The Jockstrap

The Jockstrap

(jock·strap - noun - ˈjäkˌstrap)

"A support or protection for the male genitals, worn esp. by athletes."

And also an exceedingly fucking sexy undergarment choice. (This added definition has not yet been approved by Merriam-Webster.)

The jockstrap has come a long way since its inception in 1874 by the Bike Company (who still manufactures jockstraps to this very day)! Originally designed for bicyclists and, as stated above, largely worn for athletic purposes, we have since reaped the benefits of the growing popularity and selection of the "fashion jockstrap."

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Almost every major underwear designer now has a collection of jockstraps to choose from. And some exceptionally rad companies have been popping up in recent years putting extra emphasis on their jocks, such as the glory that is New York-based company Nasty Pig (which was also my nickname in college.... Okay, that's not true, but I wish it was).

I encourage every man, gay or straight, to own at least a few jockstraps. Straight men should be aware that there are a slew of women in the world who love seeing a man's ass in a jockstrap or a thong and will squeeze and slap it with more zeal than the gruffest rugby player after a victory.

Not only do they look hot, but they can also offer great support. They can bring that package you're undoubtedly so in love with front and center. I find that C-in2 and DT do the trick on this one magically well. And jockstraps can also offer a bit of lift to those cheeks of yours.

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Jockstraps are also a wonderful choice to make during the hotter times of year. It obviously allows for a lot more breathability. Especially if you get one that's made of mesh. Andrew Christian's mesh air jock with "show-it technology" is one I highly recommend (also because of the aforementioned package amplification).

Now, among the gay community, the sexual lure of the jockstrap is a bit more obvious. It's like putting a spotlight on the goal. Now, that being said, I've encountered a number of people who associate "jockstrap" with "bottom." Not true. Watch more porn (yes, I just said that to gay men as if I needed to). Jockstraps are sexy no matter what your preferences are. I frequently wear them and I'll leave my preferences completely to your imagination. ... You're welcome.

I love wearing jocks. Yes, I'm wearing one right now as I write this. Wearing a jockstrap out and about (especially to work or on interviews, etc.) makes me feel sexy, confident, and is like my little secret that I carry with me throughout the day. Although, that secret tends to be let out after enough Stoli.

Some superior designers, in my ever-so-humble opinion, to turn to when purchasing jockstraps: C-in2, Andrew Christian, DT, ES Collection, Timoteo, and Nasty Pig, among others.

So there you have it. The powerful forces behind the Men's Underwear Blog asked me to rant about jockstraps and I have done so. Now do yourself a favor, go buy one, look at your ass and package in a mirror, and thank me later.

Smooches, gentlemen, and thanks for reading! Love ya!

Shielded - A Review

ES Collection is a brand based in Barcelona, Spain.  All their fabrics and designs are made there, but they are quickly expanding in popularity to all parts of the world.  They are noted for their unique cuts in both swimwear and underwear.  Today I am going to be reviewing the Shields briefs from their winter collection; however, I believe for reasons listed below that this piece is more suited to summer wear.  Stay tuned for a review of swimwear.

The fit of these briefs is what I would call skimpy to say the least.  At first glance they don't look it because they are so well designed.  But  upon closer inspection, they are quite small.  They just cover all the essential parts.  The legs are very high-rise making for only a few inches of fabric on the side.  The pouch has a unique, u-shaped top opening that seamlessly integrates with the rest of the brief.  The only seams are on the sides.  

These things are really comfy!  Usually briefs that are this small ride up or ride down causing discomfort.  But these stay in place and keep you comfortable.  They are made of a light-weight cotton blend and are perfect for the summer.  The cotton breaths well and isn't too heavy for the hot weather.  Also, the skimpy fit makes for minimal coverage - also a good thing in the summer.  While they are part of the winter collection, I think they are perfectly suited to summer wear as well.

ES Collection is really all about the style.  These things scream stylish.  From the skimpy, Euro-fit to the unique pouch.  The fly is more stylish than it is functional, but that's okay because no one really uses them these days anyway.  The brief is mostly white with shields printed on it in honor of the Olympics.  There are black bands that accent the white on the legs, fly, and waistband.  My only complaint about the style of these is that I'm not a huge fan of the print and wish that they made this same design with other prints.  

These briefs are well-crafted and still look as good as the day I first got them.  The print, while not my favorite, does not fade even after repeated washings.  The elastic waistband remains crisp and does not fray like many often do.  These, however are really expensive at 40 Euros (roughly 50 USD).  It does not help that the dollar is so weak right now.  If you have the money they are definitely worth it.  But it would be worth waiting for a sale or going to Europe to get them at a better price. 

 

MY RATING:
Overall, I give the ES Collection Shields Brief a total score of 8 based on the following criteria:
FIT -- 9 (out of 10) - Skimpy.

COMFORT -- 10 (out of 10) - Comfy and light-weight.  Great for the summer. 
STYLE -- 9 (out of 10) - Very stylish.  I wish they came in more varied prints. 
QUALITY -- 9 (out of 10) - High quality, will last you. 
VALUE -- 6 (out of 10) - Quite expensive with the weak dollar.  If you have the money, they're worth it. 

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