Men's Underwear Fabrics Explained: Ribbed, Waffle Knit & Cotton Blend

UPRO men's underwear is not made from one fabric. Ribbed knits, waffle knits, cotton blends, nylon and mesh each feel different, stretch differently and suit different days. This guide explains the fabrics actually used in the UPRO range, using the compositions listed on each product page. If a product page gives a different composition, that page wins.

Ribbed: 92% rayon, 8% elastane

Ribbed fabric is the workhorse of the underwear range. The Ribbed Brief, Ribbed Boxer Brief and Ribbed Jockstrap all use 92% rayon and 8% elastane. The rib knit is stretchy and textured, giving a close, flexible fit that moves with you. It is a good everyday choice when you want a close fit without bulk.

Explore men's underwear briefs, men's boxer briefs and men's jockstraps.

Waffle knit: rayon blend

The Waffle Knit Brief uses a rayon-blend fabric in a waffle texture, in pastel pink or blue with a contrasting white waistband. The waffle texture gives the fabric more surface texture than a smooth knit, while keeping the same low-rise brief cut. The product page lists it simply as a rayon-blend fabric, without percentages, so do not assume it matches the 92/8 ribbed blend.

Cotton blend: 45% cotton, 45% lyocell, 10% elastane

The Open-Hole Embroidered Brief combines 45% cotton, 45% lyocell and 10% elastane. Cotton brings softness and breathability, lyocell brings a smooth drape, and the small elastane share gives stretch recovery. See the men's cotton-blend underwear collection for this style.

Nylon: 90% nylon, 10% elastane

The Long Boxer Brief uses 90% nylon and 10% elastane, in black or white with a contrasting waistband. Nylon is a smooth, strong fibre, and with elastane it gives a close, longer-leg fit that is less likely to ride up. It is a different feel from the rayon rib knits, so if you like the ribbed briefs, do not assume the long boxer brief will feel the same.

Mesh and modal: jockstrap details

The Single-Strap Jockstrap shows how one style can mix fabrics: its mesh panels are 90% polyester and 10% elastane, while its front pouch is modal fabric. Mesh is used where breathability and a sheer detail matter; the pouch fabric is chosen for support. Check the product page for the exact construction of the style you are considering, because jockstrap constructions differ.

What about swimwear fabrics?

Swim briefs are a separate case. Examples in the swim range use 90% polyester and 10% elastane, but not every swim style uses the same fabric, so read the material information on the individual swim product page rather than assuming one blend for the whole range. See men's swimwear and our swim briefs vs trunks guide.

Care, whatever the fabric

As a rule for underwear, wash cold on a gentle cycle and air-dry to protect the elastic. Always follow the care label on the garment itself, because care can vary by style.

FAQ

Which fabric is best for everyday wear?
There is no single answer. Ribbed rayon-elastane is the most common everyday knit in the range; cotton blend is the softest everyday option listed here; nylon is the smoothest longer-leg option. Choose by feel and cut, not by fabric name alone.

Do all ribbed styles use the same blend?
The ribbed brief, ribbed boxer brief and ribbed jockstrap checked for this guide all list 92% rayon and 8% elastane, but always confirm on the product page you are buying from.

Why does the waffle brief not list percentages?
Its product page lists a rayon-blend fabric without percentages. This guide reports only what the page lists.

How should I choose between cuts and fabrics?
Choose the cut first in our briefs vs boxer briefs vs jockstraps guide, then check the fabric on the product page, then check the fit and size guide.

Explore all UPRO men's underwear.