What is a suspender? How this open men's underwear fits

A suspender is men's underwear consisting of a waistband and a pouch at the front. The pouch is not connected to the back of the waistband with fabric or straps. This leaves the rear completely open and the buttocks fully visible.

At first glance, a suspender may look similar to a jockstrap or thong, but the construction is clearly different. That is also why this style feels different to wear.

How is a suspender constructed?

The construction of a suspender is deliberately simple: a waistband and a pouch. Unlike a jockstrap, there are no elastic straps running from the pouch around the buttocks to the back of the waistband. Unlike a thong, there is also no strip of fabric running between the buttocks. The pouch ends at the front, leaving the rear completely open.

How should a suspender fit?

A suspender should keep the pouch in place without the waistband pulling or pinching uncomfortably. The front should provide enough room and the waistband should sit securely without cutting into the skin.

Because there is so little material at the back, you often notice the wrong size mainly through the pouch or the tension of the waistband. Do not look only at S, M, L or XL; use the brand's size chart.

Suspender versus jockstrap: what is the difference?

A jockstrap has two elastic straps that run from the pouch around the buttocks to the waistband. A suspender, by contrast, has only a waistband and a pouch: there is no connection from the pouch to the back. This means the rear of a suspender is completely open, while that of a jockstrap is almost completely open.

If you like the open look of a jockstrap but do not want straps around the buttocks, a suspender may be an interesting option.

Suspender versus thong or string

With a thong or string, material does run between the buttocks. That central rear section is a defining feature of the style. A suspender leaves this area completely free.

The difference is therefore not only how much skin remains visible, but mainly the construction: with a suspender, the pouch is not connected to the back of the waistband.

When do you wear a suspender?

There is no fixed occasion for wearing a suspender. Some men wear the style because of the free feeling, while others choose it for its bold appearance. It can be worn under regular clothing, but also works well as clubwear when you deliberately want the open rear to be part of your look.

Whether it feels comfortable for everyday use mainly depends on the pouch, material and your personal preference. A style that fits well does not have to be reserved only for a special occasion.

Barcode Berlin Basic Suspender Eros

A well-known example in the GUNDERWEAR range is the Barcode Berlin Basic Suspender Eros. This style clearly shows how little material a suspender needs: a waistband and a pouch at the front, with no connection to the back, leaving the buttocks fully visible.

Frequently asked questions about suspenders

Is a suspender the same as a jockstrap?

No. A jockstrap has two elastic straps that run from the pouch around the buttocks to the waistband. A suspender consists only of a waistband and a pouch, with no connection from the pouch to the back.

Is a suspender the same as a string?

No. A string runs between the buttocks. With a suspender, the rear is completely open.

Does a suspender provide support?

Yes. The pouch is designed to keep the front in place. How much support you experience depends on the pouch shape, waistband and chosen size.

Can you wear a suspender every day?

You can if the size and pouch feel comfortable. The design itself does not limit a suspender to clubwear or special occasions.

What size suspender do I need?

Use the size chart of the relevant brand and compare it with your waist measurement. Sizing may differ between brands.

View men's suspenders →

Last updated: 20 August 2026