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September 2014

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Jack Adams Flex Racer X Fly Jock from UNB Blog on Vimeo.

Well we have a few more reviews from Alex before he leaves. Yes, after 5 years he’s leaving thes site guys. I know many will be upset that you won’t see his video reviews any more. Don’t worry we have another video reviewer in the wings! But, we will def miss Alex here he’s been an amazing part of the site since almost the beginning. It’s like a chapter of UNB is coming to a close. Wish him well and enjoy this great review featuring Jack Adams.

This pair was furnished for review.

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We got a chance to ask one of our long time favorites, Jockstrap Central a few questions about the first 9 years of their business. I think this interview shows their personality and why we like them so much!

How did you guys come up with the idea for Jockstrap Central?

Both Adrian and I (John) were both at career crossroads when we met 10 years ago. I was a graphic designer / programmer with an internet marketing background from my previous job and had a huge underwear fetish. Adrian always wanted to open a brick and mortar underwear store. We combined our ideas and chose to focus on the underwear style we loved the most.

Did you think it would last 9 years when you created the site?

I guess starting any new business there’s always a bit of doubt but I felt pretty confident in what we were creating. At the time I ran a community based website for underwear enthusiasts and saw a movement happening. I saw guys that were obsessed with underwear (including myself) being fueled by the Internet and the access we all had to international brands and styles. No longer were we stuck with the boring department store offerings.

What has been the biggest joy in creating Jockstrap Central?

Working side by side with my husband creating something I love with the guy I love (yeah I know, pretty sappy!)

What have been some of the more popular jocks you have sold?

Nine years and countless jockstraps, that’s a pretty tough question. The one obvious one is the Bike #10s (RIP), that’s the one that started it all. In the fashion/fetish category, anything Nasty Pig and Cellblock 13 create as their designs are so edgy and the quality impeccable. Of course, anything mesh and see-through sell well for us. Probably because we’re totally uncensored, but if I had to choose one from that category it would be the Pulse Stretch Mesh Jockstrap (hopefully back in stock soon!)

Since it’s all jockstraps, what is your favorite jockstrap?

My all time favorite jockstrap was the Nasty Pig Knockout Jockstrap in blue white and red. It’s been discontinued, but it really spoke to me on so many levels. It tickled my graphic design sensibilities with it’s retro feel and comic book reference. (I’ve included a photo).

You have always produced your own photography, do you have a favorite model? (Mine is Trent)

Our photography is core to our business. Not only is it a huge part of our image but being an online store, our job is to instill confidence inadam stray customers when purchasing. In a brick and mortar store, customers can touch the goods. As an online store, all we have are our lengthy descriptions and our extensive and highly detailed photography. Sure, manufacturers supply photography but most isn’t great, won’t fit the format of our website, doesn’t show the detail we require and isn’t blatantly sexual or has that dash of irreverent fun that we’re all about.

As for models: There’s not one model that I don’t love (well, ok there was one but we won’t go there). I know a lot of guys have a “type” but I don’t and that’s the reason our models are so varied and based on feedback, our customers and fans appreciate that. But since you’ve asked me to choose, I’ll say that Trent is a favorite as he’s just a dream to work with and he’s so handsome but the one model who I have a (platonic) crush on would have to be Adam Stray. There’s something about him, his look, his personality that drives me crazy plus he’s definitely not shy so if there’s something mesh or something that requires frontal exposure, he’s our go to guy.

What does the future hold for Jockstrap Central?

Although our focus is and always will be jockstraps, we’ll certainly be continuing to branch out into underwear and sportswear as we’ve been doing over the past year.

Post contains an affiliate sales link.

express-undiesOk good, now with that out of the way let me tell you about one of my favorite brands of underwear. Express is known for great fitting dress shirts, and stylish clothing, but something they do well also is underwear. It comes in Sport Trunks, Boxer Briefs, and then online they have briefs.

I started buying their underwear because I liked the colors and patterns on it. For me these aren’t your fancy underwear but a nice pair to just wear on a day to day basis. To me they are a more upscale version of Hanes. I mainly started buying pairs when I would find them on clearance, can’t pass up a pair for $6.

My favorite style Express offers is the Sports trunk. This is a redesign for them from a normal trunk. The sport truck is slightly shorter. The materials are cotton and spandex. The material is extremely comfortable and fits excellent around my bubble butt.

The briefs, when you can find them online in your size, which can be hard to do sometimes are really nice. I enjoy the feel of them against me. The elastic around the legs does an excellent job of holding up throughout the day. It also stretches nicely to accommodate my butt.

So if you get a chance to check out some Express underwear I do recommend it. They just started carrying a Core Performance line for working out. I know I am going to be getting them soon to try them out.

Disclaimer: I am an employee of Express. I am not getting compensated for writing a review about their product…I just like it on my own accord.

jsc-nasty-pig-champ-40I will way in the world of underwear models I have a few favorites. Mostly they are guys I either know or have worked with before. But there is one model I just love and think if we ever did work with him it would be awesome. I’m not sure Jockstrap Central would like that but the model is Trent. He’s been a long time model for Jockstrap Central and does shoots for them every so often. I wish more than every so often but when you do get pics they are awesome. This time he’s put on some muscle mass and is back for more jock pics.

From Jockstrap Central: Our fan favorite model Trent is back with a bulked up body to model our new Nasty Pig Champ range of jockstrap, briefs, long johns and socks. Between Trent’s amazing looks and hot body, the incredibly striking and stylish new gear, we were inspired and I hope I don’t come off as too boastful bit I think this is some of our best photographic work yet.

I hope you enjoy the photo set! (Post contains an affiliate sales link)

 

trunkbriefWildmanT just released their new collection. This collection has a lot of swimwear. So it made me think, which kind of suit would I want? A swim brief or trunk. When I was younger it was a no brainer, Swim brief all the way! I can recall several times when I was the only one wearing them at a beach or pool.

Now you get a little older and you ask, should you wear a swim brief or act your age? Some of you, this may not be an issue, but others out there know what I”m saying. Sometimes if you’re over 40, like I am, you don’t want to be that guy wearing something for a much younger guy and have others talking about you. But, I don’t think swim briefs are one of those items.

I have seen many guys in their 40’s and 50’s who still wear then and look amazing in them. I’m not talking muscle guys but some beefy guys too. Its more of your own comfort level as to what you will wear. I don’t think this is just for gay guys either. We have straight readers who wear them on the beach, which is AWESOME.

This past year I wore the N2N Stratum from last season. I loved the cut and the pouch of the Startum. It could be considered a bit too revealing at times. I only wore it to places where it would be either encouraged or accepted. So, in Atlanta, there were very few places. But it’s definitely on my list. But I’m thinking about getting a swim brief for next year.

As I get older I have gotten I have given up the idea of wearing a super skimpy bikini. My personal tastes have moved to the 3 inch swim briefs. The size that competition swimmers wear. I just thin it looks better on me. Heck, even back when I was 20 I love these cuts. To me the larger swim briefs were sexy, because you can show off but not show it all off. The downside of most competition swim brief is the lack of pouch.

I will be actively looking for a swim brief. I will keep you guys posted on which ones I like on Twitter (@unbtim) and asking your opinions.

I know we just left swim season but what kind of suits are you guys looking for? What is important to you? Let us know on here in a comment or Tweet us!

ultra-brief-whiteEver since I started with UNB, I have put some underwear designers on my wish list to try. This week I was excited to learn that one of my dream pairs from Marcuse had arrived for me to review. The pair was the Ultra Brief in white which I had seen in various advertisement photos. On first look, this is a very sexy pair of briefs. You expect to see a basic white brief but instead are met with lines that ad sophistication and sexy curves to the pair. I was also able to instantly tell how soft the fabric was to the touch. I slid the pair on and the sexiness continued.

Anyone who is a fan of briefs knows that there are many different types ranging from basic and sport, to thicker sides and thinner sides, waist level and low rise. This pair was definitely low rise and smaller as they barely came up to the top of my butt. There are people who may find this uncomfortable or feel as though your underwear needs to be pulled up throughout the day. This was not the case here. I wore them through an entire work day, moving around quite a bit, and did not ever feel as though I needed to pull my underwear up. The back of the briefs fit just around the butt with no extra coverage to bother the wearer. At the top of the back there is a thin strap, similar to what I used to see in dress shirts. I did not see a purpose for this strap nor do I find it very visually appealing. It did not bother the pair or its wear ability.

When it comes to smaller briefs, it can be difficult to gauge the sizing factor. I wear a medium and as I mentioned the pair came to the top of my butt. Since it is a smaller brief, it felt very tight on me all day long. I could feel the tightness under my suit. This did not bother me but it is a notable observation that I feel I should share with my fellow UNB readers. With the smaller briefs, there is usually less fabric and less room. I did find the front pouch to be tighter than I expected. I did not feel as though I had much room which led to slight discomfort throughout the day.

Overall, I am happy that I was able to add Marcuse to my underwear drawer. This is a very hot pair and I love the look of it on. The small concerns I had with the pair could be a result of the way it felt on me today and would not keep me from wearing them again. I nominate this pair for a second wear in a few weeks to see how it feels that day. I have complete confidence that they will be even better the second time around.

 

Pros:

  • Sexy look
  • Soft fabric
  • Low rise fit

Cons:

  • Smaller front pouch
  • Back design

 

Ratings

  • Daily Fit = 8
  • Sizing = 8
  • Construction/Materials = 8.5
  • Styling = 8
  • Daily Performance = 8.5
  • Overall = 8

Marcuse furnished this pair for review

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For those of us who enjoy swimming as part of our exercise regimens, we know that there’s a myriad choices out there for what to attire oneself in, both in terms of brands and cuts of the swimwear.

There are jammers (longer length trunks that go between mid-thigh and the knee), trunks (coverage down to the upper thigh, also called a square cut suit), briefs (shows the upper thigh), and briefer cut items (swim thongs). I’m wouldn’t even consider wearing board shorts or other loose items, because they’re pretty useless for lap swimming (and for that matter, getting a decent tan) and I’m not a frat boy in college. And unless you’re a competitive swimmer or swimming in icy cold water, there really isn’t a need for a full body suit. So the choices essentially boil down to how much coverage you’re comfortable with in terms of selecting a jammer, trunk, or swim brief.

For me, I’ve always worn a swim brief. When I was in high school, they were mandatory and ever since, I’ve never been able to reconcile the freedom of a briefer cut against any perceived need to be more modest. After all, if world champion swimmers can wear swim briefs, those of us who aspire to that level of aquatic proficiency should be able to as well.

But, If you’re looking for a swim brief and have never bought one before, you might want to take a few things into consideration before you whip out your credit card to make that initial purchase. First, try it on. You’ll want to get one that fits like a second skin (maybe consider going down a size than you typically wear) so that it doesn’t cause drag while you’re swimming. Another helpful tip is to find something that is chlorine resistant. Constant uses of your suit in a chemical environment (i.e., a pool full of chlorinated water) will eventual degrade the fabric of the suit (in the same vein, if you can, buy more than one suit and rotate them—they’ll last longer that way). Third, since you’re probably not going to be swimming in the Olympics and need your suit to be hydrodynamic, try to find a suit that has a little bit more room up front. Some of the suits that I’ve tried in my four years of avid swimming were really lacking in the pouch area, and were decidedly unfriendly to my boy zone.

speed1

I bet you’re asking what I would suggest. Well, I like Andrew Christian Team Bikini. It is on the brief side, but there’s full coverage in the rear. There’s also a little room up built up front so that I’m not mashing my own potatoes. I also

really like the design of the garment: contrast stitching and stripes on the side suggest athletics without committing you to turn in world record times in the pool. In fact, I enjoy them so much that I own multiple pairs in black, blue, and red.

So, if you’re looking to get into swimming for exercise and you’re looking for a brief to wear in the pool, I would highly recommend you try this brief.

Note post contains an affiliate sales link

HR_Halloween_Hipster_V2-flatWhat would a holiday be without some great themed undies from aussieBum. Their history goes back to the beginning of UNB. One of my favorites, that I unfortunately didn’t get, was the easter themed ones. I LOVED those. Halloween has brought a new pair called “Jack the Pumpkin”

From the aussieBum site: For a strictly limited time only, get aussieBum’s hilarious Halloween themed undies ‘Jack the Pumpkin’. This cheeky print features a custom illustrated design, fused with a classic aussieBum waistband for durability. Made from our new scarily soft fabric blend, they are sure to get you in the mood to Trick or Treat!

So if you want this pair you better act fast. Their limited edition pairs have always gone fast and then sold out. This pair is available in a brief and hipster. Both have the really fun print made out of a 92% Polyester 8% Elastane blend.

Each is on sale now at the aussieBum site for $22.47 fro the brief and $23.47.

Andrew-Christian-Almost-Naked-Sweetheart-Jockstrap-94181I love jockstraps, it’s as simple as that.  They’re extremely supportive, comfortable, and downright sexy.  They come in multitudes of colors and fabrics, so dressing on the outside to compliment what’s underneath is never a problem. With so many underwear designers carrying jockstraps now, everyone is sure to find a type they like!

The jockstrap’s original design was for support during sporting events, and it’s nice to see that the great styles that we have to choose from today still feature that same basic concept, along with the bright colors and prints we’ve all come to love.  Today’s jockstraps have come far enough as well, as to not smash or constrict your package. They still keep things in place whether you’re at work, at the gym, or just lounging around.  I also find jockstraps extremely comfortable during the hot summer months. While only covering what’s absolutely necessary, they help your nether regions stay cool and dry.  Jockstraps almost completely eliminate bunching, and if you can manage to find some way to make them ride up; well, you’ve got some real skills!

I like to wear sexy underwear under my everyday attire, and in my opinion, you can’t get any sexier than a jockstrap. Even if no one else sees it, there’s something arousing about just knowing that I’ve got something sexy on; and I think it’s that “I know something you don’t know” mentality that keeps me from going absolutely insane when I’m stuck at work with all women and no eye candy. I know a lot of folks think that boxers give people a confidence boost, but I disagree. I think that knowing I’m secure enough to wear a pair of sexy undies is a huge confidence booster! Plus, when I get home and my partner and I are ready for some intimate time; I’ve already got a jockstrap on, and that just adds to the experience.  The way it fits the male body, covering just the most intimate of places is truly arousing. I advise anyone who hasn’t worn a jock in the bedroom to at least try it once and see where things go; satisfaction guaranteed (please note: satisfaction NOT actually guaranteed)!

You’d think by reading this that I’ve been into jockstraps for quite a while, but I only discovered them recently.  I had been wanting to try out a jockstrap after seeing them often in some of my favorite “movies”, but for some reason, had never committed until recently. I got really lucky with my first purchase, and the first jock I bought is still my favorite.  I started with an Andrew Christian Almost Naked jockstrap, and things were never quite the same.  The one I got is simple: black pouch, white straps, black waistband with the brand name across the top in white lettering.  I know it’s a kind of overdone color combination, but I find the simplicity of the black and white combo appealing.  The blend that AC uses on the Almost Naked undies is fantastic, as well.  It’s super lightweight, and I’m really surprised it’s held up this long, since any time the laundry is done and I see that jock in my drawer, it’s the first one I grab.  The “hang free” design also doesn’t sound like it would be too good for support, but the jock surprisingly keeps everything in place really well.

After my soirée into the world of Andrew Christian, I experimented with my staple brand of C-in2 and their assortment of jockstraps.  Their pop color lines have covered the entire spectrum and I never have a problem matching or complimenting whatever I’m wearing to my jockstrap (what, I’m the only one that does that?).  The pop color lines do tend to be a little more constrictive than some, but not uncomfortably so.   C-in2’s Zen line is one of my absolute favorites, though.  Made out of a great blend of fabrics and woven into an almost-mesh pouch, the Zen jocks breathe remarkably well, but aren’t see through like actual mesh. While they don’t come in as many colors, the ones they do provide have some nice contrasting colors on then that are eye catching.

Those are my favorite jockstraps, and I’d recommend them to anyone.  I’ve tried other brands, but I still haven’t found any that I love as much as Andrew Christian or C-in2.  I’m really glad that fashion jocks have made the impact they have on the underwear scene in the way they have, and weren’t just left as a sports accessory.  If you’re on the fence about buying a jockstrap, don’t be. Do it. You went be disappointed.  Whether you’re looking for something for the gym, something to spice up the bedroom, or just looking for something fun and different, the jockstrap is definitely the way to go!

NOTE: Shawn is a new guy on the site and you will read more from him very soon!

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While in Vegas I got a great chance to talk to Justin Case Underwear. I had briefly heard of them before but didn’t know a lot about them. I got to sit down and go through the new collection and find out some things they will be doing soon. They really impressed me, not because they had great underwear, but they had a big passion for it!

The one thing that really made me take notice of them is they aren’t afraid of color. They used just about every color in the spectrum, which to me is awesome. I hate it when companies do the Calvin Klein treatment, meaning they just use black/white/grey. One color they have used that makes me super happy is green! It’s one of those rare colors in the world of men’s underwear. So when I find a green pair I must have it.

The picture above features their new swim. It’s more of a gingham rather than stripes, it reminded me of Dorothy’s dress in the Wizard of Oz. Which is a good thing cause I love that print. There is a pair in a different color that I love (you will have to wait and see it) that is not used in men’s swimwear too often.

Their new line will be out soon and we will be covering them and giving you a lot of info about the new pairs. I hope to have an interview with Ryan, who I always call Justin, after the line is released.