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."

Click to enlarge.

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.

Click to enlarge.

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!

Holiday Gift Guide 2011

Sorry for the delayed guide, but better late than never right?  And there are after all 12 days of Christmas, so while there may not be time everywhere to order in time for the first day, you can still make it before the end. Buying underwear for someone is a very personal matter. Especially for guys, because (as much as I'd like to argue otherwise) they don't get new underwear all that often, so when they do it's important that it works for them and their body. That being said, many guys have a strong preference for what style (boxers, briefs, trunks, etc) of underwear they wear. Some don't care that much or may be happy with a number of different styles, but others care a lot. So make sure you know your man well before buying. Also, it is very important for you to make sure you know your man's size. What he wears in pants may not be the same as his underwear, so make sure you check. Also, snooping in his underwear drawer may not tell you the completely correct size as it's possible he may have some old undies lying around that no longer fit or never fit. If you aren't going to ask him outright, make sure you look at a pair that you know fits him well. It's important you get the right size because most places won't let you return it.

That being said, underwear is a great gift for the holidays and many people love to give and receive it! So once you've figured out what style and size of underwear your man needs, there's still a whole lot to choose from. I've broken it down for you based on the personality/type of man who might like to wear each pair. Use this holiday underwear buying guide as a jumping off point for what to get your man. While some of these undies may seem a little expensive to you, you're paying for quality so they're worth it.

This year I have a great list for you, I believe I've only mentioned one of these brands before.  So in addition to being a great gifting guide, this is also a good guide of some new brands to try for yourself.  

For the Classic Man:

Naked boxerbriefs.

• This category is for the guy who likes to keep it simple.  He's not opposed to something with style, but he likes his comfort first.    
• Undz is a newer brand on the scene.  They are very basic but still funky and stylish.  Also, one of my favorite parts of them is they don't cost a lot ($4.99 a piece).  So if your man needs lots of new undies, this is perfect.  I personally really like their briefs.
• Another brand that I'm really loving lately is Naked.  They make very simple yet comfortable undies.  When I wear these I feel like I'm, well naked.  They truly feel like you're wearing nothing.  I personally really like their boxerbrief fit (shown).   

 For the Lover/Boyfriend:

Body Aware Curacao briefs.

• This category is for that special guy in your life - or just that guy you know will appreciate sexy undies.  But as I've mentioned before: know your guy; not all guys like sexy undies.
• I brand that has recently come to my attention is TBJON.  They specialize in really sexy undies meant for your sexy activities.  I really love their thongs.  The lyte and kol styles are great.
• A new brand that makes some pretty sexy undies is Mckillop.  They only make jockstraps and pouches (jockstraps without straps).  I really dig their colorful power jocks - currently on sale for $15.  
• And finally, a really sexy line is Body Aware, which has recently come to my attention.  There's an exhaustive catalog - they've really got something sexy for everybody.  Personally I really dig the Curacao briefs (shown).  But there's a ton to search through there, so go check it out!

 The Fun Guy:

Marek+Richard Underdog brief.

• This category is for the guy who likes to have fun.  He's adventurous and not afraid to take risks.  That goes for his fashion choices as well.  He's daring and confident in his appearance.
• A new brand hailing from the UK is Bum-Chums. These undies are really fun and colorful. They have bright colors in their Fruity collection and metallic fabrics in their Celestial collection. These undies are for the guy that loves to have fun in (with) his pants choice. 
• A new-comer on the scene is Marek+Richard.  The company was founded earlier this year by two young fashion designers who met while studying at school together.  I really love their fun new take on things.  Especially loving their underdog brief (shown) that combines mesh and cotton jersey for a very unique, runway look. Also they're currently having a sale. 

The Fashionable Guy:

• This category is for the guy that's all about style.  He's all about refinement but also isn't afraid to have a little fun with his fashion choices.  
• My first selection comes from Spanish brand XTG Extreme Game, a clothing brand specializing in daring designs.  I really love the subtle refinement that this brand brings to many of their undies.  I really love their blackletter brief.  It's a really fun fabric that is lightweight and semi-transparent.  Very fashionable and refined. 
• While far from new, I'm always a fan of DT Clothes (formerly known as DT Jocks).  They have some really fun and funky asymmetric undies that are very fashion-forward in my opinion.  

So there you have it folks, those are my suggestions for what to get your man this holiday season.  Happy shopping!  

DT Clothes - A Review

So it's been a bit since I've really had a chance to sit down and put some quality time into the site.  I do apologize, unfortunately all my exciting life opportunities of late have gotten in the way of my blogging.  I would like to say that I will be better, but I honestly don't know if that will be the case.  But I'll do my best.  Today I'd like to share with you a little review that is long overdue.  So I'm just going to go right into it with a review of DT  Clothes brand low-rise briefs. 

Now I had the chance to try this style in a couple different prints, unfortunately the prints that I tried are no longer available online.  So I just choose some prints that I like from the site to illustrate this review.  

Starting with the fit, as the style suggests these briefs are low-rise.  Now there are of course degrees of low-rise, and I would describe these as a comfortable low-rise.  These briefs definitely have minimal coverage, but not so much so that they are uncomfortable to wear.  The back completely covers your ass and the goods in the front are also kept under control.  The sides are high rise, with not much more than an inch of fabric (in addition to the waistband) at the smallest point.  This makes for a very minimal appearance.  They are well fitted throughout, keeping you snug but not too snug.  

As for the comfort.  They are made of 95% cotton with 5% lycra.  This makes for a very comfy feel that will also hold its shape.  The pouch is double-lined for extra comfort and support.  Despite the minimal fit, these briefs stay in place very well and thus are comfortable to wear the entire day.  The full coverage back is also a welcome feature of these low-rise undies.  This waistband is thin and soft and doesn't cut. The minimal fit/coverage is also perfect for hot, summer days.

Now as far as the style goes, these things come in a fantastic array of prints and colors.  They are fun and funky as well as fashionable.  The fit is very stylish and the fabrics are unique and stylish.  These are some of my favorite undies to wear just because they are so fun and unique.  One of my favorite parts is that many of the styles implement brightly colored waistbands with matching colored legbands.  But if color is not your thing, this style is also made in plain black and plain white (listed under the DT Black collection).  So there really is something for everyone.  

These undies are well made and at $33 AUD ($34 USD) they're a little pricey, but worth the investment.  Like I said, they're unique and colorful and they are comfy and last well.  I've washed these things numerous times and they still fit great and the print hasn't faded.  They're worth the investment for a unique pair of undies that no one else will have. 

MY RATING:

Overall, I give the DT Clothes Low-Rise Briefs a total score of 9 based on the following criteria:

FIT -- 9 (out of 10) - Low-rise, minimal coverage.  Small coverage on side.  Fitted pouch and butt.

COMFORT -- 9 (out of 10) - Soft, comfy fabric.  Great for all-day wear. 

STYLE -- 10 (out of 10) -Fun and funky.  Unique.  No one else will have these. 

QUALITY -- 9 (out of 10) - Well made. Does not fade.  Holds shape. 

VALUE -- 7 (out of 10) - Pricey, but a good investment for something so unique. 

**********9

DT Ultra now available

The DT Ultra collection (which I mentioned here) is now available for purchase at DT Clothes and will soon be availble for purchase at DT Ultra.

DT Clothes - Valentine's Sale

For Valentine's Day, DT Clothes is offering up to 75% off select items. So check them out! Also, be on the lookout for the upcoming DT Ultra collection (pictured above), it looks like it's gonna be hot!

Coming in 2008: DT Black

Be on the look-out for the new DT Black collection coming in 2008. We'll keep you posted.

New Store: Boy Wonder

Boy Wonder is a brand spankin' new online store based in New Zealand. They specialize in men's underwear and swimwear. BW currently stocks 2(x)ist, DT Clothes, Ginch Gonch, and Andrew Christian. They have a great selection for such a new store. The layout of their site is very modern and easy to navigate. This site will make shopping for that perfect pair a breeze.

DT Fluros now available!

The glow-in-the-dark underwear that I previously mentioned is now available for purchase at DT Clothes.

Coming Soon: Glow in the dark undies...

Coming this October DT Clothes will be launching a line of glow in the dark underwear entitled Fluros. This a really unique idea and it is a prime example of what an innovative and fun company DT Clothes is. Stay tuned to UB for more updates on DT Fluros and more!

Bed Beach & Burn now open for business!

A little while ago I told you about the site Bed Beach & Burn. Well it is now up and running and ready for business. They do not yet have all their stock in. But when it is all in the plan to have Calvin Klein, Ginch Gonch, Levis, Rufskin, Paul Frank, Puma, 2(x)ist, Original Penguin, DT, and probably more! They currently only have items from DT, Original Penguin, and Ginch Gonch for sale. Even though you cannot currently buy everything they plan on selling, you can still get involved at their site. They are currently having a drawing to win £100 worth of product from BB&B. All you have to do to enter is just sign up for their newsletter. Sources tell us that next week BB&B will be doing a photoshoot with Ryan Daharsh in which he will be sporting some CK underwear and other underwear and swimwear that BB&B will be selling. Ryan Daharsh is known for his work as a model at Abercrombie and Fitch.

Freshpair: Current sales and discount codes

Freshpair is currently offering all UB readers a promotional code that will last until July 5th. This code will get you $10 off a purchase of $75 or more. Just enter the code "freshjune" at checkout.

Also, Freshpair has a lot of 25% off sales going on, many of which started this month. Hugo Boss underwear will be 25% off until the 10th of June. C-In2, Bike, DT, Nautica, Play, Wax, Jocko, Baskit, and Puma underwear will all be 25% off from now until the 17th of June.

So be sure to head over to Freshpair and cash in on some of these deals. And don't forget to use your coupon code in combination with these deals.

New items from DT Clothes

DT Clothes has launched some new styles just in time for summer. The launch includes new patterned briefs, some new patterned tanks, and a brand new style of boxer called the long boxer short (it looks a little bit like a sliding short). To see all the new products go to the "new" section of their website. I really love the whole DT lifestyle and line of products. Their products are so creative, imaginative, and fun. You will not find anything like DT clothes underwear elsewhere. It is really a fantastic line, and the new additions to it live up to everything that I've come to expect from them. Here's what the new line includes: zapped (shown large on right), megapixel (below from left to right), rubble, starman, eme, and zebity.

New DT Clothes

There's a new DT Clothes line coming soon. It will include some new prints in the same classic styles (briefs, jocks, boxerbriefs, boxers, etc.) as well as some new styles, including swimwear and denim! Some of the photos are already up, so check the site. Stay tuned for details.

DT Clothes review

DT Clothes has brought to you many fun printed drawers for quite a few years. In fact they have already had a name change (they were formerly known as DT Jocks). DT Clothes is a well established and avant-garde underwear company that in many ways is ahead of its time. For instance, they are the first and the only company to bring you fully customizable underwear in their create your own section. Recently they have redesigned their website to include a new design and new styles such as: jockstraps, x-front briefs, loose boxers (a compromise between boxer shorts and boxer briefs), lounge pants, shirts, fully customizable underwear, and even a women's line coming soon (although that will not be blogged about much here for obvious reasons). I have posted about DT Clothes many times, and finally I have the opportunity to sample their ware and review it here. So let's just jump right in.

I sampled the buzz jockstrap. Before I talk about how it felt and how it fit I just want to preface that with the fact that I have never before worn a jockstrap so I really don't have any prior experiences to compare it to. I am very jockstrap illiterate you might say, which you may find odd considering that I know so much about all other types of underwear. But everyone can learn more about things, even the experts (including underwear experts).

The jockstrap fit quite well, the straps fit on quite well and after an initial adjustment (i.e. putting it on) they did not need any re-adjusting throughout the day. I have heard people complain sometimes about the straps of a jock twisting up during the day, but these did not do that. My only complaint about the fit is that the straps were a little tight (they did stretch out a bit though after some wear), this may be that I have never worn one before, but I have noticed with other DT underwear that it fits a little small. So keep that in mind when buying, you may want to buy a size up.

The comfort was great, other than the initial getting used to a jock it was fine. It really is a nice feeling to be completely supported up front and completely free in the back. This jock also has a great feature that allows for great comfort. This feature is the fact that it has a decent sized pouch that allows for one to be flaccid or erect without pulling the straps or the pouch out of place, thus readjustments are never needed. According to Wikipedia (under the Fashion Jock section of Jockstrap), this style of pouch is known as flopper. This may be incorrect, but as I've said I'm jockstrap illiterate, so correct me if I'm wrong. The point is: the pouch not only allows for comfort while flaccid (if it only allowed for comfort while flaccid it would be called a microjock, or so I've read) but it also allows for comfort while erect. So two thumbs up on the comfort.

The style is what really sets this jockstrap apart. Most people may have the preconceived notion that jockstraps are only meant for sports. That is wrong. This truly is a fashion jock, I'm sure it would support just as well in sports as an athletic jock would, but it is really meant to be a fashion statement. The waistband is the normal width of most underwear and the leg straps are much thinner than those of athletic jocks. Also, as I previously mentioned, the pouch is large enough to be comfortable when accommodation is necessary. In fact, the way these look from the front (without seeing them from the back) they could easily be mistaken for a tanga or an athletic brief (the kind with no sides). Also, one of my favorite details of this jockstrap is a tiny logo tag on the center of the back of the waistband. This little detail really adds a lot to them, especially since the back of the waistband has a tendency (as all jockstraps have) to ride up over pants due to the fact that it is not held down in any way in the middle, and thus the logo detailing shows. DT clothes' jockstrap is really very stylish and will help bring an extra (and unexpected) punch to your underwear wardrobe.

Just like all other DT clothes underwear, this jock is of great quality and is well worth the price.

Overall, DT really gave me a great first experience wearing a jockstrap as daily underwear and it was so good that I would not hesitate to do it again.

MY RATING:
Overall, I give the DT Clothes buzz jockstrap a total score of 9 based on the following criteria:
FIT -- 9 (out of 10)
COMFORT -- 10 (out of 10)
STYLE -- 10 (out of 10)
QUALITY -- 10 (out of 10)
VALUE -- 9 (out of 10)

********** 9

Create your own undies

I have often wanted to have custom-made underwear that I have designed myself. As I hinted at previously, DT Clothes has come out with such a thing. You can create your own underwear here, but it does come with a cost. A simple jockstrap (customized) is 45AUD and a simple (customized) boxerbrief is 65AUD. But I think it's well worth it. Who doesn't want to have custom text written across the butt of their undies? I am excited with this new system, but there are a few things that it is lacking that I would really like to see before I deem it perfect:
-First and foremost: DT Clothes is known (at least in my mind) for their fun and funky patterned undies, but you can only have plain colored fabrics used in your custom undies. I'd really like to see the implement using some of the patterned fabrics into the custom undie system (even if it does cost more).
-I would like to be able to control the color and font of the custom text as well as the exact location (kind of like online T-shirt making engines)
-I would like to have more customization options besides fabric, trim and waistband. I'd really like to be able to change each section of the fabric individually (like the converse custom shoes).
-I would like to have my own custom waistband text.
-I would like to be able to order multiple pairs in different sizes (like for use as sports team underpants)
-I would like to be able to order a custom matching tank top (since they do make tanks, I should be able to customize them)
-Also I would like to know where the jockstrap text prints since there is no butt covering on a jockstrap


So, it's not perfect. But it is a start. And I'm very excited to order a pair or two.

Freshpair 25% sale!

Freshpair.com is having a huge holiday sale. They have 25% off many popular brands, including: C-In2, 2(x)ist, Hugo Boss, Play, DT Clothes, Go Software, Wax, Jocko, and Baskit. These are some incredible deals. Click here for their holiday sales guide. Also don't forget to check out their regular sales guide.

DT Clothes (Jocks)

I'd like to let you know about a brand that I have talked just a little bit about before. Yes you guessed it, DT Jocks (now known as DT Clothes). They have just launched a new line of their very fun underwear. This new line includes new styles and new patterns as well as a really spiffy new web site. They have a few of their classic colors and prints still available, as well as a plethora of new and fun patterns to choose from. They also have broadened their underwear line from just boxers, boxerbriefs, and briefs, to boxers, boxerbriefs, briefs (with lots of variations on the front fly), jocks, and newly styled boxers. They also will be launching a new section very soon (my sources tell me by the end of the month) called "make your own undies". Here you will be able to choose the style, fabric, colors, waistbands, and even add your own text (and maybe graphics?). This should be a very exciting development. I have never seen a site where you can design your own undies, I've seen design your own shoes multiple times (from the likes of Vans and Converse), but never design your own undies. I am very excited to try this new feature out. When I do I will be sure to give you all a full report. Until then, check out their site and buy yourself some new "Dick Togs*". Also if you order now, you get free shipping on all orders over $100 AUD. Review of their new underwear line to come soon.

*Dick Togs - Aussie slang for underwear and/or swimmwear. The name of this brand (DT Jocks) is derived from this slang.

DTJocks brief

DT Jocks is a fairly new brand that makes really stylish briefs and boxer briefs. I personally think they are cool and they might actually make me wear some briefs (*hint hint* I wear small if anyone wants to buy me some). I don't know if they'd actually fit me because the pouches on briefs in my waistsize are never big enough for me (not to brag but it's just true). But hey I'd try these. They have a really unique looking front. And they're low-rise and nice and out of sight. Briefs seem to be becoming popular again along with boxer briefs (I'll talk about that another day). I guess guys just really like having support and such. I thought that these were just really unique because they're low-rise and low-cut, in fact here's the quote from their website about them: "The DT Jocks label was established in Australia July 2003. DT Jocks are classically styled men's briefs with a modern twist. DT Jocks low-rise + boxer briefs feature……

100% Cotton.
Functional fly opening.
Box cut…..short through the crotch and wide through the side.
Unique colours, designs, patterns and prints.
Accurate sizing.
Quality, comfort and style."

So they basically have a really cool looking, but functioning fly. A really unique cut in the crotch and low rise so they don't show above your pants. But with briefs like these you'll be eager to get your pants off and show them off. In fact I think these just might work for me. You can find them online at DTJocks.com

Poll of the day:
How supportive do you like your underwear and does the support preference vary depending on what you're doing?