Underwear & Socks - Other

Ultimate Guide to the Best Men's Underwear & Socks Stores in the US

Introduction: Why your underwear and socks choices matter

Think of underwear and socks as the quiet workhorses of your wardrobe. They don’t get the spotlight, but when they’re right, everything else feels better — from comfort during a long day to confidence during a quick errand. Buying the right pairs is part fit, part fabric, and part brand focus. Whether you favor breathable cotton, moisture-wicking performance blends, or eco-friendly fabrics, the stores you choose can make a big difference. In this guide I’ll walk you through top US retailers for men’s underwear and socks, explain how to pick the right styles, and give practical tips so you spend less time guessing and more time comfortable.

How to decide what type of underwear to buy

Choosing underwear can feel like a science project, but it boils down to three questions: What fits your lifestyle? What fabric works best for your climate? And what level of support do you need? If you’re active, look for moisture-wicking and anti-chafe designs. For daily office wear, breathable blends and a smooth waistband are key. Sleep and lounging? Soft, airy trunks or boxers are winners. Think of underwear as performance gear — it’s not one-size-fits-all, so matching the cut (briefs, trunks, boxer briefs, boxers) to how you move is the smart move.

Top US stores for men’s underwear — standout picks

Here’s a curated list of reliable stores and brands you’ll find across the US market. Each of these names offers different strengths: classic styling, performance fabrics, budget-friendly basics, or sustainable production. I’ll spell out what makes each one worth visiting so you can shop smarter.

Calvin Klein — timeless classics and clean lines

Calvin Klein is synonymous with the clean, minimalist look that many men gravitate toward. Their underwear tends to focus on slim, modern silhouettes like trunks and low-rise briefs with a comfortable elastic waistband. Materials often include soft cotton blends and modal, providing a smooth feel under fitted trousers. If you want underwear that looks as good as it feels and plays well with fashionable outerwear, this brand is a go-to.

Tommy John — engineered for comfort and fit

Tommy John built its reputation on solving common underwear problems: bunching, rolling waistbands, and rides. Their designs often include a stay-put waistband and a no-roll leg finish. Fabrics blend performance fibers with a soft hand, and their ergonomic pouch designs provide targeted support. If you’re tired of adjusting throughout the day, a pair from this brand is worth trying.

MeUndies — bold patterns and soft micro modal

MeUndies is known for bright prints and incredibly soft micro modal fabrics that feel like a second skin. They tend to be a favorite for lounge and daily wear because of their silky texture and stretch recovery. Subscription options also make it easy to refresh your drawer regularly. If personality and softness are on your checklist, MeUndies brings both in spades.

Bombas — socks first, underwear strong

Bombas started with socks, and their obsession with comfort carries into underwear. Expect plush, breathable fabrics and details like seamless tags and engineered fit. Bombas also emphasizes social impact with a buy-one-donate-one philosophy. For buyers who want responsible brands with comfort-first design, Bombas strikes a nice balance between feel and conscience.

SAXX — for athletic movement and support

SAXX made a name with patented support pouches and motion-friendly designs that reduce friction and provide structure during activity. If you play sports, run, or just commute a lot, SAXX underwear can minimize chafing and keep things in place. Their performance blends are often constructed to wick moisture and dry quickly — a good option for active days or travel-heavy schedules.

Mack Weldon — tech-driven everyday essentials

Mack Weldon focuses on technically smart basics that simplify getting dressed. Expect pieces like anti-odor treatments, stretch recovery, and durable construction that holds up after many washes. The brand leans toward neutral colors and clean cuts, appealing to men who prefer a modern, understated wardrobe foundation.

Under Armour — performance underwear and socks

Under Armour brings well-known athletic tech to underwear and socks. Look for compression styles, performance boxer briefs, and athletic socks with targeted cushioning for running or training. If your day involves sweat or heavy movement, Under Armour’s fabrics and construction are built to keep you dry and protected from hotspots.

Hanes and Fruit of the Loom — budget-friendly classics

For no-frills reliability, Hanes and Fruit of the Loom remain go-to options. They offer basic cotton briefs, boxers, and value multipacks that are easy on the wallet and dependable for everyday use. These brands are widely available in stores across the US and are ideal when you need solid basics without a premium price tag.

Best socks stores and what to look for

Socks are as varied as underwear: dress socks, athletic socks, compression, and casual crew or no-show designs. Look for yarn quality, reinforced toes and heels, arch support, and moisture control. Here are a few stores worth checking depending on your need.

Bombas — cushioned comfort and social impact

Bombas deserves a second mention for socks because they perfected the fit and cushioning in crew and no-show options. Their socks include reinforced zones where most wear occurs, and the brand often offers merino blends and other high-quality fibers for temperature control. If you want socks that feel like they step up your comfort game, Bombas is a smart visit.

Darn Tough — lifetime guarantee and rugged use

Darn Tough makes performance socks suited for hiking, running, and everyday wear with a lifetime guarantee that’s unmatched. Their dense knitting offers durability and blister-resistant fit, and merino wool blends regulate temperature whether it’s warm or cool. These are the socks you buy once and expect to last, especially for outdoor-heavy lifestyles.

Gold Toe and Happy Socks — dress to express

Gold Toe focuses on dress socks with reinforced toes and longer-lasting blends, while Happy Socks leans into colorful patterns and personality. If you need dress-ready staples for suits or expressive pieces that peek out under a cuff, these brands cover both ends of the spectrum.

How to match underwear and socks to activities

Different days call for different fabrics and cuts. For workouts, pick moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester blends or technical microfibers with compression or supportive pouches. Long office days favor breathable cotton/modal blends with a smooth waistband to prevent digging under dress pants. Travel days demand quick-dry fabrics that won’t hold odors and can be washed in a sink. For socks, athletic activities benefit from cushioning and arch support, while dress situations call for thinner, finely knit socks that won’t bunch in shoes.

Fabric guide: what to choose and why

Fabric matters more than you might think. Cotton is breathable and comfortable for daily use but holds moisture, so it’s not ideal for heavy sweating. Modal and micro modal are silky, softer than cotton, and resist pilling. Merino wool is a powerhouse for temperature regulation and odor control — yes, even for socks. Synthetic blends like polyester and nylon add durability, stretch, and moisture management. Think of fabric choice like choosing a tire: some are built for everyday road trips, others for mud and mountain trails.

Sizing tips — getting the right fit every time

Sizing across brands can vary, so always check a brand’s size guide and, when possible, measure your waist in inches. Boxer briefs and trunks should fit snugly without riding up; briefs should offer full coverage without digging. Socks should have a firm but comfortable stretch and stay in place during movement. If you’re between sizes, consider how you prefer the fit — a tighter fit for active wear, a roomier fit for lounging.

Care and maintenance to extend lifespan

Simple care steps can extend the life of your underwear and socks. Wash on a gentle cycle using cold water and avoid high-heat drying when possible. High heat can degrade elastic waistbands and break down technical treatments. For delicate fabrics like modal or silk blends, use a mesh laundry bag. Treat stains promptly and skip fabric softeners on performance garments because softeners can reduce wicking ability. Think of care as small investments that keep your favorites performing longer.

Budget vs premium: when to splurge and when to save

Not every piece needs to be premium. Basics like plain cotton briefs and multipack socks from mass-market brands are fine for everyday rotations. Splurge on items you’ll wear constantly — premium boxer briefs with superior fit, performance underwear for workouts, or merino socks if you value durability and temperature control. A balanced drawer mixes staples from budget-friendly brands with a few high-performance or luxury pairs that make a noticeable difference.

Sustainable and ethical choices

If sustainability matters to you, look for brands that use recycled materials, organic cotton, or transparent manufacturing practices. Some companies offer take-back programs or clearly report their supply chain. Merino wool, Tencel, and recycled nylon are materials to look for if you want smaller environmental impact without sacrificing performance. Shopping with an eye toward sustainability is like choosing energy-efficient appliances — better for the planet and often better long-term value.

Where to buy in the US: online vs in-store pros and cons

Shopping online gives you more selection, subscription options, and easy access to user reviews to gauge durability and fit. On the other hand, in-store shopping lets you feel fabric and try on different cuts. Many brands offer free returns or trial periods online, which reduces the risk of buying the wrong size. If you prefer instant gratification and tactile selection, visit local department stores or brand shops. If you want variety and competitive pricing, online retailers and brand sites are often the way to go.

Final shopping checklist

Before you click “add to cart,” run through a quick checklist: check the fabric and its care instructions, confirm your waist and sock size in inches, read recent reviews for fit issues, and decide if you need moisture-wicking or thermal options. Also, think about how the piece will pair with your existing wardrobe — will it sit comfortably under slim jeans or dress pants? This simple habit will cut down on returns and make your drawer more functional.

Conclusion

Upgrading your underwear and socks isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest style and comfort investments you can make. From Calvin Klein’s minimalist lines to performance-focused brands like SAXX and Under Armour, and comfort-first names like MeUndies and Bombas, the US market offers options for every preference and budget. Match the cut and fabric to your daily demands, use the sizing tips and care advice above, and your essentials will not only feel better but last longer. Consider your habits, measure in inches, and shop with intent — your feet and waistline will thank you.