fabric: SyntheticPrice $34.50100+ bought last monthRating 4.51,313 reviews5-star 76% · 1-star 5%Best for: Flatlock seams for long runs and travel
4SAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly 2-PackSAXX Multi-Sport Mesh Boxer Brief Fly 2-PackCut: Slim boxer brief, with fly · Fabric: Multi-Sport MeshPrice $47.95Not listedRating 4.5830 reviews5-star 74% · 1-star 5%Best for: A mesh pouch that keeps things from shifting
5adidas Performance Boxer Brief 3-Packadidas Performance Boxer Brief 3-PackCut: Boxer brief · Fabric: Performance meshPrice $24.00300+ bought last monthRating 4.51,658 reviews5-star 76% · 1-star 5%Best for: Breathable performance mesh for hot-weather training
6Reebok Low-Rise Athletic Briefs 5-PackReebok Low-Rise Athletic Briefs 5-PackCut: Low-rise brief · Fabric: Stretch, moisture-wickingPrice $31.68100+ bought last monthRating 4.62,766 reviews5-star 80% · 1-star 3%Best for: A brief cut with no leg fabric to rub

How to choose running underwear for men

  • Skip cotton. iRunFar says to avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture, holds sweat and can lead to chafing, and to look for polyester or nylon that stretch, wick sweat and dry quickly. Weeviews makes it the first of its five tips: never wear cotton underwear while running. Every pick here has a listing that names a performance, mesh or synthetic fabric.
  • Seams and tags. Runner’s World looked for underwear without seams or tags to reduce chafing, and iRunFar says flatlock seams can help. The listing of the Boxerjock names chafe-free seams, the ExOfficio lists flatlock seams, and the adidas lists smooth stitching and a tagless waistband.
  • Cut. iRunFar says briefs or boxer briefs suit runners whose shorts have no liner, and that boxer briefs for running fit snugly instead of loosely like regular boxers. It calls fly or no fly a personal choice: the New Balance has no fly and the SAXX has one. Weeviews suggests trying briefs too, which is the Reebok cut.
  • Fit and stretch. Runner’s World favored fabrics with more spandex or elastane for stretchy support. iRunFar says the fit should be snug but not restrictive, and that a wide waistband helps underwear stay put on a long run. Weeviews advises checking the fit before a long run, and Amazon’s own summaries are mixed on sizing for the adidas, the Reebok and the ExOfficio.

What we left out, and why

We read 120 search cards, 96 organic, and read the pages of 10 finalists. Four finalist links redirected on load to a sibling listing of the same pair, and we used the page Amazon served. We kept six and left out:

  • New Balance Men’s Performance Boxer Briefs. Five listings with this title show one shared rating total, and the page does not say whether they are colors and packs of one pair or different styles, so we left it out rather than lean on a total that may not describe this pair.
  • Under Armour Performance Tech Brief 6-Inch 3-Pack. A second pair from the maker of the Boxerjock, doing its job, with a rating total shared across several listings of the same title.
  • Hanes Performance Stretch Boxer Brief Pack. A polyester boxer brief with the same selling points as the adidas. Hanes boxer briefs for everyday wear are in our guide to underwear for men.
  • PUMA 5-Pack Performance Boxer Briefs. Another polyester and spandex boxer brief with the same pitch as the adidas and the New Balance, so we kept one pick per job.

Runner’s World, iRunFar and Weeviews all review running underwear for women as well as men, but the finalists we read were all cut for men, so women’s running underwear would need its own research. Runderwear’s running briefs for men appear in the Amazon results but were not among the finalists, and iRunFar’s top pick for men, the Patagonia Sender Boxer Brief, was not in the Amazon cards we read.

How we researched

On October 5, 2026 we read 120 Amazon search cards for “running underwear”, 96 organic and 24 sponsored. AI compared them, set aside sponsored repeats, compression shorts, thermal layers, cotton or modal boxers and listings that share one set of ratings across styles, read the pages of 10 finalists and chose six synthetic underwear for men. AI wrote this guide from that research.

Listings change: we read them on October 5, 2026, and a size, color or seller may differ today. Fabric and seam wording is the listing text as we read it, which the collector cut to about 200 characters per bullet. Every finalist was cut for men, and none of the top Google results for this topic was a Wirecutter page.

Prices, ratings and review counts come from Amazon and were read on October 5, 2026.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Do you need special underwear for running?

Not always. iRunFar says many runners now skip underwear because running shorts usually include a liner. For shorts without a liner, or for extra support and protection, it recommends briefs or boxer briefs. If you wear underwear, avoid cotton: Weeviews and iRunFar both say it holds sweat and can lead to chafing.

Are boxer briefs or briefs better for running?

It is a personal choice. iRunFar’s picks are all boxer briefs, which fit snugly and cover the upper thigh, while Weeviews says briefs and jockstraps are worth a fair try. The Reebok is the brief here, and the Boxerjock is the longest boxer brief.

What fabric is best for running underwear?

Polyester or nylon with spandex. Runner’s World found nylon and polyester wick moisture about equally well and favored blends with more spandex for stretch, and iRunFar lists polyester and nylon as the fabrics that stretch, wick and dry quickly.

How should running underwear fit?

Snug but not restrictive, so it does not ride up or sag. iRunFar suggests a wide waistband for a long run, and Weeviews says to check the fit before a long run.

How did TwelveTabs choose these running underwear picks?

TwelveTabs read the first two pages of Amazon results for “running underwear”, set aside sponsored repeats and listings that share one set of ratings, and read the pages of 10 finalists. We kept six synthetic-fabric underwear for men and checked the advice against iRunFar, Weeviews and Runner’s World. AI wrote this guide from that research. To see what TwelveTabs picks today, run the search yourself with the button on this page.