Updated May 23, 2021
For a casual day at a pool or the beach or something rigorous like waterskiing or scuba diving, you’ll want a swimming suit that is comfortable, durable, and looks good. The immodesty and confining fit of classic swim briefs have limited appeal for many men. On the other hand, swimming trunks are more relaxed and comfortable and come in a range of attractive colors and prints making them functional as well as eye-catching.
As with all apparel, the volume of options on the market is almost mind-boggling. To help you make your choice, a range of the best men’s swimming trunks have been selected as an introduction. There’s a comparison table to start, followed by descriptions, key features, pros & cons, photos, and a buying guide for your consideration.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know in the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to know your thoughts.
For other reviews of swimming products and accessories, please check out these popular posts or refer to the menu at the top:
Women’s Swim Shorts Men’s Board Shorts Swimming Headphones Swim Parkas Swimming Goggles
Best Men’s Swimming Trunks
- Speedo Rally Volley Swim Trunks
- Calvin Klein Elastic Waist Swim Trunk
- Saxx Cannonball 2N1 Long Swim Trunks
- Lacoste Classic Elastic Waist Taffeta Swim Trunks
- Nike Solid Lap Volley Short Swim Trunk
- Polo Ralph Lauren Printed Swim Shorts Beach Trunks
- Quiksilver Everyday Board Short Swim Trunk
- Silkwood Quick Dry Swim Trunks
- Kanu Surf Monaco Swim Trunks
- Nonwe Retro Swim Trunks
Men’s Swimming Trunks Comparison Table
| Swimming Trunks | Picture | Fabric | Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speedo Rally Volley Swim Trunks |   | Polyester | 18" Outseam | $$ |
| Calvin Klein Elastic Waist Swim Trunk |   | Polyester | 7" Inseam | $$ |
| Saxx Cannonball 2N1 Long Swim Trunks |   | Nylon Shell Nylon/Spandex/Polyester Liner | 9" Inseam | $$$ |
| Lacoste Classic Elastic Waist Taffeta Swim Trunks |   | Polyester Taffeta | 14.6" Outseam | $$$ |
| Nike Solid Lap Volley Short Swim Trunk |   | Polyester | 7" Inseam | $$ |
| Polo Ralph Lauren Printed Swim Shorts Beach Trunks |   | Polyester | 5.5" Inseam | $$$ |
| Quiksilver Everyday Board Short Swim Trunk |   | Polyester | 21"Outseam | $$ |
| Silkwood Quick Dry Swim Trunks |   | Polyester | 17" Outseam | $ |
| Kanu Surf Monaco Swim Trunks |   | Polyester | 17"-18" Outseam | $ |
| Nonwe Retro Swim Trunks |   | Polyester | 18.5"-19.5" Outseam | $ |
| Swimming Trunks | Picture | Fabric | Length | Price |
Speedo Rally Volley Swim Trunks
The Speedo Rally Volley Swim Trunks are relaxed fit and mid-length with sturdy, quick-drying, brushed polyester microfiber that has a soft, comfortable feel.
It uses an elastic waistband without a drawstring and has a high level of UV protection.
There are two side pockets and a secure zippered back pocket for items like keys or change.
- Material: 100% polyester brushed microfiber
- Quick-drying VaporPlus technology
- Machine washable
- Built-in brief
- UPF50+ UV protection
- Outseam: 19”
- Inseam: 8”
- Colors: classic blue, granite, black, navy
- Pockets: 2 side pockets, 1 zippered back pocket with an inner key pocket
- Closure: volley elastic waistband
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Price: $$
Pros: soft and durable fabric, UV protection, plenty of pockets, quick-drying, reputable brand
Cons: limited color choices
Calvin Klein Elastic Waist Swim Trunk
The Calvin Klein Elastic Waist Swim Trunk by the iconic clothing designer is as durable as it is attractive, made of 100% polyester in a large variety of colors and prints.
Quick-drying, machine-washable, and comfortable, they are mid-length with a mesh lining and accommodating elastic waist closure backed by a drawstring.
There are three pockets for your accessories and personal items and UPF50+ UV protection for long days in the sun.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Quick-drying
- Machine washable
- UPF50+ UV protection
- Mesh lining
- Inseam: 7”
- Colors: 28 colors and prints
- Pockets: 2 side pockets, 1 Velcro-closure back pocket with an interior coin pocket
- Closure: volley elastic waistband with a drawstring
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Price: $$
Pros: durable fabric, UV protection, plenty of pockets, quick-drying, reputable brand
Cons: let me know if you find any (very few negative comments by buyers)
Saxx Cannonball 2N1 Long Swim Trunks
The Saxx Cannonball 2N1 Long Swim Trunks are comfortable and supportive employing a patented breathable, supportive Ballpark Pouch 3D mesh lining.
Flat seams provide an irritation-free flat surface and a drawstring provides an adjustable fit.
Quick-drying and machine washable, there are side pockets and a back pocket for storage.
- Material: 100% nylon shell, 77% nylon/14% spandex/9% polyester (Quest 2) liner
- Odor and fade–resistant
- Flat outseams prevent irritation
- Machine washable, tumble dry
- 3D mesh lining with patented Ballpark Pouch design for comfortable breathable support
- Inseam: 9”
- Colors: blue waterfall, mango cranes, green cactus, grey patchwork, navy tie-die knot
- Pockets: 2 side pockets, 1 back pocket
- Closure: adjustable drawstring
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Price: $$$
Pros: comfortable, good support without a jockstrap, smooth irritation-free seams, quick-drying, odor and fade-resistant fabric, 3 pockets
Cons: not cheap
Lacoste Classic Elastic Waist Taffeta Swim Trunks
These swim trunks by Lacoste have classic understated styling with soft polyester taffeta fabric, solid colors contrasted by complementary colors inside the pockets and along the inner waistband, and the indispensable alligator patch.
The simple design includes a mesh lining, two side pockets, and an elastic waistband with a drawstring adjustable closure.
- Material: 100% polyester taffeta (recycled)
- Mesh lining
- Machine washable
- Quick-drying
- Green crocodile patch
- Outseam: 14.6”
- Colors: navy blue, black, red, Niagara blue, elf pink (contrast fabric along inner waistband and inside pockets)
- Pockets: 2 deep side pockets for small essentials
- Closure: elastic waist with an adjustable drawstring
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Price: $$$
Pros: soft, comfortable fabric, deep side pockets, quick-drying, machine-washable
Cons: not cheap, no back pocket
Nike Solid Lap Volley Short Swim Trunk
The Nike Solid Lap Volley Short Swim Trunk has durable, quick-drying polyester construction highlighted by a supportive built-in mesh brief and side pockets with mesh drainage.
There is a choice of 10 attractive solid colors with the signature Nike swish on the leg.
The elastic waist adjusts to a range of sizes and has a hidden internal drawcord to cinch the fit.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Water-repellent finish
- Mesh brief lining
- Machine washable
- Quick-drying
- Nike swish
- Inseam: 7”
- Colors: choice of 10 solid colors
- Pockets: 2 on-seam side pockets with mesh pocket bags for drainage
- Closure: elastic waist with an internal drawcord
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Price: $$
Pros: easy-draining mesh pockets, built-in mesh brief, quick-drying, machine-washable, versatile short length
Cons: not cheap, no back pocket
Polo Ralph Lauren Printed Swim Shorts Beach Trunks
This entry from the iconic sportswear company, Polo Ralph Lauren, comes in a range of 30 lively solid colors and print designs.
The shell and mesh brief employ quick-drying, and machine-washable 100% polyester. There is a water-repellent finish on the shell.
It is equipped with two side pockets and a back button-down pocket with an adjustable drawstring and elastic waistband.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Water-repellent finish
- Interior mesh brief
- Machine washable
- Quick-drying
- Inseam: 5.5” (medium)
- Colors: choice of 30 colors and prints
- Pockets: 2 on-seam side pockets, 1 back button pocket
- Closure: elastic waist with a drawstring
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Price: $$$
Pros: built-in mesh brief, water-repellent, quick-drying, machine-washable, iconic brand
Cons: a little pricy
Quiksilver Everyday Board Short Swim Trunk
The Quiksilver Everyday Board Short Swim Trunk is made from recycled soft polyester Supersuede with a 21” outseam, a preferred length of many surfers.
In the style of many board shorts, closure is with a drawcord on a flat non-elastic waistband.
With little adjustability, it comes calibrated into 12 sizes to fit a range of waistlines.
- Material: 100% recycled polyester Supersuede
- Hand washable only
- Quick-drying
- Contrasting logo on the leg
- Outseam: 21”
- Colors: choice of 6 colors
- Pockets: 1 flap cargo pocket
- Closure: flat waist with a drawcord
- Short fly with a Lycra gusset
- Sizes: 28-44 (12 sizes)
- Price: $$
Pros: great length for surfing, many size choices, cargo pocket for wax, quick-drying, soft
Cons: only hand washable, no lining
Silkwood Quick Dry Swim Trunks
The Silkwood Quick Dry Swim Trunks are a reasonably-priced model loaded with features.
They come in a lively array of prints employing durable, soft, quick-drying polyester that is water-resistant with UPF50+ protection from the sun’s rays. 3 pockets provide plenty of storage and the 21” outseam length is preferred by many surfers.
There are a comfortable inner mesh brief and adjustable elastic waistband with drawstring closure in a wide range of sizes.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Inner mesh brief lining
- Water-resistant
- Quick-drying
- UPF50+ UV protection
- Outseam: 21”
- Colors: choice of 25 lively prints
- Pockets: 2 deep side seam pockets, 1 back Velcro flap pocket
- Closure: elastic waistband with a drawstring
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Price: $$
Pros: great length for surfing, durable, 3 pockets, UV protection, quick-drying, soft, mesh lining, adjustable waist, lively color selection
Cons: let me know what you think
The Kanu Surf Monaco Swim Trunks are bargain-priced and come in 43 different lively prints and colors to suit even the largest of swimmers in style.
The quick-drying, machine-washable polyester is reinforced with triple-needle stitching, UV protection, and has a comfortable mesh lining.
The large range of available sizes will fit almost anyone employing an elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring, and with two side pockets and one or two back pockets, there are plenty of storage options.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Sturdy triple-needle stitching
- Mesh lining
- Quick-drying
- Machine-washable
- UPF50+ UV protection
- Outseam: 17” to 18″
- Colors: choice of 43 lively colors and prints
- Pockets: 2 side seam pockets, 1 or 2 back pockets
- Closure: elastic waistband with a drawstring
- Sizes: 9 sizes S to 5XL
- Price: $
Pros: low-priced, durable, 3-4 pockets, UV protection, quick-drying, mesh lining, adjustable waist, large selection of colors and prints, available in very large sizes
Cons: let me know what you think
The Nonwe Retro Swim Trunks employ quick-drying, soft polyester in vintage styling with a choice of 27 lively colors and prints, at a budget price.
There is substantial space in the three pockets with a good fit possible in eight sizes from size 42 and lower, with an elastic waistband, and drawstring closure.
Legs are covered almost to the knee with the 18.5” to 19.5” outseam length.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Durable and soft fabric
- Mesh lining
- Quick-drying
- Outseam: 18.5” to 19.5”
- Colors: choice of 27 lively beach-themed colors and prints
- Pockets: 2 side seam pockets, 1 back pocket with a Velcro flap
- Closure: elastic waistband with a drawstring
- Sizes: 8 sizes from 28 to 42
- Price: $
Pros: low-priced, 3 pockets, quick-drying, soft fabric, mesh lining, adjustable waist, large selection of beach-themed prints and colors, retro styling
Cons: not the largest pockets, no really large sizes
Men’s Swimming Trunks Buying Guide
Why Choose Swimming Trunks
Swimming trunks are lightweight and comfortable with a breathable relaxed fit. While not streamlined enough for competitive swimming and some other water sports, they are versatile enough for casual use in a pool, lake, or ocean, or for activities like surfing, scuba diving, waterskiing, jet skiing, and many others. Then when you get out of the water they provide a degree of modesty not possible in skintight swimsuits and resemble ordinary shorts to the degree that they are appropriate to use in other settings and activities.
Materials and Construction
Durable, lightweight, quick-drying synthetic materials including polyester, nylon, and polyamide are usually selected for use in swimming trunks. Cotton isn’t the best choice due to weight and a longer drying time.
Look for double or triple-stitched seams to help resist rips and splits.
The sun’s rays, saltwater, and chlorine in pool water all contribute to deterioration. The synthetic materials mentioned above are usually effective. Water-repellent coatings and treatment to resist UV rays are features to look for.
Comfort and Fit
If the fit is poor, they won’t be comfortable. It is best to try on your trunks first, if possible, before purchase. Otherwise, when purchasing online it is a good idea to get an accurate waist measurement and check the sizing details and advice from the seller. You can also take a look at the comments from buyers on Amazon for tips, or contact the seller directly with questions.
Ensuring that swimming trunks fit comfortably is easier on models that have an elastic waistband with a drawstring closure which allows for adjustability.
Length is another consideration. Shorter legs are more streamlined in the water but may be less comfortable for some. Swimming trunks are most often available from mid-thigh length to just above the knee. Board sport participants often prefer the longer version but for average recreational swimmers, it is a matter of personal preference.
Design and Colors
For many looking good is as big a factor as any in the selection of swimming trunks. There is a wide range of colors and patterns available that allow you to express your own style. These manufacturers all take pride in designing trunks that are not only comfortable, functional, and durable, but also look great.
For other reviews of swimming products and accessories, please check out these popular posts or refer to the menu at the top:
Women’s Swim Shorts Men’s Board Shorts Swimming Headphones Swim Parkas Swimming Goggles
Comments and Feedback
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