Does underwear affect the size?

This debate has been doing rounds since the time underwear was invented. The ancient men wore loincloths as a cover-up to protect the genitalia.  Versions of loincloth were adapted by various civilizations throughout history, for better support and shielding. 

During the later periods, loincloth wrappings, langot, and breeches - a kind of long legging reaching down to knees were adopted by men. The modern avatar of the current underwear was designed in the 1930s, and there was no looking back since.

 Modern underwear provides closer support. The elastic waistband removes the need for drawstrings. This closeness to the skin and the reduced size of the underwear, compared to the older versions, has prompted the debate. After all, size is also linked to manliness and strength.

Numerous studies and researches have been conducted regarding this question. The conclusions overwhelmingly say that wearing underwear does not affect the size of your ‘package’. However, wearing a wrong fit and incorrect size leads to several issues.

Wearing the right size underwear

What happens if you wear too tight underwear? One of the main issues while covering up the groin area is the heating of the scrotum. The temperature of the testicles should be cooler than the body temperature. It is believed that constant heating and being squished may affect the production of sperm - quality and sperm count. Tight fitting underwear provides less space, producing heat and sweat. This, in turn, results in discomfort while wearing it and may also lead to itching, skin rashes, and allergies.

Wearing loose underwear will make you uncomfortable throughout the day since you will not get the required support. The fabric will bunch together giving a lumpy look to your pants, making you look shabby. The bunching will also produce sweat leading to skin irritation.

It is of utmost importance that you choose the right fit and size. A well-fitted and right size of underwear gives you the right support and protection you need from the upper layer of clothing. For choosing the perfect underwear for your body type, see here.

Choosing the right style

Type of underwear worn affects your looks, affecting your body size. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that you choose the right fit and style according to your body type.  A well-fitted and right size of underwear gives you the right support and protection you need. There are many styles available, common ones being briefs, boxer, boxer-brief, and trunks. A wrong style might make your torso bulge or highlight the slight disproportions of your legs and waist. Each style has features and suitability according to your body shape and size, and choosing the right one will make your body look trimmed and sharp. For selecting the perfect pair of underwear for your body type, see here.

Importance of underwear fabric

Along with the correct size of underwear, choosing the right underwear material is also essential. The commonly used fabrics are cotton, modal, rayon, nylon, polyester, and silk. Elastane is blended to ensure flexibility and durability. Among these, you have choices with underwear that are breathable, moisture-wicking, shrink and wrinkle resistant. At Almo, we use Ultra-Soft MicroModal fabric that is 3 times softer than regular cotton, has higher stretchability & enhanced breathability. The great quality ensures that you feel fresh and cool.

A comfortable underwear is the most essential intimate clothing of your wardrobe. A wrong size and fit are uncomfortable for both tight as well as loose fitting underwear. More than discomfort, they affect your body size and your manliness. It is, therefore, very important that you take extreme care when you choose to buy one. Go for options that offer super soft fabric, with breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities.

Of equal importance is that you find out and choose the correct size. If you are between sizes, always select the higher size - i.e., a looser underwear.

You should also determine the correct styles as per your body type, and also as per the attire you want to wear as the outer layer. You will find answers to all your underwear problems. You can check out our latest collection here.