Whether for the casual (or cheeky) butt lift or the athletic support, jockstraps should be a staple in your underwear drawer no matter what. The style of underwear has been around forever and despite the lack of material, is one of the most supportive types of undergarment. Jockstraps offer far more benefits than just support and looks, though. They’re flirty and they’re fun.
A Brief History of the Jockstrap
Jockstraps, or originally known as ‘Jockey Strap’, weren’t invented for a jockey on a horse, but for a ‘jockey’ on a bike. Funnily enough, the term ‘jock’ only comes from athletics wearing jockstraps.
Jockstraps were invented in response to the lack of support offered by boxer shorts. In 1874, Sharp & Smith in Chicago created the design for comfort and support for bicycle jockeys working on the cobblestone streets of Boston. The original design more so resembled a thong since it featured a strap that went between the buttocks. In the early 1900s, the undergarment turned out to be useful for medical purposes as well. Especially when it came to the recovery post-surgery and injuries due to the ease one could access everything.
In addition, usage grew in 1927 when a Canadian company added a hard cup to the front for protection from hockey pucks. This, then grew as baseball players in America adopted the movement. Since then, it has become a staple in many North American sports. But it never seemed to gain as much traction in popularity in Europe.
In the 80s and 90s jockstraps fell out of fashion as athletes moved onto newer types of athletic wear like compression shorts. Though, as of recent, there has been a resurgence in both the athletic type and the new fashion jockstraps. This comeback is due in large part to the LBGTQ+ community. As jockstraps became more fashion forward, they became commonplace as the go-to underwear for parties and festivals.
Types of Jockstraps
There is a wide variety of jockstraps available on the market. It is all dependent on what activates you wish to partake in. Swimmers jocks designed to sit under speeds or trunks for modesty. The traditional thick-banded athlete’s jockstrap. For specific sports like hockey, jocks can come with garter hooks to attach to socks to keep them up and ultra-protective ones for positons like the goalie.
And, there are the types of jockstraps that are only meant to be flaunted around. No more is the rugged and staple jock from Bike your only option. Brands like Diesel and Calvin Klein have incorporated the style into their underwear. Then, there are the more well-known jockstrap brands C-IN2, ADDICTED, and Teamm8.
C-IN2 is known for their thick waist band, which is commonly associated with jockstraps, but theirs sit low-rise on the hips giving the leg a longer appearance and they offer a flattering pouch with their ultra-soft cotton. ADDICTED, known for their large and commanding logo on the front, is also known for the athletic appearance of most of their line. Using a combination of mesh and cotton, breathability is at the front of their benefits. Teamm8 has sought to deliver comfortable underwear that fit the male form to perfect, and they have succeeded.
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Advantages —
Wearing a jockstrap offers several advantages, particularly during athletic activities:
Support and stability: Jockstraps provide excellent support and stability. The design of a jockstrap includes a supportive pouch that helps keep the genitals in place and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury.
Comfort and freedom: Jockstraps are designed to provide a snug and secure fit while allowing for freedom of movement. The straps or bands that go around the waist and buttocks help keep the jockstrap in place and prevent it from shifting in a way that could constrict movement.
Moisture-wicking and breathability: Many jockstraps are made from breathable and moisture-wicking materials that help keep the wearer dry and comfortable during workouts. This can reduce the risk of skin irritation and chafing.
Disadvantages —
While jockstraps offer several advantages, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider:
Limited coverage: Jockstraps provide minimal coverage, mainly focusing on supporting the genitals and leaving the buttocks exposed. Some individuals may prefer more coverage for personal comfort or modesty reasons.
Adjustment and readjustment: The design of a jockstrap can sometimes require frequent adjustments during physical activities to ensure proper fit and positioning. This may be inconvenient or distracting for some individuals.
Are jockstraps fashionable?
Jockstraps have a mixed reputation when it comes to fashion. While they have a practical purpose in sports and athletics, they have also been embraced as a bold and provocative fashion statement by some individuals. Jockstraps with stylish designs, vibrant colors, and comfortable fabrics have become increasingly popular. This greater variety of options then allows more people to enjoy incorporating them into their fashion choices. However, the perception of jockstraps as a fashion item may vary among individuals and the cultural context.
Brands like HUNK and PUMP have been favorites of the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to their preferred jockstraps. The colors pop, the fit is respected, and their fabrics are quality. HUNK has altered their design to now have the straps start in the front, along the pouch and then wrap around the buttocks before looping under. This is compared to the average jock where the straps start near the front-side of the hip a few inches away from the pouch.
Jockstraps and Gay Men:
Jockstraps have often been associated with gay culture, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. They have been embraced as a symbol of masculinity, body confidence, and sexual expression. Jockstraps have also become a popular item in fetish and BDSM communities. However, it’s important to note that wearing a jockstrap or any other type of underwear does not determine one’s sexual orientation.
Why Wear a Jockstrap?
People choose to wear jockstraps for various reasons:
Athletic support: Jockstraps are popular among athletes as they provide the necessary support and protection for the male genitalia during intense physical activities. Athletes participating in high-impact sports or activities with frequent movements can benefit from the added support. Along with the cup that can be added in sports like baseball.
Comfort and freedom: Some individuals find jockstraps more comfortable and less restrictive than other types of underwear during workouts or sports. The minimal design and breathable materials allow for freedom of movement and reduce the risk of discomfort or irritation.
Why not? The fit holds everything in place. The straps give your butt a boost. And, the color can give you an added boost of confidence. Not to mention it’s one of the forefront pieces of underwear for breathability.