Underwear & Socks - Other

Top Picks and Buying Guide for Men’s Underwear, Socks, Supports, and Base Layers

Why the right underwear and supports change the game

Think about the last time a chafing seam ruined a long run or a chilly morning hike left you regretting your outfit choice. The right underwear, socks, and supportive accessories are the small pieces that make big differences—comfort, performance, injury prevention, and even confidence. Whether you’re chasing a PR, commuting in cold weather, or recovering from a minor injury, choosing the correct underlayer and support can feel like upgrading from standard to premium seats in the arena of daily life.

Key products to consider

There’s a surprising variety in the “underwear & socks — other” category, and it’s not just boxers and basic socks. Below are specific items that often appear on comparison lists and deserve a closer look based on use, material, and function.

Endurance Protech Neoprene Ankle Support — stability for running and training

If your ankles are finicky on uneven trails or you want extra reinforcement for lateral movement, neoprene ankle supports are a simple solution. Neoprene adds warmth to stiff joints while offering compression to reduce swelling. These supports slip on under shoes or over socks and are thin enough to fit inside many trainers. Think of them as a soft brace that helps keep the joint tracked while you put miles on the road or hit the gym.

Endurance Protech Neoprene Open Knee Support — comfort without bulk

Knee supports that are “open” at the patella reduce pressure directly on the kneecap, which is handy for runners or anyone who squats and jumps. The neoprene construction provides a balance of warmth and support while allowing Freedom Of Movement. If you’ve ever wished your knee brace felt less like armor and more like a helpful hug, this is the style to try.

CEP Compression Ankle Sleeve — performance compression for recovery

Compression sleeves from performance brands often use graduated compression to improve blood flow and speed recovery. A CEP ankle sleeve targets swelling after intense intervals and can reduce muscle vibration that might lead to fatigue. They’re slim, washable, and also work well when traveling—slip them on after a long flight or a hard workout for a faster three- to four-hour recovery window.

Carriwell Support Band (White, available in sizes like S and XL) — maternity and postpartum core support

Carriwell support bands are designed to ease lower-back strain and redistribute weight through the torso, which makes them popular in pregnancy and early postpartum recovery. A lightweight, breathable band can be a wardrobe-saver for daily tasks and light activity. Choosing the correct size is crucial: an S will be snug enough for smaller frames, while an XL offers broader coverage and lift for larger builds.

Underskirt — a layering trick for warmth and modesty

Underskirts aren’t just for formal wear—thin slip-style underskirts can add an extra layer of insulation without bulk, smoothing outfits and preventing cling on windy days. They’re great beneath dresses or longer shirts and can double as a noise-free layer under coats for colder months. For men considering long layers for warmth, think of underskirt-like base layers: simple, low-profile, and effective.

Long Johns in Merino Wool — the gold standard for base layers

Merino wool long johns are prized for being naturally insulating, odor-resistant, and comfortable next to skin. Unlike heavy cotton, merino manages moisture and temperature, keeping you warm when it’s cold and preventing overheating during activity. These long johns often come in a range of thicknesses and lengths; a midweight pair is versatile enough for daily wear and outdoor workouts. If you’re packing for a cold-weather trip, merino long johns are a compact, high-utility item.

Glorelle braided cord — small accessories with big utility

Items like a braided blue-and-white cord, roughly three feet three inches long, are the unsung heroes of clothing repairs and customization. Use them as drawcord replacements in hoodies or sweatpants, or as lacing for DIY projects. They’re cheap, surprisingly useful, and save you a trip to a tailor when a factory cord snaps at an inconvenient moment.

Other useful garments to round out your underwear drawer

Beyond the specific items above, there are other categories worth stocking based on your lifestyle: performance socks, seamless underwear, compression shorts, and moisture-wicking undershirts. Let’s break down why each matters and when to reach for them.

Performance socks — protect toes, manage sweat, prevent blisters

High-quality socks wick moisture away from skin and reduce friction in hot spots. For runners and hikers, socks with a thin merino blend or a synthetic wicking yarn will often outperform cotton, reducing blister risk and keeping feet drier on long days. Consider socks with targeted cushioning under the heel and ball of foot for added protection without bulk.

Seamless underwear and boxer briefs — comfort and invisibility

Seamless underwear reduces chafe and visible lines under slim pants. Boxer briefs with flat seams and a supportive pouch give daylong comfort for both desk work and active sessions. If you’re switching from traditional cuts, choose a pair labeled “seamless” or “laser-cut” and test how they sit when you’re both standing and seated.

Compression shorts — support for high-impact activities

Compression shorts offer a stabilized layer for thighs and groin, reducing muscle oscillation during sprinting or plyometrics. Look for a pair with flat seams and a waist that won’t roll. They’re also excellent as a base layer under loose shorts to prevent chafe.

How to choose the right support and underwear

Shopping for underlayers and supports can feel overwhelming, so focus on a few core criteria: fit, purpose, material, and care. Below are practical points to guide a smart purchase.

Fit — the single most important factor

Fit determines comfort more than brand or price. For supports, choose one that sits snugly without pinching circulation; you should feel supported, not restricted. For underwear and long johns, ensure seams sit flat and the waistband doesn’t dig. When in doubt, opt for a size that allows one finger to slide between support and skin—tight but not painful.

Material — match fabric to activity

Natural fibers like merino wool balance warmth and odor control, ideal for long johns and some socks. Neoprene works well for joint supports because it retains heat and compresses gently. Synthetic blends wick moisture fastest and dry quickly, perfect for high-sweat sessions. Think of material as a tool: pick the right one for the job.

Compression level — more isn’t always better

Graduated compression helps circulation, but overly tight garments can hamper comfort and movement. For ankle and knee sleeves, look for moderate compression for everyday training and firmer compression for targeted recovery sessions. If you’re unsure, try mid-level compression first and adjust based on comfort and recovery benefits.

Size guide and measuring — avoid guessing

Always check the brand’s size chart and measure where instructed: ankle circumference for sleeves, waist and hip for long johns, and underbust or waist for support bands. Measuring in inches makes comparisons straightforward and helps you order with confidence—especially when buying online or comparing several options.

Care and maintenance: keep performance long-term

Proper washing and storage prolong the life of technical fabrics and supports. Here’s how to look after the gear once it’s in your drawer.

Washing tips — gentle extends life

Wash neoprene supports and compression sleeves on a gentle cycle or by hand in cool to lukewarm water, then air dry. Merino wool prefers cold water and a mild detergent, and always avoid high heat in the dryer. Treat technical garments like delicate investments rather than disposable items.

Drying and storage — avoid heat and compression

Air drying on a flat surface prevents misshaping. Don’t store compression garments crushed under heavy items; instead, fold loosely or hang. Keep long johns and underskirts in a drawer that allows airflow to prevent mustiness.

Best combinations by activity

Layering the right pieces creates synergy: supports and underlayers working together outperform single items. Here are practical pairings for common scenarios.

Running and high-impact training

Try a midweight merino base layer if it’s cool, performance socks, compression ankle sleeve for recovery, and neoprene knee support only if you need extra stabilization. Lightweight, breathable underwear under shorts prevents chafe and lets you focus on pace rather than discomfort.

Cold-weather adventures

Merino long johns, a thermal undershirt, thicker wool socks, and a slim underskirt layer if needed will trap heat more efficiently than bulky outerwear alone. Add neoprene joint supports for those who find joints get stiff in cold weather.

Maternity and postpartum support

A Carriwell-style support band paired with soft, breathable underwear and a gentle base layer can reduce back strain while allowing mobility. Choose bands that sit under clothing discreetly for daily comfort.

Travel and recovery

Compression ankle sleeves are travel-friendly and help prevent swelling on long flights. Pack lightweight merino long johns or socks for freshness over multi-day trips without bulk, and bring a braided cord or spare drawcord for quick fixes—those small items save entire outfits in a pinch.

Common mistakes to avoid

People often pick the wrong size, buy the wrong material, or neglect care instructions—simple errors that shorten garment life and reduce benefits. Avoid these pitfalls by measuring, reading materials, and treating technical gear like performance gear, not normal laundry.

Where to compare prices and read reviews

Comparison sites and specialist review platforms are your friends when hunting for value. They let you examine specs, size guides, user feedback, and price trends side-by-side so you can make an informed choice without impulse buying. Always cross-check multiple reviews and check return options through the retailer before finalizing your purchase.

Final buying checklist

Before you click “buy,” run through this checklist: measure in inches, verify materials for your activity, pick the right compression level, read reviews for fit feedback, and note care instructions. A quick check of these steps ensures the gear you invest in really performs for your lifestyle.

Conclusion

Upgrading your underwear drawer and support kit pays off in comfort, performance, and fewer interruptions in daily life. From neoprene ankle and knee supports to merino long johns and simple braided cords, each item has a role—some to prevent injury, others to add warmth or repair a favorite garment. Choose pieces that match your activity, measure carefully in inches, and treat them with proper care, and you’ll notice the difference from the very first wear. Small changes in the base layer lead to big improvements in how you feel day to day.