Topic

Fabrics & Materials

What your clothing is actually made of and why it matters. Synthetic versus natural fibers, labels worth reading, and what touches your skin all day.

An illustrated figure in Oakman boxer briefs holding a spear, with a second illustrated figure in the background.
Best Underwear for Men Trying to Conceive
Male FertilitySperm Health
The best underwear for men trying to conceive combines breathable natural fibers, an athletic fit with a gusset for airflow, and active cooling options to maintain optimal scrotal temperature, which... Read more...
A black Oakman boxer brief resting flat on a wood bench.
What Underwear Keeps You Coolest
Fabrics & MaterialsComparison
MicroModal and Lyocell (TENCEL fibers) run cooler and drier than cotton or synthetics because they wick moisture efficiently and breathe without holding heat. A relaxed fit compounds the advantage by... Read more...
A folded Oakman boxer brief and cold pack resting on a cedar sauna bench, steam rising nearby.
What to Wear in a Sauna (For Men)
Fabrics & MaterialsPractical Protocol
A clean towel wrapped at the waist is the simplest option and works in most facilities. If you prefer underwear or shorts, go with natural or naturally derived fibers, loose... Read more...
Close-up of Oakman fabric, folded dark weave with a warm light streak across it.
What Is the Most Breathable Underwear Fabric
Fabrics & MaterialsComparison
MicroModal and Lyocell (both TENCEL-branded wood-pulp fibers) are the most breathable underwear fabrics available. They wick moisture, stay soft against skin, and run cooler than cotton or synthetics. Lightweight cotton... Read more...
Folded Oakman fabric in close-up with a diagonal seam visible.
TENCEL vs Modal Underwear
Fabrics & MaterialsComparison
TENCEL is a brand, not a single fiber. It covers two distinct fiber types: TENCEL Modal and TENCEL Lyocell. Modal is softer and drapes well. Lyocell is crisper, more breathable,... Read more...
Two folded Oakman fabric swatches side by side, contrasting weave textures.
TENCEL vs Cotton Underwear
Fabrics & MaterialsComparison
TENCEL fibers breathe better and release moisture faster than cotton, which means a cooler, drier feel throughout the day. Cotton is more familiar and durable but holds onto sweat longer.... Read more...
An Oakman boxer brief laid flat on a wood bench, warm diagonal light through a window.
Should You Wear Underwear in a Sauna
Sperm HealthFabrics & Materials
You can wear underwear in a sauna, and for many men it's the practical choice. What matters is fabric: synthetics trap heat and moisture, while breathable natural-fiber underwear lets the... Read more...
A close crop of Oakman fabric, folded with a visible diagonal seam.
Natural Fiber Underwear for Men
Fabrics & MaterialsComparison
For men who want cleaner materials, natural and naturally derived fibers like MicroModal and Lyocell outperform synthetics on breathability and moisture management. Pair that with a relaxed fit and responsibly... Read more...
Two folded Oakman fabric swatches close together on a wood surface.
Modal vs Cotton Underwear
Fabrics & MaterialsComparison
Modal is softer and more breathable than cotton, wicks moisture more efficiently, and resists shrinking better over time. Cotton is widely available and comfortable at first, but it holds moisture... Read more...
Folded Oakman fabric in close-up under warm side light.
Is TENCEL Good for Underwear
Fabrics & MaterialsComparison
Yes. TENCEL fibers are naturally derived, breathable, and moisture-wicking, which makes them well-suited for underwear. They feel softer than cotton and stay drier than most synthetics, particularly in warm conditions. Read more...