In the latest episode of Brief Talk After Dark, I had the pleasure of welcoming back a familiar voice—Al, known In a new episode of Brief Talk After Dark, we’re diving deep into spandex, self-expression, and how fitness and fetish often intersect. Our returning guest is Al—better known online as Proud Thonger—who shares his journey with spandex, body image, and how gear can be both functional and sexy.
From Spandex Boy to Thong Guy: Al’s Personal Gear Journey
Before Al became an exclusive thong wearer, his first love was men’s spandex. “I was a spandex boy before I became a thonger,” he says. It started with P.E. class, Lycra gym shorts, and watching ’90s fitness videos with leotards and leg warmers. That early fascination never left.
Later, when Al began his fitness transformation, spandex became a key part of his identity. Standing 5’3″ and once weighing 183 pounds, Al committed to healthier habits. Now, as a certified Pilates, yoga, and indoor cycling instructor, his daily uniform often includes tights, fitted shirts, and yes—matching compression socks.
“There’s nothing else I would wear to work out. Spandex just feels right on my skin,” Al shares.
Why Men Love Spandex: Comfort, Confidence, and Compression
For Al, wearing spandex isn’t just about looks. It’s about comfort and purpose. Brands like 2XU, Under Armour, and Skins offer high-quality compression wear that supports circulation and movement. These brands make you look good, but more importantly, help you perform better.
And let’s not ignore the aesthetics: “It shows off every manly bulge,” Tim jokes during the podcast. Al agrees. “My pecs look hot. I’m just going to say that.”
When Fetish Meets Function: The Sexy Side of Spandex
While many men discover spandex through athletics, for others, it evolves into something sensual—and that’s perfectly normal. Al embraces both sides of the experience.
“Before I discovered the fetish part, I loved how it felt,” he explains. “Now, it’s part of who I am.”
From glossy tights to sheer bodysuits, Al isn’t afraid to flaunt it on social. He acknowledges the blurred line between fetish wear and fitness gear—and how both can exist in harmony.
Top Men’s Spandex Brands Al Recommends
Al wears a wide range of spandex, depending on the day and purpose. Here are a few of his favorite go-to brands:
- 2XU – Performance-grade compression tights
- Skins – Comfortable and sleek for everyday wear
- Under Armour – Great for teaching fitness classes
- Skinfit (defunct) – Formerly a top brand out of Mexico
- AliExpress Finds – Cheap, shiny, and perfect for showing off
“Some of the cheaper tights get sheer fast,” Al admits. “But I just wear pantyhose under them and keep going!”
The Power of Gear and the Online Spandex Community
Through Instagram, BlueSky, and yes—even Twitter—Al has built strong connections with other spandex lovers. Names like Bricklayer Steven, Andy Lycra, and SkinTightness are just a few in the community who’ve inspired him.
“We all connect over our love of gear, thongs, and tights,” Al says. “It’s not just fetish—it’s family.”
He emphasizes the importance of accepting newcomers, respecting different preferences, and avoiding judgment over price or style. Whether it’s a $500 tri-suit or a $12 AliExpress find, Al believes everyone deserves to explore gear in their own way.
Fitness, Mental Health, and Being Kind to Yourself
Al’s journey hasn’t been without hardship. He spoke openly about gaining weight during COVID and losing his mother in late 2023. Through it all, spandex, fitness, and therapy helped him navigate grief and maintain balance.
“Whatever your journey, be kind to yourself,” he shares. “Life changes. Priorities shift. That’s okay.”
Final Thoughts: Spandex as a Tool for Self-Love and Empowerment
From the gym to the bedroom to a bold Instagram post, spandex is more than just a fabric. For Al, it’s a way to feel strong, sexy, and in control. He encourages men to explore spandex for what it is: a way to feel empowered—whether for fitness, fetish, or pure fun.
Follow Proud Thonger
Stay connected with Al and explore his spandex/thong content:
- BlueSky: proudthonger.bsky.social
- Instagram: @proud_thonger
Listen to the Full Interview on Brief Talk After Dark
Want more candid gear talk? Listen to the full Brief Talk After Dark episode wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, follow, and stay tuned—more spandex conversations are on the way.
