The best swim shorts for men combine style, comfort, and quality in ways that transform your entire summer wardrobe. Finding the best swim shorts for men requires understanding what separates great swimwear from mediocre options.
Summer demands a wardrobe refresh, and swim shorts sit at the center of that transformation. You need pieces that work from poolside to beachfront, shorts that handle both morning laps and afternoon lounging. The right swim shorts become your summer uniform – reliable, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.
Style and comfort must work together in quality swimwear. You can’t sacrifice one for the other and expect good results. The best swim shorts feel as good as they look, whether you’re diving into waves or walking along the boardwalk. They dry quickly, resist fading, and maintain their shape through countless summers.
This season brings seven standout styles that prove you don’t need to compromise. Each pair offers something different – from classic elegance to modern innovation. Some emphasize timeless appeal, others push contemporary boundaries. All deliver the quality and style that make the best swim shorts for men worth the investment.
These selections represent the best swim shorts for men available today, balancing form and function perfectly. They come from brands that understand swimwear, companies that have spent decades perfecting the details that matter. Each style has earned its place through superior materials, thoughtful construction, and proven performance in real-world conditions.
Classic Solid Options
1. Polo Ralph Lauren 14.6cm Traveler Swimming Trunk
Solid colors never go out of style because they work with everything. The Polo Ralph Lauren Traveler swimming trunk proves this principle with authority. At 14.6 centimeters (roughly 5.75 inches), the length hits that perfect middle ground – not too short, not too long, just right for most body types and occasions.
The timeless appeal starts with the clean lines and uncluttered design. No busy patterns or flashy details distract from the quality construction. The solid color approach means these shorts work with any shirt, any setting, any summer activity you have planned. Navy blue remains the top choice, but the range includes other classic colors that deliver the same versatile appeal.
Quick-dry material forms the foundation of serious swimwear, and these shorts deliver. The fabric sheds water efficiently, so you’re not sitting around in soggy shorts for hours after swimming. The mesh lining provides support and comfort without adding bulk or creating uncomfortable bunching. The combination works seamlessly – you forget you’re wearing wet clothes because they don’t stay wet long.
The elastic waist with drawstring gives you control over the fit. Swim shorts stretch when wet, so that adjustability becomes crucial for maintaining the right look and feel throughout the day. The drawstring won’t snap or fray after one season – it’s built to last through repeated use and washing.
Versatility defines these shorts. They work equally well for serious swimming, casual beach days, pool parties, or vacation resort dining. The elegant design elevates any summer outfit without trying too hard. You can wear them with confidence in upscale settings while still feeling comfortable enough for active beach sports.
The style positioning is perfect – elegant without being boring, classic without being stiff. These shorts understand that modern men want sophistication that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or practicality. They deliver refined style that works in the real world.
2. Polo Ralph Lauren 14.5cm Traveler Seersucker Swimming Trunk
Stripes carry serious heritage in men’s swimwear, and seersucker fabric brings that tradition into the modern era. The Polo Ralph Lauren seersucker Traveler shorts capture the essence of “old money” style – that effortless elegance that looks like it comes naturally rather than being carefully constructed.
The “old money” aesthetic has gained serious momentum in recent years. Men want to look like they belong at exclusive yacht clubs and private beach clubs, even if they’re just spending the day at the local pool. These shorts deliver that aspirational style through careful attention to fabric choice and pattern execution.
Seersucker fabric provides benefits beyond just good looks. The puckered texture creates air pockets between the fabric and your skin, promoting airflow and keeping you cooler in hot weather. The material feels fresh and light against your skin, even during the height of summer heat. This isn’t just about style – it’s about comfort that enhances your entire beach experience.
The Hamptons-inspired styling shows in every detail. The stripe width, color combination, and overall proportions echo the relaxed sophistication of East Coast resort culture. These shorts suggest weekend houses and sailing excursions, even if your reality involves public beaches and community pools.
Pairing these shorts with a crisp white shirt creates an instantly polished look. The combination works for beachside dining, resort casual events, or any situation where you want to look put-together without being overdressed. The white shirt grounds the stripes while adding that classic summer contrast that never fails to impress.
The 14.5cm length provides slightly more coverage than some contemporary options while maintaining a modern silhouette. This length works particularly well with the seersucker fabric, creating proportions that feel both current and timeless.
3. Les Deux Stan Stripe Seersucker Swim Shorts
Danish design brings a different perspective to men’s swimwear. Les Deux understands Scandinavian style principles – clean lines, quality materials, and understated elegance that doesn’t need to announce itself. The Stan stripe seersucker swim shorts embody this design philosophy while adding distinctly summer-ready personality.
The Danish brand highlights matter in today’s swimwear market. Scandinavian countries have mastered the art of combining functionality with style, born from necessity in climates that demand both performance and aesthetics. Les Deux brings this expertise to warm-weather clothing, creating pieces that work as hard as they look good.
Red striped design makes a statement without being overwhelming. Red and white stripes carry nautical heritage while feeling fresh and contemporary. The color combination works particularly well with tanned skin, creating contrast that’s both flattering and eye-catching. This isn’t shy, retiring swimwear – it’s confident choice that reflects the wearer’s personality.
The retro-modern balance shows in the proportions and finishing details. These shorts reference classic stripe patterns while incorporating contemporary fit and construction techniques. The result feels both familiar and current – you recognize the inspiration while appreciating the modern execution.
Subtle standout appeal defines the Les Deux approach. These shorts get noticed, but for the right reasons. They suggest good taste and attention to quality rather than flashy trends or desperate attention-seeking. The design confidence comes from superior materials and thoughtful construction rather than loud patterns or unusual colors.
The seersucker fabric choice reinforces the brand’s commitment to comfort and performance. This isn’t just about looking good – it’s about creating swimwear that enhances your summer experience through superior materials and thoughtful design.
4. Massimo Dutti Striped Crepe Swim Shorts
Minimalism requires more skill than busy designs. Anyone can add elements, but creating impact through restraint demands real design expertise. The Massimo Dutti striped crepe swim shorts prove that less can definitely be more when executed with precision and quality materials.
The minimalist approach shows in every design decision. The stripe pattern is refined rather than bold, sophisticated rather than attention-grabbing. These shorts understand that true style whispers rather than shouts. The overall effect creates interest without overwhelming the wearer or the outfit.
Narrow stripe refinement elevates the entire design. Wide stripes can look sporty or casual, but narrow stripes suggest sophistication and attention to detail. The proportions have been carefully calculated to create visual interest while maintaining elegance. This level of detail separates quality swimwear from mass-market alternatives.
Fabric texture emphasis sets these shorts apart from standard polyester options. Crepe fabric adds tactile interest and visual depth that flat materials can’t match. The texture catches light differently throughout the day, creating subtle variations that keep the design interesting. You feel the quality difference the moment you put them on.
The comfort and exclusivity combination reflects Massimo Dutti’s brand positioning. These shorts feel special without being pretentious, luxurious without being flashy. The fabric quality justifies the price point while delivering long-term value through superior durability and maintained appearance.
Construction details reinforce the quality impression. Seams lie flat, edges are finished properly, and the waistband maintains its shape through repeated use. These shorts are built to last, which matters when you’re investing in quality swimwear that needs to perform season after season.
Patterned Alternatives
5. Massimo Dutti Patterned Swim Trunks
Patterns in men’s swimwear require careful balance. Too bold, and you look like you’re trying too hard. Too subtle, and why bother with patterns at all? The Massimo Dutti patterned swim trunks find that sweet spot where geometric prints add interest without overwhelming the overall design.
Subtle geometric print appeal works because it adds visual texture without being literal or obvious. These aren’t palm trees or surfboards – they’re abstract shapes that create movement and interest while remaining sophisticated enough for adult wear. The patterns suggest complexity without being busy or distracting.
The geometric approach feels modern and architectural rather than tropical or themed. This makes the shorts more versatile – they work in urban pool settings as well as beach destinations. The pattern doesn’t tie you to a specific location or vacation mindset, which extends the wearing opportunities significantly.
Neutral tone versatility ensures these shorts work with your existing summer wardrobe. The color palette has been carefully chosen to complement rather than compete with other pieces. You can wear these shorts with confidence, knowing they’ll work with white shirts, polo shirts, or casual tees without clashing or looking overly coordinated.
The print scale has been proportioned for adult men rather than being scaled up from children’s designs or scaled down from larger applications. This attention to proportion creates a more refined appearance that works for men of different sizes and builds.
Elegant but non-formal positioning makes these shorts appropriate for a wide range of summer activities. They’re dressy enough for resort dining but casual enough for beach volleyball. This versatility makes them a smart investment for men who want pattern options without limiting their wearing opportunities.
The quality of the print application matters as much as the design itself. These patterns won’t fade quickly or wash out after one season. The colors remain true, and the registration stays sharp, maintaining the design integrity that justifies the initial investment.
Block Pattern Innovation
6. GANT Block Stripe Swim Shorts
Block patterns represent evolution in men’s swimwear design. Rather than simple stripes or solid colors, block patterns create visual interest through color placement and proportion. The GANT block stripe swim shorts demonstrate how this approach can create sporty sophistication that works for modern men.
Sporty sophistication captures the current mood in men’s fashion – athletic influence combined with refined execution. These shorts look like they belong in active settings while maintaining the polish needed for social situations. The design bridges the gap between performance and style without compromising either element.
The green and blue color scheme draws from nautical traditions while feeling contemporary and fresh. These colors work well together naturally, creating contrast without conflict. The combination suggests outdoor activities and water sports while remaining sophisticated enough for upscale casual settings.
Green and blue also happen to be universally flattering colors that work with most skin tones and hair colors. This practical consideration makes these shorts a smart choice for men who want to look good without overthinking color coordination. The palette complements rather than competes with natural coloring.
Extended length for coverage reflects current trends toward more substantial swimwear. At a longer length, these shorts provide more coverage than brief-style options while maintaining a modern silhouette. The extra length works particularly well for men who prefer more modest coverage or have concerns about thigh exposure.
The longer length also creates better proportions for taller men or those with longer torsos. Short swim shorts can make some men look unbalanced, but the extended length creates more pleasing visual proportions that work across different body types.
Lifestyle associations with yachting and tennis courts position these shorts in aspirational territory. The design suggests active leisure pursuits and club memberships, even if your reality involves public facilities. This psychological element matters – wearing clothes that make you feel successful contributes to confidence and presence.
The block pattern innovation shows in the clean transitions between colors and the precision of the pattern execution. These aren’t simple stripes – they’re carefully planned color blocks that create visual interest through geometry and proportion rather than busy details or flashy elements.
Budget-Conscious Choice
7. Weekday Checked Nylon Swim Shorts
Good style doesn’t require unlimited budgets, and the Weekday checked nylon swim shorts prove this point decisively. These shorts deliver on style, comfort, and functionality while respecting budget constraints that matter to real people living real lives.
Affordable styling options have improved dramatically in recent years. Fast fashion has its problems, but one benefit has been forcing budget brands to improve their design standards to compete. Weekday represents this new generation of affordable fashion – better materials, better construction, and better design at prices that make sense.
The checked pattern adds visual interest without being overwhelming or trendy. Checks have classic menswear heritage that translates well to swimwear. The pattern is familiar enough to feel comfortable while being distinctive enough to stand out from solid-color alternatives. This balance makes checked patterns a smart choice for men who want pattern options without taking major style risks.
Lightweight nylon material provides the performance characteristics you need in quality swimwear. The fabric dries quickly, resists chlorine damage, and maintains its shape through repeated use and washing. These technical benefits matter more than brand names when you’re actually using the shorts for swimming and beach activities.
Quick-dry functionality can’t be overlooked in practical swimwear. Nobody enjoys sitting around in wet clothes, and slow-drying fabrics create discomfort that ruins beach days. These shorts shed water efficiently, getting you back to dry comfort quickly after swimming or water sports.
The relaxed, urban fit reflects contemporary preferences for comfort-focused clothing. These shorts aren’t tight or restrictive – they allow natural movement while maintaining a flattering silhouette. The fit works for different body types while looking current and stylish.
Versatile casual wear potential extends the value proposition significantly. These shorts work as regular summer shorts, not just swimwear. You can wear them for casual errands, outdoor activities, or relaxed social situations. This versatility makes them a smarter investment than single-purpose swimwear that only gets worn at the pool.
The urban aesthetic fits current fashion trends toward relaxed, comfortable clothing that still looks intentional and stylish. These shorts understand that modern men want clothes that work for multiple situations without requiring outfit changes throughout the day.
Budget-conscious doesn’t mean cheap construction. These shorts use quality techniques and materials within their price constraints. The seams are properly finished, the waistband maintains its elasticity, and the overall construction supports regular use without premature failure.
Style diversity across price points proves that the best swim shorts for men don’t require unlimited budgets. From premium Polo Ralph Lauren options to budget-friendly Weekday alternatives, this season offers quality choices for every financial situation. The best swim shorts for men balance multiple factors successfully – comfort, style, durability, and value.
Classic and contemporary options provide something for every style preference. Traditional men can choose timeless solid colors or refined stripes, while those seeking more contemporary looks can select geometric patterns or block designs. The variety ensures that personal style preferences don’t limit quality options.
Each featured style brings specific strengths to summer wardrobes. The Polo Ralph Lauren Traveler offers timeless elegance and proven performance. Seersucker options provide old-money sophistication with superior comfort. Les Deux brings Scandinavian design principles to warm-weather wear. Massimo Dutti delivers minimalist luxury that justifies premium pricing. GANT creates sporty sophistication for active lifestyles. Weekday proves that budget constraints don’t eliminate style possibilities.
Summer wardrobe completion requires thoughtful selection rather than impulse buying. Consider your typical summer activities, preferred style aesthetic, and budget realities before making decisions. The right swim shorts become summer staples that you reach for repeatedly, making quality investment worthwhile.
The best swim shorts balance multiple factors successfully – comfort, style, durability, and value. No single pair excels in every category, but the right choice for your needs will deliver satisfaction that lasts through multiple summers. Choose wisely, and your swim shorts become reliable partners for every summer adventure.
Quality swimwear represents smart investment in summer comfort and confidence. The right shorts enhance your beach experience, pool performance, and vacation enjoyment. They become part of your summer identity – reliable, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish pieces that make every day better.
