Have you seen advertisements about underwear with high thread count, highlighting 160 TC, 250 TC, and even 300 TC? Thread count is an important metric when buying bedsheets but what about underwear? Does thread count matter for underwear? Should you actually buy underwear with a higher thread count, or is it just a marketing gimmick?
This is exactly what we will uncover in this blog. What is the importance of thread count for underwear, and what you should look for when buying underwear for men - all these questions will be answered in this blog.
What Is Thread Count (And Where It Actually Matters)
Thread count basically refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric.
When there’s a higher number of threads in a square inch, the fabric is denser, which is associated with durability.
Many people think that higher TC means softer fabric, but that is not true. Thread count only measures the density of the fabric.
It is commonly used in making bedsheets where durability and resistance to wear and tear are important.
Does Thread Count Matter for Underwear?
The short answer: No, thread count is not a relevant metric for underwear.
Underwear fabrics are made to move, stretch, and breathe, unlike bed sheets. Thread count doesn't matter much in this case.
That means the fabric itself makes it soft and comfortable, not how tightly it is woven.
Why Thread Count Doesn’t Work for Underwear Fabrics
Thread count does not work when it comes to underwear fabrics because:
Most underwear uses knit fabrics rather than woven fabrics
Modern men’s comfortable underwear is made from stretchable knit fabrics, not tightly woven ones. Knit fabrics are flexible and stretch with your body.
Softness comes from fiber, not density
The thread count determines the density of a fabric, not its softness. Softness comes from choosing the right fiber, like long-staple cotton or Supima cotton.
What Matters More Than Thread Count
So, now that we have established that thread count doesn’t work for underwear, let’s see what you should actually look for when buying comfortable underwear for men.
Fabric Type
Underwear should be made from soft fabric for maximum comfort. Micro modal, super-combed cotton, and Tactel are the best fabrics for men’s underwear.
Breathability & Comfort
Breathability is the most important feature of any underwear. Your underwear should allow airflow, especially in hot and humid climates like India.
Stretch & Flexibility
Your underwear should move with you. And stretchability does not come with thread count. It comes from using the right fabric and technology.
Moisture-wicking ability
Today, brands like XYXX focus on moisture-wicking ability so that you can wear your underwear all day without worrying about sweat, chafing, and irritation.
For more details on what makes underwear truly comfortable, read this blog on What Makes Underwear Feel Right.
Best Fabrics for Men’s Underwear
If you want the softest men’s underwear, you need to focus on fabric, not thread count. Here are the best fabrics for underwear for men.
Cotton
Cotton is the most classic and widely used fabric when it comes to underwear for men.
Instead of regular cotton briefs or trunks, you can also go for underwear made from super-combed cotton.
They are softer and more breathable than cotton, giving you superior comfort every day.
However, cotton tends to retain moisture, making it less ideal for intense physical activity, so we do not recommend wearing cotton underwear while working out.
Modal
Modal has quickly become a popular choice for modern underwear, and for good reason. It feels like a second skin because it is 3x softer and smoother than cotton.
Modal is different because it can handle moisture better, so you stay dry and comfortable all day long.
It is an excellent choice for Indian men.
Blends
Many brands use fabric blends like cotton + spandex or nylon blends to add stretch to the underwear.
When it comes to blends, XYXX uses 92% Tactel nylon and 8% elastane to give you 8x faster drying underwear. It is perfect for men with an active lifestyle. Shop for IntelliDri Tactel Briefs from XYXX.
Which Underwear Style Should You Choose?
There’s no hard and fast rule for which underwear style works best for you. It is more about your personal preference. Try different underwear styles and stick to what feels most comfortable.
- Boxer briefs for men: Give everyday comfort and support.
- Trunks for men: Wear these under slim-fit pants. It has a cleaner look.
Inner boxers for men: For days when you want to relax and lounge at home.
How to Choose the Right Underwear
Choosing the right underwear is all about understanding your needs and lifestyle.
- First, always prioritise the fabric. Instead of worrying about things like thread count, choose materials that feel soft, breathable, and suitable for your daily routine.
- Next, pay attention to fit and support. Your underwear should sit comfortably on your waist without digging in or riding up during the day. A good fit ensures you stay comfortable without constantly adjusting.
- Finally, think about how you plan to use it.
- For everyday use: Choose micromodal underwear
- For an active lifestyle: Buy Tactel blend underwear
Common Myths About Thread Count
Now that you know thread count barely matters when it comes to underwear for men, let’s debunk some of the myths about thread count:
Higher count = softer
This is the most common and the biggest myth about TC. People often think that a higher thread count automatically means softer fabric. This may be true for bedsheets, but it does not apply to underwear.
Applies to all fabrics
Thread count only applies to woven fabrics, not knit fabrics. This is why TC is meaningless for underwear.
More threads = better quality
The quality of any garment depends on so many factors, like fabric used, the production process, technology used, etc., more than thread count.
Why the Right Fabric Makes a Difference
The fabric you choose has a direct effect on how comfortable you are all day. Soft, breathable fabrics keep you comfortable even when you wear them for a long time.
A good fabric also helps things fit better because it stretches and shapes to your body without being too tight. This makes it easier to get around and feel better all around.
In the long run, high-quality fabrics are a better choice because they stay soft and keep their shape even after being washed many times. That's why today's underwear is all about being soft, breathable, and flexible, which are the most important things that make underwear comfortable.
XYXX focuses on making underwear that fulfils all your needs. When you choose XYXX for men’s underwear, you get:
- Superior quality fabric
- Unmatched softness and comfort
- Intelligent fabric technology
- Focus on fit and feel
FAQs
What is the thread count in fabric?
Thread count means the number of threads per square inch in any piece of fabric. It determines the density of the fabric.
Is a higher thread count better for comfort?
Higher thread count gives durability to a fabric, but it does not make it softer or smoother. So, no, a higher TC does not mean better comfort or quality.
What fabric is best for underwear?
For underwear, super-combed cotton, modal, and Tactel blends are the best fabrics. These are soft, lightweight, and super comfortable.
Is modal softer than cotton for underwear?
Yes, modal underwear is 3x softer than regular cotton underwear. This gives modal underwear a luxurious, skin-like feel.
What is the most comfortable underwear for men?
Micro modal briefs and trunks can be considered some of the most comfortable underwear for men. Modal fabric is luxuriously soft and smooth.
How do I choose the right underwear style?
To choose the right underwear style, focus on your lifestyle and daily needs. Go for boxer briefs for daily wear, trunks for a modern fit, and inner boxers for relaxed comfort.
