In the world of men’s comfortable underwear, the front pouch gets all the glory, but with a thong, the back strap is the defining feature. It creates the tension that pulls the pouch upward and inward, and sits between moving areas rather than on top, providing the stability that traditional boxers lack.
However, not all back straps are designed the same. Depending on your activity level, body type, and personal preferences, some designs may not work for you. Here is a breakdown of the three primary back-strap designs and the mechanical pros and cons of each.
The Traditional Thong (The Wide Strap)
This traditional style is the most common entry point for men and generally the most popular design. It features a strap that remains relatively wide (usually 1.5cm to 3cm) as it travels between the glutes. The wider surface area spreads the “pull” across more skin, making it feel less intrusive for beginners. More fabric means a lower chance of the strap losing its elastic recovery over time.
More fabric means more potential for moisture retention, so watch material choices when choosing to wear a traditional thong during activity. The wider strap also generates more noticeable feedback, so can be harder to ignore. I personally prefer this style as the feedback from the back strap helps me feel secure.
The G String (The Minimalist)
The string thong, or g-string, uses a very narrow elastic ribbon or cord (usually 0.5cm to 1cm instead of a flat fabric strap. By minimising the fabric in the intergluteal cleft, you maximise airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable. Ironically, because there is so little material, the brain “mutes” the sensation of a thin string faster than a wide strap.
If the sizing is wrong or the pouch doesn’t extend back far enough, a string can feel bitey or restrictive. An ill-fitting string will hold the tension required for the support tight against your body, and with less fabric, there’s less surface area. Thin string thongs can also lose their elasticity faster if they aren’t cared for (e.g., if they are put in a high-heat tumble dryer). Finally, I personally like having the sensation from the back strap, so don’t feel as secure when I can’t feel the string.
The Y-Back Thong
The width of a Y-Back can be similar to the String or Traditional thong; the difference is a strap that splits into two separate elastics at the waistband. It creates a literal “Y” shape on the rear of the garment, just above the crack. The “Y” shape follows the natural musculature of the lower back and glutes, providing a very secure “anchor” that won’t shift during movement. It also maintains the tension required for pouch support while reducing the pressure of the strap between the cheeks. This is done by the upper section of the “Y” acting as suspension.
Because of the tapering, there is often a reinforced seam where the “Y” meets. Some wearers find this creates a “pressure point” if they spend long hours sitting at a desk. Again, I realised that I actually prefer the tension and feedback from the strap, and so the reduced pressure from the Y-back just didn’t work for me
If you are new to the thong, start with a traditional thong in a microfiber blend. It provides a base to work out what you like and what you would change. As you progress in your thong journey, test different styles and work out what works for you. Daily wearing of thongs should be for comfort first, and when you find the right cut of thong, nothing will be as comfortable.
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