In the world of underwear, men have countless shopping options. While guys can purchase from various brands, department stores, and small sellers on sites like Etsy, nothing compares to shopping for underwear in person. Many people feel anxious about going to a store, selecting a thong, and taking it to the counter. However, I encourage you to embrace the opportunity to shop for what you love at an underwear specialty store!

My Experiences Shopping in an Underwear Store

My journey began when I was a teenager. I wanted bikinis because I found them attractive in advertisements. I would sneak away to my local discount store to buy them. As I got older, I started shopping for underwear at department stores in the mall. It was exciting to browse different styles and purchase the pairs I had my eye on.

When I was about 19, I discovered The Boy Next Door in Atlanta. This store has become a staple in the local underwear scene, especially since several other stores like Physicos and MalePak have come and gone.

The first time I walked into The Boy Next Door, I was amazed by the floor-to-ceiling display of swim briefs in various colors and prints. When I turned around, I found an equally impressive selection of underwear. I could spend an hour browsing the styles and feeling the fabrics. As a broke college student, I could only afford one or two pairs at a time, but my wishlist grew significantly during those visits.

These experiences have given me the confidence to walk into any store, pick up a bikini, jockstrap, or thong, and head to the checkout without hesitation.

The Benefits of Shopping at an Underwear Specialty Store

If you’ve never shopped at an underwear store due to location or anxiety about people discovering your preference for specific styles, consider the following benefits:

1. Selection: Specialty underwear stores offer many styles you may not find in regular stores. Many of these shops carry brands primarily available online or based overseas, such as Teamm8 and Marcuse.
2. Knowledgeable Staff: Have you ever had questions about specific underwear styles but couldn’t find answers online? The staff at specialty stores are usually well-informed and can provide insights based on customer feedback and their own experiences.
3. No Waiting: There’s no shipping time when you shop in person; you can take your new purchases home immediately. Sometimes, you can try things on and wear them out of the store.
4. Feel and Touch: One of the advantages of in-person shopping is the ability to feel the fabric. I’ve found that sometimes a pair that looks appealing in pictures is unappealing in person, while others I was indifferent about caught my eye once I felt them. Photos don’t always do justice to certain styles.
5. Supporting the Community: Many store owners are passionate about underwear and are part of the community. It’s important to support local businesses that cater to our interests. Many department and discount stores focus on mainstream styles, neglecting options like briefs, bikinis, or thongs.

Where to Find Underwear Stores

This is the million-dollar question. Specialty underwear stores are rare; many have closed nationwide over the past decade. However, there are still stores in larger cities, particularly those with significant gay populations. Some cities with notable underwear stores include Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Springs, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Dallas.

The men’s underwear world is more than just a niche fashion category; it’s a space where personal expression, confidence, and self-identity come together. While on the surface, it may seem like just another style choice, for many men, their underwear represents something more profound — a way to express their masculinity, sexuality, and individuality. Yet, in a world that often tells men to conform to rigid ideas of masculinity, finding a supportive community can make all the difference.

The need for community in the men’s underwear space isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Here’s why building and fostering this community matters and how it can positively impact those passionate about this often-overlooked part of men’s fashion.

1. Breaking the Taboo Around Men’s Underwear

Let’s face it: men’s underwear isn’t a typical conversation topic for most guys. For decades, society has taught men to stick with the basics — boxers, briefs, and maybe the occasional pair of trunks. Anything beyond that was considered taboo or, worse, emasculating.

The men’s underwear community challenges that outdated thinking. It’s a space where guys can openly share their love for jocks, thongs, bikinis, and more without fear of judgment. Building a community normalizes these discussions and helps break down the societal norms that dictate what men should wear.

When men see others embracing bold, sexy, and unconventional styles, they feel empowered to do the same. That’s why this community is crucial—it shows that underwear can be more than just a functional garment; it can be a form of self-expression.

2. Building Confidence and Self-Acceptance

For many men, underwear isn’t just about fashion but confidence. The right pair can make you feel sexy, powerful, and more in tune with your body. However, many guys feel isolated in their love for unique styles or fear judgment for wearing something outside the norm.

A supportive underwear community fosters self-acceptance. By connecting with others with the same interests, men are reminded that they’re not alone. Seeing diverse body types proudly rocking different underwear styles helps break down insecurities and boosts confidence.

The community also creates a safe space for men to share their stories — about discovering their first pair of bikinis or embracing body positivity. These stories inspire others to own their journey and feel empowered in their underwear choices.

3. Challenging Stereotypes of Masculinity

One of the biggest hurdles the men’s underwear community faces is the societal idea of what it means to be “masculine.” Traditional notions of masculinity tell men to be tough, emotionless, and stick to safe, conventional clothing.

But underwear has the power to challenge that narrative. The community shows that masculinity is fluid and personal — it doesn’t have to fit into a rigid box. Some men feel their most masculine in a classic white brief, while others prefer the boldness of a thong or jockstrap.

By creating a community, we redefine masculinity and allow men to be themselves without fear of judgment. We show you can be masculine and wear lace underwear or a crop top — it’s all about how you feel inside.

4. Fostering a Space for Creativity and Expression

Underwear isn’t just functional; it’s a canvas for creativity. From bold colors and prints to unique cuts and fabrics, men’s underwear brands are pushing boundaries in fashion. However, that creativity can often go unnoticed without a community to share it with.

The men’s underwear community allows people to showcase their style and explore new designs. Whether through Instagram, Reddit, or podcasts, these spaces foster creativity and self-expression.

Creators and brands also benefit from this community. Feedback from passionate fans helps shape future collections and pushes the industry to innovate. Without this shared space, the evolution of men’s underwear would stagnate.

5. A Sense of Belonging

At its core, the men’s underwear community is about belonging. Whether you find your tribe on social media or connect with others at events, it reminds you that you’re not alone in your love for underwear.

For many, it’s a space where they feel seen and accepted for who they are. It’s a place where men can openly discuss their preferences, discover new styles, and celebrate their bodies without judgment.

In an isolated world, a supportive community can make a huge difference in someone’s life. It’s more than just underwear — it’s about connection, acceptance, and celebration.

How to Get Involved in the Men’s Underwear Community

If you’re looking to find your place in the men’s underwear world, there are plenty of ways to get involved:

1. Join Online Communities – Check out subreddits, Facebook groups, and forums dedicated to men’s underwear. These spaces allow for open discussions, brand recommendations, and style inspiration.
2. Follow Creators and Brands on Social Media – Many influencers, artists, and brands actively engage with the community on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and BlueSky. Join the conversation by commenting, sharing, and connecting.
3. Listen to Podcasts – Some podcasts (like the Brief Talk Podcast) dive into men’s underwear, masculinity, and self-expression topics. These shows bring the community together and spark meaningful conversations.
4. Attend Events – Look out for men’s underwear-related events and meetups. They provide an excellent opportunity to meet others in the community and discover new brands.

Final Thoughts

The men’s underwear community is more than a shared interest — a movement toward self-expression, body positivity, and breaking outdated gender norms. It’s a space where men can find confidence in their style choices, celebrate their bodies, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Everyone wants to feel accepted and understood. The men’s underwear community offers that sense of belonging, proving that underwear is more than just a garment — it’s a statement of who you are.

So, if you’ve ever felt alone in your underwear journey, know there’s a community out there waiting to welcome you with open arms.

I’m excited to announce the first UNB Meet-Up, happening in Chicago on August 16-17! This is your chance to connect with other underwear and swimwear lovers in person, meet some of the podcast crew, and have a fantastic weekend celebrating confidence, style, and community.

Here’s What’s Planned:

Friday, August 16 – Underwear & Swimwear Shopping + Dinner

• We’ll hit up some of Chicago’s best underwear and swimwear stores.
• A group dinner that evening to hang out and chat.

Saturday, August 17 – Hollywood Beach Swim Day

• A full day of fun at Hollywood Beach, the perfect spot to rock your swim briefs, thongs, or whatever makes you feel comfortable!
• Come ready to relax, socialize, and enjoy the sun.

✨ Other Exciting Details:

• Attend one event or both – whatever works for you!
• I’m working on a Gear Night Out, so stay tuned for details.
• Limited Edition UNB Meet-Up Shirt – I’ll be creating a special shirt for the weekend!
• This is just the first of many UNB Meet-Ups!

Interested in Attending?

Let me know if you’re planning to join! More details will be shared soon, but I’d love to get a headcount for planning.

This is going to be an amazing chance to meet fellow swimwear lovers, build community, and have an unforgettable weekend. Can’t wait to see you there!

#UNBMeetUp #SwimBriefClub #ThongSquad #UnderwearLovers #ChicagoMeetUp

I don’t know how many guys out there remember EXERCISE FOR MEN ONLY. This magazine along with International Male/undergear fueled my underwear, speedo, and gear love. This magazine featured guys in minimal gear working out. My god it was the days before self check out and I would go buy it and run home