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The Very Best Men's Swim Trunks

Some vintage-swim-trunks inspiration, courtesy of Dustin Hoffman in The Graduate. Photo-Illustration: AMC

Whether you want simple swim trunks to wear to the beach, performance trunks for surfing or swimming laps, or something that will look extra-sharp at a rooftop pool, now would be a good time to upgrade your swim attire. "Gone are the days of over-the-top, crazy vacation-print board shorts," says stylist Piper Gore, who suggests trying a pair that is a bit shorter and more fitted. John Moore, the co-founder and creative director of the swimwear brand Outerknown, emphasized the importance of finding proper swim trunks that are "water ready," even if they may not look like it on the surface. You essentially want trunks that can perform well in the water and dry quickly once you're on land, as there's nothing worse than a pair that looks like a wet rag hanging off your waist. So we spoke with stylists, designers, athletes, beach fanatics, and a surfer and asked them to recommend the best water-ready swim trunks for men.

Best overall | Best for taller people | Best shorter-inseam | Best super-short-inseam | Best performance | Best for surfing | Best stretch | Best tailored-fit | Best (less expensive) tailored-fit | Best patterned | Best with extra pockets | Best alternative-fabric

Fabric: With swim trunks, you want materials that are lightweight when wet and quick-drying once you're out of the water. Moore says that synthetics like recycled polyester, spandex, or nylon are perfect for swim trunks because they are better at repelling water and drying off faster. "You can wear cotton in the water, but it's gonna pull you down," says Moore. If you've ever gotten jeans wet, he says, you know that cotton becomes superheavy and restricts your movement. Cotton also takes longer to dry, even in the sun. You also want to look for stretchiness in the fabric that will "allow you all the movement that you need for surfing or wherever your adventures take you," says Moore.

Sizing: We always look for clothing that comes in a wide range of sizes to fit a wide range of people. For swim trunks, one of the most important measurements is the inseam length, which can range from shorter three- and four-inch inseams that will show the most thigh, to a mid-range five-inch inseam (the average), to longer seven-inch and even nine-inch inseams that will hit closer to, or even below, your knee. Many of the experts we spoke to mentioned that you want to be sure your trunks aren't too tight or too loose. If they are overly restrictive and formfitting, they won't allow for proper movement in the water. If they are too loose, they can end up slipping off your waist, and no one wants to see that.

Design details: Many men feel more comfortable with a mesh lining in their swim trunks, which is a common feature across many brands. Mesh lining is traditionally used to provide support as you are swimming or taking part in other water sports. Moore explains that some of Outerknown's trunks don't have mesh liners because surfers don't like them. "An important aspect of designing a great trunk is cutting down on anything that would cause abrasion," he says. Because extra fabric can actually get in the way, some brands choose to exclude the mesh lining. Below, we've noted whether each pair of trunks has a lining or not.

You should also pay attention to other details, such as how flat the seams and stitching are, as anything with too much texture or roughness could cause chafing or discomfort. At the waistband, look for whether there's an internal or external drawstring and a fully elastic waist or a tie closure to allow you to adjust the fit as needed. Most men will also want their trunks to have at least one pocket. Fashion designer Billy Reid emphasized to us that having at least side pockets or a back pocket can make a world of difference in both style and convenience. Some brands even include a secure key-chain loop within one of the pockets so you don't have to worry about your keys accidentally falling out and getting lost in the water.

Patagonia Baggies Shorts

Strategist Tested

Sizes XS–2XL | 100 percent recycled nylon | Side pockets | One back pocket | Mesh liner | Five-inch or seven-inch inseam | Internal drawstring

Patagonia Baggies have been a Strategist favorite for years now. I wrote about them in a Strategist Haul almost two years ago, and former senior editor Anthony Rotunno also recommended them. While at a glance the Baggies may seem like a straightforward pair of shorts, they're made from quick-drying nylon, have a mesh liner and "drain-and-dry mesh corners" inside the pockets, and Patagonia says they're "designed for use in and out of the water," so many of our experts still refer to them as "swim trunks." If you're of average height, the Baggies' five-inch inseam will give you the same mid-thigh fit offered by higher-end brands, but they're more affordable and multipurpose. (Though if you're on the taller side or prefer longer trunks, they come in a seven-inch inseam as well.) And they actually have more fashion cred than you might expect. "[Baggies] have become something of a summer staple," says image consultant Patrick Kenger. "They're the perfect length, come in multiple color options, and it's an attractive price point." (Former Strategist contributor Chris Black is also a fan.) Baggies have side pockets as well as one back pocket with a snap button closure and a nifty key loop.

Nautica New Dual-Block Swim Shorts

Sizes XS–3XL | 100 percent recycled polyester | Side pockets | One back pocket | Mesh liner | Eight-inch inseam | External drawstring

Celebrity stylist Okera Banks likes swim trunks that combine vintage style with a "modern design sensibility," and she told us these Nautica color-block trunks are one of her favorites. They have a longer, eight-inch inseam, which makes them a good option for someone who is taller or wants to cover more of their legs. They are made of a quick-drying recycled polyester, and they have side pockets and one back welt pocket.

Solid & Striped Swim Trunks — The Classic

Sizes S–2XL | 100 percent polyamide | Side pockets | Back pocket | Mesh liner | Four-inch inseam | External drawstring

According to former Strategist writer David Notis, these trunks from Solid & Striped are a dressier alternative to Baggies. In addition to being a bit shorter, with a four-inch inseam, they're more formfitting, and the seersucker pocket lining makes a statement. These trunks are made of polyamide, which is similar to nylon, so you can expect them to dry quickly. They have a traditional mesh lining, side pockets, and a back pocket with a hidden snap closure. They also come in more than three dozen colors and prints to suit a wide range of styles and tastes. Notis likes them because they are classic with stylish details. "In terms of mid-thigh trunks, these land somewhere between tailored and casual," he says.

Patagonia Barely Baggies Short

Sizes XS-XL | 100 percent recycled nylon | Side pockets | No back pocket | Mesh liner | 2.5-inch inseam | Internal drawstring

Not many people are courageous enough to pull off Sean Connery's short-shorts look as James Bond, but if you're willing to take a chance, two of the stylish guys we spoke to recommended a shorter version of our much-beloved top pick, the Patagonia Baggies. Mapate Diop, founder of the clothing line Diop, says, "Most are familiar with the legendary Patagonia Baggies and its five-inch inseam," he says. "But I think everyone should take it to the next level with the Barely Baggies and its 2.5-inch inseam." In addition to showing more leg, Diop insists they're "great for walking and biking," and just like their longer cousins, they are quick-drying and have a mesh liner. "I've been living in mine, especially as it gets warmer and I spend more time outdoors," Diop says. Nikko Lencek-Inagaki, the head designer for Freemans Sporting Club, is a fan of the shorter Baggies as well. "You can never go wrong with a pair of short shorts, and what is more classic than some Patagonia Baggies?" he says. The Barely Baggies are cut with women's sizing in mind, so pay close attention to the size chart.

Ten Thousand Set Short

Sizes XS–2XL | 85 percent nylon, 15 percent spandex | Side pockets | One back pocket | Phone pocket | Medium compression liner | 6.5-inch inseam | Internal drawstring

Kevin Ng, a former collegiate swimmer at the University of Rhode Island, says these shorts from the fitness brand Ten Thousand allow athletes to quickly transition their workouts in and out of the water. They're made with quick-drying nylon fabric that is comfortable and nice-looking, and Ng says "the streamlined fit and minimal waistband ensure the best hydrodynamic swim without feeling too restrictive or limiting your range of motion during both water and land workouts." The shorts also have spandex for added stretch and comfort and a chlorine- and saltwater-resistant warp-knit liner that kind of resembles a pair of boxer briefs. It's meant to provide support without chafing but also be quick-drying. The shorts come in five colors and have a zippered back pocket, side pockets, a zippered hip pocket meant for your phone, and a secure key loop.

Outerknown Apex Board Shorts by Kelly Slater

Waist sizes 28–38 | 43 percent recycled polyester, 43 percent polyester, 14 percent spandex | No side pockets | One back pocket | No liner | Nine-inch inseam | External lace-up drawstring

Outerknown's Apex trunks are specially designed with surfing in mind. Moore says they were designed and tested with 11-time surf champion Kelly Slater. They have unique heat-sealed seams to make the trunks feel as smooth as possible. Moore explained that surfing is such a physically intensive sport that shorts with mesh liners and stitched seams can feel uncomfortable and cause abrasion, which the Apex minimizes. The trunks come in 13 colors and have a back pocket with an Aquaguard zipper meant to repel water as well as an internal bungee key loop.

If you prefer a less performance-focused style that still boasts some of the details of the Apex, you can consider the Apex Hybrid, which also has side pockets and a zip fly. "It still has functionality where you can throw it on with a pair of tennis shoes and a T-shirt and you're hitting the streets, but then you get to the beach, you get to the pool, and there's nothing in that trunk that won't perform in the water and dry quickly on land," says Moore.

Bather Technical Surf Short

Waist sizes 28–36 | 92 percent recycled polyester, 8 percent elastane | Side pockets | Back pocket | Mesh liner | 5.5-inch inseam | External lace-up drawstring

Peter Sheehan, a lifestyle director at the real-estate firm Related Companies, recommended these trunks from Canadian brand Bather. "I don't go for anything uncomfortable or with a harsh mesh liner," he says. "It has to be simple and stylish with a flattering fit above the knee." These breathable, quick-drying trunks fit the bill, and their recycled polyester fabric helped him feel good about his purchase, but they also contain elastane to provide four-way stretch. The shorts have side pockets and a snap-closure back pocket, and they come in five colors and patterns.

Orlebar Brown Bulldog Mid-Length Swim Shorts

Waist sizes 28–40 | 100 percent polyamide | Side pockets | One back pocket | Mesh liner | Six-inch inseam | Snap-front waist with adjustable pull tabs

Two of our experts named these mid-length trunks from Orlebar Brown as their favorite despite the high price tag. A shorter pair of Orlebar Brown trunks were famously worn by Daniel Craig in Skyfall, and Gore called out the brand for its "flat-front-trouser design detail and the side-pulls to adjust for the perfect fit." (There's also a zip fly.) Olie Arnold, style director at the men's-fashion website Mr Porter, is also a fan: "Orlebar Brown is known for creating swim trunks based on the traditional 17-piece pattern used to tailor a pair of trousers. They're made so you can look sharply dressed while at the pool or at the beach bar." At this price, we know they won't be for everyone, but they're great if you're going for a more crisp look (or just want to cosplay as 007). They have side pockets, one zippered back pocket, and come in many colors and patterns.

Hurley Men's Phantom Hybrid Stretch 20-Inch Short

Waist sizes 28–40 | 92 percent polyester, 8 percent spandex | Side pockets | Two back pockets | No Liner | 10.5-inch inseam | Button-front waist

Lots of board shorts fall way below the knee, but our experts say they'll look more sleek if you can find something on the shorter side with a slightly fitted look. San Diego–based personal stylist Vanessa Valiente calls these Hurley Phantom board shorts "hands down my favorite," and they're a big hit with her clients because they're comfortable — they don't have a liner, which some might prefer — good-looking, and easily transition from the pool or beach to around town. They have a button closure with no drawstring (as well as belt loops for when you're out of the water), side pockets, and two back pockets, and they come in six colors.

Bonobos Riviera Recycled Swim Trunks

Sizes S–3XL | 85 percent recycled polyester, 15 percent spandex | Side pockets | One back pocket | Mesh liner | Five-inch, seven-inch, or nine-inch inseam | External drawstring

George Brescia, an image consultant and the author of Change Your Clothes, Change Your Life, loves Bonobos swim trunks. "People always stop me on the beach and ask where I got them," he says. Brescia says this Riviera style, with its elastic waist, is very comfortable. "They're fairly fitted but not too tight around the thigh. They still leave room for your legs," he says. They also come in more than two dozen statement-making colors and patterns and three different inseams (five-inch, seven-inch, and nine-inch), a level of customization that will really allow you to find your perfect pair of swim trunks. The Rivieras have a mesh liner, side pockets, and one back patch pocket with a hook-and-loop closure and a dedicated key loop.

Aftco Fishing Shorts

Sizes 28–44 | 100 percent nylon | Side pockets | Two front pockets | Leg pocket | Two back pockets | No liner | Six-inch or eight-inch inseam | Button-front waist

When I spoke with Reid, he enthusiastically mentioned the importance of having a good short for the summer, especially in the sweltering heat of the South (he's based in Florence, Alabama). He said that as a designer, he's always paying attention to fine details, but his top priorities for swim trunks are that they dry quickly and have plenty of pockets. That's why he's a fan of these fishing shorts from Aftco that kind of resemble cargo shorts for water. They are made of lightweight and durable nylon, with two layers of fabric in the seat for added durability. They also have seven functional pockets — more than any other pair of swim trunks on this list (one of them is meant to hold pliers, if you happen to have a need for that). While they aren't traditional swim trunks, if you want something that can carry your stuff and easily handle some splashes on a beach, a boat, or poolside, they're a solid multipurpose short. (They're also available in a shorter, six-inch inseam as well as extended sizes for a few bucks more.)

Southern Tide Solid Swim Trunks

Sizes S–2XL | 52 percent polyester, 38 percent Cocotex, 10 percent spandex | Side pockets | Two back pockets | Mesh liner | Six-inch inseam | External drawstring

All of Southern Tide's swim trunks are made in part with recycled fiber from discarded coconut husks, which provide moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties. After the brand sent a pair of its Solid Swim Trunks to Strategist senior editor Jen Trolio, her husband noted that the resulting blended fabric was lightweight, flexible, and very easy to move around in. The trunks have a relaxed fit and a six-inch inseam and come in four colors, each with a contrasting external drawstring. They also have a mesh liner, side pockets, and two back pockets — one welt pocket and one pocket with a zipper closure and an internal key loop. If you're the type who likes to always have a pair of water-ready shorts on hand for impromptu dips in the pool or the lake, you can flip the zipper pocket inside out and pack the whole pair of trunks inside to use it as a Baggu-esque mini–stuff sack that will easily tuck into a backpack or glove box.

• Olie Arnold, style director at men's-fashion site Mr Porter
• Okera Banks, celebrity stylist
• Chris Black, former Strategist columnist
• George Brescia, image consultant and author of Change Your Clothes, Change Your Life
• Mapate Diop, founder of clothing line Diop
• Piper Gore, stylist
• Patrick Kenger, image consultant
• Nikko Lencek-Inagaki, head designer for Freemans Sporting Club
• John Moore, co-founder and creative director of swimwear brand Outerknown
• Kevin Ng, former collegiate swimmer at the University of Rhode Island
• David Notis, former Strategist writer
• Billy Reid, designer and founder of the brand Billy Reid
• Anthony Rotunno, former Strategist senior editor
• Peter Sheehan, lifestyle director at real-estate firm Related Companies
• Vanessa Valiente, San Diego–based personal stylist

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The Very Best Men's Swim Trunks