Long mens underwear, also commonly known as long johns, are made of thermal material that is used as insulation usually during the winter months. Worn under the regular clothes, this type of mens underwear is suitable for keeping men warm by adding layers to their clothing on cold days. Other types of mens underwear that can be layered to provide extra warmth when the weather is chilly are the tank top or A shirt and the classic t shirt.

One of the most popular kinds of mens underwear is the boxer shorts. This kind of mens underwear has elastic waistbands and leg sections that are loose, breathable, and extend to the mid thigh. There is usually a fly, with or without a button or two with this kind of mens underwear. The waistbands of this type of mens underwear are usually wider than boxer briefs, another kind of mens underwear that are like boxers, but are less free and more form fitting and snug. Boxer shorts with colorful patterns, pictures of cartoon characters, sports team logos and slogans are popular as mens underwear and can be found in almost any retail shopping store.

Many men today wear mens underwear that is classified as briefs. This kind of mens underwear is classified by the shorter leg bands that end at or near the groin, the pull apart fly, and the form fitting elasticity of the garments. There are many variations to this kind of mens underwear, and colors of all kinds can be found, although there are not many patterns that you will find with mens underwear of this kind.

Finally, mens underwear can serve an incredibly important, protective function. The Jock strap, or athletic supporter, is worn under the clothes, usually during sports, to protect the genital area from injury. This type of mens underwear has a hard, protective cup in front that goes over the genitals while the jock strap is held in place with elastic bands, one at the waist and two around each leg and under the buttocks. Mens underwear these days is comfortable, supportive, breathable, and some are protective as well.