Underwear Fabrics 101: Cotton, Modal, Bamboo, and Performance Blends

The fabric of your underwear matters just as much as the fit. Softness, breathability, stretch, and moisture control all come from the material—and choosing the right one can upgrade your comfort from morning to night. This guide explains the most common men’s underwear fabrics so you can pick the perfect pair.

1. Cotton: Breathable, Natural, and Reliable

Cotton is the classic choice for softness and everyday comfort. It’s naturally breathable and gentle on the skin, making it a staple in men’s underwear for decades.

• Feel: Soft, familiar, and comfortable for all-day wear.
• Breathability: Excellent airflow; great for everyday use.
• Durability: Holds up well with frequent washing.
• Best for: Casual wear, office days, and warm weather.

Explore cotton-rich classics from Calvin Klein for clean lines and modern comfort.

2. Modal: Ultra-Soft, Lightweight, and Cool

Modal is a plant-based fiber known for its silky feel and high breathability. It’s one of the softest fabrics available and stays comfortable even on long, active days.

• Feel: Smooth, cool, and luxuriously soft.
• Breathability: Higher than cotton; stays comfortable in heat.
• Moisture control: Quick-drying and naturally wicking.
• Best for: Long wear, travel, and anyone who runs warm.

Look for modal-blend underwear from SAXX for stretchy, cool, and friction-free comfort.

3. Bamboo: Soft, Cooling, and Environmentally Friendly

Bamboo fabric feels similar to modal—cool, soft, and breathable—but with a natural eco-friendly advantage. It’s hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin.

• Feel: Smooth and cool with a natural, soft finish.
• Breathability: Excellent airflow with temperature-regulating properties.
• Skin-friendly: Hypoallergenic and naturally antibacterial.
• Best for: Sensitive skin, hot climates, and everyday freshness.

Many modern brands incorporate bamboo blends to improve softness and ventilation, making them a top pick for comfort-focused underwear.

4. Performance Blends: Engineered for Movement

Performance fabrics combine materials like polyester, nylon, elastane, and mesh for active, moisture-wicking comfort. They’re ideal for workouts or intense daily movement.

• Feel: Lightweight, smooth, and supportive with stretch.
• Moisture management: Designed to wick sweat and dry quickly.
• Support: Keeps shape during movement and prevents friction.
• Best for: Gym days, running, hiking, and active routines.

SAXX performance underwear is engineered with moisture-wicking fabrics and the BallPark Pouch™ for secure, motion-friendly support.

5. How to Choose the Right Fabric

• For maximum softness: Choose modal or bamboo blends.
• For everyday comfort: Cotton or cotton-modal blends work best.
• For workouts: Performance fabrics with stretch and moisture control.
• For breathability: Lightweight cotton or bamboo.
• For sensitive skin: Bamboo and modal have the gentlest feel.

6. Common Questions

Which fabric is coolest to wear? Modal and bamboo are the most breathable and cooling, making them ideal for warm climates.

Which underwear fabric lasts longest? Cotton and high-quality performance blends typically hold up best over time.

Is modal better than cotton? Modal is softer, cooler, and more moisture-wicking, while cotton is more durable and classic in feel.

What fabric is best for the gym? Performance blends with elastane offer the best stretch, support, and sweat control.

7. Final Thoughts

Every fabric brings its own strengths—whether it’s the classic breathability of cotton, the silky softness of modal, the cooling comfort of bamboo, or the durability of performance blends. Understanding these differences helps you find underwear that supports your lifestyle and keeps you comfortable from the first wear to the last.

Explore premium men’s underwear from SAXX and Calvin Klein to find styles made from the materials that match your everyday needs.