How to Shop for Men's Swimwear
Get ready for the beach or pool with men’s swim trunks in classic and on-trend styles and colors. Stylish swimwear isn’t just for women—there are plenty of options for men, too. Keep reading for tips on how to shop for men’s swimwear, along with after-swim outfit ideas for cookouts and other summer events.
Select the Right Size
Perhaps the most important aspect of shopping for swimwear is choosing the correct size. The best way to find out your size is to measure your waist, then compare the measurements to the size chart. If you’re shopping for relaxed-fit trunks with plenty of room in the legs, measure closer to the hip area for the most accurate fit. If you’re shopping for form-fitting trunks, the smallest part of your waist is the area to measure.
There are men's big and tall swim trunks from which to choose; like regular men’s sizes, these trunks come in solid colors and prints to suit your style preferences. No matter whether your size is regular or big and tall, you’ll find that trunks come in different lengths. Sporty trunks—such as volley swim trunks—average around six inches in length while cargo trunks can reach 8 inches or 9.5 inches in length.
There’s no right or wrong length when it comes to shopping for trunks, so choose the pair that offers the coverage you’re most comfortable with.
Look for Comfort Features
Speaking of comfort, there are some features to look for when buying men’s swimsuits. An elastic waist is a must-have when buying swim trunks. Look for elastic-waist swim shorts with a drawstring, which allows you to customize the fit. Another feature you may want is a three-piece mesh liner, which provides the support and feel of snug briefs.
Some trunks have a small pocket, so you can carry a key or change for the drink machine. Others are more streamlined in style, which makes them good for water sports. You’ll find that most men’s swimwear is crafted from polyester, which is a breathable, durable material that dries quickly. Polyester has a soft, smooth texture and is machine washable for easy cleaning.
Choose Sun Protection Fabric
It’s widely recommended to protect your skin from UV rays with sunscreen. An excellent accompaniment to sunblock is a pair of trunks enhanced with UPF 50. Sun-protection fabric isn’t an alternative to wearing sunscreen, but it does add an extra barrier between UV rays and your skin. There are men’s trunks in many styles that have this feature, so shop around to find a pair that works for you.
Top with a Swim Shirt
Wear your swim trunks with a rash guard swim shirt for comfort and protection. Men’s swim shirts come in short- and long-sleeve styles; most are made from polyester with a hint of spandex for the right amount of stretch. There are even hooded styles for a sleek, on-trend look that’s great for surfing, water-skiing, or other summer activities. Like polyester swim trunks, shirts made from this material are moisture-wicking and fast-drying. Many are enhanced with UPF 50 as well for added UV protection.
Swim shirts aren’t just for the water—you can also wear them when working outdoors or playing sports on land. Details like flatlock seams and space-dyed colors make these shirts tailored and stylish enough for running errands around town. Wear one with your favorite cargo shorts for a comfy casual outfit that can go from day to evening.
Protect Your Feet with Water Shoes
Don’t forget your feet when shopping for your summer essentials. A pair of water shoes is good to have for the pool or the beach; they protect your feet against hot surfaces and other hazards. This type of footwear is made to get wet—it dries quickly to keep your feet comfortable and is highly resistant to mildew. Swim shoes are made to slip right on, without the need for buckles or laces. Shop around to find a pair of water shoes in a style and fit that’s right for you.
Casual After-Swim Outfits
Men’s swim trunks aren’t the only apparel pieces you’ll need for summer. Update your wardrobe with men’s polo shirts made from lightweight cotton fabric; they come in a rainbow of colors from neutrals to brights. Wear your favorite polo or tee with a pair of chino shorts for all-day comfort and style. Like swim trunks, chinos come in different lengths ranging from 6 to 11 inches. Another option is your favorite T-shirt with a pair of sweat shorts for an athleisure look that’s super-comfortable.
Explore the selection of men’s swim trunks to find one or more pairs for all your summer adventures. When shopping for trunks—or any type of clothing for that matter—the most important thing is to choose a pair that makes you feel confident and comfortable.