Whether to wear boxers or briefs is the age-old question, but a third option, the jockstrap, is mostly overlooked. Jockstraps have been around since the 19th century, originally called the 'bicycle jockey', designed as upfront support for cyclists when pedalling over cobblestoned streets, and later used by men to protect themselves during contact sports.
Since then jockstraps have been reclaimed by the gay community, worn as a fashion accessory or a kink. However, jockstraps have a wide audience with men of all sexualities wearing a strap for sports, as part of their lifestyle or just to comfortably keep everything in place! This guide features a top ten of our favourite jockstraps available across Amazon, eBay and ASOS, for a functional pouch that'll have you looking and feeling your best.
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Table of Contents
You may have worn a jockstrap before or you might be totally new to the concept, but either way, it can help to have a strong idea of exactly what you're looking for. In this guide, we'll touch upon when and why you might want to wear a jockstrap, the style, size, and materials it will be made from, and how whether you'd like one or a multipack.
As mentioned above, jockstraps are worn for various purposes and reasons, so think about where you'll wear yours before buying. If it'll be worn during sports or exercise, consider buying a jockstrap specifically designed for athletics or including features such as a wide, stretchy belt for both support and ease of movement and a pouch made of a supportive yet breathable fabric.
For a fashion or lifestyle buy, it's all about your personal preferences and what makes you feel good, and there are lots of options out there for jockstraps in bright colours and designs. For jocks to impress, think Calvin Klein or Diesel, as any high calibre brand is often featured on the material.
A jockstrap can also keep you feeling supported day-to-day and there are products that make perfect basics featuring subtle designs in black, bottle green, or white. Branding may not be as important to you when looking for everyday underwear but comfort will be, and there are plenty of reasonably priced and form-fitting jockstraps on sites like ASOS.
The standard jockstrap design features a belt around your waist connected to a pouch, with straps on either side of your hips that connect underneath your rear. The standard style is popular because it offers unparalleled support, freedom, and comfort, but there are a couple of other variations on the style which may be of interest too.
The 'brief jock' is a jockstrap that is shaped like a pair of briefs on the front, instead of the classic and more compact pouch, which also has the usual straps on either side that connect underneath and leaves your seat bare. This could be a good option if you're new to wearing a jockstrap and want something a little more familiar, but regular jockstrap wearers might find the extra coverage to be restrictive.
Another option is the thonged back jock. Slightly blurring the line between a standard jockstrap and a thong, it has the belt and compact pouch but a thong strap to the back. Some will find it more comfortable and others more annoying, but thonged back jocks are usually more simply designed and affordable if you choose to go for that option.
One of the many great things about the jockstrap is that being a piece of sports equipment, it usually comes in a very inclusive and wide range of sizes. ASOS are some of the best when it comes to inclusive sizing, offering men's underwear from 2XS-4XL, and Amazon generally goes from small to XXL too.
Accessible and inclusive, wearing a jockstrap works for all shapes and sizes. We think this is a really helpful factor when it comes to choosing a strap for support.
There are many different materials used to make jockstraps such as; cotton, polyester, polyamide, nylon, rubber, and elastane. Many options are made from a blend of 95% cotton and elastane, which perfectly combines the hypoallergenic, breathable qualities of cotton with a bit of stretch and flexibility.
For a natural and more sustainable option go for organic cotton or BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) cotton which strives to make cotton production better for the people who produce it and better for the environment it grows in.
Sports-focused jockstraps are often made from blends with can include polyester, polyamide, nylon, or rubber. Polyamide is durable and stretchy, nylon is strong and tough yet lightweight, whereas polyester is moisture resistant and breathable — so all three synthetics make good fabrics for sports. Rubber is sometimes used in fabric blends that make the pouch, as it provides a more protective material.
If you're new to the game, you're probably in the market for just one jockstrap, so you can take the time to get used to the style and feel. However, if you're already sold on its benefits it's relatively easy to find multipacks of three, four or more across eCommerce sites.
Buying a multipack can make your purchase cheaper and better value, especially for sports-focused jockstraps that are more expensive than the basic, everyday ones. Another benefit of being a multipack is that they often come in assorted colours, to add a bit of fun to regular wear.
£26.00
Just like with their boxers and briefs, a Calvin Klein jockstrap is one of the most classic options out there. With CK's signature waistband, they'll look like the usual underwear when showing over the top of your jeans while the rainbow band adds an element of interest.
There's something about the simple, clean design that makes the straps seem even sexier, making this jockstrap well suited to daily or lifestyle wear. It's still great for sports too, which makes it our favourite option.
£27.00
When it comes to sportswear, Nike is simply the best, and this three-pack of Cotton Stretch Jockstraps don't disappoint. They have a basic everyday style without being in any way boring, and they're sure to become your go-to underwear.
The backless style, well-fitting design, and branded stretch waistband look and feel great whether you're taking part in sports or simply going to work. They are breathable, comfy, and the Nike branding is always iconic.
£10.99
Whether for MMA, basketball, or simply worn as part of your lifestyle, Arjen Kroos Athletic Supporter Jockstrap has got it. Simple, subtle, and stylish, this strap keeps everything comfortably in place, whatever you're doing.
The pouch is made from a blend of nylon, rubber, and cotton for a hardwearing yet breathable choice. The wide elasticated straps feel protective for a sporty strap that hugs your body and it comes in various colour and multipack options. Game on!
£31.00
Diesel has always been a brand that brings sex appeal, and their underwear is loved by both gay and straight men. Diesel's 'Only the Brave' slogan really translates to their bold, raw jockstrap range and these Umbr-Jocky Boxer Briefs are a true classic.
It's not the cheapest three-pack you'll come across, but you're paying for the bold Diesel branding that can't be imitated. When it comes to quality, the reviews say they stay soft and new after lots of washes and provide great support and value.
£7.80
JOCKMAIL is a company based in China with a focus on men's fashion and lifestyle, and their Athletic Jockstrap comes in a range of colours. We went for this bold orange shade which has a retro look and feel.
Featuring underwear created for Pride and with many products having bold, fun designs, the brand itself is aimed more in the direction of kink than sports, but with a fabric blend that has a great stretch, moisture absorption, and fast drying material, there's no reason why it shouldn't be worn on the pitch, court, or mat!
£15.99
Stripes make a stylish pattern when it comes to underwear, and when applied to the jockstrap stripes have a playful touch. This pack of four Cotton Jockstraps by Summer Code come in navy, black, red, and royal blue, which feels a little nautical.
Featuring the classic jockstrap design of straps framing the bottom, they are great for sports and the soft cotton keeps you cool and comfortable all day long. Blended with 5% elastane, they have the right amount of stretch too.
£6.00
Another responsible option available on ASOS, this jockstrap is made from BCI cotton. Sometimes there's nothing else for it but black, and this one is perfect if you like your underwear simple and without bold logos.
With an elasticated waist, strappy sides, and form-fitting cut this jockstrap is flattering and comfortable. It's also available in an extended range of sizing from 2XS to 4XL. Absolute bargain!
£9.50
Woah there, tiger! For a jockstrap that works for sports and exercise but also has bags of sex appeal, this Low Rise Jockstrap by Arjen Kroos is right up there. It seems to be more of a lifestyle item than one that is specifically aimed at sports, but there's no reason why it can't be worn for that too.
With loads of design options available, they all have bold lettering and come in bright colours which might not be to everyone's tastes. But this jockstrap offers a fashionable, fun look that's a little risqué for those who dare!
£15.00
Jockstraps usually have straps that go either side of the hips but this pack of 3 by ASOS DESIGN has a thong back instead. For those who do vigorous exercise, or don't like straps showing through their clothes, jockstrap thongs can be a good choice. However, the style isn't for everyone and some may prefer a standard jockstrap.
Coming in three shades; turquoise green, beige and black, these jockstraps are simple, slick, and supportive. Part of ASOS's responsible edit, they are made with BCI cotton which is breathable and stretchy.
£7.00
The only option on our list that features a brief front, the Brief Jock by ASOS DESIGN is an unusual hybrid. Featuring a monochrome spot print, it has a rather modest and unassuming look that would suit day-to-day wear.
The material is a lightweight and stretchy jersey with an elasticated waist which some will find really comfy. However, more coverage may not equate to more comfort for some who might find it restrictive or ill-fitting.
If you're here because you're on the lookout for the best sports and fitness items, then you've indeed come to the right place. We've ranked some other great athletics-related products for maximum gains, at the gym, on the field, or in the ring!
Whether you're casually browsing the internet or purposely looking for the perfect jockstrap, we hope we've found this article useful and enlightening. You may have thought of the jockstrap as a niche item, but as you can see, it's actually a versatile underwear choice to help you level up your sports performance, everyday comfort or just to feel great.
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