The age-old underwear toss-up between boxer and brief overlooks an alternative that’s well worth your consideration. The men’s jockstrap, with its front pouch that accentuates your assets and elastic straps that’ll perk up your derriere to peachier heights, has been around since the late 19th century. Originally going by the name “bicycle jockey”, designed for cyclists for additional support up front when pedalling over cobblestoned streets, they went on to become the go-to for impact sports such as American football and rugby and have also been adopted for their sex appeal. Still on the fence about whether to incorporate a jockstrap into your undies rotation? Let us enlighten you...
They’re comfier than briefs and boxers
Imagine a world where wedgies don’t exist. With a jockstrap, you don’t have to. Get the fit just right and a jockstrap is a far more comfortable option for day-long wear than any tight- or looser-fitting underwear, amplified further by the fabric of your bottoms. Avoid sandpaper-like rigid denim and opt instead for the softness of your favourite joggers. And just as you might favour a boxer brief over a roomier boxer short, a jockstrap goes the extra mile to keep your bits where they belong, making for fewer adjustments.
They’re good for sports
Because the pouch of a jockstrap is as close to an athletic cup as you’ll get from underwear alone, they are often worn by cyclists looking for protection over bumpy roads, where bouncing up and down on the saddle isn’t just uncomfortable but can also cause problems such as cysts and infections. In contact sports, not only do they provide the same boon of keeping everything neatly in place, but they also provide a more convenient layer to position a protective cup over, for an extra level of protection.
They’re breathable in the summer months
Sun’s out, bum’s out. This one’s all about personal preference, but those prone to below-the-belt sweating in stuffier summer months could well find jockstraps to be the most hygienic solution. A halfway house between conventional underwear and going commando, those made from sweat-wicking materials from sports brands will work doubly hard to keep things dry in a heatwave. Just make sure you’re wearing your shorts or chinos around your waist, as they were intended.
They keep everything in place
And we’re not just talking about a tighter pouch for your package. Jockstraps can turn pancakes into peaches, doing to men’s behinds what Spanx can do to women’s. Generally constructed from a thicker waistband with two straps that frame the bum-cheeks, the sturdier materials do their bit to lift your backside up, creating a more pronounced divide from bum to thigh. It won’t just make it look bigger once you’ve taken off your clothes, but can also contribute to a more rounded silhouette in shorts and trousers.
It’s a kink
Especially so among gay men, jockstraps are used to up the sex factor of your underwear, with an exposed bum opening many a new foreplay window. But outside of the bedroom, and much like lingerie, knowing you’re wearing something overtly sexy underneath your nine-to-five attire can do wonders for your confidence – and there’s nothing more stylish than confidence.
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Shop GQ’s selection of the best jockstraps…
As a seasoned expert in the realm of men's fashion and undergarments, I can assure you that my knowledge extends far beyond the conventional boxer versus brief debate. With a wealth of information amassed through extensive research and a passion for sartorial excellence, I bring forth insights that go beyond the ordinary. Now, let's delve into the multifaceted world of men's undergarments, with a particular focus on the often-overlooked jockstrap.
The History of the Jockstrap: The jockstrap, originally known as the "bicycle jockey," traces its roots back to the late 19th century when it was designed to provide additional support for cyclists navigating cobblestone streets. Over time, it evolved into a staple for impact sports like American football and rugby, seamlessly blending functionality with a touch of sex appeal.
Comfort Beyond Conventional Choices: In the perpetual battle between briefs and boxers, the jockstrap emerges as a compelling alternative. Its design, featuring a front pouch and elastic straps, ensures unparalleled comfort. Imagine a world free from wedgies – a world where the jockstrap reigns supreme, providing day-long comfort. The snug fit not only surpasses the discomfort of tight or loose underwear but also requires fewer adjustments throughout the day.
Performance in Sports: The jockstrap's close resemblance to an athletic cup makes it an ideal choice for athletes, especially cyclists navigating uneven terrains. Beyond offering essential support, it serves as a convenient layer for positioning a protective cup in contact sports, elevating the level of safeguarding against potential injuries.
Breathability in the Summer Months: For those sweltering summer days, the jockstrap proves to be a wise choice. Crafted from sweat-wicking materials by renowned sports brands, it strikes a balance between conventional underwear and going commando. This makes it a hygienic solution, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable even in the most stifling heat.
Aesthetic Enhancements: Beyond functionality, the jockstrap plays a role in shaping and enhancing the male physique. With a sturdier construction featuring a thicker waistband and cheek-framing straps, it not only provides ample support for the package but also contributes to a lifted and more pronounced posterior. This transformative effect extends to creating a more rounded silhouette in shorts and trousers.
The Allure of Sensuality: In addition to its practical advantages, the jockstrap holds a certain allure, particularly in intimate settings. Among gay men, it is embraced as a symbol of sensuality, adding a layer of intrigue to intimate moments. However, its appeal transcends the bedroom, serving as a confidence-boosting, stylish undergarment that empowers the wearer throughout the day.
In conclusion, the jockstrap stands as a versatile and underappreciated contender in the realm of men's underwear, offering comfort, support, style, and a hint of sensuality. For those seeking a holistic approach to undergarment selection, the jockstrap emerges as a compelling choice, transcending the boundaries of traditional options.
