Unexpected explanation for why some men put their hands down their pants in public

Seeing men relax with a hand tucked into their pants is not just a frat house cliché. It is a strangely widespread habit that shows up everywhere, from living room sofas to busy street corners.

It might draw a few curious looks, but this kind of ball cupping is far more common than people realize.

For a lot of men, slipping a hand down their pants happens almost without thought, the same way someone might unlock their phone out of habit. It does not automatically signal anything inappropriate or odd. As strange as it may appear from the outside, the reasons behind it usually come down to biology, psychology, and simple physical ease.

Warm and comfortable
On a popular Reddit forum called Ask Men, one woman asked why the men she knew constantly had their hands in their pants. The replies flooded in. One guy said it was because it was “warm down there.” Another said it felt comforting, like a gentle, absentminded massage.

Someone else explained that it felt cozy and made them feel secure. One commenter cracked a joke, saying men do it because they are insecure about their masculinity and need to double-check that everything is still there.

Several men even admitted they often do it without realizing it at all.

Calming effect
Psychotherapist Lisa Spitz says the behavior is usually unconscious and often serves as a form of self-soothing.

She explained that for some men, touching their genitals is an automatic way to calm themselves. It can be a subtle check tied to masculinity, a way of making sure everything feels normal, or simply a calming habit similar to fidgeting. Dr. Babak Ashrafi, a general practitioner with Superdrug Online Doctor who specializes in sexual health, agrees. He says many men do it absentmindedly or as a way to cope with stress.

According to Ashrafi, rubbing certain areas of the body in a non-sexual way can release oxytocin, a hormone that helps reduce anxiety and promote calm. He did add one practical note. It is probably not something to do in the middle of a work presentation.

Readjusting for comfort
Beyond mental comfort, sometimes the explanation is purely physical.

Ashrafi points out that men often experience discomfort from friction or movement in the genital area, especially if their underwear is tight or sitting awkwardly.

In those cases, putting a hand down their pants is simply a way to readjust. It is a routine, physical response to discomfort caused by shifting fabric or pressure. Sometimes boxers bunch up. Sometimes things just need to be repositioned.

Itching and irritation
There are also times when health issues play a role. Skin irritation, mild infections, or general itchiness can cause men to unconsciously scratch or touch the area.

While it is not exactly polite in social settings, it can be a quick way to deal with minor irritation. Ashrafi notes that fungal infections or skin sensitivity can lead to itching, prompting men to reach down to relieve the discomfort.

If the behavior becomes excessive or constant, that could be a sign that a medical checkup might be a good idea.

Temperature control
Managing temperature is another surprisingly practical reason.

Ashrafi explains that the genital area is very sensitive to changes in temperature. Men may instinctively use their hands to warm things up when it is cold or create space when it feels too hot.

Feeling too warm or too cold in that area can cause discomfort, and adjusting with a hand can help regulate that sensation.

Protective instinct
There is also a more instinctive explanation rooted in protection.

According to Men’s Health, body language expert Vanessa Van Edwards says men may do this as a reflexive way to guard a vulnerable part of their body. She compares the hand placement to a kind of insurance.

It is a subconscious shield against a playful jab from a friend, an accidental bump, or even a stray ball coming their way. It is not about fear. It is about being prepared.

So the next time you notice a guy standing around with one hand casually parked down his pants, try not to jump to conclusions. Chances are, he is not doing anything inappropriate. He may be calming himself, adjusting for comfort, regulating temperature, or simply protecting a sensitive area.

Why do you think men are so often spotted with their hand down their pants? Share your thoughts and pass this story along to keep the conversation going.