Article: Boxer Briefs vs. Trunks: What’s the Difference, Really?
Boxer Briefs vs. Trunks: What’s the Difference, Really?
So what’s the difference between boxer briefs and trunks?
Most people will tell you it’s just about the leg length... and yeah, that’s kind of true. But also not really.
The answer actually depends on who you ask and where they're from.
Here in Australia (and over in the UK), we call ’em trunks. They’re fitted, sit snug on the thigh, and don’t ride up. But head over to the US, and that exact same cut is often called a boxer brief.
Yep. Same style, different name. Bit confusing, we know.
You’ll see this play out on multi-brand websites all the time one pair’s labelled a trunk, the next a boxer brief, but visually they’re almost identical. It can feel a bit like underwear bingo.
Now here’s where it gets even more fun.
At some point, US brands started releasing a shorter version of the boxer brief and—you guessed it they called that a trunk.
So now we’ve got:
Aussie trunk = mid-leg length
US trunk = shorter leg
Boxer brief = sometimes same as a trunk, sometimes longer
Total chaos = yes
Here in Aus, we like to keep it simple:
Shorter one? That’s a short trunk
Longer one? That’s a long trunk
Straightforward. No guessing games.
At Mosmann Australia, we’ve stuck to that. Our trunks sit at 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) on the inseam right in that Goldilocks zone. Not too short, not too long. Just right. Tailored, modern, and comfy as hell.
Forget the name. Seriously. Just look at the actual fit.
If you’re shopping online and there’s a model wearing them great. That’s your best visual cue. If not, ask for the inseam or side length and measure against your own leg.
Quick tip: grab a pair you already love and measure that then use it as your baseline when comparing.
So there you have it. The not-so-straightforward (but hopefully now less confusing) difference between boxer briefs and trunks.
And if you're ever unsure, just remember:
If it’s from us, the best of both worlds and it fits like it should.
Our trunks have a 4.5-inch inseam (11.5 cm) and may also be referred to as ‘boxer briefs’ in some regions.
Still not sure? Take a look at our full trunk range here and find your perfect fit.
