Men's Underwear Styles Explained: Brief, Bikini, Tanga, String, Thong and Jock

Shopping for underwear past the 3-pack aisle means learning a new vocabulary. Brands don't always use the same names, so here's the Dossier's field guide. Think of it as a map from "most fabric" to "least."

Brief

The classic. Full seat, full front, sides a few inches tall, and leg openings that sit at the hip crease. Modern briefs come in better fabrics and lower rises than the ones you grew up with. Good for: everyday comfort, anyone who wants coverage without boxer bulk.

Bikini (mini brief)

A brief with the sides cut down and the rise lowered. It sits on the hips, not the waist. Many European brands call it a "mini brief." Good for: a cleaner line under slim trousers and a first step past the brief.

Tanga

The tanga is all about the side. A narrow, solid band forms the whole side. There's no fabric panel below it, just the band from front to back. Up front is a deep-V, contoured pouch, often with a center seam for shape. The back stays fairly full. Good for: guys who like a bikini but want less on the hips and a sportier look.

String (string bikini)

Swap the tanga's band for a thin string or very narrow elastic at the sides. Front and back panels stay, but the sides are almost gone. Good for: minimal lines and a bold drawer.

Thong

Front pouch, waistband, and a narrow strip of fabric at the back in place of a full seat. Good for: zero lines under fitted clothes, the gym, or the curious.

Jock (jockstrap)

Born on the sports field. A supportive front pouch, a wide waistband, and two leg straps, with an open back. Good for: workouts, support, and athletic style.

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