The best men's swim trunks of 2026
Look good wet, dry and wherever your summer plans end up taking you.
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For a long time, swim trunks felt like the most phoned-in category in men's fashion. Long, floppy and weirdly shapeless, nobody was asking whether they were flattering or looked good. The only real goal seemed to be: do these technically cover the body and can they get wet? Beautiful standards, really.
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Thankfully, swim trunks have gotten a lot better, and so have men, if not only in this one specific area. We now have more range in length, fit, fabric and overall vibe, so you can wear them from the beach straight to drinks after and look good doing it. A great pair can make you look way more put together with almost no effort.
I pulled together the best men's swim trunks, showcasing the pairs that earn their place both in the water, the sun and everywhere that follows. Of 30-plus options we evaluated, these are the only eight swim trunks men should even look in this year.
The best swim trunks for men of 2026
Size:XS–XL | Material:69% cotton, 31% polyester | Colors:2 | Inseam:5" | Liner:Yes | UPF protection:Not listed | Closure type:Tie
Why we love it:I've always said J.Crew has a way of making basics feel like they got a better education. The 5-inch length shows enough leg to keep things interesting and avoids that long, droopy, early-2000s (in a bad way) vibe. I also like that they have enough going on — a pattern, a back pocket, a clean waistband — so they read more fashionable than just a bathing suit.
What experts say: Dina Cerchione , personal brand style strategist for men, likes this pair because it covers a lot of ground at once — trend, comfort and just enough elegance. She specifically pointed to the shorter inseam, the small-but-fun print and the mesh lining with the cotton-poly blend as what makes them feel current. Reviewers repeatedly called out the fit and how well they held up after washing, with one person liking them enough to go back for more, which is usually the clearest possible sign that a trunk is doing its job.
Keep in mind:These are strongest if you want a swimsuit that feels polished and easy, not if you're hunting for some ultra-technical performance swim short. And while most people seemed happy with the fit and fabric, the price got a little side-eye from a couple reviewers (and sorry to a mesh liner, but they're never, ever going to be a universal love story).
- Current and flattering cut
- Cotton-poly blend gives a softer, short-like feel
- Clean shape and pockets make them feel like an actual outfit
- Mesh lining is divisive
- Pricier than some
Size:XS–4XL | Material:92% recycled polyester, 8% spandex | Colors:30 | Inseam:7" | Liner:Yes | UPF protection:Yes | Closure type:Elastic-drawstring waistband
Why we love it:Old Navy will always have a little emotional hold on me — and honestly? It still hits. These swim trunks make sense as the budget winner because they're exactly what an affordable suit should be. You're not spending resort money before even booking the resort, and yet you still get a pair that looks put-together enough to wear proudly in public.
What experts say:At this price, Cerchione sees these as "a fantastic choice for anyone," and her reasoning is pretty hard to argue with. The 7-inch inseam gives them a shape that works for a lot of guys, while the size range and mix of solids, tropicals and nautical prints make them easy to shop no matter your style. Reviewers were very much in that same lane, calling them comfortable and sturdy enough to survive pool chemicals, washing and general summer heat.
Keep in mind:These work best when your goal is dependable and affordable, not elevated or especially luxe. The built-in liner is still a dealbreaker for some guys, and a few reviewers had small gripes about thinner fabric, a swishy feel or fit running a bit off. But if you want a trunk that covers the basics well without draining your wallet, these absolutely do the job.
- Budget-friendly price
- A very wearable middle zone for most guys
- Holds up well to chlorine, washing and repeat wear
- Fabric runs a little thinner and noisier
- Liner is a deal-breaker for some
Sizes:XS–XXL | Material:48% recycled nylon, 43% nylon, 9% elastane | Colors:3 | Inseam:5" or 7" | Liner:No | UPF protection:Not listed | Closure type:Elastic waistband with drawstring
Why we love it:These are for the guy who wants to look athletic at the beach and actually be athletic at the beach. Lululemon already has a pretty strong grip on that world, so the 5-inch length keeps them feeling sharp and active, while the textured fabric helps them look a little more elevated than a standard performance-y swim short. The linerless design also gives you more freedom and a little less of that trapped-up feeling if you're moving around a lot or just don't want to feel as restricted. One reviewer agreed, and liked that there was still enough of a front panel to keep things from getting too out of control.
What experts say:Cerchione is especially into the details on this one — the texture, the simple prints and the fact that it's built to work on or off the beach. She also pointed to the hidden phone sleeve in the side pocket and the back zip pocket with a drainage hole and key loop, which makes this feel more thought-through than a basic sporty swim short.
Keep in mind:These make the most sense if you actually want an active, movement-friendly swim trunk and like the idea of going linerless. If you prefer more built-in support or you're just looking for a cheap pair to wear three times a summer, this may be more trunk than you need.
- Built for movement without looking hyper-technical
- Multiple inseam length options
- Textured fabric camouflages and elevates the style
- Lululemon-expensive
- Limited color range
Sizes:XS–XXL | Material:100% recycled nylon | Colors:9 | Inseam:5" | Liner:Yes | UPF protection:Not listed | Closure type:Elastic waistband with internal drawcord
Why we love it:These are the swim trunks for people who don't want to keep changing clothes every time the day changes shape. Beach, hike, coffee, drinks, somebody's backyard, some random plan you did not agree to until 11 minutes ago — they can handle all of it. The quick-dry fabric and deep pockets make them practical, but they don't feel trapped in pure utility mode either. You can wear them in the water, then keep them on with a tee or even a collared shirt and not look ridiculous.
What experts say:The quick-drying fabric, mesh liner and slightly fuller leg are what make this pair work across more than one setting. Cerchione specifically calls them a strong option for "the beach, the hills or the backyard," which aligns with Patagonia's ability to blend its outdoor reputation together with actual style. One reviewer said they wear them as casual shorts, a bathing suit and even running shorts. Everyone wishes they had shorts that could thrive in that all-over-the-place summer life
Keep in mind:These make the most sense if you want one trunk that can drift into regular-short territory. If you're after something sleeker, stretchier or more tailored, they may feel a little more rugged than ideal. And while the durability praise was strong overall, there were a couple notes worth clocking around chlorine fading.
- Structured enough to pass as regular shorts
- Quick-dry fabric goes from water to happy hour
- Durable build and timeless design
- Not much give in the fabric
- Some color fading reported
Sizes: XS–XXL | Material: 100% polyester | Colors: 6 | Inseam: 7" | Liner: Yes | UPF protection: Not listed | Closure type: Elastic waistband with drawstring
Why we love it:I have said it before and I will say it again: Abercrombie really is the comeback queen. This brand went from shirtless mall mythology and clouds of Fierce to quietly having one of the strongest men's basics lineups around, and these trunks are the perfect example. The seersucker texture does a lot of work without needing some giant tropical print or novelty color to get attention. They just look good and give "yes, I know how to pick out clothes."
What experts say:"A great choice for anyone looking for classic style that's easy to wear" is how Cerchione puts it,. She also loves the muted colors and patterns, along with the compression shorts and stretch, making them "as easy to wear as they are on the eyes." One wearer loved that they're "not too short but not long like board shorts," which is a great sweet spot a stylish swim trunk should hit. Another called the fabric "soft luxurious," while someone else said the "vintage" look was part of the appeal.
Keep in mind:These are best if you like your swim trunks on the more polished, understated side. Some reviewers thought the lighter shades looked a little see-through, and a couple people wanted a slimmer leg or a slightly longer cut.
- Seersucker texture gives more depth
- Compression-style liner is a nice upgrade from mesh
- Quick-dry fabric make them easy to wear outside the water
- Lighter colors can run a little see-through
- A bit more fabric and room through the leg than some men want
Sizes: S–XXL | Material: 79% recycled nylon, 21% elastane | Liner: Yes | Colors: 10 | Inseam: 5.5", 7", 9" | Liner: Yes | UPF protection: Yes | Closure type: Elasticated waistband with drawstring
Why we love it:Classic doesn't have to mean boring. These are clean and familiar, but in a way that feels more Talented Mr. Ripley than "my wife grabbed these at the department store." They have that slightly Euro, very capable-on-vacation energy that makes a man look like he packed with purpose. The wide color range, the shape and the fact that they come in three inseams helps a lot, too.
What experts say:Quince is known for its high quality at great prices, and that's really the backbone of this pick. Cerchione appreciates the classic colors, the three inseam options and the UPF 50 protection, which is a pretty strong mix for anyone who wants something traditional-looking that still has a few practical upgrades. One reviewer purchased a pair for her very picky husband and said that everything, from the zipper pocket fit to the lining, won him over.
Keep in mind:If you like a more polished, straightforward trunk, add to cart. A few reviewers mentioned having to size up, though, and the liner got more mixed reactions than the look itself.
- Classic color range and cleaner prints
- Three inseam options for length versatility
- Fabric is resistant to chlorine, sunscreen and oils
- Fit can run snug through the hips
- Liner comfort seems a little divisive
Sizes: XS–3XL | Material: 92% polyester, 8% spandex | Colors: 42 | Inseam: 5.5" | Liner: Yes | UPF protection: Yes | Closure type: Elastic waistband with drawstring
Why we love it:I did a pre-summer closet clean recently and found out I own seven pairs of Chubbies. Seven. Different colors, different lengths, different levels of wanting to be gawked at. So yes, I am speaking from a place of weakness, addiction and deep respect. Chubbies understands that some men don't want their swim trunks to mind their business. They want them to flirt, and they want them to walk into the pool party before they do.
What experts say:For someone who likes being the fun (read: semi-obnoxious) one, this pair makes a lot of sense. It's ridiculous in exactly the right way with a shorter, stretchier build that pops and Cerchione's point is that the prints do the social work for you, but the 4-way stretch and broader size range are what keep them from being all gimmick and no substance. Other reviewers called out the comfort, quick-drying fabric, and all-day wearability as what keeps them from feeling like a one-joke pair. They're built to stand out, but they're also built to survive a full day in the sun.
Keep in mind:If you're looking for a quieter, more classic trunk, there are easier places to go. And while the reviews were broadly very positive, the liner and the price both came up as some dull red flags when swim trunk shopping.
- 4-way stretch for mobility
- Quick-dry fabric and useful zip back pocket
- Massive range of fun prints
- Too bold for some
- Some lighter colors can run sheer
Sizes: 28–44 | Material: 100% polyester | Colors: 18 | Inseam: 9.5" | Liner: No | UPF protection: Yes | Closure type: Drawstring with surf-style fly closure
Why we love it:A boardshort isn't supposed to do the same thing as a 5-inch little flirty swim trunk, but there's a place for a real boardshort when it's done right. This one has that classic O'Neill, California-water-sports look and the longer cut makes sense if you want more coverage, more movement and something that feels a little more locked in for actual activity.
What experts say:This is the most traditional swim silhouette in the lineup, and it's actually built for the guy who wants a boardshort because he likes boardshorts, not because he accidentally bought them. Cerchione highlights the softer fabrication that shines where longer boardshorts usually lose people. If they feel stiff or cardboard-ish, they're miserable. These are meant to give you that classic surf shape without turning the experience into a punishment. One reviewer liked that the legs were not overly loose and boxy, and another said the quality felt strong right away.
Keep in mind:This is one of those pairs where the proportions may really depend on your build. The pocket also sounds more annoying than useful for some people — too small for a normal phone and not what they expected. And if branding bugs you, more than one person called out that the giant O'Neill logo showed up more prominently than suggested.
- True boardshort with surf-brand look
- Durable fabric feels built for actual use
- Highest-coverage option
- Large side logo caught some buyers off guard
- Fit can be tricky depending on your build
How we tested the best swim trunks for men
Swim trunks shouldn't be panic-bought the week before a trip, worn into submission and then forgotten about until the next heat wave. That's probably why so many pairs that men own are… just bad. Ugly bad. Boring bad. Too long, too stiff, too swishy, obviously on sale and now they're forced to live with the consequences bad.
For this roundup, I was looking for the swim trunks that actually deserve to make it out of the drawer and be worn with pride. I checked out more than 30 options from a variety of brands and filtered through them thinking about how it would feel standing in the sun, half-dry and deciding whether the pair can survive the rest of the day. Fabric was a huge part of it, obviously, but so were things like inseam, liner style, comfort and whether a pair looked like real clothes out of the water.
Expert input helped shape the bigger picture, and faithful customer reviews helped with some more real-user experience. My own swim trunk standards helped round out which ones actually earned a spot, leading to this final list for all the different summer personalities out there and, of course, varying levels of thigh commitment.
What to consider when shopping for men's swim trunks
Material
Across the board, lightweight synthetics with some stretch tend to win. Aricia Symes , style expert and founder of Unfoldid, favors lightweight synthetics like polyester and nylon because they dry fast and hold up better in water. It's actually the first thing she looks for in a suit, since the speed of drying affects comfort "more than almost anything else." Cotton, which might feel more substantial in your hand, is slow to dry and isn't doing you any favors once it gets soaked
Kimberly Carney , CEO of The Wires and founder of FashWire, similarly recommends lightweight polyester blends with some elastane or spandex for the best mix of comfort, durability and performance. Iida Suutarla , designer and CEO of swimwear brand Ui Swim, says recycled polyester blended with elastane is her current favorite for the same reason.
Inseam
If a pair feels off, the inseam, or length, is usually the first place to look. Carney says 5 to 7 inches is the sweet spot for most men because it feels modern, versatile and flattering on a wide range of body types. To break it down further:
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4 to 5 inchesthe more trend-driven look, says Cerchione.
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6 to 7 inches is the easiest everyday middle ground.
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8 inches or longercan start to feel dated unless you are intentionally buying boardshorts, says Cerchione.
Liner
Liner preference is personal, but it's not trivial. Cerchione says some men like support and some like to be "a little more free," though Suutarla points out that a badly attached liner can ruin a good trunk fast. Here are the most common options you'll find:
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Mesh linersdry quickly and do the basic job. Some men love 'em, some men hate 'em.
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Compression linersoffer more support and can help with chafing, especially if you're moving around a lot, though they can feel warmer.
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Linerless trunksgive you the most flexibility if you want to wear your own underwear or compression shorts underneath, though Symes says linerless pairs can feel less secure unless the fit is right. while
Fit
A fun pattern is nice, but it's not going to rescue a bad fit. Cerchione says the biggest mistake men make is "shiny object syndrome" — getting distracted by color or print before checking whether the trunks actually work on their body.
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The waistbandshould sit comfortably without digging in or sliding down. Cerchione jokes that the drawstring should be "insurance, not life support," which is the easiest way to remember it.
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The lengthshould be flattering. Symes makes the proportion point really clearly: the farther the hem drops down the leg, the shorter the leg line can look. That's why so many men look better the second they stop buying long trunks by default.
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Around the thighs and seat, the suit should skim the body. Symes says if the liner cuts in, the pockets flare open or the seat looks stretched, they're too tight. And if the crotch drops or the leg opening starts flaring out before you even get in the water, they're too loose.
Style
Some swim trunks are clearly meant to stay at the pool, and others can pass as actual shorts once they dry. If you want the second kind, Symes recommends looking for a clean waistband, streamlined pockets, solid colors or subtle prints and fabric that doesn't look shiny or overly technical.
If you're looking to work in a tee, polo or linen shirt without making it obvious you just came from the water, that usually means cleaner design, less branding and an inseam that feels current. Cerchione says the best pairs should feel like an extension of your wardrobe, not some separate summer costume.
Best men's swim trunks FAQs
Which swim trunk style is the most flattering?
The most flattering pair is the one that follows your shape without squeezing it or swallowing you. Cerchione says the best trunks are not the loudest ones — they're the ones that fit your body the right way.
Carney says the best-looking pairs sit securely at the waist, allow room through the thighs and skim the seat without pulling or sagging. That usually means a tailored trunk with a cleaner leg and a mid-length inseam. You want something that looks intentional and doesn't either vacuum-seal you or flap freely in the breeze.
How long should swim trunks be?
For most men, 5 to 7 inches is the sweet spot. Carney says it offers the best balance of style, comfort and versatility. Symes says 7 inches is the easiest place to start, while 5 inches feels sportier and more current. If you've been defaulting to longer trunks for years, moving even a little shorter will probably help more than you expect.
What's the difference between swim trunks and boardshorts?
Swim trunks are made for swimming and boardshorts are made for surfing and water sports.
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Swim trunksare also usually shorter, often have elastic waists and frequently include liners. You can also probably tell that they're easier to wear casually and easier to style beyond the beach.
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Boardshortsare much longer, often linerless and usually have a flat front with a lace-up closure. They come out of surf culture and are built to stay put during board sports.
What's the best way to wash my swim trunks?
PSA: Rinse your trunks after you wear them. Chlorine, saltwater and sunscreen all wear fabric down faster than people realize. Cerchione says to use cool fresh water and avoid letting wet trunks sit in a bag. Symes even says you can wash them while you shower off with a little mild soap or shampoo, then hang them to dry.
Meet our experts
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Kimberly Carney , CEO of The Wires and founder of FashWire
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Dina Cerchione , personal brand style strategist for men
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Iida Suutarla , designer & CEO of Ui Swim
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Aricia Symes , style expert and founder, Unfoldid
