If you aren't aware of the fun brand that is
Core-point, it is the inspiration of three French men living in Hong Kong. The line takes its influence from the bustling atmosphere of Hong Kong and has a streetwear feel. Core-point is known for its funky, graphic prints with in-your-face colors and patterns. The waistbands are bold and loud and have the signature dot pattern around the back. Core-point makes both trunks (they call them boxers) and briefs for men (they do a
hipster brief for the females as well).
Today I'd like to review their
men's brief. Specifically I tried out the
Sealwid III brief for the purposes of this review. I want to start with the style because that's what first catches my attention. Like
all their underwear, this brief is fun. This particular style is a little more demure than some of their other styles. But nevertheless it is still quite fun and out there. Those who've seen it say it reminds them of a zebra. I love the look of them and they're really fun to wear! Like most fashion briefs there is no fly, but the pouch is accentuated by two elastic bands on either side. The cut of these briefs is a little skimpy - not quite a full-rise - but still covers enough for the modest man to be comfortable wearing them. But honestly you've got to be pretty bold to wear these prints so if you're wearing these you probably aren't too concerned about modesty.
The fit of these is true to size (as noted on the size chart on their site - it is a little different than some manufacturers so make sure you consult it before buying). These briefs are snug and conform to the body but they are not too tight that you feel constricted; I feel like I can move in these. Very limited gaping appears around the leg bands when I move my legs in certain ways. But it is very limited and still allows for ample support throughout the day. What these briefs really have going for them is comfort. They are not too tight and they are not too loose. And the fabric is oh so soft. They are
the perfect brief for everyday wear and they can handle whatever the day may throw at you. My favorite part is the thin waistbands that Core-point uses on all their briefs (and some of their trunks). The waistband is so comfortable that I barely even realize I am wearing underwear; but it is still there to make a statement. I do have to caution you that some of the trunks do have a thicker waistband (the ones with the logo in the middle as opposed to off-center) and these are a little less comfortable. I have, however, been informed that Core-point is in the process of switching over all their waistbands to the new, softer material. (Also, the older collection was made with a heavier material overall that is not as comfortable to wear. You may find some trunks made from this material if you are browsing through Core-point's sale section on their site.)
The quality of these briefs is above average. Everything is stitched very nicely and I haven't experienced any loose threads or pilling on the waistband as is the case with quite a lot of underwear out on the market. Even after numerous washes these briefs have held up quite well and look just as nice as the day I got them. They are, however, a little pricey at $31.25 a brief and $35 for a trunk. But I think the quality and craftsmanship makes these a good value nevertheless; these briefs will last you for much longer than your run-of-the-mill undies.
I want to end this review by letting you know that I choose to review the briefs (over the trunks) simply because I haven't reviewed a pair of briefs in a while. If briefs aren't your thing, Core-point makes very good trunks that would receive a similar rating.
Also, I would like to apologize for the fact that most of the photos attached to this review are of the trunks. I had trouble finding photos of the briefs, but I plan on replacing them with photos of briefs should I find some more.
MY RATING:Overall,
I give the Core-point briefs a total score of 8.5 based on the following criteria:
FIT -- 8 (out of 10)
COMFORT -- 9 (out of 10)
STYLE -- 10 (out of 10)
QUALITY -- 10 (out of 10)
VALUE -- 7.5 (out of 10)
********** 8.5