Best Swimsuit for Men: The Complete Comfort, Fit & Style Guide
From compression trunks to board shorts, here’s exactly how to choose swimwear that fits right, moves with you, and holds up dive after dive.
Shopping for the best swimsuit for men sounds simple until you’re standing in front of a wall of trunks, jammers, and board shorts wondering which one will actually survive a summer of pool days, beach trips, and the occasional cannonball contest. The truth is that men’s swimwear isn’t one-size-fits-all — your ideal pair depends on your body type, how you swim, how much support you want, and where you’re wearing it.
This guide breaks down every major style on the market, compares the top-rated options side by side, and walks through the fit, fabric, and comfort details that actually matter. Whether you’re after quick-drying trunks with pockets for a casual pool day or compression-lined shorts for laps and volleyball, you’ll find a clear recommendation below.
1. What Makes a Great Men’s Swimsuit
Before comparing specific products, it helps to know what separates a swimsuit that lasts one season from one that lasts five. Four factors matter most: fabric quality, fit, drainage, and hardware.
Fabric quality comes down to the blend. Most quality trunks use a mix of polyester and spandex, usually somewhere around 80/20 or 85/15. Polyester resists chlorine and saltwater breakdown far better than nylon-heavy blends, while spandex gives the fabric enough stretch to move with your body instead of restricting it. Cheaper suits often skimp on the spandex percentage, which is why they feel stiff after a few washes.
Fit is where most buyers go wrong. Men’s swimwear is generally cut in one of three ways: a relaxed swim trunk that sits at or slightly below the waist with a loose leg opening, a compression-style trunk that hugs the thigh and often includes a built-in liner, or a longer board short designed for surfing and active water sports. Picking the wrong cut for your activity is the number one reason people are unhappy with a swimsuit.
Drainage refers to how quickly water exits the fabric and pockets. Mesh-lined pockets and quick-dry fabric prevent that heavy, waterlogged feeling when you get out of the pool. Suits without mesh drainage in the pockets tend to sag and cling.
Finally, hardware — the drawstring, snap closure, and pocket zippers — needs to be rust-resistant. Look for plastic or coated metal components, since exposed metal zippers and buckles corrode quickly in chlorinated or salt water.
It’s also worth thinking about how a swimsuit will actually be used before buying based on looks alone. Someone who swims three times a week at a gym pool has very different needs than someone who wears trunks twice a year on a beach vacation. The former should prioritize fabric durability and fit security above everything else, since repeated chlorine exposure and constant movement will expose any weak points in construction within a few weeks. The latter has more room to prioritize print, color, and overall style, since the suit won’t be subjected to the same wear and tear.
Price is a reasonable proxy for quality in this category, but it’s not a perfect one. Several of the picks below in the affordable range perform just as well as pricier competitors because the core fabric blend and stitching quality are similar — the price difference often comes down to branding rather than meaningfully different materials. That said, once you drop below a certain price floor, corners typically get cut on drawstring quality, seam reinforcement, and mesh lining, so it pays to read fit and durability details closely rather than sorting by price alone.
2. Types of Men’s Swimwear Explained
“Swim trunks” is often used as a catch-all term, but there are actually several distinct silhouettes, each suited to different activities and body types.
Classic Swim Trunks
These sit at or just below the natural waist, use an elastic waistband with a drawstring, and typically fall to mid-thigh. They’re the most versatile option for pool parties, beach days, and casual swimming, and they’re what most of the picks in this guide fall under.
Compression Trunks / Jammers
Form-fitting from waist to mid-thigh or knee, these are built for serious swimming, water polo, and triathlon training. They reduce drag and won’t billow or shift during strokes and turns.
Board Shorts
Longer, looser, and often made from a slightly heavier woven fabric, board shorts are designed for surfing, paddleboarding, and rougher water activity where extra coverage and durability matter more than a snug fit.
Briefs and Square-Cuts
A minimalist option popular in competitive swimming and some European beach cultures. Not covered heavily in this roundup since most shoppers searching for “best swimsuit for men” want trunk-style coverage.
If you’re shopping for a partner or family member, our best swimsuit for women guide and plus-size swimsuit picks cover the equivalent categories on the women’s side.
3. Best for Everyday Comfort: maamgic Swim Trunks with Pockets
maamgic Men’s Swim Trunks with Pockets
This is the pair that shows up in nearly every “best swimwear” roundup, and for good reason. The quick-dry polyester blend, mesh-lined pockets, and adjustable drawstring waistband make it the safest all-around pick for anyone who isn’t sure exactly which style they want yet.
What stands out most about this trunk is how well it balances a relaxed silhouette with enough structure to stay put during normal pool activity. The mid-thigh length works for most body types, and the side pockets are deep enough to hold a phone or room key without the fabric sagging once wet, thanks to mesh drainage panels sewn into the pocket lining.
Pros
- Quick-dry, chlorine-resistant fabric
- Mesh-lined pockets prevent sagging
- Wide size range with consistent fit
- Budget-friendly for the quality
Cons
- No built-in liner for support
- Runs slightly long on shorter frames
See current pricing and available colors for the maamgic Swim Trunks with Pockets.
Check Price on Amazon4. Best Compression Swimwear for Performance: maamgic Compression Trunks
maamgic Compression Stretch Swim Trunks (No-Chafing)
Built for anyone doing actual laps rather than lounging by the pool. The compression fit stays close to the body through every stroke, and the flatlock seams are specifically designed to prevent the inner-thigh chafing that loose board shorts often cause during longer swims.
Compared to a standard trunk, this style trades pocket storage and a relaxed cut for performance. The four-way stretch fabric moves with your hips and thighs rather than bunching up, which matters if you’re doing flip turns or swimming continuous laps. It’s also a strong choice for water polo, triathlon training, or anyone who’s dealt with chafing in traditional swimwear before.
Pros
- Flatlock seams reduce chafing
- Four-way stretch for full range of motion
- Stays secure during active swimming
Cons
- No pockets
- Snugger fit won’t appeal to everyone
Check sizing and color options for the maamgic Compression Trunks.
Check Price on AmazonIf you’re training seriously, it’s also worth comparing options built specifically for racing in our best competitive swimsuits guide.
5. Best Budget-Friendly Trunks: ELETOP Swim Trunks
ELETOP Men’s Swimming Trunks
A no-frills option that covers the basics well: elastic waistband, mesh brief lining, and a relaxed fit at a lower price point than most competitors. It won’t win points for premium fabric feel, but for casual vacation use it holds up fine.
This is the pick for anyone who needs swimwear for a single trip or doesn’t swim often enough to justify a higher price tag. The mesh brief lining adds a layer of support and modesty that some cheaper trunks skip entirely, and the color and print selection tends to be broader than pricier brands.
Pros
- Low price point
- Built-in mesh brief lining
- Large print and color selection
Cons
- Fabric feels thinner than premium brands
- Drawstring quality is average
See current price and available prints for ELETOP Swim Trunks.
Check Price on Amazon6. Best Graphic & Printed Trunks: PAUFOGA Swim Trunks
PAUFOGA Graphic Swim Trunks
If you want your swimwear to stand out rather than blend in, this is the pick. Bold all-over prints, a slightly longer inseam, and side pockets make it a solid option for beach vacations and pool parties where personality matters as much as fit.
Beyond the print variety, the construction holds up well — the waistband uses a wide elastic band with an internal drawstring, and the fabric has enough weight to it that it doesn’t turn see-through when wet, which is a common complaint with lighter printed trunks.
Pros
- Bold, distinctive print options
- Doesn’t turn sheer when wet
- Wide comfortable waistband
Cons
- Longer length may not suit everyone
- Bright prints fade faster with heavy chlorine use
Browse available prints and sizes for PAUFOGA Graphic Swim Trunks.
Check Price on Amazon7. Best Board Shorts for Big & Tall: SILKWORLD Board Shorts
SILKWORLD Swimming Board Shorts
One of the few options on this list that extends comfortably into bigger sizing without simply scaling up a slim cut. The wider leg opening and reinforced waistband make it a genuinely comfortable fit for larger frames, not just a bigger version of a small suit.
Board shorts in general run longer and looser than swim trunks, and this pair leans into that with a relaxed thigh and a fuller cut through the seat. It’s a good option for anyone who has struggled with trunks that ride up or feel restrictive around the legs.
Pros
- True-to-size fit for bigger frames
- Reinforced waistband and stitching
- Full range of larger sizes available
Cons
- Longer length isn’t ideal for lap swimming
- Heavier fabric takes longer to dry
Check the extended size chart for SILKWORLD Board Shorts.
Check Price on AmazonFor more sizing-focused picks, our plus-size swimsuits guide covers a broader range across styles.
8. Best Hawaiian Print Trunks: Lzzidou Swim Trunks
Lzzidou Hawaiian Print Swim Trunks
A vacation-ready option with tropical prints, a mesh lining, and side pockets. It leans into resort-wear styling more than performance, making it a strong choice for cruises, tiki bars, and beach resorts rather than serious swimming.
The fit runs true to size with a comfortable elastic waistband, and the fabric has a soft hand-feel that doesn’t stiffen up after repeated washes the way some cheaper printed trunks do. It pairs well as a matching set with a button-up shirt for resort dress codes.
Pros
- Vibrant, vacation-friendly prints
- Soft fabric that holds up over washes
- Comfortable true-to-size fit
Cons
- Not designed for high-intensity swimming
- Limited print restocks on popular colors
See available Hawaiian prints for Lzzidou Swim Trunks.
Check Price on Amazon9. Best Swim Shorts with Compression Liner: maamgic Compression Swimsuit
maamgic Compression Bathing Swimsuit
This one combines the outer look of a standard swim trunk with an inner compression liner, giving you the relaxed appearance of board shorts with the support of a compression fit underneath. It’s a good middle-ground option for guys who want both.
The two-in-one construction means you get support without looking like you’re wearing a wetsuit at the pool party. It’s particularly useful for beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or any activity where you want freedom of movement plus a secure inner layer.
Pros
- Built-in compression liner
- Relaxed outer look, secure inner fit
- Good for mixed activity days
Cons
- Slightly warmer than single-layer trunks
- Liner sizing runs snug
Check sizing details for the maamgic Compression Swimsuit.
Check Price on Amazon10. Best Surf-Style Boardshorts: SURF CUZ Compression Boardshorts
SURF CUZ Compression Swimming Boardshorts
A hybrid design that borrows the length and coverage of a board short but tightens the fit through the thigh for better performance in the surf. Reinforced stitching along the seat and legs holds up to paddling and repeated wipeouts.
Compared to the SILKWORLD board short above, this option trades some looseness for a more athletic, secure fit — better suited to surfing, bodyboarding, and other higher-impact water sports where a baggier short can drag or catch water.
Pros
- Reinforced seams for durability
- Secure fit for active water sports
- Quick-dry, water-repellent fabric
Cons
- Tighter thigh fit may feel restrictive at first
- Fewer color options than competitors
See pricing and sizing for SURF CUZ Compression Boardshorts.
Check Price on Amazon11. Best Vintage-Style Trunks: MaaMgic Vintage Swim Trunks
MaaMgic Vintage Swim Trunks
A shorter, retro-inspired cut that’s become popular again in recent years. The higher leg opening and slimmer silhouette give it a distinct look compared to the baggier trunks dominating most of this list, and it pairs well with an athletic build.
This style won’t be for everyone — the shorter inseam is a departure from the mid-thigh trunks most of this guide covers — but for those who want the look, the fabric and construction quality are consistent with maamgic’s other entries.
Pros
- Distinct retro silhouette
- Lightweight, quick-dry fabric
- Consistent brand quality
Cons
- Shorter length not for everyone
- Less coverage than standard trunks
See colorways available for MaaMgic Vintage Swim Trunks.
Check Price on Amazon12. Fabric & Fit Guide: How to Choose the Right Size and Material
Even the best-reviewed swim trunk will disappoint if you order the wrong size or pick a fabric that doesn’t suit how you’ll use it. Two additional options worth knowing about here are the APTRO Trunks with Compression Liner, the Sixfish Trunks with Compression Liner, and the COOFANDY Swimming Trunks, all of which illustrate different fit philosophies.
APTRO Trunks with Compression Liner
A mid-length trunk with a built-in liner and a fit that splits the difference between relaxed and athletic. Good for guys who want support without going full compression.
Check current pricing for APTRO Trunks with Compression Liner.
Check Price on Amazon
Sixfish Men’s Trunks with Compression Liner
A budget-friendly compression option with a supportive liner, best suited for casual training or everyday pool use rather than competitive swimming.
See sizing and pricing for Sixfish Compression Trunks.
Check Price on Amazon
COOFANDY Swimming Trunks
A classic relaxed-fit trunk with a straightforward elastic waistband, useful as a baseline example when comparing fit across brands.
Check current price for COOFANDY Swimming Trunks.
Check Price on AmazonHow to Measure for the Right Fit
Measure around the fullest part of your waist where you’d normally wear the drawstring, not where your pants sit. Most brands run true to size, but compression styles tend to fit snugger, so sizing up one size is common advice if you’re between measurements. Always check the specific brand’s size chart rather than relying on generic S/M/L labels, since cut varies significantly between brands like maamgic, SILKWORLD, and COOFANDY.
Fabric Cheat Sheet
- Polyester-spandex blend (80/20 or higher): Best chlorine resistance, holds shape longest.
- Nylon-spandex blend: Softer feel but breaks down faster in chlorinated pools.
- Woven boardshort fabric: Heavier, more durable, slower to dry — best for surf and rough water use.
Care and Maintenance Tips
How you care for a swimsuit between wears has a bigger impact on its lifespan than most people realize. Chlorine and salt water are both hard on spandex fibers, and leaving a wet suit balled up in a bag for hours accelerates the breakdown significantly. Rinsing trunks in cool fresh water immediately after swimming removes most of the chlorine or salt residue before it has a chance to set into the fabric.
Avoid the washing machine and dryer when possible. Hand washing with a mild detergent and laying the suit flat to air dry preserves the elastic in the waistband far longer than machine washing, which can stretch or snag the fabric, especially around mesh linings and pocket seams. Direct sun exposure while drying should also be limited, since UV rays degrade both the color and the fiber strength of most swimwear fabrics over time.
Finally, avoid sitting on rough surfaces like concrete pool decks or splintered wood docks in your swimsuit for extended periods, since this is one of the most common causes of premature thinning and pilling in the seat area, regardless of how well-made the trunks are.
Matching Your Suit to Your Body Type
Fit isn’t only about waist size — leg opening and rise matter just as much for comfort and appearance. Guys with more muscular thighs often find that a slightly longer inseam prevents the fabric from riding up or feeling tight through the leg, while a shorter, vintage-style cut can look disproportionate on a larger frame. Taller guys generally do better with a slightly longer rise to avoid a cropped look, while shorter guys often find that trunks falling right at or just above the knee create a more balanced silhouette than a longer board short. None of this is a hard rule, but it’s worth trying on a size in person or checking a brand’s detailed measurements before committing to a print or color you can’t easily return.
Full Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Fit Style | Pockets | Liner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| maamgic Swim Trunks | Everyday comfort | Relaxed | Yes | No |
| maamgic Compression Trunks | Performance swimming | Compression | No | Built-in |
| ELETOP Swim Trunks | Budget shoppers | Relaxed | No | Mesh brief |
| PAUFOGA Graphic Trunks | Bold style | Relaxed | Yes | Mesh brief |
| SILKWORLD Board Shorts | Big & tall fit | Loose | Yes | No |
| Lzzidou Hawaiian Trunks | Resort/vacation | Relaxed | Yes | Mesh brief |
| maamgic Compression Swimsuit | Mixed activity | Hybrid | No | Built-in |
| SURF CUZ Boardshorts | Surfing/water sports | Athletic loose | No | Built-in |
| MaaMgic Vintage Trunks | Retro style | Short/slim | No | Mesh brief |
| APTRO Compression Liner Trunks | Moderate support | Mid-fit | Yes | Built-in |
| Sixfish Compression Trunks | Budget training | Compression | No | Built-in |
| COOFANDY Swimming Trunks | Classic baseline fit | Relaxed | Yes | Mesh brief |
If you’re shopping for other family members alongside your own swimwear, our related guides cover tankini swimsuits, one-piece swimsuits, and two-piece swimsuits for women, plus cover-ups for after-swim comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of swimsuit for men who swim laps regularly?
Compression trunks or jammers are the best choice for regular lap swimming. Their close fit reduces drag and stays secure through flip turns, unlike looser trunks that can shift or billow.
How should men’s swim trunks fit?
Swim trunks should sit comfortably at the waist without needing the drawstring pulled tight, and the leg opening should sit around mid-thigh without riding up when you move. If you’re between sizes, most relaxed-fit trunks size down comfortably while compression styles often need sizing up.
Are mesh liners necessary in swim trunks?
Mesh liners add support and a layer of modesty, especially in lighter-colored or thinner fabrics that can turn sheer when wet. They’re not strictly necessary, but most buyers prefer having one.
What fabric lasts longest in chlorinated pools?
Polyester-spandex blends with a high polyester percentage (80% or higher) hold up best against chlorine breakdown. Nylon-based fabrics tend to lose elasticity and fade faster with regular pool use.
Do board shorts work for swimming laps?
Board shorts can be used for casual swimming, but their length and looser cut create more drag than trunks or compression styles, making them less ideal for lap swimming or competitive use.
How do I stop my swim trunks from riding up?
Choosing a trunk with a well-fitted waistband and mid-thigh length, rather than a shorter vintage cut, generally prevents riding up. Compression liners underneath a looser outer short can also help keep everything in place.
What size should I order if I’m between sizes?
For relaxed-fit trunks, sizing down is usually fine since most brands build in extra room through the waistband. For compression styles, sizing up is generally recommended for comfort.
Can I wear regular swim trunks for surfing?
You can, but dedicated board shorts or surf-style compression shorts are better suited for it. They’re made from heavier, more abrasion-resistant fabric and are cut to move with paddling and wipeouts without sitting too high.
Do pockets affect how a swimsuit fits or dries?
Pockets without mesh drainage can trap water and sag once wet. Look for mesh-lined pockets specifically, which drain quickly and hold their shape better than solid-fabric pockets.
How often should I replace my swim trunks?
With regular chlorinated pool use, most quality trunks last one to two full swim seasons before the elastic and fabric noticeably break down. Rinsing trunks in fresh water after each swim extends their lifespan significantly.
What’s the difference between board shorts and swim trunks?
Board shorts are longer, made from heavier woven fabric, and designed for surfing and rough water activity. Swim trunks are shorter, made from stretchier knit fabric, and better suited for pools and casual beach use.
Are compression liners better than mesh briefs?
Compression liners provide more support and hold everything in place during active movement, while mesh briefs offer a lighter, more breathable layer for casual use. Neither is objectively better — it depends on activity level.
Final Verdict: Which Men’s Swimsuit Should You Buy?
For most guys, the maamgic Swim Trunks with Pockets hit the best balance of comfort, durability, and price for everyday pool and beach use. If you’re swimming laps or training seriously, the maamgic Compression Trunks or Sixfish Compression Liner Trunks are worth the snugger fit. And if you need bigger sizing or a surf-ready cut, the SILKWORLD Board Shorts and SURF CUZ Boardshorts both deliver on fit where relaxed trunks fall short.
Shop Best-Selling Men’s Swim TrunksStill deciding between styles? Browse our full best swimsuits hub for every category, or check out best swimming goggles and modest swimsuit picks to round out your pool bag.