Global Men’s Underwear Market Outlook to 2028

Global Men's Underwear Market Overview

The global men's underwear market is valued at USD 39 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. The market is driven by increasing consumer demand for comfort, the use of sustainable and advanced fabrics, and the growing preference for branded products among men. Increasing disposable income and the expansion of e-commerce platforms are also playing pivotal roles in boosting sales across different product segments such as boxers, briefs, and trunks.

Cities and regions such as North America and Europe dominate the mens underwear market. The primary reason for this dominance is the high purchasing power of consumers in these regions, combined with their preference for premium and luxury brands. The increasing awareness of personal hygiene and the growing influence of fitness culture have further bolstered demand in these regions. Moreover, strong retail infrastructure and the presence of global brands contribute to market dominance.

Labor regulations play a pivotal role in the global men's underwear market, particularly in countries where textile production is a major industry. The International Labour Organization (ILO) reported in 2023 that countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam have implemented stricter labor standards in response to global scrutiny. These regulations include mandates on minimum wage, working hours, and safety conditions in textile factories.

Global Men's Underwear Market Segmentation

By Product Type: The global men's underwear market is segmented by product type into boxers, briefs, trunks, and thongs. Recently, briefs have held a dominant market share under the segmentation of product type due to their enduring popularity among men of all age groups. The compact and form-fitting nature of briefs makes them ideal for daily wear and athletic activities, contributing to their strong market presence. Additionally, the growing preference for sleek and minimalist designs aligns well with briefs' appeal, making them a versatile option for men.

By Region: The global men's underwear market is regionally segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. North America holds a dominant market share, driven by high consumer spending, increasing demand for premium and luxury underwear, and the widespread adoption of e-commerce. The growing awareness of men's personal care and grooming, combined with the region's robust retail infrastructure, further supports North America's leading position in the global market.

By Fabric Type: The men's underwear market is segmented by fabric type into cotton, synthetic (polyester, nylon, etc.), bamboo fabric, modal, and others (blends, organic fabrics, etc.). Cotton dominates the market, primarily due to its softness, breathability, and affordability. Cotton-based underwear remains the top choice for most consumers because of its comfort and suitability for everyday use. Additionally, cotton is a naturally hypoallergenic material, which enhances its appeal among consumers with sensitive skin. Despite competition from synthetic fabrics, cotton continues to be the most favored material.

Global Men's Underwear Market Competitive Landscape

The global men's underwear market is characterized by the presence of a few key players that hold significant market share. These companies dominate due to their strong brand presence, extensive product portfolios, and investment in innovative technologies. The market is also seeing increasing competition from new entrants focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable products, which further intensifies competition.

Company Name

Established Year

Headquarters

No. of Employees

Revenue (USD Bn)

Product Range

Brand Value

Sustainability Initiatives

R&D Investment

Retail Network

Calvin Klein

1968

New York, USA

Hanesbrands Inc.

1901

North Carolina, USA

Jockey International

1876

Wisconsin, USA

Ralph Lauren Corporation

1967

New York, USA

Tommy John

2008

New York, USA

The global mens underwear market is competitive, with a few key players dominating the space. Companies like Calvin Klein, Hanesbrands Inc., and Ralph Lauren Corporation lead the market through innovation in product design, premium pricing strategies, and sustainability efforts. In recent years, the focus on eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes has increased, creating opportunities for brands to differentiate themselves in an already saturated market.

Global Men's Underwear Market Analysis

Growth Drivers

Shifting consumer preferences toward premium products: Shifts in consumer preferences towards premium mens underwear products are evident in high-income countries, where quality and comfort are prioritized. The global rise in disposable income has led to increasing adoption of premium underwear made from high-end materials such as silk and Pima cotton. In 2023, mens underwear sales in the premium segment surged, further reinforcing this shift in preferences.

Expansion of e-commerce channels: The expansion of e-commerce has been instrumental in driving the mens underwear market, with increasing internet penetration and the convenience of online shopping attracting consumers. In 2024, 5.3 billion people are connected to the internet globally, enabling brands to reach new markets. E-commerce platforms provide a wide range of products, including personalized underwear shopping experiences.

Growing awareness of mens personal care: Mens personal care has witnessed a surge in recent years, as modern consumers increasingly value grooming and hygiene. According to the World Bank, healthcare spending, particularly in developed economies, has seen consistent growth, reflecting a greater emphasis on personal care. This trend correlates with rising sales of mens personal care products, including high-quality underwear.

Challenges

Counterfeit products: Counterfeit products pose a significant challenge in the global mens underwear market, affecting both manufacturers and consumers. According to the World Customs Organization, counterfeit goods accounted for over $500 billion in trade in 2022, with the fashion and textile industries being among the most impacted. The proliferation of counterfeit men's underwear not only diminishes brand reputation but also results in lost revenues for legitimate companies.

Limited penetration in emerging markets: Despite the growing demand for mens underwear globally, penetration in emerging markets remains limited due to various socio-economic factors. According to the World Banks data on global income inequality (2023), low-income countries still face limited purchasing power, resulting in reduced demand for non-essential goods like premium mens underwear. In regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, consumer spending on apparel is relatively low, restricting market growth.

Global Men's Underwear Future Market Outlook

Global Men's Underwear Market is expected to show significant growth, driven by consumer demand for comfort, technological advancements in fabric development, and the increasing adoption of premium and sustainable products. As more consumers shift towards online shopping, e-commerce will continue to play a crucial role in the markets growth trajectory. Additionally, the rise of subscription-based services for underwear and personal care products is expected to further fuel market expansion.

Market Opportunities

Increasing adoption of anti-bacterial and anti-microbial fabrics: Men's underwear made from anti-bacterial and anti-microbial fabrics has become increasingly popular due to the growing demand for hygiene and comfort. These fabrics offer added protection against odor and bacteria, making them attractive to health-conscious consumers. According to the World Health Organization (2023), global awareness of hygiene products has increased, driving demand for apparel with health benefits.

Growth in the athleisure and performance underwear segment: The athleisure trend has extended into the men's underwear market, with increased demand for performance-focused underwear. These products, designed for sports and active lifestyles, are typically made from moisture-wicking and breathable materials. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), consumer expenditure on sportswear has risen steadily, reflecting the growing popularity of fitness-oriented products.
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