4. HORIZONTAL FLY
The latest innovation in fly styles is the horizontal fly. This style doesn’t have a double layer of fabric, so it doesn’t provide extra absorbency (see below), but it’s less likely to gape open than the open fly style listed above. It may also be easier for lefties to access since its positioning across the lower abdomen provides equal access for either hand. A horizontal fly is a good choice for those who like a simple, streamlined look.
OTHER BENEFITS AND USES OF UNDERWEAR FLIES
These days, most men don’t use the fly when they go to the loo. Some sit instead of standing and most who do stand opt to just drop their drawers. There are a couple of reasons this has become so common. First, men’s waistbands are lower than they used to be, so pants don’t have to be lowered much to get clearance. Second, since men’s fashion has become more casual in recent decades, there are more elastic waists and fewer belts and tucked-in shirts. This combo just makes it easier to not use the fly for its original purposes!
Together, these two changes in men’s fashion make it easier than ever just to pull everything down and do your business. And everyone likes easy. But even if men don’t use the fly on their underwear for its original purpose, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t some other less obvious benefits to mens underwear having a workable fly. These reasons may answer the question, “Why is there a hole in boxers still?”
1. EXTRA FABRIC PROVIDES MORE ABSORBENCY
Let’s start with the most obvious! A double layer of fabric upfront is beneficial. Leakage happens… Whether you didn’t shake it off quite enough or got a tad excited. Either way, a double-layered fly can mean that nobody needs to know. Plus, it can keep you feeling drier and more comfortable, and perhaps a bit more modesty and mystery.
2. AN OPENING PROVIDES BETTER AIR-FLOW
Overheating down there can lead to fertility loss. The ideal temperature for sperm to retain their motility and viability is 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 Celsius). During the summer months and in warm climates, it’s very easy to surpass this temp. This is why it’s a good idea to choose breathable underwear in a fabric like hemp to help with climate control down there. And this is another reason a fly that lets some air in and out is desirable, even if you never use it. The boys have got to breathe. We get it!
3. AN OPENING MAKES UNDERWEAR EASIER TO CLEAN
Did your mom ever tell you never to leave the house without clean underwear? I have no idea why this became such standard advice, but I agree that it’s always a good idea! And boxers with hole in front allow the soap and water to clean the outside – and inside – of your favorite underwear more thoroughly. It just makes sense – a buttoned-up shirt is not as easy to clean as an unbuttoned shirt, right?
4. YES, IT ALSO PROVIDES ACCESS FOR *OTHER* REASONS
I’d be remiss not to mention this one because we all know that urination isn’t the only reason that access is desired down there. If you want to get it on without taking it all off, the fly in boxers will allow you to do it (yes, I mean “it”). Maybe it’s cold where you live. Hey, I’m not judging!
CONCLUSION: WHY IS THERE A HOLE IN BOXERS?
So now if anyone ever asks you, why is there a hole in boxers or what is the hole in boxers called, you’ll know! (Just don’t forget to mention the codpiece, that will impress them.) But even if you’re never asked, the next time you come across boxers with hole in front, you’ll know why it’s there and maybe you’ll even appreciate it a bit more!
So now that you know the history, what’s your opinion: Why is there a hole in boxers? And is the hole in men’s boxers vital to you when considering men’s underwear styles? Do you find it more fashionable or functional? Let me know in the comments!
