Archive

March 2014

Browsing

FirefoxWe are giving you a sneak preview of the new site. YES, UNB is getting a makeover. It has been in the works for a few months. Not many knew about it. But For the last six months I have been pouring over themes, and finally decided on 2 and then narrowed down to one!

We have been doing massive amounts of backend work for the last few months. With the help of some plug-ins and some hard work we are ready to unveil the new site! This is a brief look! It’s going to be a magazine style, with a slider at the top and all the ads will move to the right hand side. It will make it easier to read!

We also have redone the menu (see above) and will be easier to find our site’s features. I”m super excited about this and should take UNB into the future. It’s clean, sleek and I think you guys will like. I showed many of the advertisers and brands in Vegas and they loved it!

This will happen this Sunday morning. I’m not expecting problems but barring problems the site will be down just for a bit early morning and back up after no more than an hour. So if you come to the site that morning and things go wonky. Then you will know whats going on!

Stay Tuned for NEW UNB!

spring-bring-it-on-saleFor the next four days, get 15% off everything store wide at Jockstrap Central with their Spring (bring it on!) Sale. For people in the southern hemisphere, you can call it the Fall (Noooooooooooooo!) Sale.

Regardless what you call it, if you shop at Jockstrap Central between now and midnight on Sunday, March 16th you’ll find all their products listed with the regular price crossed off and the new 15% off sale price displayed. Jockstraps, jock briefs, wrestling singlets, shorts, underwear and even socks are all on sale.

What are you waiting for? Get Shopping at Jockstrap Central

croota-underwearCroota underwear (www.croota.com) has listened to its customers and has re-released two of its most popular underwear ranges as part of its 2014 rollout of products, which will soon also include tank tops. Known for its comfort, fit and style, the California-based underwear label is heating up men’s underwear drawers just in time for Spring with its ‘Pattern Breaker Hipster’ range available in two color options, along with its ‘Croota Through’ range.

Croota’s ‘Pattern Breaker Hipster’ was originally released in 2012, providing guys with sophisticated designs in both purple and black options. Its pattern was inspired by the stars of the Australian flag, as well as Croota’s unique star logo. The combination of waistband materials, including satin and polyurethane, was the first of its kind, and remains rare among underwear brands on the market today. A partial and breaking silver satin logo found along the elastic band are the hardest techniques for manufacturers to produce, but Croota is known for its quality and had no issue in re-releasing this range for its most die-hard customers.

The ‘Croota Through’ low-rise hipster range was first released in early 2011, but still features a sporty square-cut and body-hugging design. Made from high-quality cotton that feels great against skin, the mixed cotton and satin waistband complements the brand’s unique dedication for all-around comfort. The range, which was even featured in a photo shoot with Russian Regional Freeski Champion, Artem Chu Glebov, is available in its original navy color and orange waistband.

Both ‘Pattern Breaker Hipster’ and ‘Croota Through’ underwear ranges are made with 95% cotton and 5% spandex. Each range retails for $22.90, and both are available at www.croota.com.

curb-active-brief-campaign1-webOne of the best parts about working with UNB is exploring brands that I may not have ever tried had I not had this opportunity. I am by no means a brand snob when it comes to undies. If they fit well and look sexy, that’s all it takes for me.

A few months back I was browsing the website and came across Curbwear. They are based in the UK, but was really interested in their branding. The first collection that I saw was their IDENTITY line. If you have not seen this, you need to. I thought this was such a clever idea I just had to learn more about this company. I got in touch with the owner, who is just as awesome as their undies. I asked if he would be interested in answering a few questions about Curbwear and the underwear industry in general. Here is what he had to say!

What is the one thing that you would like customers to know about Curbwear?
Perfection.  I will keep improving and perfecting every small detail.  It’s the British in me not to give up until it’s right 😉  People work hard for their money and deserve a product that represents it’s value.

Where do you get the inspiration behind your styles, cuts and collections?
Inspiration normally comes from rebelling or rethinking how something is done.  I wouldn’t say I am a rebel, I’m a little bit quiet in nature, which I think puts my imagination into overload! The vast mix of talent in London is also a great pool of inspiration.

What makes Curbwear different for all the other men’s underwear brands?
It’s a genuine brand! I love designing something original and with perfection.  I know perfection is sometimes a dirty word, but I can’t help it! Everything in the product has been considered – a smooth waistband, non-itch care label and a roomy pouch.

Where do you see Curbwear (or the underwear industry in general) going in the next year or two?
The World recession got many companies looking backwards at how they can cut cost – switching their cotton quality, producing more basic lines and moving production to countries such as China.  CURB is moving in the other way.  I focus more on making something last then the throw away fashion factor.

Your Models look amazing but, how does Curbwear take the “normal guy” body style into consideration SELFIE-ACTIVEwhen designing underwear?
CURB includes selfie pics online to show how the product fits on regular guys alongside the model shots.  The underwear is made to to fit someone with a similar shape to the model Ben… give or take a pie or two 😉

What can we expect in the near future from CURB?
Different, daring, cheeky and suggestive!

If there is one thing that you could change about the men’s underwear industry what would it be and why?
I kind of get embarrassed when I see a brands blurb that their product will give confidence and deliver luxury to the modern man. It just screams of a dated sale pitch and lack of imagination.  Standing by your statements on design and quality is important – everyone deserves a product that matches its value.

Is there anything else that you would like our readers to know about you or CURB?
A lot of people have ideas for products or dream of being an underwear model.  Whatever you want, get in touch!

So, after I interviewed Kevin, I really got to thinking about the men’s underwear industry as a whole and what he said really made since.  I think it is a breath of fresh air to see a company standing behind their products and offering a sense of truth to what it has to offer.

Kevin has been great to work with and it just goes to show that a great company comes from great leaders. CURB has a brand loyal customer in me for sure!

Kevin also sent a few pairs for me to review, so keep your eyes out for both of those coming in the next few weeks.

If you want to check Curbwear out you can find them online:

Website/Online Store: www. Curbwear.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/curbwear
Twitter: www.twitter.com/curbwear
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/curbwear
Instagram: www.instagram.com/curbwear
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/curbwear/
Tumblr: curbwear.tumblr.com/ (Super sexy photos)
Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/curbwear/ (More Super Sexy Photos)

unb-vegasOver the past few years at Magic we have had a “Meet and Greet” for brands, buyers and others attending Magic. Its a social gathering where everyone can get together and talk. You may think this sounds strange but at the show usually most brands don’t have time to talk to other brands. You have clients in all day and then on the last day you’re so worn out you pretty much hang in your both.

This year we had it in the Luxor at Centra. I will say I was a little worried  that it was a short walk and people wouldn’t come over from the Mandalay Bay. But it was a lot of fun and brands did come! The brands that attended were 2EROS, SupaWear, N2N Bodywear, Frank Dandy, Bwet Swimwear, Shrine Boxers, Timoteo, Underwear Nation, Garcon Model, Wood Underwear, BoyRio, PetitQ and I know I”m missing someone, and I apologize if I did!

It was great hearing the brands say they are glad we had something social. We used to do them just in February but we are going to do them every Magic. So if you’re a brand or buyer going to Magic let us know so we can include you!

C-IN2-Anthony=Moufarej-CORE WHITE-800New pictures from C-IN2 feature model Anthony Moufarej. You may remember the last collection featured Mike Stalker. This shoot was shot by photog Rick Day who is a long time photog for C-in2. Here are the latest images from C-IN2 campaign.

Info from C-IN2:

Fitness model Anthony Moufarej first seen in the “A week in the Life” photo/video shoot for C-IN2 by Rick Day. His Facebook page states he was “born in Lebanon and moved to Canada at the age of 13. Started practicing a couple martial arts like MMA, boxing, kickboxing and grappling and modeling not too long after.”

Anthony’s smoldering good looks and chiseled physique made him an easy choice as a Rick Day and C-IN2 model.

Features the Prime and Core collections

Prime

Prime the premier men’s underwear collection has a softer than soft feel yet manages to retain its shape. Prime boasts a new, thinner width microfiber elastic waistband that is retro with plenty of chic.

Core

Core, the essential C-IN2 men’s underwear collection. The best fitting everyday underwear is made unlike any other. With custom weighted 100% cotton and a microfiber waistband, the super soft Core underwear line keeps its shape all day long. Especially important when you want to undress and impress.

C-In2-Anthony-Moufarej-Abs-CORE (white)-800 C-In2-Anthony-Moufarej-Prime-Red-boy_girl_look7_0010-crpd-Full

IMG_1087-2I got this topic from the Twitter chat last night. As more guys get into great underwear is it a gateway to other fashion including shoes, better shirts and pants? Over the last few years I have lost weight and have gone through a few lay offs so fashion has taken a back seat.

I looked through my closet and saw a bunch of geek shirts (Dr. Who, Firefly etc), polo shirts and t shirts. Not what you would call the cover of GQ material there. Then I looked in my underwear drawer and saw Gregg Homme, Andrew Christian, Baskit, Cocksox and tons more. I have better underwear then clothes and it got me thinking it’s time to step outside of my box.

This kind of started back in August. While at Magic I got tickets to see Celine Dion. Then I made the realization that I didn’t bring much grown up clothes. So I went to Ross, yes Ross Dress For Less, on the strip and got a nicer shirt and some better jeans. The jeans were low rise and had designs on the pocket really out of my comfort zone but I did it. I felt better about myself.

Flash forward till last night and I mentioned that Jason Scarlatti told me about a shoe company at magic. When Tweeted he said “Best dressed starts with underwear and ends in shoes..and coats, and accessories” and I couldn’t agree more. I have been better dressed in my younger days and plan to be going forward.

I will admit that I stepped up my dress at magic this year. Before I thought I looked schlubby. Meaning it was an untucked polo and reg jeans. This time I wore a button up shirt all three days and better jeans. I am going to do much better in the dressing, granted right now it will have to be on a budget but it can be done!

This makes me wonder. I know many gay readers already mix great fashion with undies. They have underwear for different activities and outfits. But, for those getting into it and are fashion challenged (I consider myself in this category, and can be gay or straight), will great undies inspire them to expand their horizons?

Picture by Baskit from a few years ago featuring Nick Youngquest

9437_1I will admit I”m a fan of the AC line for it’s pouches. In the previous reviews I wore the Almost Naked and Trophy Boy briefs. This time I have the NanoFit Breeze Brief. I have one other NanoFit brief and it’s one of my favorites. A friend gave it to me and I love it. So when I got the chance to try another I was all over it.

I was looking forward to trying the  NanoFit Breeze Brief because I had a busy day. It included  a Lunch with a friend moving this month, followed by shopping with another and Dinner with other friends. So it was going to be on the go. ATL was a little warm, well for this winter, 60+ degrees. So I wanted something that wouldn’t make me too hot.

The first thing I noticed was that the pair breifs really breathes. Its made out of a light weight material that had a great pouch that conformed to me. There is nothing I hate more than a pair that looses shape during the day. So I got my air cut that morning and headed to lunch. The pair really felt great, gave me ample support but the test was going shopping. Running around for a few hours I forgot what I was wearing.

This is giong to be in the top of my underwear drawer. As many long time readers know the top drawer are my favorites for every day wear. It will go in my usual rotation.

The sizing for Andrew Christian is pretty good. I got an XL to fit my 38 (and hopefully 36) waist pretty well. In previous reviews the legs were a little tight and this pair didn’t have that issue. The legs fit great and no binding at all. Make sure you double check the sizing chart when buying.

Pros:

  • Great fit
  • Has the great AC pouch
  • Made for an active day

Cons:

  • May not be good for a winter day (but perfect for summer/spring)
  • Sizing can be an issue (always check chart)

Ratings:

  • Daily Fit – 9
  • Sizing – 9
  • Construction/Materials – 9
  • Styling – 9
  • Daily Performance – 9
  • Overall – 9

Andrew Christian furnished this pair for review. You can find this on the Andrew Christian Website. Does contain an affiliate sales link

9686-black-1A few weeks ago I decided it was time for me to try some different styles, branch out and buy a few things that I wouldn’t ordinarily wear.  I found this hot item at a decent price ($19.00 at freshpair.com) and decided to give it a shot.  Knowing that I would likely never wear something like this as daily underwear I wanted to just see what it was all about.  And much to my surprise I quite like it.  Pouch front, suspender straps, thong back.  After I got over the feeling that I was having some sort of “Borat” moment I actually started thinking about when and where I could pull something like this off.  If nothing else, this will definitely make lounging around the house more interesting.

Would you or have you ever worn underwear like this?

unb-socialWe want to get social with you guys. Starting tonight we have our very first Twitter Chat to talk about Magic/Cruve but open to any questions. I (@unbtim) will be on twitter on my account and the UNBBlog account to answer questions and talk to you guys. Just send us an @ message or #askunb. This should be fun and hope you guys come out with questions and comments.

Second, we want you to follow our social properties. Specifically follow us on Underwear News Briefs Facebook page, Underwear News Briefs Twitter are the two main ones but we have more!

Follow our guys:

Feel free to talk to us on any of these! We love our readers and want to get into some great conversations about undies. Even with out the Twitter chat hit us up for questions, underwear advice or just to get to know us!!

Twitter Chat is 7 PM EST till 8 PM EST, remember the time change!

geronimo-breifThis week I have been having some conversations with some readers and new guys we have coming on the site. We seem to always talk about bikinis. I am a big fan of them and have been since I was a teenager. One of the very first pairs I bought were bikinis. Reasons I like them is they usually have a great pouch and higher cut sides.

One brand that I have seen and want to try is Geronimo. The 1358s2 has a bikini cut with specially designed pouch. You can see that in the pic the pouch has a circular seam over the top of the pouch. Which gives it a really cool look. It makes me curious as to how the pouch fits. The material Polymide/lycra blend! I really want to try this pair.
It’s a classic bikini cut which really interests me. Over the last few years this style has not been but in a few brands. Each year briefs are making a come back and more and more guys are wearing them. I think it will be only a matter of time before bikinis are big on the market again.

The only place I have seen this pair is at Concupisco. They are out of the UK and this pair retails for £20.99 and available in blue, yellow and white.

colt-jockstrapsCOLT started producing gay porn back in 1967 and through the years became known for their macho Marlboro men, construction workers and cowboys. A number of years ago COLT produced their first line of jockstraps but they were discontinued a while later. Well, now they’re back with totally new jockstrap designs and this time around COLT pulled out the big guns using top underwear designer Timoteo to produce the line.

There’s three styles available in both classic black or white for a total of 6 new jocks. Whether it’s the COLT Jock Brief, the COLT Signature Jockstrap with it’s classic styling or the COLT Logo Jockstrap with a throwback to their past designs, all three incorporate a soft brushed cotton pouch with a hint a spandex. The fabric is light and along with the spandex, it hugs your bulge showing it off to perfection. Wide waistbands, one inch straps on the traditional jockstraps and the bold COLT logo say “masculine” without a doubt. For more details and to see Jockstrap Central’s latest model Spence (damn, he’s hot) putting the new COLT jocks through a workout, visit their website.”

Shop at Jockstrap Central

Contains an affiliate sales link

c-in2-scruffWere you a fan of the Filthy Collection from C-IN2? Well that collection has been retired and is getting replaced by the Scruff collection. When I sat down with them this past August they told me about this line. The Filthy line was one that was very labor intensive. The filth layer, as we call lit, the black dye was put on the material by hand. So there was no easy way to make the pairs. Granted, it was a really fun line and was a popular line but the new line is a take on the same dirty look but a little less dirt on them.

The new line is just as it sounds, scruffy! The fabric looks like it’s been a little scruffed up rather then filthy. I really like the technique this causes. It’s a slight discoloration of the fabric especially around the seams. It’s not as harsh as the filthy. So if you maybe thought that was a little too much for you, then you need to check out the Scruff line.

The line constructed out of cotton elastine mix and available in three colors. Those colors are Blazer (blue), Repper (greyish) and Rio Red. I love the names that C-IN2 comes up with for colors. They have the usual styles: jock, Lo No Show Brief, Punt, Lo No Show Army Trunk, Tank, V-Neck and Crew Neck T.  The prices range from $24-38.

Find these and more at the C-IN2 Website