Ribbed Underwear

Fibre changes the character. Ribbed cotton is springy, substantial and warm-handed — the classic. Ribbed lyocell (TENCEL™) drapes more, feels cooler against the skin and moves moisture away faster, so it stays drier through a long day. Both work year-round; the choice is texture and temperature, not season. See the Modus Vivendi Ribbed Cotton range.
Read more: Ribbed underwear — the complete guide → · Lyocell underwear explained → · Organic cotton underwear → · Every fabric compared → · Size guide →

Frequently asked

What is ribbed underwear?
Underwear cut from a rib knit — a fabric that alternates columns of knit and purl stitches so it folds accordion-style. It stretches further across the body than a plain jersey of the same weight and recovers rather than bagging. Rib is a construction rather than a fibre, so it appears in cotton, lyocell and blends.

Why does ribbed underwear hold its shape better?
Because the stretch comes from the knit structure rather than from elastane alone. The fabric itself does the holding, so less elastane is needed and there is less of it to break down over time. It is the same reason cuffs, collars and waistbands have always been ribbed.

Is ribbed cotton or ribbed lyocell better?
They are different rather than better. Ribbed cotton is springy, substantial and warm-handed — the classic. Ribbed lyocell drapes more, feels cooler against the skin and moves moisture away faster, so it stays drier through a long day. Choose cotton for texture and weight, lyocell for coolness and moisture management.

Is ribbed underwear only for winter?
No. Both fibres work year-round. The raised and recessed columns let air move through the fabric, and ribbed lyocell in particular sits cool against the skin. The choice between the two is about texture and temperature preference rather than season.

Does ribbed underwear stretch out?
Less than plain jersey. Recovery is built into the knit, so a well-made ribbed pair springs back instead of bagging at the seat. Heat is what shortens its life — hot washes and hot tumble drying break down the elastic fibres that hold the rib together.

How should I wash ribbed underwear?
Cool wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle, then line dry or tumble on low. Skip the fabric softener — it coats the fibre and degrades elastane. Ribbed cotton can shrink under high heat; ribbed lyocell is more dimensionally stable but is still cellulosic and will shrink if washed hot.

What ribbed styles do you stock?
Ribbed briefs, trunks, jockstraps, thongs and boxers across Modus Vivendi, PUMP! and SALIGIA, in both cotton and lyocell. Free standard EU delivery on orders of £50 or more, 30-day returns.