If you're constantly pulling your underwear back into place, the problem is usually the fit.
Underwear can ride up because it's too loose, too tight, worn out, or simply the wrong cut for your body.
Quick Answer
Men's underwear usually rides up because the size, leg openings, fabric or cut don't match the wearer's body properly. Worn elastic can also cause underwear to move and bunch during the day.
Your underwear may be too big
Loose underwear doesn't have enough tension to stay in position.
Common signs include:
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Fabric bunching around the groin.
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A waistband that slips.
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Loose leg openings.
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Poor front support.
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Constant adjusting.
If the underwear feels roomy rather than secure, check the size first.
It may also be too tight
Going smaller isn't always the answer.
If the leg openings grip your thighs too tightly, movement can pull the fabric upwards as you walk, sit or train.
Signs include:
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Deep marks on your skin.
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Tight leg openings.
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Pressure around the groin.
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A waistband that rolls.
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Restricted movement.
Your underwear should feel secure, not restrictive.
The style may not suit your body
Different cuts behave differently.
Briefs remove fabric from the thighs, so there's less material to roll or bunch.
Trunks add some thigh coverage but need to fit the legs properly.
Jockstraps provide front support with very little rear fabric, which can work well for movement and training.
Tangas are another option if you prefer less fabric around the sides and legs.
If one style keeps riding up even in the correct size, try another cut.
Worn elastic can be the problem
Underwear doesn't last forever.
Repeated washing, stretching and heat gradually weaken the waistband and leg openings.
Replace a pair when:
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The waistband stays stretched.
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The fabric has lost its shape.
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The legs feel loose.
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Support is noticeably weaker.
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A pair that used to fit properly starts moving.
Why does underwear ride up during exercise?
Training puts much more movement through your hips and thighs than normal daily activity.
If the underwear already fits poorly, squats, running and leg work make the problem obvious very quickly.
For exercise, look for:
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Secure support.
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Good stretch.
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Fabric that returns to shape.
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Moisture management.
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Leg openings that stay in place.
Read our guide to Men's Underwear for the Gym for more detail.
How do you stop underwear from riding up?
Start with these checks:
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Confirm your size using the brand's size guide.
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Check whether the waistband stays in place.
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Make sure the leg openings aren't loose or cutting into your thighs.
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Move around before deciding the fit is right.
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Try another style if the same problem keeps happening.
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Replace underwear that has lost its elasticity.
Don't solve the problem by automatically buying a smaller size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do boxer briefs ride up?
The legs may be too tight, too loose or poorly matched to your thigh shape. Worn elastic can also cause the fabric to move upwards.
Are briefs better if underwear keeps riding up?
They can be. Briefs remove the fabric around the thighs, which eliminates one common area where underwear bunches.
Should underwear be tight to stop it riding up?
No. Underwear should fit securely without squeezing or restricting movement.
Why does old underwear start riding up?
The elastic and fabric gradually lose their ability to return to their original shape, so the garment stops sitting where it should.
Find the Fit That Works for You
The right underwear should stay in place without needing constant adjustment.
Start with the correct size. Then choose a style that works with your thighs, body shape and daily routine.
Explore the Bulge & Bum men's underwear range to compare briefs, trunks, tangas, jockstraps and other styles.
