The Best Men’s Swim Trunks to Pack for the Beach

By Katie Fish
August 04, 2018
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Credit: John Duarte/Getty Images
As soon as summer hits, all we want is to be by the water. And who can blame us? Research has shown there are benefits to just existing in close proximity to a vast expanse of blue. Sometimes it's your hotel’s infinity pool with an ice-cold beverage in hand. Or maybe an aqua-fueled adventure is more your scene, like wakeboarding or kite surfing on the open sea. Whatever your preferred water activity may be, you're going to need some tried-and-true swim trunks.

Related:The Best Men’s Water Shoes for Hiking and the Beach

A great pair of trunks doesn’t just look good, but they also feel good. Who wants to feel their soggy shorts bunching up as they dry off or ballooning out around you in the water? Nobody. So look for a pair that is cut well and has a good shape for your body. There are also tons of great swim shorts that have quick-drying fabrics that won't make you feel as if you’re wearing a wet diaper for hours after you swim. Some shorts are designed specifically for active lifestyles, as well, so you will have a short that is comfortable enough for your hike, but also water-appropriate if you're tempted by some impromptu waterfall diving.

If you’re exploring a seaside town or boating for the day, a swim trunk that disguises itself as shorts should be on your radar. Come dinnertime, you can just slip on a pair of dress sneakers, grab a shirt, and look perfectly put-together for your evening of dinner and drinks.

Whether you’re looking for a pair that is sporty, preppy, or straight-up funky, read on for our 14 favorite men’s swim trunks.
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Vilebrequin Dance Du Feu Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of East Dane

The fabric on these graphic-print, drawstring swim trunks is fast-drying, so you won’t have to stay soggy post-swim for long.

To buy: eastdane.com, $290

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J.Crew Swim Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of J.Crew

J.Crew has made a big splash with its affordable-yet-durable swimwear. Get a standard solid swim short, or try a pair with a playful print like this red style.  

To buy: jcrew.com, $70

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Rhone Fletcher Swim Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of Rhone

A T+L editor favorite, Rhone makes super comfortable swim trunks that are cut well and aren’t overly baggy.

To buy: rhone.com, $88

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Patagonia Baggies Swim Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Patagonia swim trunks are meant for adventure. They have a durable, quick-drying material with a water-repellent finish, making any activity more comfortable.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $55

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EA7 by Emporio Armani Swim Shorts

Credit: Courtesy of East Dane

Bring these vintage-inspired, colorblock swim shorts on your next vacation for a cool ’80s aesthetic.

To buy: eastdane.com, $88

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Saturdays NYC Swim Shorts

Credit: Courtesy of Mr. Porter

This tropical, mid-length style from New York–based surf brand, Saturdays NYC, is made of a quick-drying, mesh-lined material that has a metal eyelet at the back to prevent underwater ballooning.

To buy: mrporter.com, $135

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Stussy Swim Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of East Dane

These funky, tie-dye trunks have “laid-back vacation” written all over them.

To buy: eastdane.com, $65

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Goodfellow & Co. Pink Gingham Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of Target

These timeless, gingham-print trunks are made with a breathable fabric and have a mesh lining for comfort in and out of the water.

To buy: target.com, $15

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Speedo Deck Volley Swim Shorts

Credit: Courtesy of Speedo

There is no brand quite as quintessential to swim as Speedo, but that doesn’t always have to mean briefs. Try these quick-drying, solid blue trunks for your next water-filled adventure.

To buy: speedousa.com, $34

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PS by Paul Smith Swim Trunks

Credit: Courtesy of East Dane

A classic, thin-striped swim trunk like this is begging to be worn in the Amalfi Coast, amongst the beautiful blue waters and colorful cliffside houses.

To buy: eastdane.com, $150

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Oliver’s Zuma Trunk

Credit: Courtesy of Oliver's

We love the soft and stretchy material of these simple shorts. Plus, they’re equipped with a zipped rear pocket that drains water quickly.

To buy: oliversapparel.com, $118

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Onia x Theory Swim Shorts

Credit: Courtesy of Theory

Onia has teamed up with Theory to create a capsule of considered trunks that will elevate your summertime wardrobe.

To buy: theory.com, $135

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Orlebar Brown Swim Shorts

Credit: Courtesy of Mr. Porter

Don these swim shorts, printed with geometric shapes, to make a statement at the pool. 

To buy: mrporter.com, $275

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Everest Isles Runner Swim Shorts

Credit: Courtesy of Matches Fashion

Performance is a priority that men’s swimwear brand Everest Isles prides itself on. Made with high-tech, four-way stretch fabric, these sporty swim shorts are made to resist salt, sand, and water.

To buy: matchesfashion.com, $225

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By Katie Fish