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22 Best Swim Trunks for Men in 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The days are heating up, but these will keep you cool.
Imagine this scenario: You've stacked up some PTO and you're lounging in a beach chair someplace warm. You've waited well beyond the recommended 30 minutes after eating, and you're ready for a dip. It could be swimming in the ocean, floating in a pool, or soaking in a hot tub. It doesn't matter where; this is your time to thrive (and cool off).
The one absolute essential you need right now is a great new pair of swim trunks. Or maybe you call them "swim shorts." Or a "swimsuit." Or even a "bathing suit." Hell, maybe you throw it way back and refer to that thing you wear in the water as a straight-up "bathing costume." It doesn't really matter what you call the 22 entries on this list, though, because all of them are stylish, comfortable, vetted by our editors, and ready for some H2O.
Pros
Adjustable waist
Pockets for stashing hotel key cards
Cons
Can sell out quickly
A not-too-long pair of elastic-waist swim trunks is about as classic as you can get when it comes to swimwear. This pair has a mesh lining to keep everything secure, plus a splash of color from the bright-orange drawstring. If that combo isn't your style, there are just about a billion more color combos in the same cut. Take a look around and find your favorite. (Also, pro tip: Get yourself some swim trunks with pockets. Just be sure to take your phone out before jumping in the water.)
One buyer said, "Perfect fit, and the color matches the photos to a T."
Material | Nylon |
---|---|
Inseam | 6" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 37 |
Sizes | XS-3XL |
Pros
Come in multiple color options
Cons
Some buyers say they wish the liner were longer
Lululemon makes a whole line of beloved apparel and accessories, and its pants and shorts are a testament to just how well-done they are. These swim shorts are cut close to the body but aren't tight. They're made of a water-repellent blend of recycled polyester and elastane, and they feature clever details like a key loop in the back pocket. They also look just like a pair of the brand's non-swim shorts and can easily pull double duty for the rest of the day after you towel off.
One buyer said, "Love these shorts for swim and casual wear."
Material | Recycled Polyester, Elastane |
---|---|
Inseam | 7" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 9 |
Sizes | XS-3XL |
Pros
Built-in mesh briefs
Modern prints and patterns
Cons
Can run small
Frescobol Carioca's trunks are tailored to perfection, the kind of cut you'd expect on someone who casually jets off to Rio for the weekend. And the prints—the prints!—add an elevated, almost architectural quality that's a nice counterpoint to all those hibiscus flowers out there.
One tester said, "These are the only trunks I want to wear from now on."
Material | Polyester, Cotton |
---|---|
Inseam | 6" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | Blue |
Sizes | 30-38 |
Pros
Waistband and interior drawcord
Cons
Fit is a bit tight
Let's start with the obvious: that white piping. Against reliable black, the detail just pops. Then there's the vintage cut, which is ever so slimming. And finally, let's talk about how these trunks are made from 85 percent recycled polyester, with the rest being spandex. Stretchy and good for the earth: a very nice combo.
One buyer said, "I like the look of these trunks, and I find them comfortable even if they're only 5 inches long."
Material | 85% Recycled Polyester, 15% Spandex |
---|---|
Inseam | 5" or 7" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 7 |
Sizes | S-2XL |
Pros
Built with 40+ UPF protection
Cons
The pattern isn't for everyone
Simplicity ain't your bag? Avid's got you covered. The brand's bold-as-hell zebra-striped Zinae Trunx offer UPF 40 protection from the sun, as well as an inner envelope pocket where you can stash your keys. They're also lightweight, quick drying, mesh lined—all the stuff you'd expect from a solid pair of trunks. If you want to make a big impression (one might even go so far as to say "make a splash") at the beach, these are the trunks to do it in.
One buyer said, "Love the design and the texture is incredible."
Material | Polyester, Spandex |
---|---|
Inseam | 8" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | Black |
Sizes | M-2XL |
Pros
Multiple pockets
Cons
Can sell out quickly
Zara is a great choice when you want something you know is going to be stylish this season. Its swim shorts are on the shorter side, but that doesn't mean they're any less cool. They've got all the water and sun protection needed, with a cropped finish and a drawstring waistband.
One tester said, "I loved the overall fit of these shorts, and that they're versatile enough to wear all summer long."
Material | Technical Fabric |
---|---|
Inseam | 4.7" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 7 |
Sizes | M-XL |
Pros
Elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring
Multipurpose beyond swimming
Cons
Can run tight
These shorts can be worn for just about everything—from biking and running to chilling and, yep, swimming. They're made of a four-way-stretch polyester fabric, have deep pockets with zippers on both sides, and are designed to do anything your summer heart desires.
One buyer said, "These shorts are so comfortable and look amazing! You can wear them almost anywhere and look great."
Materials | 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex |
---|---|
Inseam | 5.5" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 6 |
Sizes | S-2XL |
Pros
Fit true to size
Cons
No interior mesh
If you ride waves often, Quiksilver needs no introduction. But for those unfamiliar, the brand was founded in Australia in the late '60s, catering to surfers. Fit and function are its cornerstones, and it always adapts to new advancements in fabrics and the styles of the season. Just take a gander at these cool swim trunks, which feature a tropical print and side-entry pockets.
One buyer said, "These are beautiful and wear well."
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Inseam | 7.5" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 16 |
Sizes | S-XL |
Pros
Can be ordered on Amazon Prime
Cons
Not as soft as other options
Nautica is a poolside classic, and the brand knows how to make a versatile pair of trunks that'll seamlessly translate from sea to shore. Made with 100 percent nylon material, this timeless style is ready for wherever the season takes you.
One tester said, "Quick drying, strong, good pockets, and good ball room, these shorts have everything you need."
Material | 100% Nylon |
---|---|
Inseam | 8" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 10 |
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Pros
Functional back pocket
Cons
Pricier than other options
A classic blue pair of swim trunks is something every warm-weather wardrobe should have. These are simple yet chic, with a quick-drying fabric, a mid-length cut, and a back pocket.
One buyer said, "While these shorts are more expensive than ones I've purchased in the past, they're an investment you're going to be glad you made."
Material | 100% Polyester |
---|---|
Liner | Yes |
Colors | Blue, Teal, Coral |
Sizes | S-2XL |
Pros
Supersoft and stretchy fabric
Cons
Shipping can run slow
These Kenny Flowers swim trunks were made in collaboration with Sanpellegrino (you know, everyone's favorite summer drink), feature a cool graphic fruit print, and boast a chic contemporary style. And with a drawstring waist and mesh liner, there's no going wrong with this option.
One tester said, "Love the fit and feel of these shorts."
Material | Polyester Blend |
---|---|
Liner | Yes |
Colors | Multi |
Sizes | S-3XL |
Pros
Mid-rise style
Cons
Pricey
Tom Ford proves that just because you're going for a dip, that doesn't mean you have to dress down. These chic shorts have an adjustable waistband, a quick-drying shell, and contrast piping on the sides—every element of sophistication you can add to a pair of swim trunks, TBH.
One buyer said, "Apparently the perfect pair of swim trunks does exist."
Material | 100% Polyester |
---|---|
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 8 |
Sizes | IT 44-IT 56 |
Pros
Available in multiple fun patterns
Cons
Some buyers say the netted lining is uncomfortable
Over the past couple years, Baggies have had a pretty remarkable resurgence, not just among the gorp set but also with a bunch of stylish guys who realized that these might just be the ultimate laid-back summer shorts. Yes, they're actually swim trunks, complete with a mesh liner and quick-drying nylon construction, so they'll be very happy in the water. But they also work with pretty much anything you'd want to wear on dry land when the weather is scorching. Buy multiple. You'll need 'em.
One buyer said, "Love the fit and durability of these shorts."
Material | Recycled Nylon |
---|---|
Inseam | 7" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 13 |
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Pros
Made from recycled materials
Cons
Can fit tight around the legs
These shorts are basically begging for the heat of July to come in hot. They'll get you through the season in style and in good conscience, as they're made from recycled water bottles.
One buyer said, "Love this suit. I have them for all my sons and husband. They hold up so well and are super comfortable."
Material | Recycled Polyester, Spandex |
---|---|
Inseam | 8" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 21 |
Sizes | S-3XL |
Pros
Made with comfortable and stretchy fabric
Cons
On final sale
These are lightweight, stretchy, and quick to dry—everything swim trunks should be. It doesn't hurt that they're cool-looking as hell, too.
One tester said, "The quick-drying properties of these shorts made all the difference. I felt like I could go right from the beach to my car without worrying about getting the seat wet."
Material | 100% Polyester |
---|---|
Liner | Yes |
Colors | One |
Sizes | S-2XL |
Pros
Adjustable tabs at the waist
Cons
Can run small
Sometimes—not often, but occasionally—a fashion brand catches lightning in a bottle and creates a bona fide icon. Levi's did it with the 501. Gucci did it with the horse-bit loafer. And Orlebar Brown did it with its trim, tailored Setter swim trunks, which were worn by Daniel Craig as none other than 007 in Skyfall. Getting the nod of approval from James Bond doesn't come easy, but when you're talking about a pair of trunks that look like your dressiest shorts (check out those side tab adjusters), it just makes sense.
One tester said, "These are a sophisticated staple that every man needs."
Material | Polyamide |
---|---|
Inseam | 4" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | Navy |
Sizes | 28-38 |
Pros
Built-in bag for easy storage
Cons
Can sell out quickly
These swim trunks have everything—a belt to secure the waist, a convenient thigh pocket, a foldable and packable design for all your travels—but their trim, tidy exterior hardly shows it.
One tester said, "I didn't chafe once in these shorts, which is a huge accomplishment."
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Inseam | 5" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 4 |
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Pros
Mesh lined pockets for quick drying
Cons
Can run small
With a comfortable elastic waistband and drawcord pockets, these sleek, medium-length swim trunks are trendy, versatile, and ready to take on anything.
One buyer said, "These have a perfect fit, amazing quality, and are extremely comfortable!"
Materials | 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex |
---|---|
Inseam | 7" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 10 |
Sizes | XS-3XL |
Pros
All-day comfort
Cons
Can run large
Billabong is a swimwear classic, and with its stylish prints and technical construction, there's no question why. These swim trunks are cool and casual and made from a lightweight, quick-drying fabric.
One tester said, "These shorts are so lightweight, that I almost forgot I was wearing them."
Materials | 41% Recycled Polyester, 36% Cotton, 16% Organic Cotton, 7% Elastane |
---|---|
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 25 |
Sizes | XS-2XL |
Pros
Built with 50+ UPF protection
Cons
Hand wash only
Say Speedo and what instantly comes to mind is a banana hammock. Indeed, the brand has become synonymous with really, really short swimwear in a range of colors and made from Olympic-worthy materials. But Speedo also offers styles with five-inch, seven-inch, and even ten-inch inseams. They're all quick drying and stretchy and have built-in UPF protection.
One buyer said, "This swimsuit is great. It’s my go-to on every chance I get to go for a swim. Received several compliments on a recent Caribbean vacation. It also dries fast."
Material | Polyester |
---|---|
Inseam | 7.5" |
Liner | Yes |
Colors | 18 |
Sizes | S-2XL |
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