Buzz
A complete guide to selecting the perfect jockstrap, choosing the correct size, and enhancing comfort.
Jockstraps are commonly worn by men participating in sports, physical activities, or any high-impact events. These undergarments are designed to provide support by keeping the penis, testicles, and scrotum close to the body, shielding these sensitive areas from injury. Additionally, many jockstraps feature a pouch where a protective cup can be inserted, offering extra defense against direct impacts. To ensure a proper fit, it's essential to explore the various types of jockstraps and cups available. Once you're familiar with the options, you can implement tips to maximize comfort, protection, and support.
Key Things to Consider
- Jockstraps are available both in stores, like Target or Walmart, and online.
- Select a jockstrap based on your waist measurement. Small jockstraps fit waist sizes between 20-26 in (51-66 cm), medium fits 26-32 in (66-81 cm), and large fits 32-38 in (81-96 cm).
- If comfort is your priority, go for a cotton or cotton-blend jockstrap. For physical activities, opt for a rayon or spandex jockstrap for more support.
Steps to Follow
Choosing the Right Jockstrap
Look for a jockstrap in a brick-and-mortar store.
Explore a wide range of jockstraps online. Shopping online often brings discounts that can help lower the cost of your jockstrap. Many online retailers offer a broader selection, giving you more chances to find the exact style or size you're looking for.
- A disadvantage of buying jockstraps online, especially if it's your first time, is that you can't physically examine the cut and quality before making your purchase.
- To score the best deal, compare jockstraps across various websites and search for "coupons for [jockstrap site name]" to save money.
Choose a material suited to your activity. If you're wearing a jockstrap for everyday use, whether for style or comfort, opt for one made from soft materials like cotton or cotton blends. For more active uses, such as sports or exercise, materials like rayon or spandex will keep you dry and provide better breathability.
- "Wicking" refers to the moisture-wicking properties of fabrics used in activewear. These fabrics pull moisture away from your skin, helping to keep you dry.
Explore the variety of fashion-forward jockstraps available.Color Options
Design
Pouch Style
Understand your size range. The size indicated on your jockstrap corresponds only to the waistband measurement. The protective cup, if separate, will be listed separately on the packaging. The cup should fit securely around your genitals, providing a snug yet comfortable fit. The leg straps must be tight enough to avoid any twisting. Many jockstrap brands use specific sizing systems, so make sure to verify the size chart. Typically, you can expect the following size ranges:
- Small: 20 to 26 inches (50.8 to 66 cm).
- Medium: 26 to 32 inches (66 to 81.3 cm).
- Large: 32 to 38 inches (81.3 to 96.5 cm).
- XL: 38 to 44 inches (96.5 to 111.8 cm).
- Cups also come in four sizes: peewee (ages 5-7), youth (ages 8-12), teen (13-15), and adult (16+).
Consider athletic briefs as an alternative to jockstraps. Not everyone finds jockstraps comfortable, and if that's the case for you, athletic briefs can be a good alternative that offers similar support while being more like traditional underwear.
- However, not all athletic briefs come with cups. If you're playing a sport that requires groin protection, make sure to choose briefs that include a cup.
Deciding Whether to Wear a Cup/Protector
Skip the cup for running-focused activities. While some activities require a protective cup, they can sometimes cause discomfort, trapping heat and feeling bulky. For running-intensive activities like track and field, basketball, or rollerblading, it's often more comfortable to wear a jockstrap without a cup.
Use a cup for sports with fast-moving projectiles. High-speed projectiles such as balls or pucks can pose a serious risk to your body, especially your sensitive areas. For sports where this is a concern, it’s important to wear a jockstrap with a cup for extra protection. Sports like:
- Baseball
- Football
- Hockey
- Soccer
- Rugby
Explore different cup styles to suit your needs.
Enhancing Protection, Comfort, and Support
Layer your underwear for added comfort and support.
Opt for slimmer protective cups for younger children. Since children haven't reached puberty, they don’t require as much space in their protective cups. They are also more sensitive to discomfort from clothing. A narrower cup will be less bulky and more comfortable for them.
Choose specialized jockstraps tailored for specific sports activities.
