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According to a recent study, the average American spends 35 minutes commuting to work every weekday. 

While this may seem like a trivial amount of time, it adds up to 152 hours — or 19 full workdays — every year.

Now imagine what you could get done in 19 full workdays. From task scheduling to familiarizing yourself with industry news and terminology, that’s valuable time for anyone in any career. If you’re someone who feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day, you need to be taking advantage of this time.

Just like you get ready for the office by brushing your teeth and getting dressed in a pristine undershirt, button down or jumper, you should also prep your mindset for a great day at work. Rather than viewing commuting as a hassle, think of it as an opportunity to get a headstart on your day. 

Whether you drive, bike, walk, or take public transportation, there are things you can do to spark motivation and set yourself up for success. 

Taking the time to prep yourself before work has a multitude of benefits. You’ll likely see an increase in productivity as you’ve scheduled out your tasks and priorities. You may also find it easier to deal with conflicts and emotional reactivity if you entered the office in a solid, positive mental state. 

Just like a perfectly-fitted undershirt makes you feel confident and well-dressed, a few minutes of prep before each workday will allow you to take on whatever comes your way. So suit up and get hustling. 

It seems like every year Americans are more accepting of the “you do you” mentality: from $12 avocado toast to weekend-long Netflix binges. We surveyed over 3,000 people to see what they thought about going commando in 2020.

Ditching your underwear might still seem kind of gross and taboo to some people, even when it’s been normalized in the fashion world thanks to numerous red carpet appearances over the years. If it’s a matter of style, comfort, or well-being, what’s the big deal? Are you on the same page as the general public when it comes to going commando? Check out what our survey revealed to find out.

Commando for Comfort: Cool or Not Cool?

Going commando for comfort seems to be more widely accepted than it used to be. Let’s not forget that anti-undies celebrities like Britney Spears were shamed by the media for ditching their panties in the early 2000s. Unless it was necessary for a red carpet look, going commando definitely raised eyebrows.

Our survey found that comfort is actually the most popular reason why people leave their panties behind. In fact, 17% of respondents claimed they go commando to feel more comfortable, with another 8% saying they go panty-less to be able to move more freely.

Our findings also revealed only 5% of respondents said they opted out of underwear for wardrobe related reasons, even though you would think people would be more concerned about avoiding a visible panty line. A mere 6% of people said they go commando so they can do less laundry.

Our results from study on underwear hygiene found that a cringe-worthy 45% of respondents admitted to wearing the same pair of underwear for two days or longer. For that half of the population, it’s probably a better idea to go commando than to re-wear undies.

Commando for Working Out: Yay or Nay?

Americans are willing to ditch their drawers in the name of comfort, but does this include going commando during workouts? It turns out, the majority of respondents would much rather keep their undies than feel more liberated down there. 52% of people prefer to have a sweat-wicking layer of protection. Wearing underwear might also protect you from accidentally exposing yourself or having a camel toe in the middle of a crowded workout class.

18% of people prefer not to wear anything under their workout clothes, a safe bet if you want to eliminate the possibility of panty lines, wedgies, and constricted movement.

Commando Men vs. Commando Women

It’s 2020, and people still think it’s less acceptable for women to go commando than it is for men. 35% of our survey respondents said it was more acceptable for men to go underwear-less than it is for women.

Is the reason why women going commando is still taboo because people think they’re stereotypically more promiscuous or less classy? There seems to be a double standard when you consider how “freeballing” is encouraged and not a big deal among men. Also, it’s worth noting that 33% of respondents said they prefer not to answer this question. Whether or not these people were uncomfortable with commenting or simply feel indifferent is up for debate.

So, where do you stand on the commando issue? Ultimately, it all boils down to personal preference. Since we live in an underwear-optional world, it only makes sense to invest in the best for when you do choose to wear it.

Regardless of your preferred cut or fabric, it’s the quality of the underwear that will make the biggest difference in your wearing experience. Every single one of our styles was created to make sure the 3 F’s (fabric, fit, and function) are top-notch. It’s cool if you’re a commando type of guy or gal, but keep us in mind next time you replace your neglected panties or boxers. Our underwear might even make you consider switching back to Team Undies.

Methodology

We used Google Surveys to analyze data resulting from asking 3 questions to a total of over 3,000 respondents.

Sources

Celebs Now | Girls Talkin Smack | The Sun | Yoga Journal | Bustle | Refinery29

As globalization and digital innovation shift consumer spending habits and fashion as we know it, the wave of change within the industry is on the rise. 54% of Social Browsers use social media to research products which goes to show how integral technology is in the purchasing journey. However, e-commerce is not the only medium we are seeing evolve. From the rise in sustainability to an emphasis on community engagement, this article takes a deep dive into fashion industry statistics and how they are propelling executives to disrupt and challenge the norm.

Clothing plays a role in every aspect of our lives whether it be professionally or personally. From choosing fabrics to ordering products, we all use clothing to tell a story and share our brand. Whether you’re working in the fashion industry or not, understanding new and emerging trends and data will set you apart within the saturated market. To explore how strategic trends, marketing efforts, employment rates and other industry data are shaping fashion retailers in 2021 and beyond, let’s explore statistics that reflect the forces at work in fashion. If you’re interested in learning about a specific topic, search for any industry section using our table of contents below.

• E-commerce Retail
• Going Global
• Consumer Spending Habits
• Trends & Forecasting
• Social Media & Marketing
• Employment in Fashion
• Footwear & Accessories
• Jewelry & Luxury
• Sustainability

E-Commerce Fashion Industry Statistics

As mobile-friendly and smartphone technology has advanced the online shopping experience, e-commerce fashion industry statistics reveal that retailers are optimizing sites for the mobile user. 85% of Americans now own a smartphone, increasing time spent online and raising expectations for a fast and seamless shopping experience. Explore the e-commerce fashion industry statistics that are shaping changes in automation and buyer behaviors below.

1. By 2022, it is projected that e-commerce transactions will be responsible for 36% of total fashion retail sales (Forrester).
2. In 2019, online fashion transactions made up 29.9% of the U.S.’s total retail e-commerce sales (Statista).
3. Dedicated fan apps can increase yearly revenue by 5 percent, with ‘chosen’ customers not only “serving as brand ambassadors”, but also spending up to twice as much (Riskified).
4. In 2019, U.S. online retail sales of physical goods amounted to 365.2 billion US dollars and are projected to reach close to 600 billion US dollars in 2024 (Statista).
5. By 2021, 17% of the Accessories market’s revenue will be acquired through online commerce (Statista).
6. By 2025, the market value of Fashion e-commerce is expected to reach over $1.1 trillion USD (Statista).
7. Approximately 73% of e-commerce transactions are expected to be made using a mobile device by the end of 2021 (Statista).
8. 81% of North American consumers are likely to continue buying from a brand because of the loyalty program incentives (Brand Loyalty).
9. It is projected that the Indian e-commerce market will grow from 2020’s $46.2 billion USD to $111.40 billion USD by 2025. (India Brand Equity Foundation).
10. In 2020, U.S. fashion retail e-commerce revenue was approximately $110.6 billion USD. By 2024, it is expected to reach nearly $153.6 billion USD (Statista).
11. In 2018, U.S. retail e-commerce revenue from the sale of fashion apparel, footwear and accessories amounted to an estimated 102 billion U.S. dollars and is projected to grow to almost 146 billion U.S. dollars by 2023 (Statista).
12. In 2020 alone, e-commerce fashion grew by nearly 27% (Statista).
13. A superior digital presence can also improve physical store sales, which is evidenced by the 67% of online shoppers who, when returning an item in person, will browse or make another purchase (Big Commerce).
14. Fashion e-commerce was responsible for nearly 30% of U.S. fashion retail sales in 2020 (Statista).
15. Over 900 million people have global social media connections, allowing huge ecosystems like Facebook and WeChat to significantly contribute to the efficiency of international markets (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
16. In 2018, the apparel, footwear and accessories segment had the highest global share of online cross-border buyers, with 68% of online buyers purchasing from an international source (eMarketer).

Global Fashion Industry Statistics

It’s no surprise that countries like China, Russia and the United States are dominant players in the lucrative $2.5 trillion global fashion industry, however, many regions are emerging every day in the market. Continue reading for the fashion industry’s growth rate and other global fashion industry statistics that will set a tone for international competition.By the end of 2021, China is expected to generate the most revenue in the fashion segment of any other country at nearly $383 billion (Statista).

1. China leads as the largest fashion market in the world with an official growth forecast of 6 percent to 6.5 percent for 2019 (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
2. The Indian clothing market will be worth $53.7 billion in 2020, making it the sixth-largest globally (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
3. Indonesia is due to be the largest modest fashion market in the world (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
4. Presently, China has the greatest number of internet users in the world, totaling over 854 million users (Statista).
5. 2018 showed a shift in the tide of regional apparel and footwear sales, with over half of these sales occurring outside of European and North American markets for the first time due to an uptick in sales in Asia-Pacific and Latin American markets (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
6. Asia is now home to over two-thirds of the world’s e-commerce unicorns (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
7. About 38% of global apparel and footwear sales are attributable to the Asia-Pacific region, making it the largest seller of these goods in the world (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
8. The quantity of Europe’s off-price stores doubled between 2003 and 2017 (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
9. In Western Europe, mobile transactions are expected to reach about €148 billion by the end of 2021 due to an annual growth rate of about 23% from 2017-2021 (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
10. East Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea spend more on research & development as a percentage of GDP than many Western European countries, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit that is taking root across the culture (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
11. Russia’s apparel market is expected to value $40.6 billion USD in 2022. (Statista)
12. By 2021, it is projected that the Apparel segment’s average revenue per user will reach over $186 USD. (Statista)
13. The global women's apparel market growth rate will increase by 50% over the next 12 years (McKinsey & Company).
14. In 2020, the Asia Pacific region had a 38% share of the global apparel demand, also boasting the highest growth between 2015 and 2020 at 4 percent (Statista).
15. Internet penetration in the UAE and Saudi Arabia is at 99 and 89% respectively, compared to just 57% in China (Hootsuite & We Are Social).

Consumer Spending Statistics

Clothing trends and considerations like shopping local, convenience and brand loyalty are paving the way for the retail industry. From moving stores outside of busy cities to prioritizing localization, fostering an in-store experience is on the rise. Keep reading for other consumer spending statistics that are changing the way executives think about online and in-store sales.

1. In May 2021, U.S. clothing retail sales reached $17.3 billion USD, a $1.3 billion increase from the month prior, suggesting a recovery from drastically low pandemic sales levels (Statista).
2. June 2021 saw a nearly 63% increase in U.S. apparel sales compared to June 2020 (Statista).
3. 85% of shoppers engage with both online and offline touchpoints, compared with 80% in 2017 (McKinsey & Company).
4. 85% of consumers cited convenience as the main reason to shop locally (Facebook).
5. In the fashion category, more than 70% of purchases are still made offline (Forrester).
6. Local shops also make returns much easier for consumers and from a retailer’s perspective, the return rate for apparel is much lower for clothes bought in-store than for those bought online (16% versus 25% respectively) (McKinsey & Company).
7. Consumer preference for local shopping is leading retailers to rethink their store network and to open in areas outside the traditional commercial centers (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
8. Customers’ growing desire for convenience and to shop close to home means that in 2020, many fashion retailers will move into the consumer's neighborhood as a core pillar of their omnichannel strategy (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
9. 2020-2021 saw the number of customers who make online apparel purchases grow by 19% (McKinsey).
10. The global Women's Apparel segment accumulated a revenue of $771 billion USD in 2020 – a decline from previous years as a result of the pandemic – but it is projected to see a rise to $1,098 billion USD by 2026 (Statista).

Fashion Industry Trends & Forecasting

What factors are shaping the future of fashion? Whether pivotal strategies are dictated by digital innovation, buyer expectations or retail locationing, we’ve pulled the top fashion industry trends and forecasting statistics to shed light on what’s next for fashion.

1. Germany’s apparel market is projected to continue to hold the highest value in Europe in 2022 at $62.7 billion USD, though its lead over the UK continues to gradually slim (Statista).
2. In Europe and the US, more than 65% of consumers expect to reduce their apparel spending, while just 40% expect to reduce their overall household spending (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
3. The total number of internet users in the Asia Pacific region is expected to rise to about 2.7 billion by 2025, meaning over three fifths of the population will be online (GSMA).
4. China was the largest online fashion market in 2018 (volume of $246.9 billion) and it’s expected to reach a volume three times as large as the US by 2023 (Statista).
5. As of March 2020, 60% of consumers in the US already reported that they need to be careful how they spend their money, with more than one-third stating that the pandemic is even impacting their ability to make financial ends meet (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
6. By 2022, worldwide online apparel and accessories sales are forecast to reach $765 billion (eMarketer).
7. McKinsey and Oxford Economics analysis shows that, even in the most positive economic recovery scenario, GDP will only return to pre-crisis levels by the end of 2020 or even the beginning of 2021 (McKinsey & Company).
8. Evidence from previous crises shows that it may take up to two years to fully restore consumer confidence (McKinsey & Company).
9. Due to the pandemic in Italy, the number of items on discount is up 20% year-on-year from March 2019 to March 2020 (Edited).
10. Low- and middle-income consumers spearheaded the return-to-spending following the peak of the pandemic up until the end of spring of 2021, but recent data shows greater spending from higher-income consumers (McKinsey & Company).

Marketing in Fashion Statistics

Marketing can make or break the success of a brand’s campaign or product launch. Check out the top marketing in fashion statistics to see what strategies are propelling brands in 2020 and beyond.

1. The growth rate of the Apparel industry peaked in 2020, reaching 6.2 percent (Statista).
2. Stories are now growing 15x faster than feed-based sharing (Block Party).
3. 4 out of 5 major brands are already using the Stories format (Block Party).
4. Marketers are increasing social ad budgets (up 32% in 2018 alone) and producing more ads than ever before (CMO Survey).
5. One of every four Facebook Pages now uses paid media (Hootsuite).
6. Facebook already accounts for 23% of total U.S. digital ad spending (eMarketer).
7. In 2019, 17% of brands had either implemented shoppable galleries or planned to do so in the following year (Hootsuite).
8. 70% of China's Gen Zers now buy directly from social media (WARC).
9. Among U.S. survey respondents who message businesses, 69% say that directly messaging a company helps them feel more confident about the brand (Facebook).
10. Social media use is expanding at around 25% annually, with nearly 70% of users active on Instagram (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
11. While 86% of businesses utilize influencer marketing, the engagement rate for Instagram influencer sponsored posts fell from 4 percent in 2016 to 2.4 percent in 2019 (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
12. Fashion companies are shifting their marketing and production strategies to embrace sustainability, with over two fifths of fashion brands showing supplier transparency in 2017 (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
13. In 2018, fashion executives listed investing in digital marketing capabilities as a top priority (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
14. Personalization is becoming a greater and greater priority for fashion consumers, making investment in this area essential for fashion industry marketers (The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company).
15. Ultimately, all the content creation needs to lead to sales, and social commerce is growing fast. By 2023, it could account for a fifth of all online sales in China — a staggering $166 billion (McKinsey & Company).

Employment Statistics

Are you interested in joining the 161 million individuals who work in the fashion industry? Explore the following employment statistics to get a look into average salary wages, unemployment rates and job opportunities in the clothing industry.

1. In the United States, an estimated 1.8 million people are employed in the fashion industry, among whom 232,000 in manufacturing textiles for apparel and other fashion items (Joint Economic Committee).
2. As of 2021, 30,539 people are working within the U.S. Fashion Designers industry (IBISWorld).
3. Between 1990 and 2011, employment in the apparel manufacturing industry fell by over 80% (from approximately 900,000 to 150,000 jobs), largely due to technological developments such as automation (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
4. 30% of fashion industry employees view their company’s post-crisis recovery planning as ineffective (McKinsey & Company).
5. In 2018, 56% of worldwide fashion companies failed to make enough money to cover their capital costs (McKinsey & Company).
6. Over 60% of consumers claimed to cut their fashion spending during the pandemic, with about half of those consumers believing this trend will hold true post-pandemic (McKinsey & Company).
7. The 2020 average annual wage of all occupations within U.S. clothing stores was $32,670 with the lowest earners making $23,410 and the highest earners making $143,000 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Footwear and Apparel Stats

Per order, consumers paid up to 100 U.S. dollars when purchasing footwear, clothing or accessories in 2017. As the digital age has made shopping a faster and more customized experience, let’s take a look at how specific apparel items like footwear and accessories are performing in the industry today.

1. By 2026, the global footwear sole material market is projected to value $28.2 billion with a 4.6 percent CAGR between 2021 and 2026 (Research and Markets).
2. In 2020, the U.S. slipper market grew by approximately 50%, revealing that consumers are continuing to prioritize comfort over fashion (NPD).
3. The global footwear market size reached $365.5 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow to $530.3 billion by 2027 with a 2020-2027 CAGR of 5.5 percent (Allied Market Research).
4. The athletic segment would witness the fastest growth, registering a CAGR of 6.3 percent during the forecast (Allied Market Research).
5. The global footwear market size is estimated to reach $530.4 billion by the end of 2027 (Allied Market Research).
6. Smart footwear is the latest footwear market trend (Allied Market Research).
7. China and India are emerging markets in this market. China is expected to grow with a CAGR of 8 percent while India is expected to exhibit a 7.3 percent growth rate during the forecast period (Allied Market Research).
8. The athletic footwear US market alone generated around 19.6 billion dollars in 2017 (Revuze).
9. Revenue in the Bags & Accessories segment is projected to reach US$164,841m in 2021 (Statista).
10. Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2021-2025) of 8.37 percent, resulting in a projected market volume of US$227,384m by 2025 (Statista).
11. In global comparison, most revenue will be generated in China (US$86,153m in 2021) (Statista).
12. The Footwear market’s average volume per person in 2021 is projected to be 5.62, meaning on average, each person in the U.S. is expected to purchase 5.62 pairs of footwear by the end of 2021 (Statista).
13. In 2019, worldwide retail sales for the apparel and footwear market hit $1.9 trillion USD and were projected to reach over $3 trillion USD by 2030 (Statista).
14. In 2019, the size of the footwear and apparel market in the United States was estimated to be approximately 368 billion U.S. dollars (Statista).

Jewelry & Luxury Fashion Industry Statistics

The clothing industry is about ten times the size of the jewelry industry as measured in annual sales, but the average deal value in apparel is almost 20 times that in jewelry. Read these and other jewelry and luxury fashion industry statistics below to see how designer and luxury goods are standing out in a crowded industry.

1. Online channels account for just 13% of luxury brand sales (Forrester).
2. The global luxury market reached $1 trillion USD in 2018 and is projected to surpass $1.5 trillion by 2025 (BCG & Altagamma).
3. Millennials represent approximately 32% of the luxury market and are largely responsible for the market’s growth. They are expected to comprise 50% of the market by 2025 (Matter of Form).
4. China is a global leader in the luxury market, comprising 33% of it and projected to rise to 40% by 2025, making it responsible for 75% of the market’s growth between 2018-2025 (Matter of Form).
5. 67% of Gen Z and 60% of millennial luxury purchases have bought a designer collaboration piece or special edition (Matter of Form).
6. The jewelry industry’s annual global sales – amounting to €148 billion in 2014 – were projected to grow at an annual rate of 5 to 6 percent, amounting to €250 billion by 2020 (McKinsey & Company).
7. Branded items account for 60% of the watch market’s sales (McKinsey & Company).
8. Approximately 67% of luxury shoppers say they conduct online research before making in-store purchases, with one- to two-thirds citing social media as a common source of information (McKinsey & Company).

Sustainability Fashion Industry Statistics

As a third of Generation Z in the US are saying they will pay for sustainability compared to around one in 10 baby boomers, executives are taking note that there is an increasing demand for sustainably sourced products from their younger generation of consumers. Read how countries and brands alike are shifting budgets and efforts to support this wave for environmentally conscious fashion in our sustainability fashion industry statistics.

1. The EU is set to offer $23.5 million of funding to support sustainable bio-based textiles and circular business models (European Commission).
2. 45% of apparel companies are looking to integrate more innovative bio-based materials (McKinsey & Company).
3. Sustainable swimwear is a fast-growing category: searches were up 65% year-on-year from February 2019 to February 2020. Eco-friendly swimsuits were in particularly high demand in Australia as well as the UK and the US (Lyst).
4. 67% of sourcing executives state that the use of innovative sustainable materials will be important for their company (McKinsey & Company).
5. Denmark saw the biggest year-on-year growth in sustainable apparel searches from February 2019 to February 2020, with the greatest number of searches coming from Copenhagen (Lyst).
6. Since searches for “vegan leather” increased by 69% while searches for “faux leather” did not change year-on-year between February 2019 and February 2020, it can be inferred that customers respond more positively to the word “vegan” than to the word “faux” (Lyst).
7. 79% of all consumers say that they include sustainable packaging in their purchasing decisions (McKinsey & Company).
8. In contrast with European shoppers, who tend to search for “sustainable fashion,” Australian shoppers prefer to use the phrase “ethical fashion.” Between December 2019 and February 2020, online searches for “ethical” fashion pieces increased by approximately 67% (Lyst).
9. Moscow generated the greatest number of searches for sustainable fashion between February 2019 and February 2020 (Lyst).
10. Between December 2019 and February 2020, searches for “upcycled fashion” grew by 42% (Lyst).

Fashion Industry Stats: FAQs

Explore some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the fashion industry below!

Q: What percentage of clothes are made in China?

A: In past years, China has accounted for as much as 40% of all clothing brought into the country. In April 2020, approximately 3.19 billion meters of clothing fabric was produced in China.

Q: What country buys the most clothing?

A: Although China as a country has the largest amount of purchases due to its large population, an average individual consumer in China spends just under a quarter of the amount than an average US consumer – and buys 23 fewer items per year.

Q: How much is the fashion industry worth?

A: Fashion is a highly sophisticated, $2.5 trillion global industry.

Q: Is the fashion industry growing? What is the fashion industry growth rate?

A: Yes, the fashion industry is growing. The fashion industry has an expected annual growth rate of around 7.3 percent between 2021 and 2025.

Now that you’ve caught a glimpse into the factors that are shaping what’s next in retail, share these fashion industry statistics with those who might be interested in the business of fashion.

From underwear to footwear, companies are changing their strategies to reach consumers every day. Stay in the know on all things retail with our extensive resources. For more resources on apparel, check out our study on underwear hygiene and eco-friendly ways to clean clothing.

You just woke up and are deciding what to wear today. After opening your top drawer and grabbing your favorite pair of underwear, you notice a small hole forming in the front — uh oh.

What do you do? Continue wearing it, try to fix it, or get rid of it?

Whether due to the shame surrounding intimate articles of clothing or other cultural norms, we don’t often hear Americans talking about their underwear habits.

We were curious about these habits — specifically the habit of wearing underwear with holes — so we polled 1,000 Americans to see what percentage of Americans wear or have ever worn holey underwear.

Here’s a summary of what we found:

• 74% of Americans have worn holey underwear.
• 40% of Americans still wear underwear with holes.
• Men and women wear holey underwear almost equally.
• 37% of Americans cited apathy as a primary reason for wearing holey underwear.

If you have a habit of wearing holey underwear, don’t panic. Our findings should put your fears to rest, as you’ll likely realize you aren’t the odd one out, after all.

Nearly 3 in 4 Americans Have Worn Underwear With Holes

If your friends and family have told you that they’ve never worn holey underwear, there’s a pretty good chance they’re lying — a whopping 74% of respondents reported having worn underwear with holes. Only 25% of our respondents claimed that they have never thrown on a pair of torn underpants.

Of course, not all of our respondents who have worn holey underwear still do. What you may find even more shocking is how many people continue to wear them.

40% of Americans Still Wear Underwear With Holes

Waste not, want not — right? At least, that seems to be what close to half of the American population thinks when it comes to underwear with holes. 40% of respondents claimed that they currently wear underwear with holes, whether that be all the time or only sometimes.

Are you already picturing the type of person you think would fall into this category? Maybe a college-aged guy with a messy dorm? You may be surprised to hear that at least one-third of respondents in nearly every generational demographic still wear holey underwear.

When compared to the percentage of people who wear holey underwear from all cohorts (40%), slightly more people aged 18-34 currently practice this habit (47%).

That said, with nearly one-third of people over 65 admitting that they still wear underwear with holes, there’s a decent chance that some senior people in your life — even your parents and grandparents — are wearing holey underwear at times.

Men vs. Women: Who Wears Holey Underwear More?

If you’re still picturing a man when you think of the population of holey underwear-wearers, it’s time to think again. The results actually don’t differ much at all by gender, with men and women wearing and having worn holey underwear almost equally.

In fact, women are actually about 2% more likely to still wear underwear with holes — a great reminder that gender stereotypes aren’t always accurate!

Why Do Americans Wear Holey Underwear?

Habits don’t make a whole lot of sense until we understand the reason for having them. So why do Americans wear holey underwear so often? When asked about the most valid reasons to wear holey undergarments, the responses we received reflected some common trends from the past couple years.

The simple answer? People just don’t care — 37% of respondents claimed that apathy, or not caring that underwear has holes, is a perfectly valid reason to wear holey underwear.

Sounds a lot like the pandemic life we’ve all learned to live with, right?

To confirm this trend, only 7% of respondents claimed that saving hole-less underwear for special occasions is a good reason to wear holey pairs for daily use.

Whether this is due to an increase in intentional dating during the pandemic or less dating altogether, one thing’s for sure — most people don’t care much about the structural integrity of their underwear, even on special occasions.

Over Half of Americans Wouldn’t Judge Their Partner for Wearing Holey Underwear

Now imagine your romantic partner habitually sports underwear with rips and holes — is it a dealbreaker? For 53% of the U.S. population, it isn’t.

These respondents claimed that they either definitely or probably wouldn’t judge their partner for wearing holey underwear — data that aligns with the pandemic’s intentional dating trend. People care more about the person inside the undergarments than the undergarments themselves.

However, this data does skew a bit by gender. Compared to women, men are over one-third more likely to “definitely not” judge their partner for wearing underwear with holes and over two times less likely to care about how often their partner wears underwear with holes.

Millennials and members of Gen Z also stand out as more opinionated cohorts when compared to the population at large. 17% of millennials claimed that they “definitely would” judge their partner for wearing holey underwear, compared to an average of 10% across all generational cohorts. That’s nearly three-quarters more millennials taking this stance than the average American.

Further, members of Gen Z are nearly four times more likely than the average American to judge their partner depending on how often they wear holey underwear.

Should You Throw Away Underwear With Holes?

So we’ve established that the average American isn’t too bothered by holey underwear. Does that mean you should never get rid of your favorite tattered pair?

Our answer: It depends.

If the holes are small — about 2-3mm across — and you’re handy with a needle and thread, you can try to sew them up. If the holes are bigger than that, sewing them probably isn’t reasonable and you should consider disposing of them in an eco-friendly way and replacing them with a new pair.

Proper Underwear Care

While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with small holes in underwear, they can grow bigger and compromise the garment’s structural integrity. To make your underwear last, you should know what causes holes and how to prevent them.

How Does Underwear Get Holes?

Underwear isn’t exposed to the elements like our outerwear, so how does it develop holes? There are a few common reasons your underwear might be getting worn out and tearing.

• Poor fit: If your underwear is a size or two too small, the waistband and fibers can stretch. Too much stretching can compromise the integrity of your favorite briefs, causing holes to form.
• Dryer damage: Repeatedly exposing fabric to high temperatures is bound to cause damage over time. While dryers are efficient, they aren’t always kind to clothing — especially clothing made of thin or delicate fabrics.
• Friction: Underwear rubs against our skin when we move. This causes friction that wears out underwear fabric. Over time, that fabric frays and makes it much more susceptible to holes.
• Doing their job: Underwear has a big job — adding a protective layer between your skin and the rest of your clothes. Humans aren’t always perfectly clean, and underwear sacrifices itself for the protection and cleanliness of our clothing. Unfortunately, over time this results in literal wear and tear, ultimately damage to our briefs. But rest assured — it’s natural!

How To Prevent Holes in Underwear

While it’s normal for underwear to wear out over time, special care and thoughtful decision-making can preserve your existing pairs for longer than average. Investing in the right underwear alone makes the risk of holey underwear significantly lower.

• Wash after each use: It’s a fact of life — underwear gets dirty. When left unwashed, that dirt can start to erode your underwear, resulting in holes. To keep this from happening, be sure to wash your underwear after you’ve worn it. If possible, avoid wearing the same pair for multiple days.
• Use a plant-based detergent: Many laundry detergents use harsh chemicals to clean your clothes. Skip the detergents with unnatural ingredients and instead keep your eye out for plant-based options that will be gentler on your clothes.
• Air-dry your underwear: If you want your nicest pairs of underwear to last years, you might consider hanging them up and air-drying them after each wash. This prevents them from being worn out by the high temperatures of a dryer.
• Invest in high quality underwear: It can be tempting to spend as little money as possible on your underwear, but low quality fabrics will wear out quickly. If you’re looking for something that’s built to last, check out our Apollo collection. It’s been rigorously tested for enhanced durability, showing no holes or tears after 100,000 rounds of applied friction.

How To Sustainably Dispose of Holey Underwear

Whether the holes in your underwear have made them unwearable or you’d just prefer to swap them for newer pairs, it’s important to dispose of your old underwear sustainably. Here are some options:

• Donate: If you take the time to sew up small holes and the rest of the fabric appears to be in fine condition, you can donate your underwear to people in need. Some great organizations to check out include USAgain, I Support the Girls, and Planet Aid.
• Recycle: If your underwear is worn and torn beyond repair and you doubt any donation facility will accept them, a textile recycling facility likely will! These organizations keep textiles out of landfills and break them down to be used again. Check out TerraCycle and the Council for Textile Recycling for some textile recycling opportunities.
• Compost: Composting isn’t just for food scraps — you can also throw old underwear into the mix! Just make sure your underwear is made entirely of natural fibers like cotton, linen, or hemp. If the waistband is elastic, remove it before composting.
• Repurpose: Underwear is made of fabric, and fabric can be used for all kinds of projects! Consider turning your holey underwear into a dust rag or stuffing it into a pillow that could use some extra fluff.
• Make crafts: Let your artistic side shine by transforming your scrappy underwear into something fun and beautiful! Try stitching (clean) underwear together to create a makeshift bandana or an abstract art piece.

Don’t be ashamed of your holey underwear habits — embrace them! There are plenty of valid reasons to wear underwear with holes every once in a while. Should you feel ready to depart from your favorite pair of tattered briefs, there are also plenty of eco-friendly disposal options available to you.

When you do decide to replace them, be sure to upgrade to the very best underwear we have to offer.

Methodology

The survey featured in this post was conducted on YouGov Direct. One thousand U.S. adults ages 18 and older were surveyed February 8 between 11:50 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Eastern time. Data is weighted on age, gender, education level, political affiliation and ethnicity to be nationally representative of adults 18 and older in the United States. The margin of error is approximately 3.1% for the overall sample.

If you’ve recently explored the men’s underwear section to find the ideal pair, you may have felt overwhelmed by the number of styles that are available to choose from. If so, you’re not alone. Today, there are more men’s underwear types than ever before – so many, in fact, that we created a comprehensive guide to help you understand each one.

This guide will describe each category and sub-category of men’s underwear, explaining the pros and cons of each style as well as what activities they were made for. We’ll even help you decide what bottoms to pair them with!

What’s the Best Underwear for Men?

With so many men’s underwear styles on the market, the art of how to choose underwear may have you scratching your head. Don’t panic – the best underwear for men is whatever best fits your own lifestyle.

Do you prioritize comfort or appearance? Breathability or snug fit? Do you prefer minimal coverage or total coverage? It’s okay if you don’t know the answers to these questions yet. As you explore this guide, pay attention to what speaks to you and what doesn’t, and you’ll have the perfect pair in no time.

10 Men’s Underwear Types

We’ve separated 10 types of men’s underwear into the following categories:

1. Briefs
2. Boxers
3. Long Underwear
4. Sports Underwear
5. Cheeky Underwear

If you already know what category you’re interested in, feel free to skip right down. Happy hunting!

Briefs

While men’s briefs used to be dominated by the infamous “tighty whities,” today they are perhaps the most diverse category of men’s underwear, boasting several different styles and variations.

1. Boxer Briefs

Since their introduction in the 1990s, boxer briefs have quickly become supremely popular among men of all ages. While the fabric used in their design varies from brand to brand, they tend to include a comfy blend of cotton and spandex. They come in low-, mid- and high-rise lengths, each of which have their own ideal bottoms to match:

Low-rise brief:

Wear them with: Shorts, low-rise jeans, workout pants

Coverage level: Moderate-slight coverage, moderate-full thigh exposure

Best for: Everyday wear, working out

Mid-rise brief:

Wear them with: Jeans, dress pants, board shorts

Coverage level: Moderate coverage, some thigh exposure

Best for: Everyday wear

High-rise brief:

Wear them with: High-waisted pants

Coverage level: Full coverage

Best for: Everyday wear

Our Second Skin boxer briefs demonstrate the stylistic versatility of the boxer brief, available with both 6 and 8 inch inseams depending on your preferred fit.

2. Trunks

Trunks are essentially a cross between a brief and a boxer brief. They are very similar to boxer briefs in style, though they tend to be more square-cut and lack the heap of fabric that boxer briefs have. Trunks have been gaining increasing popularity over boxer briefs as a result of their comfort and versatility.

Our Cool Cotton Trunk boasts not only the stylishness of the square-cut design, but also supreme breathability to keep you cool and comfortable.

Wear them with: Shorts, casual wear

Coverage level: Moderate coverage, some thigh exposure

Best for: Long days at a desk, warmer weather

3. Micro Brief

If you’re looking for a little extra exposure and flair, the micro brief might be for you. Also known as the male bikini or the European brief, the micro brief’s side seam is about an inch deep or less.

Wear them with: Shorts, casual wear

Coverage level: Slight coverage, significant thigh exposure

Best for: Casual activities, warmer weather

4. Hipster (Square-Cut) Brief

The hipster brief, also known as the square-cut brief, is very similar in style to men’s trunks. It offers a modern, low-rise look and is great for men looking for something more stylish and sexy. Since it’s more high-riding, you may want to invest in a hipster brief made of a particularly comfortable material for daily use, such as our second skin.

Our 2-inch Square Cut brief demonstrates just how alluring and comfortable the hipster brief can be.

Wear them with: Shorts, casual wear

Coverage level: Slight coverage, moderate thigh exposure

Best for: Casual activities, warmer weather

Boxers

Boxers are one of the most classic styles of men’s underwear. As opposed to briefs, they tend to be made of a stiffer fabric and include a balloon seat, or a section of loose fabric at the back of the underwear that provides space for the wearer’s buttocks. While briefs stretch, boxers provide extra space with their balloon seat design. Boxers also often come with highly elastic waistbands.

5. Boxer Shorts

Boxer shorts are probably the first image that comes to your mind when you think of the word “boxers.” While they peaked in popularity back in the 1920s, they’ve made a comeback in recent years not only because of how affordable they often are, but also because of their breathability and relaxed fit.

That said, boxer shorts aren’t very snug, so you may want to pursue other options if you’re looking for something that offers more support.

Wear them with: Long pants (casual or dressy), longer shorts

Coverage level: Full coverage

Best for: Lounging, light activity

Long Underwear

Whether you live in a region prone to freezing temperatures or are just planning a trip to the mountains, you may want to invest in some long underwear. While most underwear styles are quite versatile, long underwear tends to be strictly used in cooler climates, offering extra warmth and coverage.

6. Long Johns

Commonly used by men who work outdoors in the cold, long johns are a classic for anyone who needs an extra thermal layer. This style of underwear has even been repurposed in recent years to serve as loungewear. Since it’s sold quite seasonally, you’ll want to grab yours as soon as the weather starts to cool down.

Wear them with: Warm long pants, ski pants, jeans

Coverage level: Full coverage

Best for: Cold weather, mountain sports, lounging

Sports Underwear

If you’re looking for something comfortable and supportive that’s great for running, working out and playing sports, you may want to invest in some sports underwear. As you’ll see, these styles vary drastically in appearance, but they were all designed with an active wearer in mind.

7. Hammock Pouch Briefs

Have you ever wondered if you should try the increasingly popular hammock pouch? If sport leggings provide too much coverage for your taste but you still want extra breathability and support, hammock pouch briefs are for you. With a style similar to boxer briefs, these sport briefs are designed for maximum comfort when exercising, preventing chafing, sticking or swinging as you move.

Wear them with: Sport shorts, sweatpants

Coverage level: Full coverage

Best for: Working out, playing sports, hiking, high-intensity activities

8. Jockstraps

Originally used for biking and other high-intensity sports to keep genitals cool, dry and tightly supported, the jockstrap has become a popular underwear type for activity and style alike. It’s similar in appearance to the tanga brief on the front and sides, but with total exposure in the back (aside from buttock straps) for maximum breathability.

Wear them with: Tight compression shorts

Coverage level: Minimal coverage, total buttock and thigh exposure

Best for: Biking, playing sports, high-intensity activities

Men’s Cheeky Underwear

While options for men’s cheeky underwear may be less commonly known than options for women’s panties and types of bras, there are certainly playful styles available for men to try out! If you’re exploring men’s sexy underwear options, consider the styles below.

9. G-Strings

G-strings or thongs are basically as close as you can get to going “commando” while still wearing underwear. They are designed with a thin piece of fabric that connects the front pouch to the back of the waistband up the middle of the buttocks. If you want maximum breathability, a G-string may be right for you!

Wear them with: Casual shorts and pants

Coverage level: Minimal coverage, total buttock and thigh exposure

Best for: Everyday wear

10. Cheeky Briefs

For a little extra “cheek” exposure, consider a pair of cheeky briefs. They’re designed like classic men’s briefs but with less fabric on the lower back side – a great halfway point between briefs and a G-string.

Wear them with: Casual shorts and pants

Coverage level: Minimal coverage, full thigh and some buttock exposure

Best for: Everyday wear

Best Material For Men’s Underwear

Men’s underwear comes in all types of fabrics, each of which offers its own benefits. We’ve reinvented common fabrics, designing underwear that’s as lightweight, breathable and versatile as possible to help men feel their very best at all times.

Cool Cotton

For a breathable, fast-drying material that’s perfect for everyday use, check out our Cool Cotton collection. Made with Pima Cotton, this fabric will keep you feeling 2-3x cooler than regular cotton on warm summer days.

Second Skin

As the name suggests, our Second Skin collection is designed to feel like it was made to be on your skin. It’s soft, smooth, and made from a non-pilling micro modal fabric. You also don’t have to worry about your underwear getting bunched up, as it’s designed to stay put throughout the day.

Air Collection

Take advantage of maximum breathability and comfort with our Air collection. Not only is it as light as underwear fabric can be, but it’s also fast-drying and anti-microbial. It’s just about as close a feeling to going commando as you can get!

360 Sport

For a material that won’t ride up as you work out yet still provides necessary support for movement, try on our 360 stretch fabric. In addition to offering mesh cooling zones, this collection prevents chafing and rubbing no matter how much you move. As important as it is to thoroughly wash your underwear, our anti-microbial technology will keep you from smelling while you finish your workout.

Men’s Underwear: FAQs

Hopefully, this guide has demonstrated that men’s underwear is pretty diverse in style. Having some questions after taking in all this information is to be expected. Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions so that you can slip into the best pair for you!

What are Men’s Underwear Cuts?

Men’s underwear cuts are another way of phrasing men’s underwear types. There are several different underwear cuts (as you can see above), the most popular being:

1. Briefs
2. Boxers
3. Boxer briefs
4. Trunks

How to Choose Men’s Underwear Size?

For the best fit possible, we recommend checking out our underwear size chart, which includes detailed steps for how to measure yourself.

What Is the Flap in Men’s Underwear For?

People frequently ask, “what is the hole in men’s underwear for? And what’s it called?” The hole in your boxers is technically called a fly, but it has also been given nicknames such as the “air hole” and the “pee hole.”

Essentially, the flap in men’s underwear provides men with extra crotch space, breathability and accessibility to use the restroom, eliminating the need to untuck and re-tuck a shirt.

How to Wear Men’s Underwear Properly?

How men wear their underwear largely depends on personal preference, but it also depends on the type of underwear worn. High-waisted briefs, for example, should be worn as the name indicates – high on your waist.

Chances are, you’ll want to avoid underwear that’s too small or tight, underwear that lacks good airflow and underwear that allows for too much contact, which could result in chafing. Ultimately, what’s most important is that you wear your underwear in whatever way feels most comfortable.

After learning so much about men’s underwear styles, you’re probably itching to find your next pair. Refresh yourself on our fabric guide and start exploring the best underwear for your lifestyle.

To help move your search along, remember to check out Tommy John’s wide variety of boxer briefs, trunks and square-cut briefs below.

Have you ever been told to take a deep breath after becoming visibly anxious around peers or loved ones? Chances are, you have.

As you likely already know, controlled breathing is an incredibly powerful tool that can help us relax and focus. It’s so powerful, in fact, that many cultures have developed morning breathing exercises to help remain present and calm throughout the day.

You don’t have to be a mindfulness expert to practice morning breathing exercises. Anyone can use these techniques to improve bodily and mental health.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to create your own breathing practice and provide some exercises to get you started. Let’s hop out of bed, stretch, and get our zen on.

What Is a Morning Breathing Practice?

A morning breathing practice is a routine completed before starting each day dedicated to practicing mindful breathing. What differentiates the breathing we do all the time from a mindful morning breathing practice is intention.

We naturally breathe passively, but we must practice mindful breathing actively.

Many breathing exercises fall under “pranayama,” a set of breathing exercises that are a core part of the traditional yoga practice. Pranayama is all about controlling the body’s life force and achieving a greater sense of awareness. The term is often simplified to the phrase “breath control.”

You can practice morning breathing exercises standing up, sitting down, or lying down — whichever position makes you feel the most centered and comfortable. Each session can last as long or as short as you like — you can even make it a one-minute ordeal!

Why Practice Morning Breathwork? 4 Breathing Exercise Benefits

If your goals for practicing mindful breathing aren’t the same as everyone else’s, that’s okay! There are a wide variety of ways to integrate the practice into your life and reap its mental and physical rewards. Let’s take a look at a few of these benefits.

1. Relieves Stress

In addition to their mental and emotional stress-reducing abilities, breathing exercises help you control your body’s physiological responses to stress. For example, breathwork has been tied to lower blood pressure and increased oxygen levels.

Not only do these exercises relieve stress while you’re practicing them, but they provide you with a sense of control over your body and your stress response throughout the day.

2. Induces Relaxation

By turning your focus to one simple activity — breathing — you’re giving your mind a break from all the stimuli usually racing through it. Much like we do when we lie down for some beauty sleep, we’re communicating to our bodies that we’re ready to rest.

3. Energizes Mind and Body

Breathing exercises aren’t all used for winding down and relaxing — many are great energizers! Of course, the type of energy they provide isn’t to be mistaken for anxious or hyperactive energy.

When done right, breathing exercises should wake up your brain and prepare your body for movement while still giving you a sense of peace and confidence. You’ll enter your day feeling clear-headed and ready to accomplish your goals.

4. Promotes Awareness

At the core of pranayama and all breathing exercises is a greater sense of awareness. Breathing exercises are often considered a form of meditation, as they help us center our attention on the present moment. No past regret, no future anxiety — just our existence in the present moment.

How To Get the Most Out of Your Morning Breathing Exercises

Before you dive right in and start practicing, there are a few best practices you should keep in mind to make sure you get as much out of the practice as possible.

• Practice diaphragmatic breathing: Shallow chest breathing can contribute to higher anxiety levels — it’s the kind of breathing we do when we feel panicked. When practicing breathwork, focus on diaphragmatic breathing. You should feel your stomach rising and falling and will likely feel much more control over your breath.
• Minimize distractions: A distraction-free space will allow you to focus on your breathing without getting sidetracked. After curating an ideal physical space for your practice, try keeping your eyes closed throughout it.
• Be consistent: Set aside a specific time to practice your breathing exercises every morning. Sticking to a schedule will make it easier to follow through and reap the full benefits of your practice.
• Compare how you feel before and after: It’s much easier to see how the practice is impacting you when you remember how you felt before starting and after you’ve completed a session. Consider using a journal to help keep track of this.
• Be patient: It’s okay if you don’t immediately connect with the practice. It can take several days and even months before you recognize what it’s doing for you. Keep trying new breathing exercises until you find the ones that work for you.

3 Breathing Exercises for Stress Relief

As we’ve established, breathing exercises can help regulate your body’s stress responses, releasing built-up tension. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a busy parent, try out the following breathing exercises that relieve stress before you start your day.

Belly Breathing

The belly breathing technique is a great way to practice diaphragmatic breathing, as it requires you to entirely focus on your diaphragm. It delivers the most oxygen to your lungs and helps relieve anxiety as well as symptoms of breathing illnesses (like asthma). You’ll find that many other breathing techniques model after belly breathing.

Follow these steps to learn how to belly breathe:

1. Get into a comfortable position (preferably sitting or lying down).
2. Rest 1 hand on your abdomen (right under your ribs) and the other on your chest.
3. Inhale through your nose, pushing your belly out as you do so. Look down and make sure your chest is not moving.
4. Purse your lips and slowly exhale, as if you were blowing out a candle. Once you exhale completely, use your hand on your belly to push out any remaining air.
5. Repeat this process 3-10 times.

Three-Part Breath (Dirga Pranayama)

The three-part breathing method is a natural progression from belly breathing. The three “parts” of this exercise refer to the three parts of your abdomen that your breath enters: the lower belly, the lower chest, and the lower throat.

Regularly practicing this technique can help keep chronic stress under control and minimize the risk of panic attacks. Here’s how the three-part breath is done:

1. Inhale through your nose, only expanding your belly to do so. Once again, keep your chest still.
2. Exhale through your nose, using your abdomen muscles to push all of the air out of your lungs. Imagine your belly button touching your spine.
3. Inhale through the nose again, expanding both your belly and your rib cage.
4. Exhale through your nose, tightening your muscles to release all air from your rib cage and abdomen.
5. Inhale through the nose once more, this time expanding your belly, your rib cage, and then your upper chest. You should feel your entire abdomen, from your belly to the base of your throat, expand with air.
6. Exhale fully, until you’ve released all air from your body.
7. Repeat the entire process 2-5 times.

Clearing Your Head

If you struggle with “tech neck” or tend to sleep on your neck wrong, this is the exercise for you. It’s great for both relieving neck tension and letting overwhelming thoughts go. This exercise begins with neck rolls — if you feel pain at any point during the exercise, pause and consider seeing a doctor.

Here’s how to perform the “clearing your head” breathing exercise:

1. Rest your head in front of you, with your chin nearly touching your chest.
2. Slowly move your head counterclockwise, or up and to the right. Inhale as you move your head, until your head is tilted back and you’re looking toward the ceiling or sky.
3. Slowly return your head down and to the right (the same direction you came from), exhaling along the way. Release all air from your lungs by the time your head is back in front of you.
4. Repeat the exercise, this time moving your head clockwise (up and to the left, then back again).
5. Continue this exercise 3-5 times, or until you feel limber and calm.

3 Breathing Exercises for Relaxation

Another popular reason to practice breathing exercises is to integrate them into a meditative practice or a relaxation ritual. Yoga instructors often guide their students through them to encourage a sense of inner peace.

While you may not feel the need to relax right after waking up, starting the day with these exercises will help you stay relaxed once you’re faced with the day’s responsibilities.

4-7-8 Breathing

4-7-8 breathing is another exercise that builds from belly breathing. This exercise is great practice for controlling the speed, force, and movement of your breath. As a result, it’s perfect for anxiety management and rest.

The following steps will help you get started with 4-7-8 breathing:

1. Rest 1 hand on your abdomen (right under your ribs) and the other on your chest.
2. Inhale slowly using your diaphragm, counting to 4 in your head as you do so. Aim to fill your lungs completely by the time you count to 4.
3. Hold your breath as you mentally count to 7.
4. Count to 8 in your head as you slowly exhale. Aim to control how much air you’re releasing so that your lungs are empty by the time you count to 8.
5. Repeat several times, or until your mind and body feel relaxed.

Roll Breathing (Abdominal Breathing)

Roll breathing is another technique focused on paying careful attention to the rhythm of your breathing. After some practice, it should help you improve the strength and oxygen capacity of your lungs. This exercise will help you master deep breathing, a helpful technique for relaxation and anxiety relief.

To practice roll breathing, try the following:

1. Place your right hand on your chest and your left on your belly. Pay attention to how they move throughout the exercise.
2. Start by practicing belly breathing — only let your belly rise as you inhale through your nose, filling your lower lungs. Exhale through your mouth.
3. Before continuing, be sure you feel comfortable with the motion in step 2. We recommend practicing this step at least 5-10 times.
4. Inhale into your lower lungs again, raising your belly, but this time continue inhaling air into your chest. Notice your left hand rising then your right hand following.
5. Slowly exhale through your mouth and make a whooshing sound, as if you were creating a small breeze. Imagine all the tension leaving your body with the whoosh.
6. Practice this exercise for several minutes, until you feel confident you can do it without instructions. This is a great technique to have in your toolbox whenever you feel tense or anxious.

Box Breathing (Sama Vritti Pranayama)

Also known as square breathing or equal breathing, box breathing is known to balance your body’s energy and induce calmness. Check out our box breathing printable to help guide you through the practice as you get started, or reference the steps outlined below:

1. Place 1 hand on your chest and the other on your belly. This time, you’ll only want to feel your belly rise.
2. Inhale through your nose as you count to 4.
3. Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
4. Slowly exhale out your mouth for another 4 seconds.
5. Repeat this exercise as many times as you need to feel calm.

3 Breathing Exercises for Energy

You may want to learn morning breathing exercises to wake up and start the day feeling energized. If you aren’t naturally a morning person but want to begin your day on a productive note, the following exercises were made for you.

Morning Breathing

As the name suggests, this exercise is designed to be done as soon as you hear the birds chirping at the rising sun. It relieves muscle tension, opens up your breathing passages, and gives you the energy you need for the busy day ahead. Unlike the other exercises we’ve seen, this one requires you to start from a standing position.

Introduce morning breathing into your routine with the help of the following steps:

1. Stand with your knees slightly bent.
2. Bend your body forward at the waist, letting your hands dangle to the floor.
3. Inhale slowly as you return your body to a standing position. Your head should be the last part of your body to reach an upright position.
4. Remain standing and hold your breath for 3-5 seconds.
5. Exhale slowly as you bend forward again, returning your body to the lower position.
6. Repeat this exercise until you feel loose and refreshed.

Ocean Breathing (Ujjayi Pranayama)

Up until this point, we’ve been focusing on the chest and belly. This next technique requires you to shift your focus to your throat. Ocean breathing is known to warm and energize the body. It also helps calm the nervous system and relieve any feelings of frustration.

To give ocean breathing a try, follow these steps:

1. Practice breathing normally through your mouth for a few deep breaths.
2. Breathe in through your mouth, filling your lungs.
3. Slightly constrict your throat as you exhale. Notice the soft hissing sound you make as you do so. It should feel like you’re trying to fog up a window and sound similar to Darth Vader.
4. Practice inhaling without constricting your throat then constricting as you exhale.
5. Once you feel comfortable with the constricted exhale, try constricting your throat slightly as you inhale as well. This should make a sound that mimics the ocean — this is where the technique gets its name.
6. Practice inhaling and exhaling like this through your mouth.
7. Once you feel comfortable with this motion, begin breathing through your nose rather than your mouth, continuing to constrict your throat for both the inhale and exhale. You should still be making a similar ocean sound with your breathing.
8. Continue practicing these steps until you feel energized and comfortable with the technique.

Skull Shining Breath (Kapalbhati Pranayama)

Also known as the breath of fire, the skull shining breath is perhaps the most energizing breathing exercise you can do. It is traditionally practiced to purify the mind and improve lung capacity. We recommend sitting up with a straight spine for this exercise.

Here’s how to start practicing the skull shining breath:

1. Rest 1 hand on your stomach.
2. Take a deep breath through your nose, feeling your abdomen rise.
3. Contract your belly on the exhale, pushing your breath out of your mouth in a short burst, as if you were blowing out a candle.
4. Relax your abdomen and breathe normally.
5. Repeat this exercise until you feel mentally and physically invigorated.

Morning breathing exercises are a great way to begin the day mindfully. Whether your goal is to relieve stress, kick back, or enhance your productivity, there are exercises for everyone.

If you’re ready to take your mindful breathing journey to the next level, grab some comfy pajamas and download our infographic on morning breathing exercises below.

Are you struggling mentally, physically, or even emotionally? It's completely normal! We're only human, after all. This is where a self-care day can make all the difference to your physical and mental health. In fact, there is even a Self Care day (June 24th) dedicated to the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and taking care of yourself through a self care routine. Keep in mind, however, that self-care is essential year-round to make a genuine impact on your wellbeing.

According to medical experts, implementing self care ideas just once a week is an excellent start in the beginning — Self Care Sundays are particularly popular — but you should consider adding more practices to your daily ritual as you're more aware of how you feel and what you need. This includes facials, extra sleep, kicking back with a book, meditating, painting, and, more importantly — doing what you love while getting cozy in your favorite loungewear set after a long day.

What is the purpose of loungewear, and why should you invest in a set? Here is everything you need to know about essential loungewear for self-care days.

What is loungewear?

First and foremost, what is loungewear? Loungewear is casual clothing that not only makes you comfortable but is also appropriate for in and outside the home. From sweatpants or lounge pants to comfy shorts, it's a versatile look that keeps you comfy when relaxing at home while also being appropriate if you have to leave the house for a quick errand, much-needed brunch, or some ice cream to top off your self-care day.

It's a great alternative to jeans and dresses because it allows you to wear your clothes loosely with ultimate comfort while still looking trendy. On the other hand, sleepwear or pajamas — which offer the same fabric comfort level — wouldn't be appropriate for stepping outside to get some sun and meditate or do yoga. It can also hold you back from getting the day started.

Loungewear, however, is the perfect attire for a self-care day that requires a host of your favorite activities without the limitations of looking like you just got out of bed to start the day.

What are the essential loungewear pieces for at-home self-care?

Loungewear is far from just self-care attire, but it's essential for a day of finally putting you and your comfort first. After all, not every day is fit for formal wear. You can still look like you just walked out of a trendy catalog without squeezing into a tight dress or stepping into a glamorous pantsuit.

Jogger and tee set

A jogger's slim leg design combined with a synch just at your waistline and ankles allows you to pair these pants with a loose-fitting shirt to create a chic look. Take, for instance, the Women's Zee Waffle Tee and Women's Zen Waffle Jogger. The design is trendy, while the material has quick-dry fibers to keep you warm and prevent overheating, a cozy texture on the inside, and a crew neck that offers a more relaxed fit. It's perfect for a day in, doing only things that make you happy and increase your wellbeing.

Hoodie

Hoodies are perfect for winter days and those chilly spring and fall breezes. Even better, they can also be flattering despite the stigma of being too bulky that surrounds them. The key is to toss aside those men's hoodies and grab yourself a set of your own. Zen Waffle Hoodies are a popular choice because they're paired with side pockets and quick-dry fibers.

Crew Neck Sweatshirt

A great alternative to hoodies is a crew neck sweatshirt. If you're looking for something warm, form-fitting, and comfortable, this is the route you'll want to go for your at-home self-care routine. All the best ones are soft, tagless, and stretchy — bringing all the benefits of loungewear without sacrificing a cute style. What's more, it's a casual style that can complement most casual styles, from jeans and joggers to leggings and shorts.

Lounge Shorts

For those self-care days when the sun is out, and the heat has increased, jean shorts don't have to be your only option outside of sleepwear. Lounge shorts offer the same chic look with enhanced comfort and stretchy material that can accommodate anything from meditation and yoga to cuddling up on the couch to read your favorite book or magazine.

How about loungewear for an out-of-house spa day?

Are you considering a day out at the spa for self-care instead? We've got the essentials for that too. Loungewear comes in a variety of options, so you can mix and match your looks to fit the occasion.

Loungewear isn't just sweats, hoodies, and tees! You can be comfortable in an assortment of loungewear styles that can look like you spent the whole day getting ready without actually spending much time at all.

Here are the most popular mens loungewear pieces for an out-of-the-house spa day to inspire your next spa day look.

Lounge Romper

This summer staple has quickly become a hit for optimal movement and versatility when you want something stylish like a dress but appropriate for activities like biking, stretching, and of course — a spa day that requires easily getting in and out of your clothing for the appointment. A lounge romper, for instance, makes your spa-day outfit quick and easy to assemble, adjustable at the waist to encourage only the most comfortable fit, and has soft and smooth material to support more relaxation.

Lounge Jumpsuit

If you're looking for something similar to a romper for your spa day and just as easy to get on and off, the lounge jumpsuit is another great option for self-care days out. It has the same versatility, adjustable waistline, one-piece ensemble, and seamless flow. The most significant difference, however, is in the leg length, design, and jogger-style fit. Choosing between the two can be difficult, but it mainly depends on whether you're looking for a look with shorts or long in the legs. Both can be perfect in the summer since the material is breathable, making you look stylish while beating the summer heat by staying cooler despite rising temperatures.

Leggings

Leggings are always going to be a loungewear staple because they carry the benefits of highlighting your unique form, like a nice pair of jeans, without restricting your flexibility and comfort. There's a reason leggings alone are a billion-dollar industry in the U.S. Women everywhere are prioritizing their comfort when heading out of the house, especially if your destination is a spa. When you pair it with a Lounge Henley that's tagless for more comfort, you have the ultimate spa-day outfit for self-care.

Your bra matters!

Although you won't find bras when shopping for loungewear attire, they're an important piece to consider. A lacy bralette and pushup may complement your style for a night out. However, a self-care day requires lounging in a wireless triangle bra, cotton wireless bra, or scoop neck bralette for optimal comfort and support.

Can loungewear pass off as casual wear?

The good news is, yes, loungewear can pass off as casual wear. This is what makes it such an incredible addition to self-care days. Getting out of your pajamas in the morning is an important step to getting your days started. It's motivating, lifts your mood, and even makes you feel better if you're starting the day off rough.

The downside to getting out of your sleepwear, however, is slipping into something that's too tight or restricting — even if it's one of your best outfits. Some days, particularly self-care days, call for a more laid back attire that matches the plans you have set for the day

Enter: loungewear.

It's the most popular casual wear style among some of the biggest celebrities like Katie Holmes, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Nelly Makdessy, Riham Ayman, and many more.

Beauty is NOT pain anymore

For decades, if not centuries, women have been subjected to the concept that "beauty is pain," and you just have to deal with it if you want to look trendy. However, times are changing and fashion is putting an end to it, highlighting a new concept: beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and styles.

Like Amy Carlson once said so inspirationally, "I like clothes that are easy to wear. I like to be comfortable and confident. When people have an inner sense of confidence, they're more beautiful."

For self-care day, in particular, this means a collection of everything from joggers and crew neck sweatshirts to lounge rompers and jumpsuits. Tommy John understands how important it is for you to take care of yourself in order to properly take care of others or succeed in your career. You also might be wondering, “What is athleisure?”. We’ve got you covered! Shop our latest Women's Loungewear & Pajamas collection to find your perfect attire for Self Care Sundays (and more!).

Sources:

• Medical experts: https://www.everydayhealth.com/self-care/#:~:text=If%20you're%20just%20beginning,practices%20when%20you're%20ready
• Clinically proven: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/2022/03/how-and-why-to-practice-self-care/#:~:text=Engaging%20in%20a%20self%2Dcare,relationships%2C%20and%20recover%20from%20setbacks
• Billion-dollar industry: https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2019/3/28/18285843/leggings-controversy-history-notre-dame-tights-not-pants
• Amy Carlson quote: https://www.picturequotes.com/i-like-clothes-that-are-easy-to-wear-i-like-to-be-comfortable-and-confident-when-people-have-an-quote-863264

Why Do People Wear Loungewear?

It is the end of yet another long day of work and you have finally arrived back at your home after fighting traffic to get there. You are tired and ready to unwind. Before you can do so, it is necessary to think about the clothing that you have on your body. If you don't focus at least a little of your attention on what you are wearing, then you are never going to get comfortable enough to truly unwind the way that you would like to. The attire that you put on for work just isn't going to cut it, and that is why you may reach for what is known as loungewear.

What Are The Upsides of Loungewear?

One of the unintended consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic was that most people spent a lot more time at home. While dealing with lockdowns and a general fear of the spread of disease, many people began to look inward and try to decide how they wanted to take care of themselves. This even included how they would like to dress in order to be as comfortable as possible. This sparked the explosion in the popularity of loungewear.

A few of the reasons why loungewear has skyrocketed in popularity include:

• More brands are starting to produce their own versions of men’s loungewear and women’s loungewear
• The clothing is relatively affordable on almost any budget
• Though it is primarily targeted at women, men can also enjoy loungewear selections created just for them
• Society is starting to accept the loungewear trend more and more
• The work-from-home movement has fueled the demand for comfortable clothes

You have to admit that it is nice to know that there is always something in your closet that you can reach for that you know will keep you comfortable. As more and more people experience the work-from-home lifestyle, they will continue to push the demand for comfortable, casual clothes through the roof.

Can You Wear Loungewear In Public?

It would be a major embarrassment for many people if they were told that something that they had been wearing out in public was meant only to be worn at home. This might be the case with women's pajamas or lingerie, for example, but it appears that loungewear threads the needle between comfortable private and public clothing.

Something that customers really seem to like about loungewear is the fact that it is versatile in terms of when and where it can be worn, similar to athleisure wear. If you’re curious on what is athleisure wear, you can also read our related article to find out more. Loungewear in particular, hits that perfect balance between being just comfortable enough to be relaxing for wearing around the house, but also being fashionable enough to wear in public.

To be fair, loungewear is not something you would want to wear to an extremely formal event. It doesn't quite hold up enough for something like that, but it will do quite well in most other circumstances. Examples of places in public where loungewear is completely acceptable include:

• Dog parks
• Airports
• Grocery stores
• Libraries
• Outdoor gatherings
• Most restaurants

Society has moved on from the stuffy ways of years past and accepted that people are going to wear clothing that is comfortable for them the vast majority of the time, even in public.

Can You Wear Loungewear To Bed?

We take great pride in every piece of loungewear that we design here at Tommy John because we want it all to serve our customers in the ways that they need it to. One of the most important things that loungewear can do for its owner is provide them with something comfortable that they can wear to bed, and even consider as essential loungewear for self care days. In fact, one of the pieces of feedback that we often receive from customers is that they sincerely appreciate the fact that they can wear our loungewear to bed. They don't even have to change into pajamas or alternative sleepwear at the end of the day!

Loungewear is made from various materials, but they are all meant to be comfortable, flexible, and breathable. Here are some common soft fabric types that are found in popular loungewear:

• Cotton - Many types of clothing are made from cotton because it is soft, breathable, and relatively inexpensive. Loungewear made from cotton can be sold at a price that is affordable for the customer, and that is a big deal when trying to get garments out to customers that they gain tangible benefits from. On top of this, cotton is easy to clean, so garments made from this may be cleaned time and time again without losing much of their luster and value.
• Silk - Draping oneself in silk has long been the ideal way to end your day. It is soft to the touch and generally very lightweight. This is particularly desirable in the summer months when outdoor temperatures can get very high. It is always nice to know that your loungewear will keep you cool even in the midst of all of that.
• Linen - Loungewear made from linen materials typically has a shine to it that other materials simply do not provide. Thus, it is the perfect material to use for loungewear that needs a specific design or pattern to it. Linen also dries faster than cotton and is more breathable in most cases. It is a wonderful material to use for women's loungewear that is meant to be worn to bed.

Is Loungewear The New Substitute For Pajamas?

Not necessarily!

Getting cozy in our pajama sets before snuggling into bed is a tale as old as time, and there’s no sign people are ready to completely retire their PJs in favor of bedtime loungewear anytime soon. There are some practical reasons why you’re best off saving your loungewear for the daytime and wearing your PJs to bed:

• Keeping your loungewear fresh – Most loungewear you can wear to a yoga class in the morning and a happy hour in the afternoon. That said, putting on your favorite loungewear ensemble for the Sandman may wear out your ensemble for daytime activities. Sleeping in loungewear may lead to wrinkling and the ordinary wear and tear that attends those 6-8 you spend at rest. PJ’s on the other hand, are perfect for a good night’s sleep. Whether flannels, cotton briefs, or spandex, the material pajamas are made of are designed to be low-maintenance to accommodate any tossing and turning you’re doing at night.
• Helping you stay at a perfect temperature – Whatever the season, and whatever climate you live in, pajamas are built for breathability. The looser fit of PJs allow for maximum comfort and more airflow as you snooze. Opting for PJs instead of sweaters and sweatshirts at bed time may mean you’ll stay cooler throughout the night—a recipe for higher-quality Zzs.
• Good habit-forming – Developing a wind-down ritual is elemental for sleep hygiene. When we take our daytime loungewear to the bedroom, we send our brains mixed signals about what time of day it is, which can ultimately mess with our sleep cycles. Stocking up on a few dreamy pairs of PJs help us relax into our bedtime mindset and build supportive habits for our sleep hygiene.

Think of it this way: your choice of pajamas reflects the most essential, unguarded version of you. Loungewear, on the other hand, reflects the personality you’d like to convey to others. Where loungewear is extroverted, pajamas are introverted. Loungewear expects an audience, while pajamas keep things close to the vest.

Both outfits help you find your comfort zone, but only one of them (pajamas) keeps that zone a world of your own—and, in the end, both of them deserve a place in our dressers.

What Are Lounge Pants Used For?

One sub-category of loungewear is lounge pants, and they are more commonly targeted to men, though anyone can certainly wear them. Lounge pants are more specifically used for enjoying a comfortable day lounging around the house. They are not meant to be worn out into the broader world.

Lounge pants are perfect for weekends when you intend to stay home and perhaps catch up on some chores or maybe your favorite streaming television shows. Whatever the case may be, you know that you can rely on lounge pants to provide you with the comfort that you need for enjoying the time that you need to spend at home.

Perfect For The Work-From-Home Lifestyle

Some people like to joke that when you work from home you don't even have to wear pants! That may technically be true, but most people will still wear pants to keep themselves comfortable and to adhere to at least some social convictions. That said, they don't necessarily have to wear the stiff and uncomfortable pants that are typical of many office environments. Instead, they can wear lounge pants that keep them comfortable (and fully clothed!) while they are working away on their computers at home.

Tommy John Continues To Expand Its Loungewear Offerings

The loungewear market is continuing to expand at this time. Tommy John is aware of this trend and is working diligently to ensure that we produce the latest trends in fashion and comfort. The patterns, styles, and designs that we produce are highly praised by our customers, and we believe that they are the best in the industry. If you have been craving the ability to be comfortable both in your home and also in the outside world, we strongly encourage you to take a look at our offerings and see if there are pieces of loungewear that are right for you. We continue to work on creating the kind of pieces that our customers long for, and we would love to hear your feedback on what we have available now.

Sources:

Cleveland Clinic. What’s the Best Temperature for Sleep? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-the-ideal-sleeping-temperature-for-my-bedroom/

As Father’s Day approaches, the inevitable hustle and bustle of planning commences. If your usual golf-themed “Happy Father’s Day” card is feeling below par this year (and you’re not sure if your dad even likes golf), mix it up with a personalized activity that speaks to his interests and conveys how much you appreciate him.

For that, we have you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through six father’s day activities and suitable apparel to gift your dad to make his special day one to remember.

1. Make it a Movie Day

Sometimes the most special days are the ones where the whole family gets the chance to simply relax and spend quality time together. Make this year’s Father’s Day into a mini staycation for Dad and spend a cozy day (or night in) with his favorite movies, board games, and snacks.

Pop some homemade popcorn and pick up some of his favorite movie candies for an easy, fun home theater experience.

For a few dad-approved movie celebrations, consider the following themes:

• Star Wars – Grab a few Baby Yoda cupcakes, put on some loose clothing, and lose yourself in the epic original trilogy for seven hours of lightsaber battles, deep-voiced villains, and awe-inspiring Jedi.
• James Bond – Elevate your night with a marathon of James Bond’s greatest feats. Dress in your classiest attire, pour Dad a vesper martini, and hunker in for action-packed duels and nail-biting escapes.
• Comedy Night – If your dad would rather spend the night chuckling at ridiculous escapades, fill movie night with flicks starring Will Ferrell, Jim Carrey, and Steve Carell. You can even bring a few whoopee cushions into the mix.

Once the credits roll, pull out some board games to get your family’s competitive spirit going. Keep it on theme or try a game that’ll get everyone working together, like Pictionary, Charades, or childhood favorites like Sorry or Go Fish.

Dad-Approved Gifts: Make your Dad’s movie night celebration a comfortable one with ultra-soft Lounge Joggers and a Lounge Hoodie. Can also be a great day gift for dads who love watching movies at any time!

2. Tap into Your Crafty Side

Looking for things to do for Father’s Day? Working on a craft or home project together is the perfect chance to bond with your dad and let him share a few skills in the process.

If the dad in your life already has a passion project, strap on your overalls, lace up your most comfortable boots, and get ready to spend the day bonding over shared stories and noisy tools.

For fresh crafting inspiration for Fathers Day activities, why not try:

• Painting a birdhouse and mixing custom birdseed
• Making a kite out of newspaper
• Building model airplanes
• Watercolor painting or sketching at one of Dad’s favorite spots

Dad-Approved Gifts: When it comes to manual labor, your dad’s clothing choices come down to safety and comfort. Have him unwrap the Luxe French Terry Paint and the Second Skin Long Sleeve Crew Neck Tee before heading out to the garage.

3. Spend Time in Nature

Come June, flowers are in full bloom, the sun is shining brightly, and outdoor spaces abound with active families. Get in on the fun this Father’s Day with a memorable outdoor adventure that prioritizes quality time above all else, such as:

• Hiking
• Mountain biking
• River rafting
• Water skiing
• Playing football at the park
• Camping

With over 6,000 state parks across the country, you and your dad are bound to find somewhere beautiful to spend the day. Planning an overnight camping trip for Father’s Day weekend? Our packing list for the tent usually looks something like this:

• S’mores fixings and a pack of Dad’s favorite local brews for a post-hike refresher
• A pair of our SleekHeat Long Johns for chilly campsite nights
• A deck of cards for fireside entertainment, complete with Dad jokes

Dad-Approved Gifts: Make sure Dad is properly outfitted for your expedition. Celebrate Dad and gift him breathable and stylish hoodies like the Luxe French Terry Hoodie. These are the perfect addition to cool summer nights. For the day, fit your dad in a pair of comfortable Luxe French Terry Shorts.

4. Volunteer Together

Share the love this Father’s Day with your community. Start the day with a delicious breakfast buffet, then head to a charity that speaks to your dad. Potential volunteer activities for you and your dad may include:

• Serving lunch in a soup kitchen
• Picking up litter
• Walking dogs at an animal shelter
• Running a toy or coat drive
• Hosting a bake sale or car wash and donating the proceeds to a nonprofit

Dad-Approved Gifts: For a professional setting, have your dad pull up his sleeves in the Second Skin Long Sleeve Comfort Polo. Or, opt for the Second Skin Moroccan Tee for more relaxed work. Share tips on how to wear a polo so your dad is extra confident in his new outfit.

5. De-Stress and Decompress With a Spa Day

Sometimes, being a dad can be tough. In between school drop-offs and game day carpools, there’s little time to sit back and relax with a cold (perhaps, fruity?) drink. Give your dad a chance to slow down with an all-encompassing spa day that includes:

• Cucumber facial
• Clay face mask
• Manicure and pedicure
• Nutritious smoothies
• Scented candles

You can also opt for calming activities like a massage or a meditation practice. Getting in some light, low-impact exercise can also help your dad decompress.

Dad-Approved Gifts: Join Dad for a scenic walk or a long yoga session paired with a Zen Ribbed Sweatshirt & Jogger Pack.

6. Treat Dad to Breakfast in Bed

Fill your dad’s morning with a mouth-watering breakfast buffet in bed. After he hits the snooze button for the final time, gather your family to parade in an assortment of breakfast-in-bed treats like juicy sausages, homemade pancakes, fresh hash browns, and custom-made omelets.

Dad-Approved Gifts: He’ll love having a lazy morning wearing his new Second Skin Luxe Rib Tee & Pant Sleep Set, and enjoying plenty of family fun.

Make His Day This Father’s Day With Tommy John

Traverse this next Father’s Day in style with Father's Day celebration ideas and gift ideas that are sure to make him smile.

Whether your dad is all about crafts or ready to hit the trails, Tommy John has everything he’ll need to feel comfortable and stylish this Father’s Day. Visit our men’s collection today to score Dad the best in underwear, loungewear, and pajamas.

Treat Dad or any father figure in your life to something special at Tommy John.

Sources:

Attractions of America. 25 Best State Parks in the US. https://www.attractionsofamerica.com/travel/best-state-parks-united-states.php

As a guy, you probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about your underwear. Sure, you have your preference when it comes to briefs, boxers, or that infamous hybrid, the boxer brief. But most mornings, you probably just grab whatever’s clean and handy.

But when you’re hiking, you shouldn’t be as easy going when it comes to covering up. There’s a reason they call it braving the elements: you and your underwear need to be ready to withstand the rugged terrain and inclement weather that are part and parcel of the great outdoors.

So whether you’re exploring the mountainous regions of the 100-Mile Wilderness or spending the day conducting outdoor research at the nearest forest preserve, here’s what every man should consider before choosing the best hiking underwear.

Choose the Right Fabric

When it comes to hiking underwear, men’s bodies require three things:

• Breathability
• Comfort
• Support

If you want to cosplay as Daniel Boone or Davy Crockett, your hiking underwear should promote movement while still holding everything in place. But most of all, your men's underwear should keep you cool, dry and can hopefully withstand odor.

That means your standby cotton or wool drawers probably won’t cut it. Feel free to go all-natural when it comes to your power snacks and protein bars—but for your undies, opt for a synthetic fiber, like nylon, polyester, rayon, or a blended synthetic fabric.

Why? Because when you’re hiking, the right synthetic material is:

• Breathable
• Moisture (moisture-repellent & quick drying)
• Durable

With our comfortable, lightweight Air Mesh fabric and innovative pouch to keep you secure, Tommy John’s Air Hammock boxer briefs offer premium support and breathability. Fast-drying, anti-microbial, and fitted with a quick-draw horizontal fly for when nature calls, they’re the best men’s underwear for hiking.

Choose the Right Underwear Style

As much consideration as you put into your hiking pants, hiking socks, or rain jackets, fabric is only the first thing you should consider when you’re choosing your hiking underwear. Next, you need to decide on a style. For most men, that means choosing between three usual suspects:

• Men's Briefs
• Men's Boxers
• Men's Boxer briefs

Whether you go with the freedom of a boxer short, the structure of briefs, or the middle ground of a boxer brief is up to you—the best men’s underwear for hiking is the pair you feel most comfortable in.

That said, each style comes with pros and cons that can influence your decision and your wilderness fun. Here’s what you should know.

Briefs

Basic briefs can be the perfect hiking underwear for men who prize maximum support and minimal coverage. They cradle your manhood without giving your thighs unnecessary coverage.

• Pros – The support that comes with a well-fitting pair of briefs can help protect your tender regions from pain and injury caused by unexpected shifting and movement.
• Cons – Briefs leave your thighs exposed, so if you’re prone to rubbing or chafing, it might be best to avoid them. Additionally, if you find briefs to be too constricting on a regular day, you’re not likely to enjoy the feeling anymore when you’re dodging woodland obstacles or trekking up steep inclines.

Looking for a pair of briefs to keep you cool and collected on your next hike? Tommy John’s Air Briefs combine our lightweight, Air Mesh fabric with the comfort and control you expect from your favorite briefs.

Boxers

If you’re a guy who needs a little more freedom below the waist, a good pair of boxer shorts might be the best men’s underwear for hiking.

• Pros – Longer and looser than briefs, boxers can provide extra coverage for your thighs and upper legs. This can help prevent the chafing that can occur during long hikes. In cooler climates, this may also help you stay warm below the waist.
• Cons – Although all that extra fabric can be nice, too much can result in extra sweating. Moreover, it can lead to bunching and shifting, making your shorts more of a nuisance than a benefit.

Boxer Briefs

On a hike, boxer briefs can be a man’s best friend. They’re the perfect cross between the support of a brief and the freedom of boxers without the negative qualities of either.

• Pros – Boxer briefs give you the support of traditional briefs without the discomfort that can come from constricting gussets, inseams, and leg openings. They can also help keep your skin from rubbing together.
• Cons – Although there isn’t as much extra material as boxers, what’s there can still contribute to extra moisture and irritation at the seam if your skin is sensitive to fabric textures.

Tommy John’s Air Boxer briefs with a hammock pouch combine breathability with support for a pair of underwear that you can take into the woods.

Tommy John: Your Hiking Companion

Whether you choose briefs, boxers, or boxer briefs, the best mens hiking underwear are ones that keep you comfortable, supported, and free from mid-hike chafing.

When you need a pair of underwear to keep you functional, cool, and dry, you need Tommy John. All of our men’s underwear offers the barely-there comfort and adjustment-free function that every man needs, no matter what adventure or hiking trip is coming his way.

Shop now!

Sources:

Walking the Parks. Best Mens Underwear for Hiking – No more Stink and Chafing! https://walkingtheparks.com/best-mens-underwear-for-hiking/

Polo shirts are a classic look for summer and a must-have staple of any man’s wardrobe. Lightweight and breathable, they’re a cool, warm-weather alternative to long sleeve button-downs. Plus, they’re casual enough for a cookout and can easily be dressed up for special occasions.

In fact, for such a simple garment, you might be surprised by how many ways there are to style a polo shirt.

Want to know how to wear a polo shirt no matter where your summer takes you? Keep reading for five ways to stay fresh.

What is a Polo Shirt?

To track the origins of the modern polo shirt, you have to go back to the 19th century. Back then, Polo-playing members of the British Navy wore shirts with unique collars that could be buttoned down so that they didn’t flap around during gameplay.

Nowadays, however, it takes more than a special collar for a shirt to classify as an authentic mens polo shirt. You know you’re looking at the real thing when it has:

• A welted collar – These collars feature ribbed fabric and a smooth, finished edge. Polo collars can hold their position when you flip them up, which is ideal for shielding the backs of sun-sensitive necks.
• Short sleeve with welted cuffs – Although the original polo featured a long sleeve, contemporary versions usually end near the middle of the upper arm. Like the collar, the sleeve cuffs are welted.
• Welted bottom cuff – Welting is the name of the game when it comes to polos, so expect to see this technique used on the bottom hemline of your shirt as well. Additionally, some polos have a tail of a couple of inches, which helps keep the shirt in place if you decide to wear it tucked in.

That said, the criteria have loosened up over the years. Nowadays, you’re likely to find polo shirts with a breast pocket, with or without buttons, and in a range of materials, from cotton to knitted fabrics to silks and beyond.

Why Your Wardrobe Isn’t Complete Without a Polo Shirt

For men, there aren’t very many clothing items that are as perfect for spring and summer as the polo shirt. Polos combine the comfort and breathability of a t-shirt with just a hint of a button-down’s formality.

Admittedly, it’s the collar that is mostly responsible for elevating this simple look. There’s just something about a shirt with a collar that’s a little more dressed up than one without. That’s why polo shirts are just as popular at summer weddings and private yacht parties as they are at boozy beach Bacchanals—they’re the obvious choice if you want to achieve a clean-cut, polished look that won’t leave you overheated in the summer like a dress shirt.

Plus, polos are incredibly versatile shirts. No matter your vibe, polos are the perfect match for all of the other styles you rock all season, like:

• Jeans (skinny jeans , denim jeans, etc.)
• Chino trousers or shorts
• Shorts
• Sweatpants
• Sandals
• Tennis shoes
• Loafers
• Espadrilles

All of which is to say, if you don’t already own a polo shirt for men, you’ve got some shopping to do.

How to Style a Polo Shirt: 5 Ways

Now that you’ve added this essential piece of clothing to your wardrobe, it’s time to talk about how to wear a polo shirt. Yes, polos are simple shirts that look good pretty much on their own, especially if you go for one that has stripes, prints, or other design flairs. Wearing a polo outfit can be as simple as grab-and-go.

Here are five ways to style a polo shirt for men.

#1 The Laid Back Guy

Our first tip is for the guy who’s so laid back and loves his loungewear. If that’s you, we know you’re way too busy catching a vibe to think too deeply about what you're wearing. Wondering how to style a polo shirt for a look that’s as chill as you are?

Go with the Laid Back Guy look.

This classic, super casual look comes together with about as much fuss as you can muster—which is to say, the bare minimum. Simply start by pulling on your polo-of-choice. Then, go ahead and pair it with your favorite summer shorts. Depending on how casual you want to go, you can choose from:

• Chino shorts – Wearing a polo with flat-front chino shorts is a timeless, streamlined look for summer. Khaki or navy blue shorts are the go-to choices, but colors like green, yellow, or salmon can keep you from looking like you just got out of school.
• Denim shorts – Loose-fitting, light-wash denim jeans plus a polo shirt, especially in colors like pink, light blue, or greens, equals a quintessential laid-back look circa the early 2000s—and it’s a clever way to tap into current trends without looking like you meant to.

And when you have no other choice but to dress for dinner, just swap out your shorts for chino pants, a nice pair of jeans, or a suit pant for a more presentable but still laid-back look.

#2 The Nautical Guy

Ever since humans first learned how to build boats, people have been fascinated with sailing the open seas. But even if you’re not charting unknown waters, you can still capture some of that seafaring adventure by dressing the part.

Meet The Nautical Guy.

You know The Nautical Guy when you see him. No swashbuckling pirate in buckskins, he represents everything that’s classy about being on the water, like elegant sailboats and cabins below deck. His look is distinguished for its:

• Nautical colors – When it comes to color, The Nautical Guy follows one simple rule: match the ocean. That means blue or white polos that match the sea, sky, and clouds, tucked into khaki shorts. A brown leather belt completes the look.
• Boat shoes – Also known as deck shoes, this iconic footwear has long been a popular land shoe as well. That said, their slip-safe rubber soles, water-friendly canvas or rubber bodies, and decorative laces still evoke the essence of the sea.
• Nautical accessories – From sailor caps and bucket hats to nautical-inspired jewelry or a sweater loosely tied over your shoulders, there are many easy add-ons to enhance your nautical look. Don’t be afraid to go for it.

#3 The Retro Guy

Although a polo shirt for men looks as fresh as ever in 2022, the look does have its place in history—making it the ideal summer shirt for the man who likes his fashion with an ample dose of nostalgia.

Enter: The Retro Guy, directly from the 1950s and 60s. When you pair your polo shirt with pleated trousers in a natural earth tone and a pair of loafers, you open a portal to the middle of the last century and unlock an ensemble that’s both timeless and unique.

You can really lean into this look by:

• Opting for a slightly raised waist
• Adding an extra-thin belt
• Wearing your polo over an undershirt

#4 The Dapper Guy

If there’s one thing that The Dapper Guy knows, it’s how to style a polo shirt in a way that optimizes opulence but stays true to the shirt’s casual charm. From the office to the dinner party, The Dapper Guy is living proof that polos are versatile enough to play dress-up with clothes like:

• Suits – Polos look smart with a dress pant or suit, no matter the occasion. If the event isn’t super fancy, you can liven up your look by choosing a brightly colored polo that pops. Need something more formal? A black or white polo with a dark suit will do the trick.
• Blazers – Top your polo with a lightweight cotton or linen blazer and add a pair of chinos to emphasize the business casual or preppy angle.

You’ll sacrifice much of this look’s office-ready appeal if you slip on your beach thongs. To keep it nice, top it off with a good pair of loafers and maybe a watch. If you want to dress it down after work, you can trade your loafers for sneakers.

#5 The Half-Tucked Guy

You might not realize it, but a big part of styling a polo shirt for men comes down to the tuck. Going completely untucked is casual and low-key while tucking in your polo shirt projects a more conservative, dressed-up vibe—which is why your grandmother was always hassling you about tucking in your shirt.

The Half-Tucked Guy would drive your grandmother crazy—at first glance, anyway. Then he would probably help her with her crossword puzzle, come with her to BINGO night at the senior center, or do her yard work for her with that half-cocked smile like the mensch he truly is.

Instead of going all-in either way, he opts for the charming dishevelment of the half-tuck. You can be like Half-Tucked Guy by:

• Tucking your shirt in only in the back
• Or only in the front
• Or by tucking just a bit of it in on the side.

The Perfect Polo for Every Guy

With so many options for how to style a polo shirt, you’ll want to wear yours for a long, long time. When you shop Tommy John, you can rest assured that your shirt will hold up through all those costume changes.

Every Tommy John’s men’s polo shirt is made from specialized fabric that feels great and won’t pill, shrink, or fade, ensuring that your polo is there for your look and after look—no matter how many times you change it up.

Polo shirts can be incorporated into any special occasion, holidays, Father’s Day Activities, and more! Find your new favorite polo today and save 20%.

Sources:

Mr. Draper. The Essential Guide to Men’s Polo Shirts. https://www.mrdraper.com/blog/article/the-essential-guide-to-men-s-polo-shirts

The Trend Spotter. How to Wear a Polo Shirt (Men’s Style Guide). https://www.thetrendspotter.net/how-to-wear-a-polo-shirt/