Tech & Gear Luggage The 11 Best Men’s Swim Trunks of 2023 By Krystin Arneson Krystin Arneson Instagram University of Edinburgh Krystin Arneson is a writer and editor based out of Berlin, Germany. She covers an array of hotels, products, and destinations for TripSavvy. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 01/09/23 Share Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. TripSavvy's Pick We're giving the top spot to The North Face Class V Pull-On Trunks. They're comfortable, durable, come in a variety of colors, and, as a bonus, offer UPF 50 protection. If you're looking for swim trunks you can wear anywhere, even if you're not in the water, we recommend The Classic from Solid & Striped. From swimming to fishing to hiking, there are a variety of swim trunks out there to suit your needs. The best swim trunks for men will be breathable and quick to dry while also providing protection from the sun and any gnarly waves. We rounded up our top picks to help you find the perfect swim trunks for your style. Our selection factored in proper size—not too loose, not uncomfortably tight—style, and materials. The Rundown Best Overall: The North Face Class V Pull-On Trunks at The North Face Jump to Review Best Budget: Fort Isle Swim Trunks at Amazon Jump to Review Best Board Short: Hurley Men's One and Only 22-Inch Boardshort at Amazon Jump to Review Best Active: Lands' End Outrigger Swim Trunks at Landsend.com Jump to Review Best Tailored: Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-Length Swim Shorts at Mrporter.com Jump to Review Best Solid: Solid & Striped The Classic at Solidandstriped.com Jump to Review Best Minimalist: Avid Swim Void Id Trunx at Avidswim.com Jump to Review Best Big and Tall: Lands' End Solid Volley Swim Trunks at Landsend.com Jump to Review Most Versatile: COS Tailored Swim Short at Cos.com Jump to Review Best Short Shorts: Parker & Ronen 3" Solid P-Town Short at Parkeandronen.com Jump to Review Table of contents Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust TripSavvy Best Overall The North Face Class V Pull-On Trunks The North Face View On The North Face What We Like Relaxed fit DWR finish UPF 50 protection Rear-zipper pocket What We Don't Like Nothing yet The North Face’s Class V shorts are much-loved for their great cut, relaxed fit, and water-repellent finish. They feature a comfortable mesh liner, UPF 50 protection, and a rear-zippered pocket. Reviewers loved their durability and noted that they fit true to size. Price at time of publication: $50 Sizes: S to XXL | Materials: 160 g/m² 68 percent recycled nylon, 26 percent nylon, 6 percent elastane with FlashDry-XD and non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish | Sustainability: Recycled nylon and PFC-free DWR coating Best Budget: Fort Isle Swim Trunks Best Budget Fort Isle Swim Trunks Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Affordable Wrinkle resistant What We Don't Like Back zipper pocket is small For infrequent swimmers, these highly-rated swim trunks are great if you're just planning to take a dip in the water once or twice a year. They're made with four-way stretch to move with you and have a mesh liner for breathability. There's also a 7-inch inseam and plenty of pockets to store your valuables. Admittedly, the color palette isn't the most creative—gray, black, red, or navy—but the price is hard to beat for casual swimmers and outdoor loungers. It's available in sizes S to XXL and comes with a storage bag so they can be easily packed. Price at time of publication: $20 Sizes: S to XXL | Materials: 96 percent polyester, 4 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A Best Board Short Hurley Men's One and Only 22-Inch Boardshort Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Comfortable Flattering What We Don't Like Not stretchy Unlined These popular Hurley board shorts are designed to be comfortable in and out of the waves. They're loose-fitting and have a longer 10.5-inch inseam for those who prefer it. This length can be tricky to find and are great for taller guys. They don't have mesh, so you can choose what works for you as a layer underneath. The legs also run a little on the narrow side, so if you have more athletic thighs, you might consider going up a size. They're available in multiple stylish colors, including pistachio, cyan, burgundy, and jade. Price at time of publication: $30 Sizes: 28 to 44 | Materials: Polyester supersede | Sustainability: Recycled materials Best Active Lands' End Outrigger Swim Trunks Lands' End View On Landsend.com What We Like Chlorine resistant Versatile What We Don't Like Stretchy belt not as practical Lands' End Outrigger swim trunks are ready for any active adventure; you can wear them while hiking to a waterfall or fly fishing. That's because these shorts are designed with a virtual toolbox of practical considerations, including a cellphone pocket, two hoop-and-loop cargo pockets, and two back pockets. Plus, they fit comfortably thanks to an adjustable waistband and snap closure in the front. They're also made with UPF 50 sun protection and coated with durable water repellent, meaning they dry quickly, too. Price at time of publication: $65 Sizes: S to XXL | Materials: 95 percent nylon, 5 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A Best Tailored Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-Length Swim Shorts Orlebar Brown View On Mrporter.com View On Orlebarbrown.com What We Like Tons of patterns available Robust warranty What We Don't Like Stiff fabric Available in over 100 eye-catching prints and colors, these mid-length swim shorts are akin to wearing your favorite tailored shorts while in the water. Orlebar Brown's clever designs are based on traditional men's tailored trousers, just adapted for swimming with quick-drying nylon, zip fly, rear darts, a polyester mesh lining—and yes, pockets. Plus, you can use the adjusters on each side of the waist to get the fit just right. These shorts are a little pricey, but Orlebar Brown guarantees that they'll last for five years. Simply register the trunks on the site once you receive them, and if they wear down during the five years, Orlebar Brown will mend or replace them for free. Price at time of publication: $99 to $172, depending on the color Sizes: 28 to 40 | Materials: 100 percent polyester | Sustainability: Carbon offset product Best Solid Solid & Striped The Classic Solid & Striped View On Solidandstriped.com What We Like Can be worn in various settings Mesh lining Shorter inseam What We Don't Like Not everyone may like the shorter inseam Solid and Striped has become a popular swim brand due to its high-quality materials and hip but minimal aesthetic. This minimalism was carried over into the design of The Classic men's swim trunks which were created to be worn anywhere. While these swim trunks are also available in three different patterns, we love the solid olive and mustard colors because they're bold and make a statement, but go with almost anything when you need to put a shirt on. And while the practicalities of these shorts are many—a back pocket with snap closure, mesh lining, a shorter 4.5-inch inseam—they look sharp too, thanks to a seersucker detail that provides a little extra texture. Price at time of publication: $125 Sizes: S to XXL | Materials: 100 percent polyamide | Sustainability: Not listed The 12 Best Swimsuit Brands of 2023, According to Frequent Travelers Best Minimalist Avid Swim Void Id Trunx Avid Swim View On Avidswim.com What We Like 50+ UPF An inner envelope pocket is convenient for storing keys What We Don't Like Won't work for smaller guys Available in sizes M through XXL, these board shorts from swimwear label Avid take you from bar to beach with their minimalist design and monochrome black colorway—interrupted only by the white tie and logo. They’re not just good-looking either—they’re made with 50+ UV protection. Price at time of publication: $89 Sizes: M to XXL | Materials: Not listed | Sustainability: Not listed Best Big and Tall Lands' End Solid Volley Swim Trunks Lands' End View On Landsend.com What We Like Comes in large sizes Three-piece mesh lining Chlorine-resistant fabric What We Don't Like Will only work in large sizes Available in bright pops of red and cobalt or toned-down gray and navy, these UPF 50 shorts are a popular buy because of their high-quality construction and inclusive sizing. They have a comfortable three-piece mesh lining and an adjustable elastic waistband and come in sizes ranging from 46 to 56. Plus, they’ll last for years, thanks to chlorine-resistant fabric that helps keep the fibers from breaking down after spending afternoons in the pool. Price at time of publication: $43 Sizes: 2XL to 4XL | Materials: 100 percent polyester | Sustainability: Not listed Most Versatile COS Tailored Swim Short COS View On Cos.com What We Like Flattering cut Transition well from active to casual What We Don't Like Not many color options COS is known for streamlined pieces with minimal detailing, making for some pretty versatile shorts. These swim trunks could easily be worn to brunch before the beach, thanks to a well-tailored fit that mimics your favorite dry-land shorts. They feature rear darts, a zip fly, and a chino-like back pocket. They're made from 100 percent recycled polyester and come in two classic colors. Price at time of publication: $69 Sizes: 30R to 40R | Materials: 100 percent recycled polyester | Sustainability: Recycled materials The 10 Best Men's Sandals of 2023 Best Short Shorts Parker & Ronen 3" Solid P-Town Short Parker & Ronen View On Parkeandronen.com What We Like Made in the USA Allows for natural movement What We Don't Like No stretch When it comes to swim trunks, inseams run a wide range—and with just 3 inches of fabric making up the inseam on these, they’re great for guys who want more breathability or hate having a bunch of wet material clinging to their legs. With a slim fit and a punchy retro red color, they’re equal parts fashionable and casual. Made of quick-drying activewear fabric, they can be worn comfortably in the water or on the beach. Price at time of publication: $98 Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: 100 percent polyester | Sustainability: Not listed Most Comfortable Polo Ralph Lauren Traveler Swim Trunks Mr Porter View On Mrporter.com What We Like Minimalistic design Moisture-wicking, recycled materials What We Don't Like Only one inseam length available Polo Ralph Lauren’s pastel swim trunks have been brightening beaches for decades, and the brand’s swim game is as strong as ever. These shorts come in a ton of pastel colors, including Hawaiian green, Taylor rose, and Yellowfin, and have comfortable mesh briefs built-in, too. All sizes have a 5.5-inch inseam. Price at time of publication: $45 Sizes: XS to XXL | Materials: 90 percent recycled polyester, 10 percent elastane | Sustainability: Recycled materials What to Look for in Men's Swim Trunks Size You'll want a pair of swim trunks that will properly fit your waist and legs. You don't want them too loose because the extra fabric can lead to chafing and irritation. Tight trunks can fit more comfortably; however, they shouldn't feel like they're digging into your skin. Style There are many different colored swim trunks to suit any guy's tastes and needs. Your swim trunks don't just have to be for swimming; in fact, they can be worn out of the water with your clothes for any occasion. Bright tropical colors and patterns are great for family vacations, beach parties, and more. However, muted colorways can be worn with any outfit and shoes and are, therefore, more versatile. Additionally, many swim trunks come with pockets to hold your keys, phone, and more while you're on the go. Material The best pair of swim trunks for men will be breathable, soft, quick-drying, and durable enough to stand up to any situation. Some swim trunks are made of chlorine-resistant fabric, which prevents them from breaking down over years of swimming, while others offer sun protection for long days in the water. Nowadays, many shorts feature recycled fabrics. When possible, we say opt for recycled materials. Frequently Asked Questions Why do men's swim trunks have netting or mesh? The netting or mesh in men's swim trunks is meant to prevent rashes from the wet fabric. It also aids with drainage and air circulation. For some, the netting or mesh provides another layer of comfort if they find the trunks' material to be itchy or rough. Most importantly, the netting or mesh can give the trunks more coverage, so you don't need to worry about revealing yourself. However, you can always cut out the lining or seek out trunks without lining if you find it unnecessary What should I wear under my swim trunks? What you wear under your swim trunks is ultimately a personal preference. However, if your swim trunks don't have any lining, you might want to wear boxers or briefs underneath so the trunks are more comfortable and give yourself another layer of coverage. How should I clean my swim trunks? Ideally, you should wash your swim trunks by hand. Rinse your trunks in cool water. Then, massage gentle detergent into your trunks so that it foams. Rinse your trunks again to remove any suds, and let air dry. If you want to toss your trunks in the washing machine, make sure you wash them in a mesh bag with cold water on your machine's delicate cycle, and again, use a gentle detergent. Why Trust TripSavvy Krystin Arneson is a freelance editor and writer based in Berlin, Germany. During the week, you'll find her traveling as often as possible; during the weekend, she serves as editor for Glamour.com. Krystin began writing for TripSavvy in May 2018. The Best Men’s Flip-Flops of 2023 for Style and Comfort Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Continue to 5 of 11 below. Continue to 9 of 11 below.