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5 Men’s Wardrobe Staples You Should Be Willing To Pay More For

Though we love a good bargain, there are a few clothing items that we believe all men should be willing to pay a bit more for. From a tailored suit to a quality pair of jeans, check out the 5 wardrobe staples we recommend men splurge on.

Jeans

High-quality denim can last years or even decades if cared for properly. Since jeans don’t require frequent washing, a good quality pair is built to last. Another reason to splurge on jeans? Denim is not a particularly forgiving fabric, meaning that it’s obvious when it’s low quality. Invest in a more expensive pair of jeans and you won’t regret it. A classic dark wash, straight cut style is our recommendation.

A Tailored Suit

All men should own at least one nice suit. Whether you wear them to work regularly or not, there comes a time in every man’s life when a suit is necessary. When this time comes, you’ll want to wear one that fits you well, which is why going to the nearest H&M isn’t an option. Instead, we advise you to invest in a quality suit that is tailored to your exact specifications. After all, there is nothing less attractive than an ill-fitting suit.

Winter Coat

If you live somewhere with cold winters, then you’ll likely wear a winter coat on a daily basis for several months on end. As such, this is an item you should be willing to pay more for. Plus, winter coats are one fashion item that are as functional as they are pretty. Therefore, if you splurge a little, you’ll likely be getting a coat that will keep you warm rather than something thin or flimsy that doesn’t offer any real protection against the elements. As something you’ll wear for a good chunk of the year, we recommend choosing a timeless style and colour, such as a grey or black wool peacoat.

Underwear

Given that underwear is something you wear on a daily basis, it’s surprising that few men invest in quality underwear. Sure, you can buy a 10-pack of briefs at a big box store for a nominal fee, but they’ll likely wear out in a matter of months. Whether they quickly develop holes, start to sag, or the fabric pills, the bottom line is they won’t last long. Quality men’s underwear on the other hand will not only be more durable but will look and feel great. Men’s underwear that is slightly more expensive (but still nowhere near breaking the bank) is typically made of thicker, softer fabric that offers far superior comfort and support than those of lesser quality.

Dress Shoes

A pair of men’s dress shoes will last you a very long time if cared for properly. While the cost of a new pair of leather Oxfords might seem like a lot of up front, when you consider how many inexpensive pairs you’d go through in the same amount of time, you’ll likely find that it’ll save you money in the long run. As this is an investment piece, we recommend choosing a classic colour that goes with everything, such as black or brown.

The Best Men’s Underwear Styles For Every Body Type

Wondering which underwear style is best for your body? You might be surprised by the results. Keep reading to discover the best men’s underwear styles for every body type, from those with athletic builds to slim men.

Briefs

Briefs are the ideal underwear style for those with muscular bodies, especially men with larger thighs. Typically boxer briefs or trunks don’t tend to work for men with bigger thighs because they’ll ride up. Briefs are also a great way to show off your body, which you may be particularly inclined to do if you’re muscular. Another body type briefs are perfect for is short men. Briefs allow you to show off more of your legs, making them appear longer. So if you’re looking to add a few extra inches to your physique, look no further than classic briefs.

Boxers

We’re going to work backwards for this one. Rather than telling you the body type best suited to boxers, we’re going to tell you which body type should avoid them: slim men. The looseness of boxers will only accentuate your thin body, and as such, we recommend a more snug-fitting pair of underwear like trunks or boxer briefs.

Further, if you have an athletic build but aren’t comfortable in briefs, then boxers are a great go-to. Unlike snug-fitting boxer briefs or trunks, a loose pair of boxers will be able to accommodate extra muscle in the thigh, without riding up. Boxers are also a great option for sleeping as they are extremely breathable.

As the loosest fitting style of underwear on this list, a pair of cotton boxers makes a great addition to your underwear drawer, no matter your body type, as they’re extremely comfortable and will keep you cool in the evening.

Boxer Briefs

Boxer briefs are the universal style that are compatible with pretty much any male body type, though they are particularly suited to taller men and men with larger posteriors. The higher waistband of many boxer brief styles is ideal for tall men who find other underwear styles too short or prone to slipping down. Boxer briefs are also well suited to men with large posteriors who find a classic pair of briefs doesn’t provide enough coverage in the rear.

Trunks

The ideal body for trunks is slim men. A hybrid between a brief and a boxer brief, the high-thigh fit is best for thinner men, as men with larger thighs will likely find these ride up when they walk. Plus, because of how snug this underwear style fits, slimmer men won’t have to deal with extra fabric bunching up and making them appear thinner.

6 Life Skills All Men Should Master

Having life skills is an important part of succeeding as an adult, and there are a few we feel all men should have once they’re grown up. From knowing how to cook a delicious meal to learning when to prioritize your mental health, check out 6 life skills all men should master.

How To Fix a Drink

We all know how to pour a beer or a glass or wine, but knowing how to make a cocktail (even a basic one) is a surefire way to impress your guests. You don’t need to know every cocktail under the sun, but having a handle on one or two will definitely serve you well (think a Moscow Mule, a Martini, or an Old Fashioned). Plus, being able to fix a drink isn’t solely about following a recipe, it also speaks to your ability to play the role of host.

How To Invest Your Money Wisely

Knowing how to invest your money is another skill all men should master, especially if they want to get the most out of their savings. Do some research into financial management to ensure you’re making the smartest decisions for your wallet. You may consider hiring a financial planner to help you. Having a good handle on your finances and understanding the basics of investing will only serve to grow your savings in the long run.

How To Properly Care For Your Underwear

This should go without saying, but unfortunately many men do not understand how to properly care for their underwear (or know when to throw it away). Ideally, men should purchase new underwear once a year and aim to have between 15 and 20 pairs in their underwear drawer at any given time. If underwear starts to sag, stretch, pill, or develop a hole, it should be tossed out. Further, when it comes to washing your undergarments, the most important consideration is the fabric. Cotton underwear can be washed and dried regularly, but those made of microfibre or delicate materials like lace or mesh should be washed in cold water and hung to dry.

How To Cook A Delicious Meal

You don’t need to be Jamie Oliver in the kitchen, but knowing how to cook at least a few meals well is an important skill that will take you far in life. Not only will it ensure you don’t rely solely on takeout, but it is a skill that will surely impress your partner, friends, and family. If you don’t know where to begin, invest in a decent cookbook (or find an online blog you like) and experiment. You’ll only improve your cooking skills with practice.

How To Prioritize Your Mental Health

The final life skill all men should master is prioritizing your mental health. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and should be treated as such. Just as you might go for a run or hit the gym a few times a week, you should incorporate positive mental health habits into your weekly routine. Whether it’s as simple as carving out some “me time” to read a book, take a bath, or watch television, or as involved as attending a therapy session, yoga class, or meditating. There are plenty of ways to de-stress and re-centre, just make sure you’re taking the time to engage in activities that bring you joy.

How To Buy Men’s Underwear Online

Shopping for underwear online is no easy task. That is why we’ve put together a few tips on how to buy men’s underwear that will make your online shopping experience a breeze!

Consult the Sizing Chart

It’s no secret that in men’s and women’s fashion, universal sizing does not exist. As such, we recommend consulting the sizing chart of each new brand you’re considering buying from. You may even want to search the brand name and sizing to see what customers have said. Though we wish sizing was more straightforward, a pair of large boxer briefs from one brand may be the equivalent of a medium or even an extra-large at another.

Confirm the Fabric Type

When shopping for men’s underwear online, don’t simply look at style or colour. Instead, take the time to scroll down and view the fabric type. Fabric can tell you a lot about what the underwear will feel like, which is especially important when you’re not there to feel it in person. Different fabrics have different textures, properties, and care instructions. For example, microfibre is moisture-wicking and fast-drying but should be hung to dry, while cotton is soft and breathable but non-wicking.

Read the Reviews

Are the reviews positive or negative? And beyond that, what are the reviews saying? Are there several reviews all complaining about the same thing? Beyond simply looking at the rating, it’s important to read the reviews to figure out what people’s concerns are. If one of the most frequent comments is that the underwear isn’t true to size and fits smaller than other brands, this is an indicator to size up. When buying anything online, it’s a good idea to see what other people have said. (Though remember to take all reviews with a grain of salt as more often than not, people who leave reviews are doing so because they are angry or dissatisfied in some way.)

Check the Return Policy

Once you’ve found a pair of underwear you want to buy, there’s one last tip we suggest following. Before hitting the “Place Order” button, check the brand’s return policy. Return policies vary, but some companies will not offer returns on undergarments for hygienic reasons. It’s important to be aware of this before you place your order, especially if you’ve never ordered from this brand and are unsure of the sizing. However, there are lots of underwear brands that not only only accept returns but make the return process quick and simple. In our opinions, easy returns and free shipping, like those offered by Malebasics, are a must when it comes to online underwear shopping.

6 Wardrobe Basics Every Man Should Have

We’re here to inform you that there are a few wardrobe basics all men should have. From quality outwear to tailored jeans and a classic white button-up, the six essentials below are not only versatile but stylish.

Trenchcoat

The first essential item every man should have in their closet? A quality piece of outerwear. Trenchcoats are effortlessly chic and suited to a wide variety of weather. They are also versatile. You can dress them up or down; wear it to work, wear it on a date, or wear it on a casual weekend running errands. When the weather gets too cold for a trenchcoat, we recommend switching to a wool peacoat, another versatile and stylish jacket that also happens to be timeless.

Dress Shoes

Every man should have a nice pair of dress shoes. Why? Because even if the dress code at your office is casual, there is inevitably going to come a time in your life when dress shoes are required. From job interviews to social events, such as weddings or funerals, black or brown dress shoes are an essential piece of footwear.

Tailored Jeans

Many people fail to realize the benefits of tailoring, even by the time they’re well into adulthood. Tailoring is the difference between an ill-fitting pair of jeans and a pair of jeans that fits perfectly. And as an adult, the latter is a must. Every man should have a pair of high-quality denim jeans for casual social occasions. For a classic, timeless look, find a pair of straight-leg jeans in a darker wash. Even if you think they fit well, we recommend taking them to a tailor and seeing what they suggest. Chances are they will be able to improve the fit, whether it be the length or width of the pants.

White Button-up Shirt

The white button-up is a classic for a reason – it looks great and it goes with everything. Wear it underneath a suit, with a pair of jeans, or even tucked into a pair of shorts in the summer. There’s no better way to look casually cool than with a simple white button-up.

Watch

The ultimate men’s accessory? A watch. Watches instantly make a man look more put-together. And don’t think you have to splurge on a watch to reap the style benefits. Even inexpensive or casual watches will elevate your look. Strap one on, roll up the sleeves of your button-up, put on your tailored jeans and you’ve got yourself a look no one will be able to resist.

Boxer Briefs

One last basic all men should have? Underwear. Specifically, boxer briefs. Boxer briefs are the perfect everyday underwear. They’re supportive, comfortable, and they come in all prints and fabrics, meaning you’ll be able to find ones that work for the gym, the boardroom, and the bedroom. Boxer briefs also come in a wide variety of lengths, so whether you’re looking for something that hits mid-thigh or upper thigh, you’ll be able to find it. Shop Malebasics men’s boxer briefs today.

7 Essentials Every Man Should Have in Their Home

Just like what you wear, your home says a lot about you. The furniture you choose, the art on the walls, the utensils in the kitchen, they are all a testament to who you are. That is why it’s important to think carefully about what you put in your home. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 7 essential items every man should have in their home.

Glassware

Every man should have a quality set of glassware in their apartment. And no, we’re not talking about a set of mismatched coffee mugs. Instead, you should have a matching set of at least four wine glasses, old fashioned glasses, and beer glasses.

A Houseplant

A touch of greenery can liven up any pad. Look for big, statement plants and place them in a sun-filled corner of your home. Easy-to-care-for plants include succulents, ZZ plants, pothos, and cacti. However, if you’re adamant you have a true black thumb, then look for a realistic-looking fake plant. Even faux flora will brighten a room.

Soft Towels

Soft towels are another essential every man should have in their home. Terry cloth or organic cotton towels are a good place to start. And remember to buy a matching set that contains a mix of sizes – bath towels, hand towels, and face towels.

A Bed Frame

If you’re no longer in college, then there’s no excuse for you to be sleeping on a mattress on the floor. A bed frame (and ideally a box spring too) is a must for any man living in their own home. While we’re talking about beds, we also recommend investing in a quality mattress. Sure, they might cost a little more up front, but they’ll last longer than their cheap counterparts. Think of it as a decade-long investment in a good night’s sleep.

Wall Art

No one likes staring at blank walls. Wall art is an easy way for you to give your place a little personality. And there are so many different directions you can go in. From paintings to drawings to photographs, gallery walls to one large statement piece, express yourself however you like. But whatever you do, get something up on your wall and make sure to frame it.

Cooking Utensils

Every man’s kitchen should be stocked with at least a basic set of cooking utensils. Even if cooking isn’t your favourite activity, you should still be equipped with the most essential of kitchen items. We’re talking about a chef’s knife, a paring knife, a serrated knife, tongs, a whisk, a metal or silicone spatula, measuring spoons, measuring cups, a casserole dish, and of course, a set of pots and pans.

A Well-Stocked Underwear Drawer

Finally, no man should live without a well-stocked underwear drawer. A man’s underwear drawer should include everyday essentials, like cotton boxers or briefs, as well as microfibre underwear for working out and perhaps a few pairs for sexy nights in. In essence, your top drawer should be filled with quality underwear for every occasion.

Underwear For Every Occasion

We’re huge proponents of men having multiple kinds of underwear in their drawer. Why? Well, beyond variety being the spice of life, each type of men’s underwear has its own unique benefits. Some underwear styles and fabrics are better suited to certain activities. For example, microfibre underwear, known for its moisture-wicking properties, is ideal for working out, while a sexy lace thong is a surefire way to impress your partner in the bedroom. You see where we’re going with this? Keep reading to learn the best type of men’s underwear for every occasion.

Day at the Office

A day at the office requires a pair of underwear that’s comfortable and supportive. To us, there’s nothing better than the timeless boxer brief. Boxer briefs, or even just briefs, are classics for a reason. They’re flattering, fit snugly, don’t look bulky under dress pants, and they’re comfy as can be, even if you spend eight hours a day sitting in them at your desk. When it comes to everyday boxer briefs, we highly recommend choosing a breathable fabric like cotton.

Gym Sesh

Workouts require a specific type of underwear. While everyday cotton underwear is great for home or work, they simply won’t do at the gym. When exercising, you should always look for breathable underwear with moisture-wicking properties. This is the only way to keep cool and dry throughout your workout, and to prevent chafing or humidity down south. While any microfibre underwear will do, we recommend the Malebasics Titanium line, designed specifically for high intensity workouts, such as CrossFit. Titanium is made of a tri-blend of fabrics, engineered to be breathable, fast-drying, and supportive. When it comes to performance underwear, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Date Night

Unlike a day at the office or a gym sesh, date night calls for a different kind of underwear entirely. To us, there are only two styles that come to mind for a sexy night in: thongs or jockstraps. These sultry styles leave little to the imagination and are sure to wow your partner in the bedroom. And when it comes to date night underwear, the sexier the better. While thongs and jockstraps are inherently sexy owing to their barely-there silhouettes, we also recommend choosing a seductive fabric. Malebasics has thongs and jockstraps made of mesh, lace, and fishnet.

Lounging Around

Picture this: It’s Friday night, you’ve just gotten home from work, and you have no plans for the weekend other than laying in bed and catching up on Netflix. What kind of underwear are you wearing? We don’t know about you, but for us it’s a no brainer – boxers. Whether you prefer loose-fitting boxers or a pair of form-fitting trunks, this mid-thigh men’s underwear style is as comfy as can be. Pair your favourite boxers with a cozy, cotton tee and you’ve got yourself the perfect lounge outfit.

The Perfect Men’s Underwear For Every Type of Workout

People tend to invest plenty of money in exercise clothes, but does that extend to underwear? The underwear you wear when working out is just as important as the rest of your outfit, perhaps even more so. To keep yourself cool and dry, and to prevent chafing or wedgies, the right type of underwear is everything. Check out this guide to the perfect men’s underwear for every type of workout.

HIIT

High intensity interval training requires a specific kind of underwear. That’s where Malebasics Titanium comes in. Designed specifically with HIIT workouts like CrossFit in mind, this unique underwear combines comfort, breathability, and performance into one. Made out of a special blend of microfibre, this athletic underwear, available as boxers and boxer briefs, feature a mesh band around the legs to prevent chafing and hold them in place (no wedgies here). Containing moisture-wicking, fast-drying properties, you can count on Performance Titanium men’s underwear to stay in place and keep you cool, even during the most intense of HIIT workouts.

Running

Whether you’re a casual runner or a marathon champion, we recommend a fitted brief or bikini for your workout. Why? It’s common for men’s running shorts to have built-in liners, and typically these liners are either brief or bikini in shape. Take a look at your favourite running shorts and find a pair of underwear that mimics the liner. This will provide the most comfort. Plus, as running involves repeated movement of the legs, you’ll want a style that doesn’t get in the way. Briefs aren’t bulky and because they don’t cover your thighs, they won’t hinder your movement in any way.

Weightlifting

Weightlifting is one of the most popular types of workouts. Whether you’re using dumbbells, kettlebells, barbells, or something else entirely, this particular type of exercise requires underwear that will stay in place, no matter how many reps, swings, jerks, or squats you do during your workout. That’s why we recommend a jockstrap for all men partial to weightlifting. Jockstraps offer the most freedom and movement of any type of underwear style. They won’t ride up and they won’t hold you back. They’re ideal if you’re combining several different weightlifting exercises into one workout.

Yoga

Yoga is all about flexibility. In order to remain flexible, you have to be wearing the proper clothing and that includes underwear. Thongs are our go-to when it comes to yoga. Similar to the jockstrap, they provide ample freedom, allowing you to move and twist your body in any direction. Plus, a thong will ensure no underwear lines if you choose to wear tights during your practice. A proper-fitting thong will seamlessly take you from downward dog to crow pose to pigeon without limiting your movement.

Cycling

Reduce friction and minimize chafing when cycling with a long pair of boxers. Long performance underwear (i.e. underwear that reaches your knee or the lower half of your thigh) is ideal when going on long bike rides. This form of exercise is notorious for causing chafing – if you wear the wrong clothes, that is. Longer boxers offer protection for your entire thigh, in addition to your glutes and groin. However, the length of the underwear is just as important as the material. Don’t forget to choose breathable, moisture-wicking, and fast-drying materials, such as microfibre or nylon.

Everything You Need For A Beach Weekend Getaway

Summer is underway, which means it’s time to start planning a weekend getaway. Whether you’re hitting the pool, the beach, or chilling lakeside this summer, there are a few items you’ll need for your trip. Keep reading to discover exactly what you’ll need for your next weekend getaway.

Weekender Bag

First thing’s first, you’ll need a bag that will hold everything you need for the weekend. For this we recommend the classic weekender bag. A chic version of a duffel, weekenders are the perfect size for a two or three day getaway. They contain the perfect amount of space for the other items on this list, plus all the essentials (underwear, toiletries, etc…).

Sunscreen

Our #1 skincare tip? Wear sunscreen! Whether you’re heading out on a beach getaway or not, sunscreen should be a key part of your skincare routine. Find a mineral sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30 to apply daily, whether you’re laying on the beach or not. If going to the pool or beach, be sure to apply sunscreen half an hour before stepping outside and to reapply promptly after swimming. There’s no quicker way to ruin a vacation than with a painful sunburn on day one!

Sunglasses

Complete your beach look while protecting your eyes from the sun’s harsh UV rays with a pair of sunglasses. Round and geometric-shaped sunglasses are in for 2021, as are colourful frames. However, you can also never go wrong with a pair of aviators or wayfarers.

Beach Towel

Whatever you do, don’t quickly grab a bath towel from your closet and hit the beach. Instead, opt for a true beach towel, one that is made of terry cloth or cotton and is bigger. Ideally, choose a bath towel that is about three quarters as long as your height, so that most of your body will be on top of the towel when laying on the sand. Bonus points if you find a beach towel made of a sustainable material like organic cotton.

Trendy Swim Trunks

Last but not least, no beach getaway is complete without a trendy swimsuit (or multiple). Men’s swim trends for 2021 include floral patterns, animal prints, nautical-inspired, matching top and swimsuit sets, and non-trunk styles like bikinis, briefs, and thongs. In essence, have some fun with your swimwear this season. Malebasics has tons of on-trend swimsuits to suit every style.

5 Must-Have Items For An At-Home Workout

At some point during the pandemic, most of us tried working out at home. For some of us, it was a reminder of just how much we missed our gyms and fitness studios, but for others, it may have converted you to a whole new way of working out. If you fall into the latter camp and you’re committed to working out at home for the foreseeable future, then there’s a few must-have items we recommend. To maximize your at-home workout regimen, consider investing in the 5 items below.

Adjustable Bench

If you have the room for one in your home, then we highly recommend an adjustable exercise bench. Let’s face it – no one really wants to work out on the floor of their home. An exercise bench will not only make your home feel more like a gym but is extremely versatile. You can use it for ab exercises, tricep dips, cardio step-ups, and of course, all kinds of weightlifting exercises, such as chest presses or dumbbell rows.

Dumbbells

Dumbbells are critical to strength training, which is why they are included in this list. A good set of dumbbells is a must-have piece of equipment, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. Ideally, you’ll want several sets of dumbbells, each of different weights so that they’re conducive to a variety of exercises. (Remember, use lighter dumbbells for arm workouts and heavier ones for lower body exercises, such as squats.) Also, we recommend looking for vinyl-wrapped dumbbells, which offer more grip and are rust resistant.

Kettlebells

Kettlebells offer impressive results – if you know how to use them. After dumbbells, kettlebells are the next piece of workout equipment we recommend. Heavier than your standard dumbbell, kettlebells are designed for lower body workouts, which makes them great for everything from squats and lunges to swings. Kettlebells are typically available anywhere from 5 pounds up to 50 pounds.

Resistance Bands

Another fantastic type of equipment for at-home workouts are resistance bands. Upon first glance, you might be wondering how these small, stretchy bands could possibly lead to an intense workout, but trust us when we say, they do. Resistance bands usually come in sets, with each band providing a different level of resistance. Bands can provide a full-body workout. Use them on your arms, glutes, legs, or shoulders. As an added bonus, they take up practically no space, making them easy to store even in small apartments or condos.

Performance Underwear

Finally, no workout is complete without a proper outfit. And the key to a proper outfit? Underwear. Even though you’re working out at home, it’s important to wear the right type of underwear. That means performance underwear made from moisture-wicking, fast-drying materials like microfibre. Breathability and comfort are vital to any quality pair of workout underwear. We also recommend longer boxers to minimize chafing. Malebasics’ Performance Titanium Athletic Boxer was designed specifically for athletes, with their needs in mind.