The jockstrap, a piece of underwear as controversial as it is little-known, has a fascinating and unexpected history. Born out of a practical necessity to protect men's private parts during sports, it has now become a staple of men's fashion, balancing function and style. In this article, we delve into the full history of this accessory, from its invention in the late 19th century to its current status as a fashion icon, with a special look at its role in popular culture and the gay community.
Origins: underwear created for athletes
The jockstrap has its roots in Boston in 1874, where it was invented by Charles F. Bennett, a visionary entrepreneur who wanted to meet the needs of the cyclists ("bike jockeys") of the time. These men had to endure the jolts caused by the cobblestone roads, which put a strain on their sensitive parts. Bennett invented an undergarment with a support pouch in the front, accompanied by two elastics ("strap" in English) under the buttocks, allowing these cyclists to continue their journeys without discomfort. This first version of the jockstrap was marketed under the name "Bike Jockey Strap" , hence its current name.
The design was as simple as it was effective: the front pouch was designed to hold the genitals in place, while the elastics ran under the buttocks, providing support without restricting movement. The jockstrap quickly became popular with athletes, particularly in contact sports such as football, hockey and baseball, where the risk of genital injury was high. In addition to providing support, it was able to contain a hard protective shell, providing protection against impacts.
Evolution: a symbol of sporting virility
In the first half of the 20th century, the jockstrap remained closely associated with sports. Professional and amateur athletes made it an essential accessory, both for its comfort and its utility. At that time, wearing a jockstrap was synonymous with robustness and virility. The jockstrap then represented the strong man, the athlete in full power, ready to face any physical challenge. Many brands began to produce their own versions of the jockstrap, each seeking to improve the comfort and durability of this equipment.
For example, brands like Spalding , a pioneer in sports equipment, began producing jockstraps in the 1870s. The Spalding model, with its breathable mesh front pouch, was one of the first to stand out for its lightness and ability to stay in place, even during intense physical exertion. This type of jockstrap was often recommended to athletes for all kinds of physical activities, from team sports to outdoor activities.
Underwear revisited by gay culture
The jockstrap underwent an unexpected transformation in the 1950s. While its use was largely confined to sports fields, it was adopted by the gay community, becoming a symbol of virility and assumed sexuality. The jockstrap, with its revealing design and athletic connotations, was perfectly suited to appropriation by gay culture, which sought to break traditional stereotypes of masculinity while claiming a new form of sexual freedom.
In the following years, the jockstrap became a real fashion accessory in certain circles, particularly thanks to its role in the gay club and bar scene, where it was often worn provocatively, sometimes in public, sometimes in more intimate contexts. This association with LGBT culture allowed the jockstrap to cross the boundaries of the sports world to establish itself in the world of fashion.
The influence of fashion and pop culture
With this cultural appropriation, the jockstrap found itself in the spotlight in the world of fashion and pop culture. By the 1980s, it had made appearances in avant-garde art and fashion shoots. Designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier and Versace began to include jockstraps in their collections, often reinvented as belts or leather accessories. Fashion shows highlighted the jockstrap not only for its functionality, but also for its aesthetic potential.
Pop culture also contributed to the jockstrap's rise in popularity. In the 1990s, music and film stars began to appropriate the accessory in their performances and music videos. Icons like Anthony Kiedis , lead singer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers , wore jockstraps on stage, helping to establish the underwear as a symbol of subversion and freedom. Additionally, LGBTQ+ television series like "Queer as Folk" highlighted the jockstrap's importance in the community, further cementing its image as a cultural symbol.
Current uses: between comfort and personal expression
Today, the jockstrap has come a long way since its beginnings in cycling. It remains a staple in the world of sport, especially in disciplines where comfort and protection are essential. Sports such as American football, hockey or baseball continue to use it for its ability to support and protect the genitals of athletes. But beyond its primary function, the jockstrap has become a real fashion accessory for some.
Contemporary brands have revisited the classic jockstrap design to make it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Luxury labels like Calvin Klein and Versace now offer versions in satin, leather or even with sophisticated patterns, catering to a clientele looking for underwear that is as stylish as it is comfortable.
In addition to its role in men's fashion, the jockstrap has also found a new audience in the medical field. It is often recommended for men with hernia, incontinence, or prostate problems, as it provides extra support to sensitive areas, helping to relieve pressure and promote healing.
The jockstrap: a symbol of freedom and style
The jockstrap has always been an undergarment that defies convention. Originally designed to meet purely practical needs, over the decades it has become a true symbol of freedom, self-expression and style. It represents both sporty virility and the subversion of fashion norms. Its ability to cross cultural boundaries, from sports locker rooms to fashion catwalks, clubs and runways, is a testament to its versatility and evocative power.
Today, wearing a jockstrap is often about more than just comfort or support. For some, it's a way to assert their individuality, to claim a certain aesthetic or to give a nod to the codes of traditional masculinity. For others, it's an essential fashion accessory, capable of transforming a look or creating a new clothing dynamic.
The jockstrap is more than just an undergarment. It embodies a fascinating historical evolution, from a purely functional accessory to a cultural and fashion symbol. Through its many reinventions, it has managed to transcend the ages while remaining true to its athletic roots. Whether for sport, fashion or medical reasons, the jockstrap continues to occupy a unique place in the male wardrobe.
