Your physique decides your placing, not your apparel. Even so, what you wear on stage deserves some thought. Here is how I approach it for both divisions.
Classic Physique trunks
I think going to a custom maker is much better and worth the cost. For my own trunks, I found a maker named Celeste on Etsy, explained that I needed extra room in the front, and had a perfect fit within 2 weeks.
Here is what I sent over by email:
- Height
- Contest weight
- Current weight
- Waist
- Hip, measured at the fullest part of your glutes
Men’s Physique board shorts
For Men’s Physique, almost any board short can work. Skin-tight shorts show your glute outline and quads more, but Men’s Physique is about your front and back. Loose, old-school shorts are fine too, and they can set you apart from everyone else on stage.
Check the rules first
Rules decide what you can wear, so read the official NPC Men’s Physique rules before you buy. At the time of writing, they call for shorts just above the knee that can sit one inch below the belly button, with no spandex. Logos aren’t permitted, though a manufacturer’s logo is acceptable.