30 Best Men’s Swimsuits for the Beach, the Pool, and Beyond
Updated: Aug. 17, 2023
From classic board shorts to retro-style short shorts, these men's swim trunks will have you ready to hit the beach in no time!
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Men’s swim trunks for every style and budget
Whether you’re planning a vacation, shopping for warm-weather essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen and flip-flops, or just looking forward to making your way through your summer reading list, getting ready for summer is always fun. What’s not always fun, however, is shopping for a new bathing suit. Finding a suit that makes you feel both comfortable and confident can be stressful, if not downright daunting—and this is as tricky for men as it is for women. Since finding the perfect suit isn’t as easy as walking into a store and grabbing a pair of men’s swim trunks off the rack, we’re here to help.
From classic men’s board shorts to performance suits for the most intense water sports, we have a bathing suit for every personal style and need. Looking to just hang out on the beach, or even go from lunch to the pool without changing your clothes? We’ve got options for that as well!
How we chose the best swimsuits for men
In order to help you find the best men’s swimsuits of 2022, we homed in on the top swimwear brands and researched their best-selling styles. From there, we looked for details that make swim trunks great, including style, length, lining, pockets and an inclusive size range. We also made sure to include variety of price points—and found some incredible options for as little as $18. Once you’ve made your selections, grab a beach towel, a chair and your favorite hat, and go have some fun in the sun!
Best overall
Free Fly Lined Swell Shorts
Free Fly’s Swell shorts check all the boxes. Their buttery soft fabric is made from recycled coconut husks and has a DWR (durable water repellant) coating. This men’s swimsuit also features a quick-drying boxer-brief liner that offers support and prevents chafing. Plus, it has two side pockets that make it easy to grab your wallet and phone and go. Don’t want to carry that much? Its back pocket is just the right size for your cards—and has a zipper to keep them secure. And if you’re not into this subtle pattern, there are also plenty of solid color options.
Pros:
- Supportive boxer-brief style with a polyester liner
- Available in sizes up to 3XL
- Back pocket has a zipper to keep your items secure
Con:
- Delicate cycle and hang-drying recommended
Best from Amazon
Kanu Surf Barracuda Swim Trunks
More than 51,000 Amazon reviewers have given this cargo-style bathing suit a five-star rating. What makes it so great? Reviewers rave about the durability, fit and size options of this Amazon best seller, not to mention the fact that it will only set you back about $20! Some reviewers say that the mesh lining is uncomfortable but once they cut out the mesh, these swim trunks were perfect. Still skeptical? So was Amazon customer DC, whose review is titled, “Didn’t expect them to be this nice.” He goes on to say, “Got these trunks because I needed something quick and cheap for a vacation. These trunks fit very comfortably, have pockets and have webbing on the inside. They also dry surprisingly fast.” They’re available in more than 40 colors, and at this price, you might as well go ahead and order a few of your faves.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Available in more than 40 colors and patterns
- Extended size range
Cons:
- Available only in cargo style
- Some reviewers say the mesh lining is constricting
Best affordable
Speedo 8-Inch Colorblock Swim Shorts
A great swimsuit from a reputable brand doesn’t have to break the bank. These Speedo swim shorts, which are available at Target for under $25, are made from a lightweight fabric that offers UPF 50+ protection. They have a mesh basket liner and fall just above the knee, so you won’t have to worry about any wardrobe malfunctions when you practice your cannonballs!
Pros:
- Under $25
- Made by Speedo
- UPF 50+ sun protection
Con:
- No button or Velcro to secure items in pockets
Best splurge
Outerknown Apex Trunks by Kelly Slater
At $145, these men’s swim trunks may be a splurge, but they’re worth it. The proof? They were developed and tested by Kelly Slater, who has been crowned World Surf League Champion a whopping 11 times! These sustainably made trunks boast stitch-free welded seams and a smooth inside fly to eliminate chafing, as well as a double-bonded butt seam for added strength. In short, these are the ultimate performance shorts.
Pros:
- Designed for performance
- Quick drying
- Folds up into its back pocket for compact packing
- Made from plastic water bottles in a Fair Trade–certified facility
Con:
- Expensive
Best cargo style
Quiksilver Manic 22-Inch Cargo Pocket Board Shorts
Love them or hate them, cargo shorts are pretty darn useful. These Quiksilver cargo board shorts have the classic cargo pockets, so you can easily carry all your essentials. They also come in more than 20 colors that won’t fade after a summer spent at your favorite beach or pool. Take it from verified Amazon reviewer James Pope, who knows what he’s talking about: “I work as an underwater rigger and wear this suit every day. It is super comfortable and dries quickly. I also like that it has two pockets to hold small things while I am working and I have a place to put my phone when I am on break. Being in chlorinated water 60-plus hours a week, it hasn’t faded a bit and holds up better than most of my gear.”
Pros:
- Two cargo pockets
- Functional fly
- More than 20 colors
- Fade-resistant
Con:
- No back pocket
Best classic swim trunks
Amazon Essentials 7-Inch Quick-Dry Swim Trunks
If you’re a man of simple tastes, then these classic men’s swim trunks from Amazon are for you. They have a 7-inch inseam, a full elastic waistband with a drawstring, and three pockets, and they’re as comfy as your favorite workout shorts. One verified Amazon reviewer says, “I usually only buy designer trunks, but I needed a pair in a hurry the day before leaving for vacation, so I ordered these. They did not disappoint! They’re well made with a decent sized net, and they sit perfectly above the knee.” The only part about these swim trunks that’s not so simple is choosing from 45 different color options!
Pros:
- Simple design
- Affordable
- Available in more than 45 colors and patterns
Cons:
- Some reviewers say they run tight in the thighs
Best classic board shorts
Vuori Cruise Board Shorts
If you want to elevate your style while still staying nice and comfy, you’ll love these board shorts from Vuori. They have a classic fit and style, along with three functional pockets and UPF protection. They’re also quick-drying and odor-resistant, making them the perfect everyday men’s swimsuit. And with 13 colors and patterns to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.
Pros:
- Four-way stretch woven fabric
- 7.5-inch inseam
- Available in 13 colors and patterns
Con:
- Lower UPF rating than some other swimsuits
Best patriotic style
Hurley Phantom Patriot Cheers 20-Inch Board Shorts
Show off your patriotic side with these subtly festive board shorts that are perfect for the 4th of July and beyond. These lightweight shorts are made from recycled, water-repellent material and have four-way stretch for comfort and mobility. Reviewers say they hold up well, even with daily washing, and that they’re worth the money.
Pros:
- Five patriotic styles to choose from
- Longer length
- Durable
Con:
- Hand-wash only
Best performance
Quiksilver SurfSilk Tijuana 19-Inch Board Shorts
If your ideal summer day involves an intense beach volleyball game or catching some waves, these Quiksilver boardshorts are exactly what you need. The shorts, which have a 19-inch outseam, are made from the brand’s exclusive SurfSilk performance fabric. This durable fabric has four-way stretch and is made from recycled plastic water bottles. Totally gnarly!
Pros:
- Made from the brand’s exclusive SurfSilk performance fabric
- Performance fit
- Back pocket has a hook-and-loop closure, as well as a key bungee cord inside it
Con:
- Only one pocket
Best size range
Fair Harbor The Anchor
The Anchor swimsuit is Fair Harbor’s most popular style for men of all shapes and sizes—and for good reason. It’s an all-purpose men’s swimsuit made with a quick-drying performance fabric that offers four-way stretch, and its built-in soft BreezeKnit liner offers support, prevents chafing and is naturally odor-resistant. Plus, it’s available in sizes small to 3XL. More than 15,000 reviewers give them a five-star rating, with happy customers calling them “outstanding” and “so comfortable.” And one reviewer raves, “The soft liner inside is a game changer. So much better than the mesh linings that get worn and prickly after a season of use. I would recommend these to anyone.”
Pros:
- Available in sizes up to 3XL
- Supportive boxer brief–style liner
- 20-plus patterns and colors to choose from
Con:
- Only two solid color options
Best unlined
Bather Technical Surf Shorts
Not every guy wants a liner in his swimsuit. Some men find them too loose, too tight or say that they cause chafing. However, finding an unlined swimsuit is no easy feat, which is why you’ll want to add these unlined men’s swim trunks from Bather to your cart ASAP. They’re made from 92% recycled material, as well as 8% elastane to give them some stretch. As an added bonus, part of the proceeds from your Bather purchase will go toward ocean cleanups and marine conservation, making these a great eco-friendly gift.
Pros:
- No uncomfortable or too-tight mesh liner
- Fabric has some stretch for added comfort
- Part of your purchase will go toward helping the environment
Con:
- Has a Velcro fly that some men may not like
Best for tall men
Nike Swim Big & Tall Split 9-Inch Volley Shorts
Wish brands would make more extended size options? Nike just did it. These big and tall volley shorts come in extended sizes up to 4XL and are offered in five different color combinations. They have a mesh liner and on-seam side pockets, and most reviewers say they fit true to size.
Pros:
- Available in extended sizes (L Tall through 4XL)
- Water repellent
- Drawstring waist
Con:
- No back pocket
Best shorter inseam
Le Club Cabana Shorts
Who wears short shorts? If you do, then go with a pair of Le Club’s Cabana shorts. These brightly colored shorts, which are inspired by the spirit of Miami, are the definition of fun. Meanwhile, their stretch makes them super comfortable, and in spite of their shorter length, they have three functional pockets.
Pros:
- Available in 4.25-inch or 6.25-inch inseam
- Stretch fabric
- Made from recycled materials
Con:
- Higher price point
Best stretch
Rhone 6-Inch Fletcher Trunks
Looking for a bathing suit you can really move around in? Rhone’s Fletcher Trunk is the answer. These shorts are made with nylon and spandex, giving them unparalleled four-way stretch. “I can’t believe how comfortable this material is,” raves one reviewer. “It feels great in and out of the water!” The material also dries super fast, which is a huge plus, since the brand recommends not putting these shorts in the dryer. Give them a test run while playing these fun outdoor games with the kids.
Pros:
- Four-way stretch fabric
- Quick drying
- Rear zipper pocket and two side pockets
Cons:
- Available only in one length
- Limited color options
Best tailored fit
Tommy Hilfiger Flag Swim Trunks
These classic Tommy Hilfiger swim trunks are stylish and comfortable enough for all-day wear, thanks to their quick-drying fabric and tailored fit. A 7-inch inseam puts them just above the knee, and an elastic waistband and drawcord will keep them comfortably on your waist. They’re also equipped with on-seam pockets and a back patch pocket with a hook-and-loop fastener to securely hold your most important belongings.
Pros:
- Not baggy
- Three pockets
- Available in three different styles, and each style has several color options
Con:
- Not made from recycled materials
Best for travel
Tommy Bahama Naples Tropic Tini Swim Trunks
Heading on a fun summer vacation? Bring this pair of Tommy Bahama swim trunks with you. Not only will these sustainably made shorts put you in the mood for your favorite summer cocktail, but they’re lightweight and they dry quickly, making them easy to roll up and pack in your suitcase. Not quite sure where you’re headed yet? Check out these all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. for some ideas.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Quick drying
- Available in sizes up to XXL
Con:
- Only one pattern choice
Best prints
Surfside Supply Jimmy Hula Girl Lined Volley Shorts
Surfside Supply’s volley shorts are ideal for just lounging on the beach. The quick-dry fabric, mesh liner, drawstring waist and three pockets make this the perfect “throw it on and go” bathing suit. While this is the ultimate no-frills swimsuit, and it does come in solid colors, we couldn’t help but fall in love with the brand’s fun prints. There are plenty to choose from—from cool palm trees to funky sharks—but this fun hula girl just might be our favorite!
Pros:
- Lots of fun, beach-inspired prints
- Three pockets
- Fits true to size
Con:
- Mesh, brief-style liner may be uncomfortable for some men
Most versatile
Bamboo Avenue Boundless Shorts
Looking for a pair of shorts that’s perfect for the gym, pool or bedroom? Bamboo Avenue’s Boundless shorts were built to do it all. These sustainably made men’s swim trunks are buttery soft, super stretchy and odor-resistant. They’re also completely customizable. You can choose from 16 colors and two inseam lengths, and order them with or without a liner. And did we mention that these shorts could easily double as men’s pajamas?
Pros:
- Can be worn around the house or in the pool
- Customizable
- Four-way stretch
- Sustainably made and shipped
Cons:
- Available only in solid colors
Best for surfing
Vuori Infinity Board Shorts
What better shorts to surf in than ones inspired by a professional surfer? Vuori’s new Infinity board shorts were inspired by surfer Rob Machado and designed to keep you comfortable in the waves. They’re made with a moisture-wicking fabric that’s as quick-drying as it is soft and stretchy, and we love the subtle, ocean wave–inspired print. Surf’s up!
Pros:
- Quick drying
- Four-way stretch
- Pocket has a zipper
Con:
- Only one pocket
Best sustainable
L.L. Bean All-Adventure Swim Shorts
Plenty of companies are aiming to make their products more eco-friendly, but eco-friendly doesn’t always equal quality. Unless it’s L.L. Bean, in which case you know you’re getting an excellent product. This L.L. Bean swimsuit is designed to perform, keep you protected with UPF 50+ and keep our planet clean. In fact, there are approximately 34 recycled plastic bottles in each pair of these shorts!
Pros:
- Made with approximately 34 recycled plastic bottles
- Supportive, antimicrobial liner
- Fabric is resistant to abrasions, salt and chlorine
Con:
- Available only in two colors
Best lightweight
Goodlife StretchTex Volley Shorts
Heading to the gym or pool during your lunch break? Toss these Goodlife shorts in your gym bag. They’re made from a soft, lightweight performance fabric that has just the right amount of stretch. The locker loop on the back allows you to hang them up to dry once you’re finished. Or you can skip the pool, since these shorts are so comfortable they can easily be considered loungewear.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Soft material
- Available in seven colors
Cons:
- Available only with a 5.5-inch inseam
- On the pricier side
Longest inseam
Fair Harbor The Ozone
Shorter swimsuits for men are all the rage this season. But if you prefer a longer inseam, Fair Harbor’s Ozone swim trunks are your most comfortable option. Not only do they have four-way stretch, but they also have an aerated back waistband, plus a supportive BreezeKnit liner that prevents chafing. They’re available in sizes up to 3X and offered with an 8- or 10-inch inseam.
Pros:
- Available in an 8- or 10-inch inseam
- Supportive boxer brief–style liner
- Extended size range
Con:
- Only one solid color option
Best for all-day wear
Outerknown Nomadic Volley Swim Trunks
If you decide to leave the pool and stroll through town, you won’t have to change out of these casual Outerknown swim trunks. They’re effortlessly cool and put-together, and front side-seam pockets and a back zip pocket will hold your phone, keys and wallet as you go about your day. They’re also made from 100% recycled material with quick-dry properties and have a relaxed fit. In other words, these shorts will feel as good as they look from dawn till dusk.
Pros:
- Casual and functional design
- No mesh netting
- Made from 100% recycled material
Con:
- Must spend $125 on the site to get free shipping
Best athleisure style
Fair Harbor The One Short
This is athleisure at its best. A Fair Harbor fan favorite with more than 4,500 five-star reviews, these all-purpose shorts boast a flexible and quick-drying fabric that makes them perfect for a morning workout, a day by the pool or lounging at home with your buddies. Although they look like a pair of casual cotton shorts, they’re made from durable water-repellent (DWR) fabric for a super-quick dry, and they’re also naturally odor resistant and available in both lined and unlined options. If you love athleisure, check out these joggers for men while you’re shopping.
Pros:
- Cotton look
- Can get them with or without a liner
- Available in sizes up to 3XL
Con:
- Available only in solid colors
Best hybrid
Goodfellow & Co. Hybrid Swim Shorts
Pros:
- Look like casual, everyday shorts, complete with belt loops
- Functional fly
- UPF 50+ sun protection
Con:
- Some reviewers say they run small
Best with pockets
Garnet Hill 8-Inch Swim Trunks
Pockets are essential, and the more you have, the better. Garnet Hill’s swim trunks have four functional pockets to carry everything you need. The two front pockets are big enough to hold your phone and wallet, while the back flap pocket is perfect for your ID, credit card or cash. There’s also a hidden pocket in the front that will hold your house or car key, lip balm or loose change. Talk about convenient!
Pros:
- Four functional pockets
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric
Con:
- Available only in three prints
Best retro style
Bonobos Throwback Swim Trunks
Retro is in! Embrace the current trend with these Bonobos Throwback men’s swim trunks. They feature a short, curved, split hem with self-binding and placed embroidery. You can choose between a 5- and 7-inch inseam, and both options feature UPF protection, an interior waistband drawcord for the perfect fit, and three pockets, including a zippered one in the back.
Pros:
- Vintage look
- Available in more than 20 colors
- Zippered back pocket, plus two front pockets with binding
Con:
- Some men may find them too short
Best brief style
Coofandy Brief Swim Trunks
Sometimes less is more, as these brief-style board shorts prove. The slim-fitting shorts are ideal for sunbathing or even scuba diving, and they boast quick-drying fabric at an incredibly affordable, under-$20 price point. One verified Amazon user says, “I bought these low-volume swim trunks to fit under my scuba-diving wetsuits for a trip. They’re well made and fit under the neoprene wetsuit without bunching up, but still look decent enough for wear around town between dives.”
Pros:
- Won’t bunch up under a wetsuit or pants
- Lightweight and stretchy
- Available in more than 40 colors
Con:
- Some reviewers say they run small
Best compression
Under Armour Solid Compression Volley Swim Trunks
Under Armour’s compression shorts give you the support you need while you’re having fun in the sun. And speaking of sun, these men’s swim trunks also have UPF 50+ sun-blocking protection, as well as a water-repellent exterior. With this swimsuit, you’ll be supported, protected, and comfortable all summer long, whether you’re playing beach volleyball with the kids at an all-inclusive family resort or lounging poolside with the grown-ups.
Pros:
- Comfortable built-in compression liner
- Four-way stretch fabric
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Velcro-close back pocket
Con:
- Available only in S through XL
Best for swimming
TYR Durafast Elite Solid Jammer Swimsuit
Whether you’re doing laps in the pool or practicing in open waters, this compressive TYR bathing suit for men will maintain a comfortable hold on your body as you glide through the water. It’s made from chlorine-proof Durafast fabric, which will hold up for more than 300 hours of use, and it has an antimicrobial lining that helps prevent odors.
Pros:
- Compressive fit
- Made with durable, chlorine-proof fabric
- Several reviewers claim it’s thicker than other styles
Con:
- Limited sizes available
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