WE UPGRADE OUR sneakers, our jeans, even our watches—so why should we be stuck wearing the same ol’ stretched-out, saggy boxers? Most guys don’t put much thought into their skivvies—until they’re constantly adjusting, sweating, or dealing with a waistband that just won’t stay put. You wear underwear every single day, so why settle for anything less than great? Mack Weldon makes a strong case for investing in a better pair, but does the brand’s offering actually live up to the hype?
Here at Men’s Health, our fashion team has tested hundreds of pairs over the years, and trust us—not all boxer briefs are created equal. Some ride up, some lose their shape after a few washes, and some just don’t withstand daily wear. But Mack Weldon’s Airknitx Boxer Brief keeps rising to the top. We’ve worn them, tossed them in a number of cycles, and put them through the grind plenty and they are the best we’ve found. Here’s why that is, and why they might make a good addition to your rotation.
The Material
Let’s talk fabric: It’s not your average microfiber blend. Made from polyester, polyamide, and elastane, this trifecta mix offers performance, texture, and flexibility. Whether you’re running errands or working out, the material does a bang up job of wicking away moisture and fighting off bad odors, so you remain fresh and dry throughout the day. We found the underwear feels light as air (hence the name) and super soft against the skin opposed to styles that can feel rough, stiff, or even scratchy—especially cheaper cotton blends or synthetic materials that lack proper finishing. To cap on comfort, Mack Weldon incorporated mesh zones on the back panel to enhance breathability when things get a little heated or sweaty.
Most underwear, especially those produced from 100% cotton, just aren’t built for mobility. But Mack Weldon bucks that trend here. This pair stretches in more directions than one, allowing a range of movements, meaning it’s easy to bend, squat, lunge, or sprawl out on the bed without feeling restricted. Plus, it has excellent shape retention (including with the elastic band) after going through the wash after several spins, extending its overall lifespan.
The Fit
The athletic cut is dialed in—snug on the thighs without squeezing the life out of them. The stretchy, contoured fabric moves with you, so you don’t experience any awkward bunching or annoying ride-up. And the grippy leg openings keep everything right where it should throughout the day, helping me avoid those inconvenient adjustments.
Speaking of ride-ups, the flyless pouch keeps your precious jewels secure and supported without that cramped or squished feeling. On top of that, the waistband rests gently on the skin instead of slipping or rolling. The best part is we’ve tested these on a number of body types, and we can confirm this fit is perfect for beefy quads, lean legs, and everything in between.
Why We Love It
Mack Weldon’s offering covers all the bases. From the fabrication and functionality to the overall lightweight feel, no area is a weak point for these. Durability-wise, it can stand being tossed in the washer for multiple cycles without being destroyed. It’s a versatile pair of underwear, ideal for every occasion: intense gym sessions, long-haul flights, summer evenings, WFH days—the list goes on. Not to mention, you can build a bundle with the vast color selection of solids and patterns, which easily go with any casual and business casual fits. Comfort this good shouldn’t be optional—which is why they’re our best underwear for men and a pair I have plenty of to trust.
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