Summer is calling, and so is the beach — which means it’s time to up your big and tall swimwear game in time for you to hit the shore in style. For big and tall guys, finding the right swimsuit can be a challenge. You want one that flatters, fits properly, and is super comfortable to wear all day. Beyond that, you may also be looking for a suit with specific features to make your time at the beach more enjoyable and safe. Figuring out what you’re looking for — from color to fit and to features — is the first step to finding the swimwear you’ll wear again and again throughout the season. Here’s our guide to big and tall swimwear to start you out on the right foot.
Let’s talk about buying swim trunks as a big and tall guy. You need something that’s going to stay in place without digging in, that’s not too tight, and that isn’t simply oversized. In short, you need some standout swim shorts. There are several fantastic options for big and tall men when it comes to swim trunks, all of which you can personalize according to your specific style and preference.
If you like shorts with an elastic waist all the way around, your top pick will be a pair of big and tall volley shorts. Volley shorts are meant to move with you and are great for the beach since they’ll stay on while you’re in the water, and during any beach games you decide to play. Volley shorts generally come with a shorter inseam than other swim trunks, ranging from 6 to 8 inches. Their elastic waist and three-piece liner make them ultra-comfortable and quick-drying, so you can stay dry on the beach until you’re ready to jump back into the ocean. A sport swim short with a hydroliner is another solid volley short option, with an interior lining that keeps you even more secure and protected while at the beach or engaging in athletic activity. Volley shorts come in a wide range of colors and prints so you can express your personality in a big and bold way.
For big and tall guys who like to hang ten or just keep it traditional, board shorts are a great style to rock at the beach. With their attractive hook and loop fly, back-elastic waist, and 9” inseam, these retro shorts can be a great choice for big and tall men looking for a beachwear outfit that’s super flattering and comfortable.
For the guy on the go, flexible and versatile cargo swim trunks are a great choice, able to shift to serve whatever purpose you need them for. Their cargo short design makes them pair well with any top, and they can be appropriate to wear anywhere from your garden to the grocery store. Their water-resistant fabric enables them to transition perfectly from running errands to heading to the beach. Pair your cargo swim trunks with a t-shirt or polo shirt for a perfect look for a park or poolside picnic.
Once you’ve secured your swim trunks, it’s time to find a rash guard to protect you from the elements and ensure that you have the best beach day possible. A rash guard is an essential item for any avid beach-goer or outdoor enthusiast since it allows you to enjoy all the beach has to offer without worrying about being over-exposed to the sun, wind, or sand. It can also serve as a cover-up for those who may not want to bare their upper halves. A rash guard with UPF sun protection, along with a layer of sunscreen, helps keep the sun’s rays from burning your skin. And its water-resistant fabric wicks moisture so you can stay cool and dry when you’re out in the sun, whether you’re having fun on the beach or mowing the lawn on a hot, sunny day. You can choose to wear a long-sleeved or short-sleeved rash guard, depending on how much coverage you’d like. A rash guard is a perfect layer to add at the end of the day when the sun starts to go down and the temperature dips. Throw it on as you head to the car and go back home in comfort after an exhausting and fun beach day.
These big and tall men’s swimwear styles are meant to make you feel and look your best — which means making sure they’re sized proportionally to fit you right, are made from the best, safest materials, and come in a wide range of colors and styles to ensure you find whatever you’re looking for. Check out the links below for more tips and tricks from Lands’ End!