10 Best Underwear for Playing Basketball

When you’re playing basketball it pays to have on underwear that offers a snug, supportive fit that also gives you the necessary amount of compression to keep you feeling strong.

The problem with a lot of underwear is that it isn’t specifically designed for performance activities. Many people lead sedentary lives. It’s far more common to see guys with beer bellies than rock hard abs.

Manufacturers have noticed this and tend to create what the market needs. This is why your standard tighty whities won’t offer you the support you require while running up and down the basketball court.

This is why it’s better to turn your attention to boxer briefs and compression shorts to reduce chafing and skin irritation between the groin area and thighs.

Not only are they quite comfortable, but they also provide you with muscular support and help improve blood circulation.

Fortunately, there are plenty of breathable, moisture-wicking, chafe-free drawers to support you on and off the court. This guide lists the best underwear for basketball to fit your needs so you can stay focused on leveling up your basketball game.

Here's some of the best basketball underwear you can buy.

Top 10 Best Underwear for Basketball

Champion Men's Compression Short

Pro: Flatlock seams.
Con: Thin material.

Great support: Champion’s compression short is designed to provide ultimate comfort for fun days spent on the basketball court. Moisture management technology wicks moisture away from the skin making this undy perfect for other activities such as training, Crossfit, and running.

Flatlock seams protect against chafing. Plus, the material stretches for ease of movement. The breathability and support are excellent.

The fabric bears the weight of the crown jewels well regardless of the size. So even if you’re a member of the big cajones club, you’ll find that you’re well supported in this number.

The downside is that the stitching may start to unravel after a few washes. Prevent this from being an issue by washing it on the gentle cycle. Let it air dry.

Adidas Men's Sport Performance ClimaCool Boxer Brief

Pro: Climacool technology.
Con: Not skinny thigh friendly.

No ride up leg construction: Adidas’ stretchy boxer brief delivers moisture management to keep you dry and fresh while you perfect that crossover. Forget about struggling with that embarrassing swamp-problem south of the border.

This boxer brief strikes the perfect balance between support and comfort while keeping the boys dry. Plus, all-over micro mesh fabric serves up serious breathability. No ride-up leg construction keeps the material in place.

You won’t have to fool around with undies that bunch up between your legs and cause irritation and soreness on your inner thighs. The soft, tagless waistband and super smooth stitching provide superior comfort.

A mesh-lined pouch gives you breathability and support. The downside is that the front may feel a bit constrictive when worn for several hours.

Prevent issues with this by not wearing the underwear all day. Remove them after working out and change into looser underwear. 

Roadbox Cool Dry Men's Compression Shorts

Pro: Thunder thighs friendly.
Con: Crotch could be roomier.

4-way stretch fabric: Roadbox created a well-made athletic base layer that is just what an active guy needs. Whether you’re breaking ankles on the court or biking up a hill, this is the type of underwear you want covering your land down under.

It has a unique flatlock and outer seam design to prevent chafing. The inside of the thighs will be well supported during workouts. As a result, it will cut down on the friction between the skin and shorts so you can avoid that frustrating sweaty, raw thigh feeling.

The polyester and spandex blend creates a smooth and ultra-soft texture that feels good to the touch. It’s like putting silk sheets between your legs. Kiss friction good-bye.

This lightweight bad boy provides extreme comfort minus any restriction. Be prepared to toss those old undies that bunch and ride up your thighs.

There’s something incredibly liberating about being able to say good riddance to bad rubbish. However, it may run small. Stop this from being a problem by ordering a size up.

Hanes Sport Men's Performance Compression Short

Pro: Comfortable.
Con: Sized on the small side.

Great fit: Hanes’ performance compression short brings cool comfort technology to the table to rapidly wick moisture away from your skin. The fit is very comfortable with a casual compression feel.

Also, the fabric and construction are of great quality. Chafe-resistant flatlock seams lay the foundation for maximum comfort.

On the other hand, the material is pretty see-through. Keep this from being a problem by wearing dark, opaque shorts over them.

Reebok Men's Big and Tall Athletic Performance Boxer Brief

Pro: Tagless.
Con: Low crotch.

Big and Tall Design: Reebok came through with a moisture-wicking boxer brief designed specifically for big and tall men. If you have big, strong, or wide thighs that love to chafe, consider trying this undy.

It won’t leave you with a nasty rash. The performance quality undy is made of a silky polyester blend fabric that offers a snug fit, perfect for any baller.

The material breathes well so you won’t end up sweating profusely all the time. Plus, the fabric doesn’t tear easily as some other brands will. 

This soft and breathable underwear provides premium comfort. The downside is that there is no fly opening.

However, this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. Just prepare yourself to unfasten those britches to take a leak.

Nike Pro Compression Dry-Fit Training Short

Pro: Dry-fit technology.
Con: Seams may unravel.

Breathable: Nike Pro’s compression short comes with a four-way stretch design that moves with you and flat seams that eliminate irritation and distraction. The result is a heavenly fit suited for a king.

Targeted, breathable mesh panels help to keep the air flowing during your b-ball sessions. Plus, the dry-fit technology will pull moisture away from your body, where it can evaporate.

The polyester fabric is durable and will survive the most intense workouts. If you want you can easily hand wash this underwear and let it hand dry to maintain the integrity of the fabric longer.

Another perk to this very comfortable undy is that it allows for great mobility during workouts. On the other hand, it may hug the berries too tightly. Stop this from being a problem by going up a size. 

Dr. Skin Men's Cool Dry Compression Shorts

Pro: Moisture-wicking.
Con: Waist may be tight on some.

Ultra-Soft Fabric: Dr. Skin’s smooth compression shorts feature anti-abrasion fabric, excellent elasticity, and durability. The material blocks out 98.8% of UV rays, making it an excellent option for summer sports.

Mesh fabrication and two-way circulation supply ventilation and breathability. The moisture sensing fabric keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

This boss works really well for those who have huge thighs. The fit is snug without being too tight. Dr. Skin designed this compression short with just enough room in the back to completely cover your backside.

Plus, this undy doesn’t pinch in the jewel area. On the other hand, it ships from South Korea so it will take a while for it to arrive. Be prepared to exercise patience until this glorious number arrives at your doorstep.

David Archy Men's Ultra Soft Mesh Quick Dry Breathable Boxer Brief

Pro: 3D pouch design.
Con: Waistband may roll.

Lightweight: David Archy designed a high technology fast-drying fabric that is breathable and quick-drying to keep you cool and fresh as you shoot hoops. The 3D pouch design will provide you with comfortable support and freedom of movement.

The pocket is a good size and offers fantastic support. Plus, longer legs allow for full fitting support. Flat-locked stitching supplies a seamless, no scratch experience your skin will adore.

The polyamide and spandex material feels amazing. While this undy is very stretchy, it will not stretch out much after working out in them.

Another amazing perk is that the length hits right in that sweet spot of giving you thigh protection without looking like bike shorts.

However, there are three versions of this underwear available for purchase. Make sure that you match up the color you want with the different fly options (mesh-no fly, solid-no fly, mesh-with fly) to avoid getting the wrong product.

Spyder Men’s Performance Boxer Brief

Pro: Odor controlling.
Con: A little snug on some.

Chafe-free: Spyder’s performance boxer brief is made of cooling nylon fabric that feels ultra-silky and smooth against the skin. Smooth stitching is combined with a soft tagless waistband for extra comfort.

This breathable brief is quick-drying as well. The fit, construction, and design are spot on. This is a great boxer brief to turn to if you’re tired of dealing with unwanted crotch heat.

The synthetic fabric retains the compression and stretchiness. Another bonus is that the legs don’t become loose after a few hours, unlike some cotton briefs.

However, it doesn’t provide any insulation during cooler months. Remedy this issue by not wearing this underwear to games where you’ll be sitting. Make sure you stay actively involved in your ballgame to stay warm. 

Champion Men's Boxer Brief

Pro: Contoured front panel.
Con: Leg may shrink.

X-temp double dry technology: Champion’s boxer brief is designed for all-day comfort with its no ride up construction and moisture-wicking capabilities. The fit and fabric are wonderful.

You don’t have to worry about the waistband rolling because it will stay in place. This boxer brief is made well. It is durable so working out in it presents no problems.

This underwear is breathable and comfortable. The fit is snug enough to hold everything securely. Plus, the spandex doesn’t allow them to stretch and get droopy during your workout.

The construction prevents it from riding up on your legs. It feels comfortable but not restrictive. There’s no pinching either.

On the flip side, this underwear runs small and when you wash it, the material shrinks even more. Fix this by going up two sizes when you order it.

Best Basketball Underwear: Buying Guide

The best underwear for hitting the court will provide a great fit, support, and moisture-wicking properties. It won’t chafe, ride up, or make you feel uncomfortable in any way. Here are the key features to look for when choosing the best basketball underwear.

Best Moisture-Wicking Basketball Underwear

Working up a sweat is a great way to tone your muscles and remove toxins from your pores, but it can be a double-edged sword in that it also feels gross when it sticks to your body.

However, you can avoid that unpleasant feeling by choosing to wear moisture-wicking underwear that pulls sweat away from your skin allowing you to stay cool and fresh as you hit the court. Select undies that offer drying technology for optimum comfort.  

Sale
Best Moisture-Wicking Basketball Underwear: Champion Men's Boxer Brief
  • Pack includes 2 Black, 2 Gray, 1 Blue
  • Contoured front panel for all day comfort
  • No ride up,Moisture wicking

Most Breathable Basketball Underwear

Airflow is important when you’re getting hot and sweaty. Opt for underwear that provides two-way circulation so you will get a steady supply of ventilation and breathability. Mesh fabrication will also help promote the flow of air on your skin.  

Most Breathability Basketball Underwear: Dr. Skin Men's Cool Dry Compression Shorts
  • The image shows the quantity of pants. Images with one piece of clothing refers to one item. Likewise,...
  • 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex - Smooth and Ultra-Soft Fabric that provides extreme comfort with very little...
  • Designed for all seasons(training, baseball, basketball, soccer, American football, Squat, weight...

Best Anti-Chafing Basketball Underwear

You want to enjoy the freedom of movement while also feeling well-supported. Opt for a stretchy fabric. Make sure that the underwear has flatlock seams to guard against chafing.

You want your inner thighs to feel supported during your workout. A friction-free experience will prevent unpleasant rubbing or chafing.

Most Supportive Basketball Underwear: Champion Men's Compression Short
  • SUPERB SUPPORT THAT LETS YOU MOVE YOUR WAY - Four-way stretch compression fabric has holding power that...
  • HELPS YOU KEEP YOUR COOL - Double Dry fabric wicks away moisture to keep you cool and dry with targeted...
  • PERFORMANCE FABRIC - These compression shorts gently mold to your body for enhanced support, with...

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About the author

Idara Hampton

Idara Hampton is a freelance writer at Undywear.com. She also creates valuable content in the legal, health and wellness, and home improvement spaces. When she's not writing, you can find Idara getting lost in a good book or tickling the ivories.