What is a jockstrap for? A simple answer is support. After all, that was the original intention when the first jock was designed. But in recent years, fashion jocks and their variants have become popular as alternatives to briefs and boxers and there are more benefits than support.

Jockstraps are sometimes known as jocks or supporters. The style was invented in America in 1874 by CF Bennett to provide support and comfort to bicycle messengers or ‘bike jockeys’. He worked for a company that later became the Bike Web Company. It is still a jockstrap manufacturer of the well-known ‘Bike’ brand.

WHAT IS A JOCKSTRAP?

The men’s jockstrap style is an underwear product with full front coverage to the pouch and elasticated ‘jock’ straps to the back. Some jockstrap products have only a front pouch. But others have a full front cover.

Jockstraps do not have side material. This reduces chafing but also allows easier leg movement. Therefore, a jock is a good option for sporting activities. But it’s also a good option for those with larger quads.

The rear jock straps are elasticated to provide a supportive fit around the buttocks. The straps allow for a backless design which creates ventilation. Again, this is a good option for sports. The strength of the elastic can be used for butt-lifting properties – the stronger the elastic, the more the straps lift the buttocks, providing extra support.

WHAT IS A JOCKSTRAP FOR?

Men’s Jockstraps have three main uses:

• Medical purposes – sometimes worn for medical purposes when recovering from injury or surgery, particularly those around the genital area.
• Sport – The lack of material at the back helps to keep the wearer cooler and dry. Because it allows sweat to evaporate more easily. Jocks are therefore good options as ventilating underwear. The lack of side material also aids leg movement. The front pouch provides support. It can sometimes include a hard protective cup which is ideal for more vigorous sports. A jockstrap made with a light and airy material such as mesh or a breathable material such as modal provides the ultimate quick drying and cooling option.
• Fashion – The jockstrap has become more mainstream with some of the major underwear brands now adopting the style as an everyday fashion item. The lack of material at the back can help keep the wearer cooler in warmer climates or summer months. The backless underwear design also has sex appeal and the straps can help lift the buttocks.
• Sexy styling – let’s face it, jockstraps are a sexy underwear product. They show off the legs and the buttocks. Some jockstrap styles have even taken it a little further. You can even get crotchless jockstraps!