The short version
Same print, same fabric, three very different amounts of fabric. Our favorite of the three is the Brazil brief: silky fabric and an adequate pouch.
What it is
Olaf Benz calls RED2609 a classic check "with a fresh, bold interpretation." The print is blue, white and grey, and the line also comes in magenta. There are four cuts: Ministring, Riotanga, Brazilbrief and Minipants. We tried three of them.
Fabric (all three cuts)
- 85% polyester, 15% elastane
- Light, stretchy microfiber with a silky, smooth feel, per Olaf Benz
- Low-rise, close-fitting cut with a narrow waistband
- Bright printed color that the brand says keeps its vibrancy
In hand and on, the fabric lives up to the "silky" billing.
Cut 1: Brazil brief
The most coverage of the three. Olaf Benz calls it a "skimpy" brief with a low, body-hugging cut.
Good for: guys who want a brief that looks sharp but still covers the seat.
Our pick of the bunch. The fabric feels silky and the pouch is adequate: not a showpiece, but it does the job.
Cut 2: Rio tanga
Olaf Benz lists this one as "extra skimpy." It's the middle step, with less on the hips than the brief.
Good for: a sportier look and fewer lines under slim trousers.
The sides are tiny but strong, so the skimpy cut doesn't feel flimsy.
Cut 3: Mini string
The least fabric of the three. Olaf Benz says the print works "with jeans as well as a business suit."
Good for: zero lines under fitted clothes, and a bold drawer.
Despite the minimal fabric, it's comfy all day, like all Olaf Benz.
Quick compare
| Cut | Coverage | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil brief | Most | Everyday, first try |
| Rio tanga | Medium | Sporty, slim trousers |
| Mini string | Least | No lines, bold style |
Sizing
Size worn: XL (35-36 in).
If you wear a US Large, the XL is the right call. Plan to size up one from your usual US size.
Care
The retailer page suggests a machine wash at 40-60 °C, hang damp, and a low tumble dry is OK. Always follow the care label.
In practice, use the delicate cycle and air dry. Treated that way, they hold up well.
Price and where to buy
List price at the Olaf Benz store (benz.store): €29.95 each for the Brazil brief, Rio tanga and Ministring (incl. German VAT, plus shipping). US prices vary by retailer.
Verdict
Start with the Brazil brief: silky, sharp, with an adequate pouch, and our favorite of the three. Want less fabric without feeling fragile? The Rio tanga's tiny sides are stronger than they look. Want no lines at all? The Ministring is comfy all day, like all Olaf Benz. Whichever cut you pick, size up one from your US size and wash on delicate with an air dry.
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By The Undie Dossier