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‘Smalls’ used to mean ‘breeches’ but around 1943, according to The Oxford Dictionary of Slang, the word began to be applied to underwear. This euphemistic usage does suggest that many people feel slightly embarrassed about what they wear under their clothes, an awkwardness that can extend to the business of buying pants.
This is the case for some, but for others it is just a bore having to spend your precious leisure time traipsing round shops for mens underwear when you would rather be enjoying hobbies or relaxing. To make a sweeping generalisation, for many men shopping is a functional activity, rather than the social event it is for women.
In some businesses, the customer loses out in a virtual environment. However, you don’t try underpants on in the shop – you know what size you are, so you’re not taking anything away from the retail experience by offering the product online. And whilst online, men can take their time looking around in a ‘safe’ environment…without being asked if they need any help from a sales assistant!
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