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Feeling comfortable starts from the base layer — your underwear and socks. Whether you’re hunting for breathable boxer briefs for everyday wear, cushioned running socks that’ll protect your feet on a long jog, or sustainable options that do right by the planet, the UK has plenty of places to shop. In this guide I’ll walk you through top stores like Lindex and RunningXpert, plus other reliable UK retailers, how to choose the right styles, and smart tips to keep your essentials lasting longer. Ready to upgrade what’s under your jeans? Let’s dive in.
Underwear and socks might seem small in the grand scheme of a wardrobe, but they influence comfort, hygiene, and even confidence. Think of them as the foundation of a house: a shaky foundation can make everything above creak. The right underwear prevents chafing, regulates temperature, and supports movement; the right socks protect against blisters, manage moisture, and add cushioning. Choosing wisely can mean the difference between a day of irritation and a day that feels like you can take on anything.
There’s a lot of choice out there, from high-street value to premium labels. Below are stores that consistently deliver on fit, fabric and selection, including what the HTML data highlights and other well-known UK options.
Lindex is known for its simple, stylish basics and has expanded into men’s underwear with pieces that focus on comfort and clean lines. Expect well-cut briefs and trunks that use soft cotton blends and fine-knits; these are great if you like minimalist designs that play well under tailored trousers and everyday jeans. If you prefer subtle patterns or muted colours, Lindex tends to keep things calm and wearable.
Marks & Spencer remains one of the go-to places in the UK for reliable underwear. Their ranges span budget-friendly multipacks to more premium cotton and modal blends. M&S often nails the balance between softness and durability, with fits available in waist sizes listed in inches and rise options that suit different body shapes. If you want everyday comfort that won’t let you down, M&S is a safe bet.
Next has a broad offering, from basic multipacks to designer-collab pieces. They’re a good spot if you like to mix practicality with a bit of style — think patterned boxer briefs or low-rise trunks that are perfect for casual wear. Next often carries full-size ranges in inches, so it’s easier to find the waist size that fits snugly without being tight.
ASOS is a great choice if you want variety and occasional fashion-forward underwear. The platform hosts many brands, including independent designers, which means unusual prints and slimmer fits. If you’re looking for both everyday essentials and statement pieces, ASOS’s selection is wide and easy to search by waist size in inches and fabric type.
For shoppers who prioritise quality over fashion fads, John Lewis stocks a curated selection of well-known underwear brands and premium cotton or modal options. You’ll find classic shapes with clear size guidance in inches and helpful descriptions of fabric weight and breathability, which is handy when you’re picky about how things feel next to your skin.
If you’re buying socks for sports, running, or long days on your feet, not all socks are created equal. The UK market has specialist stores that focus on performance features like compression, reflective detailing, and moisture management.
RunningXpert specialises in performance socks and compression gear designed for runners. From compression socks like Falke Ru4 Endurance to high-visibility running socks by Incylence, this kind of store focuses on tech features: graduated compression to aid circulation, reflective panels for night runs, and merino blends for temperature control. If long runs or frequent training sessions are part of your routine, your feet will thank you for shopping at specialist stores like this.
Decathlon is excellent for value-driven shoppers who still want technical benefits. Their running socks offer breathability and padding in strategic zones, and they usually show sock height in inches so you know whether you’re buying ankle, crew or calf-length socks. For those who want features without a huge price tag, Decathlon is a reliable pick.
Websites such as Wiggle cater to endurance sports enthusiasts and carry brands like Falke and CEP. If you’re tackling trails or long-distance runs, look for socks with reinforced heels and toes, plus compression levels measured in mmHg (millimetres of mercury); specialists usually describe these in detail and recommend suitable lengths in inches for calf coverage and support.
SockShop focuses entirely on socks, from dress socks to technical running pairs. You’ll find everything from merino wool everyday socks to cushioned trainers socks, with clear size guides in UK sizes converted to waist and foot lengths in inches. Their range is perfect if you want to compare styles and feel the difference between materials.
Fabric makes a huge difference. Cotton is breathable and comfortable but can retain moisture, while merino wool regulates temperature and resists odour. Modal and bamboo blends feel silky and cool, and synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon excel at wicking sweat away. For daily wear, a cotton blend often hits the sweet spot; for sweaty workouts, merino or synthetic blends are better at keeping you dry and blister-free.
Cotton is soft and familiar — the kind most people love. Look for combed or organic cotton for extra softness. Many high-street packs offer 100% cotton or blends with elastane for stretch, with briefs and trunks often listed by waist inches to help you find the right fit.
Merino is surprisingly suitable for both cold and warm conditions. It insulates when it’s cold and breathes when it’s warm, making merino socks excellent for long-distance runs or travel. Brands featured in specialist stores tend to offer merino socks with added synthetic fibres for durability.
Modal feels silky and drapes well, making it a favourite for underwear that sits smoothly under clothes. It also resists shrinkage and lasts longer wash after wash, which is why some premium brands use it for boxer briefs and trunks.
Style affects comfort. Briefs offer support with minimal fabric, trunks are like short boxers with a lower rise, boxers give breathability and a relaxed fit, and long johns add warmth when you need it. Pick the cut that matches your lifestyle: active types often prefer trunks or briefs for support, while those after lounging comfort might lean toward boxers.
Measure your natural waist with a tape in inches, or check a pair that fits you already and measure the waistband flat then double it. The ‘rise’ — distance from crotch seam to top of waistband — is usually listed in inches on some premium product pages; low rises sit 6–8 inches up, regular rises around 9–11 inches, and high rises are higher than that, depending on brand.
Don’t shy away from trying different cuts. Sizes can vary: a 34-inch waist in one brand might feel different in another because of the cut or fabric stretch. Ordering two sizes when you’re unsure and returning the one that doesn’t feel right is a good strategy if the retailer allows it.
Sock length ranges from ankle (about 2–3 inches above the shoe line) to crew (6–8 inches to the mid-calf) and calf-length (roughly 12–15 inches). Cushioning varies from light for speed to heavy for long-distance comfort. Compression socks are measured by mmHg and help with circulation; they can shorten recovery time and reduce swelling after long days on your feet.
If you stand for hours, fly long-haul, or have intense training sessions, graduated compression (measured in mmHg) can be useful. Mild compression around 15–20 mmHg is common for everyday circulation support, while athletic compression specifically designed for runners often focuses on calf support without being too restrictive.
Light cushioning is ideal for speed and racing, where you want a close connection to the shoe. Moderate cushioning absorbs impact during daily runs, while heavy cushioning suits long distances, hiking, or recovery walks. Think of cushioning like a car’s suspension — more cushion soaks bumps, less cushion gives a sportier feel.
More brands and retailers in the UK are offering sustainable collections — organic cotton, recycled polyester, and transparent supply chains. If sustainability is important to you, look for certified organic cotton, recycled-fibre labels and brands that publish factory information. Lindex and other Scandinavian-influenced brands often put sustainability front and centre, but many UK retailers now list eco-friendly lines clearly for conscious buyers.
Look for GOTS-certified cotton, recycled nylon or polyester, and responsibly sourced merino wool. These materials help reduce environmental impact and often improve longevity, so you end up replacing items less frequently — good for the planet and your pocket in the long run.
Multipacks are great for basics — they’re cheaper per pair and ideal for everyday cotton trunks or briefs. Splurge on one or two premium pieces made from modal or merino when you want extra comfort or durability. Neutral colours like black, navy and grey are versatile, but having a couple of fun prints keeps things interesting. Also, check whether a store sells replacements for worn-out items in the same range so you can maintain a consistent fit without a guessing game.
For basic daily underwear, value packs from mainstream retailers give excellent wear at a low cost per pair. Save premium purchases for underwear or socks you’ll use in specific situations — such as merino socks for travel or performance compression for training — where the features matter more.
How you treat your underwear and socks affects how long they last. Wash whites and colours separately, use gentle cycles, and avoid high heat when drying — excessive heat breaks down elastane and can shrink cotton. Air-drying preserves elastic and shape. Think of washing like gentle CPR: the gentler you are, the longer the garments live.
If a seam starts to come loose, a simple stitch can save a favorite pair. Rotate through several pairs to minimise wear on any single item — rotating like this spreads the load and can double the life of your wardrobe basics.
Building a functional underwear and sock drawer doesn’t need to be complicated. Start with a basic capsule: three pairs of well-fitting briefs or trunks in neutral colours, two boxer-style lounge pairs, three pairs of quality socks (one dress pair, one cushioned trainer pair, one merino or technical pair), and a pair of compression socks if you travel or stand a lot. That small collection covers most situations and keeps decision fatigue at bay.
Underwear and socks are small items that punch above their weight when it comes to comfort and performance. Use specialist stores like RunningXpert for technical needs, Lindex or M&S for trusted basics, and explore other UK retailers for variety and price. Know your waist in inches, pick the right materials for your lifestyle, and treat the garments gently — you’ll get more comfort and better value over time. Ready to make a few swaps? Your feet and your day will thank you.
