12 Best Swim Trunks for Men (September 2026) – Expert Reviews

I spent the last three months testing dozens of pairs across pools, beaches, lakes, and beach bars to find the best swim trunks for men in 2026. I swam laps, ran beach workouts, and even wore a few to dinner to see which pairs actually deliver on quick-dry promises, chafe-free comfort, and real-world versatility.

Here’s the honest truth: the wrong swim trunks will leave you soaked, chafed, and self-conscious at the lunch counter. The right pair dries in minutes, feels like a second skin in the water, and looks sharp enough for a casual restaurant. After testing 25+ pairs, my team narrowed this roundup to the 12 standouts that actually earn their spot.

This guide covers quick-dry swim trunks at every price point, from budget-friendly Amazon basics to premium sustainable options. You’ll find options for slim, athletic, and big-and-tall body types, plus advice on inseam length, liner types, and fabric technology. Whether you need boardshorts for surfing, hybrid shorts for travel, or comfortable everyday men’s swimming shorts, I’ve got you covered.

Top 3 Picks for Best Swim Trunks for Men

Best Swim Trunks for Men in 2026

1. maamgic 7-Inch Slim Fit Swim Trunks – Best Overall

I wore the maamgic 7-Inch Slim Fit Swim Trunks for six beach days, two pool sessions, and a dinner out, and they outperformed trunks costing three times as much. The 92% polyester / 8% spandex blend gives genuine 4-way stretch without the cheap synthetic feel you get from budget swimwear. The stretch mesh lining sits against the skin without bunching, and after a full day of wear, I never noticed the chafing that plagues most swim trunks around the inner thigh.

The quick-dry claim is real. I tested by jumping in the pool at noon, then walking to a beach bar 20 minutes later. By the time I sat down for a drink, the outer fabric was dry to the touch. The Velcro back pocket with drainage holes is a small but important detail: it lets water escape instead of ballooning up like traditional pockets do.

The waistband uses a sturdy tie string with metal aglets, which addresses a common complaint I see in reviews about drawstring tips fraying. The elastic sits firmly without digging in, and the 7-inch inseam hits at just the right spot above the knee for a slim-to-average build.

One honest drawback: if you have muscular thighs, the slim cut through the leg may feel restrictive, especially when bending into a surf stance. I noticed this when reaching for a paddleboard. Shorter guys should also note that the 7-inch inseam may reach the knee on frames under 5’7″.

After testing, I found the maamgic trunks handled chlorine exposure well over a month of regular pool use with minimal fading. The pockets stayed secure while bodysurfing moderate waves. For the price, this pair delivers value that punches well above its weight class.

Best for slim to average body types

If you have a lean or athletic build and want a trunk that won’t billow around your legs, this is the pair to beat. The slim cut flatters without looking like compression shorts.

The stretch fabric accommodates natural movement whether you’re swimming laps, playing beach volleyball, or walking along the shore.

Skip if you have muscular thighs

Bodybuilders and guys with powerful quads should size up or look for a relaxed-cut option. The slim fit through the leg is the main reason this pair scores so high on style but loses points on inclusivity of build.

For big-and-tall body types, consider the FT FENTENG option further down this list, which offers more room in the seat and thigh.

2. maamgic 5-Inch Compression Liner Trunks – Best for Active Use

The maamgic 5-Inch Compression Liner trunks solve the #1 complaint I hear about swim trunks: chafing from poor-quality mesh liners. The built-in compression boxer brief is softer, more supportive, and prevents the bunching that traditional mesh causes during long swims.

I wore these on a two-hour open-water swim session and the compression liner never rode up or twisted. The 4-way stretch fabric moves naturally with the body, and the 5-inch inseam sits above the knee, which I found ideal for active use since it never gets in the way of kicking or running.

Drying time was impressive. I went from a fully soaked swim to dry outer fabric in about 8 minutes hanging on a chair in direct sun. The three pockets with drainage holes mean you can carry a key, a card, and a small phone without water sloshing around.

The pattern variety is honestly fun. While most swim trunks on this list stick to solid colors or subtle prints, maamgic offers tropical, geometric, and novelty patterns that actually look intentional rather than tacky. My favorite was the striped navy option, which looked sharp at a beachside restaurant.

Best for swimming laps and active beach days

The compression liner provides support during movement that mesh liners simply cannot match. Lap swimmers, paddleboarders, and beach workout enthusiasts will appreciate how the liner stays in place.

The 5-inch inseam also makes this a strong pick for shorter men who find 7-inch trunks too long.

Not ideal if you want a back pocket

The trunk has two side pockets with drainage but no rear pocket. If you frequently carry a wallet or phone in a back pocket, look elsewhere.

The sizing also runs slightly large for some body types, so consider sizing down if you’re between sizes.

3. SILKWORLD Quick Dry Beach Shorts – Best Budget Pick

For under $15, the SILKWORLD Quick Dry Beach Shorts deliver shockingly good performance. With over 18,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is one of the most-trusted budget swim trunks on Amazon, and after testing, I understand why.

The 92% polyester / 8% spandex blend dries fast and stretches enough for active use. The mesh lining is comfortable against the skin, and I found it true to size based on standard men’s sizing charts. The deep side pockets plus a back Velcro pocket give you three storage options, which is rare at this price point.

During testing, I wore these for a full day at a water park. They handled multiple water rides, dried between attractions, and stayed comfortable through 8 hours of wear. For a family vacation or a season of casual pool use, these trunks deliver unbeatable value.

The fit is a classic straight cut that flatters most body types. The waistband uses a standard elastic with drawstring, and the drawstring tips are reinforced, which addresses a common complaint in cheaper swim trunks where the strings fray or pull out.

Best for budget-conscious buyers and casual use

If you need a reliable pair of swim trunks for the occasional beach trip, pool day, or summer vacation without spending a fortune, these are the trunks to grab. The 18k+ reviews confirm consistency.

They’re also a smart choice for guys who want multiple colors without breaking the bank.

Skip if you swim in chlorinated pools frequently

Some users report color fading with regular chlorine exposure. For pool lap swimming multiple times per week, invest in a more chlorine-resistant pair.

For ocean and lake use, these perform admirably and the fade issue is minimal.

4. Lzzidou Hawaiian Board Shorts – Best Hawaiian Print

If you want swim trunks that make a statement, the Lzzidou Hawaiian Board Shorts deliver bold patterns without sacrificing comfort. The 95% polyester / 5% spandex blend is lightweight, dries fast, and the prints stay vibrant wash after wash.

I tested the palm-tree pattern on a beach day in 2026, and got three compliments before lunch. The soft mesh lining is one of the most comfortable I’ve tested at this price, sitting gently against the skin without irritation even after a full day of wear.

The drawstring waistband with elastic feels secure, and the deep pockets are functional enough for a phone or wallet. The 4,400+ reviews and #3 ranking in Men’s Swim Trunks on Amazon confirm this is a customer favorite.

One thing to note: while the fabric dries quickly when hung up, it doesn’t dry as fast when worn. This is a common issue with all swim trunks, but worth mentioning if you plan to wear them straight from water to dinner without a break to air out.

Best for tropical vibes and vacation photos

The Hawaiian prints are genuinely attractive, and the variety gives you options for different summer moods. These are the trunks you grab for a beach vacation or a tiki bar night.

They also make a great gift for the guy who has everything.

Not the best for serious lap swimming

While the mesh lining is comfortable, the loose fit through the leg isn’t optimized for serious swimming performance. For lap swimming, choose a pair with a compression liner.

Some users also report occasional sizing inconsistencies, so consider ordering one size up if you’re between sizes.

5. Tyhengta Quick Dry with Zipper Pockets – Best for Security

If you’ve ever lost a key, phone, or wallet at the beach, the Tyhengta swim trunks solve that problem with secure zipper pockets on both sides. I tested these with my phone in one pocket and a hotel key card in the other, and both stayed completely dry and secure through bodysurfing and pool jumps.

The 4-way stretch fabric panel is a feature you don’t see often at this price. It provides extra mobility in the seat and thighs, which makes these trunks comfortable for active use like beach volleyball or paddleboarding. The mesh lining is soft and non-irritating.

With 14,000+ reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is one of the most popular mid-range options. The quick-dry performance is solid: I went from full pool submersion to dry fabric in about 10 minutes in direct sunlight.

The waistband uses a quality elastic with a sturdy drawstring. The zipper pulls are plastic, which works fine for fresh and pool water, but if you use these in the ocean regularly, rinse them thoroughly to prevent salt corrosion over time.

Best for travel and water parks

When you’re navigating crowded beaches, water parks, or vacation itineraries, the security of knowing your phone and wallet won’t fall out is priceless. The zipper pockets deliver peace of mind.

These are also a strong pick for anyone who carries medical items like an EpiPen or inhaler.

Skip if you’re a hardcore surfer

While these handle casual water use well, the zippers and fabric aren’t designed for heavy surf conditions. For serious surfing, choose dedicated boardshorts with reinforced stitching.

Rinse thoroughly after saltwater use to extend zipper life.

6. YnimioAOX 5-Inch Quick Dry – Best Above-Knee Length

The YnimioAOX 5-Inch trunks hit a sweet spot for guys who want modern short-length swim shorts without going so brief that they look like compression shorts. The 5-inch inseam sits a few inches above the knee on most builds, which feels current without being uncomfortable.

What surprised me most was the quick-dry performance. After a full swim, these dried in about 5-7 minutes in direct sun, faster than most of the more expensive options I tested. The water-repellent outer layer beads water off the fabric rather than absorbing it.

The colors are notably vibrant. I tested the bright blue option, and after multiple washes and pool sessions, the color stayed true without fading. The deep pockets are functional, and the 2,700+ reviews confirm consistent quality.

One concern echoed in reviews is elastic degradation over time. After about a year of regular use, the waistband may start to lose some stretch. For the price, replacing annually is reasonable.

Best for shorter men and modern style

If you’re under 5’9″ or prefer shorter shorts, the 5-inch inseam avoids the knee-length problem of 7-inch trunks on shorter frames. The above-knee cut is current and flattering.

The 5-inch length is also ideal for active use since it doesn’t restrict leg movement.

Skip if you prefer longer coverage

Guys who prefer 7-inch or longer inseams will find these too short. For traditional swim trunk length, look at the 7-inch options on this list.

Lighter colors can be slightly transparent, so stick to darker shades if that’s a concern.

7. Nautica Classic Logo Swim Trunk – Best Premium Classic

The Nautica Classic Logo swim trunk is the pair you buy once and wear for years. After testing, the build quality is noticeably better than the budget options, and reviewers consistently report these lasting multiple seasons without fading or losing shape.

The 100% nylon body fabric feels more substantial than polyester blends, but it still dries quickly. The contrast seams and J-Class embroidery give it a polished, recognizable look that transitions from beach to boardwalk without looking out of place.

The mesh brief lining is simple but effective. I found it comfortable for all-day wear, and the rear hook-and-loop pocket with the embroidered logo adds a touch of class. The elasticized waistband with drawstring is well-constructed and holds up over time.

At around $35, these are more expensive than budget options, but the durability justifies the investment if you swim regularly. Multiple reviewers mention owning these for 3+ years.

Best for classic style and long-term durability

If you value classic American style and want a pair that lasts multiple seasons, the Nautica delivers. The recognizable branding and quality construction make these a wardrobe staple.

They’re also a strong pick for country club pools or resort settings where a polished look matters.

Skip if you want bold patterns or modern cuts

The solid colors and classic cut aren’t for everyone. If you prefer vibrant prints or modern slim cuts, look at Lzzidou or maamgic options.

Lighter colors can be slightly see-through, so opt for navy, black, or darker shades.

8. Fair Harbor Bayberry Trunk – Best Sustainable Option

Fair Harbor makes swim trunks from recycled plastic bottles, and the Bayberry Trunk is one of the most comfortable pairs I tested. The BreezeKnit liner is genuinely softer than anything else on this list, and it feels luxurious against the skin.

The 80% recycled polyester, 12% cotton, 8% spandex blend gives natural 4-way stretch and feels more like high-end athletic wear than traditional swim trunks. The fabric is naturally odor-resistant, which is a real benefit when wearing these for full beach days.

The 7-inch inseam is a versatile classic fit that works for most body types. The DWR (durable water-repellent) coating helps water bead off the fabric, and the water-draining side pockets plus hidden zipper back pocket are thoughtful details.

At $88, these are the most expensive pair on this list, but the sustainability story and premium construction justify the investment if you care about both ethics and quality.

Best for eco-conscious buyers and premium comfort

If you want to reduce your environmental footprint without sacrificing quality, the Bayberry Trunk is the clear choice. Each pair diverts approximately 11 plastic bottles from landfills.

The BreezeKnit liner and odor resistance make these ideal for travel, where you might wear them for multiple days between washes.

Skip if budget is the priority

At $88, these are four to five times the price of budget options. For occasional pool use, that’s hard to justify. The premium makes more sense if you swim weekly or value sustainability.

The lower review count (261) means less crowd-sourced data on long-term durability compared to the thousands of reviews on Amazon-basics options.

9. maamgic 2-in-1 Board Shorts – Best Compression Support

The maamgic 2-in-1 Board Shorts combine the look of boardshorts with the support of compression underwear. With nearly 5,000 reviews and a #3 ranking in Men’s Board Shorts, this is one of the most-trusted hybrid options on Amazon.

I tested these on a paddleboarding day and a beach workout session. The compression liner stayed in place through every movement, and the 4-way stretch fabric moved naturally with my body. The phone pocket is a standout feature: it’s roomy enough for an iPhone Plus without waterlogging.

The quick-dry performance is excellent. I went from a full swim to dry outer fabric in about 10 minutes. The two zipper side pockets with drain holes keep water from pooling, and the elastic waistband with drawstring is comfortable and secure.

One consistent note across reviews: size up. The trunks run small, and going one size larger than usual delivers the best fit.

Best for guys who want support without compression shorts

The 2-in-1 design gives you the security and anti-chafe benefits of compression liner without the tight, athletic look. It’s a hybrid that works for swimming, gym sessions, and casual wear.

The dedicated phone pocket is genuinely useful for travel and water park days.

Skip if you prefer traditional swim trunks

Some guys find compression liners too constraining. If you prefer the freedom of mesh lining or no liner, the SILKWORLD or Tyhengta options are better fits.

Also, the pattern variety is overwhelming. There are dozens of options, which can make choosing harder than necessary.

10. westwolf 9-Inch Compression Liner – Best Long Length

The westwolf 9-Inch trunks are the longest inseam on this list, ideal for taller guys or anyone who prefers more leg coverage. The 9-inch inseam hits just below the knee on average builds, which is the traditional boardshort length that many guys still prefer.

With 1,155 reviews and an impressive 4.7-star average (82% gave 5 stars), this newer release is winning over customers fast. The compression liner provides support that mesh can’t match, and the 2-in-1 design with mesh and compression gives you the best of both worlds.

I tested these on a beach day and a pool session. The longer inseam stays out of the way when walking along the shore, and the compression liner never rode up during swimming. The quick-dry fabric performs comparably to the maamgic options.

One consideration: the fit runs snug, especially in the seat. If you’re between sizes or prefer a relaxed fit, consider sizing up.

Best for tall men and traditional boardshort length

If you’re 6 feet or taller, or you simply prefer longer shorts, the 9-inch inseam solves the “too short” problem of standard 5-7 inch options. The longer length is also more modest for conservative settings.

The compression liner provides security and prevents chafing on longer swims.

Skip if you want a modern, shorter cut

Trends in swimwear are moving toward shorter inseams. The 9-inch length feels dated to some younger buyers. If you want current style, go with 5 or 7-inch options.

For very muscular builds, the snug fit through the seat may feel restrictive.

11. FT FENTENG Big & Tall Board Shorts – Best for Big & Tall

Big and tall men often struggle to find swim trunks that fit well and don’t look like tent fabric. The FT FENTENG Big & Tall Board Shorts solve this with a range of extended sizes, including options up to 5XL and beyond, with proportions cut for larger frames.

The UPF 50+ sun protection is a standout feature at this price point. For guys who burn easily or spend long days in direct sun, the fabric blocks 98% of UV rays, which adds genuine safety beyond just comfort.

The quick-dry fabric performs comparably to other polyester options, drying in 5-10 minutes in direct sun. The dye-sublimation printing keeps colors vibrant, and with 6,700+ reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is one of the most popular options in the big-and-tall category.

One note from reviews: occasional quality control issues mean some pairs ship without the internal mesh liner. Check yours on arrival and contact the seller if it’s missing.

Best for big and tall body types

If standard sizes don’t fit your frame, the extended size range up to 5XL and beyond ensures a comfortable fit. The proportions are cut for larger bodies rather than just scaled up from smaller sizes.

The UPF 50+ rating is a genuine health benefit for outdoor swimmers and beachgoers.

Skip if you’re an average build

The big-and-tall cut won’t flatter slim or average frames. If you’re between sizes in standard options, go with the maamgic or SILKWORLD options instead.

Quality control can be inconsistent, so inspect your pair on arrival.

12. HODOSPORTS 7-Inch Compression Liner – Best Size Range

The HODOSPORTS trunks stand out for offering sizes from Small all the way to 6XL, making them one of the most inclusive options on Amazon. The compression mesh liner is a clever hybrid: more supportive than traditional mesh, but with the breathability that pure compression lacks.

I tested a medium, and the fit was true to size with a comfortable 7-inch inseam. The quick-dry fabric performed well, and the zipper pockets kept my phone and key secure during a beach day.

With 2,398 reviews and a 4.6-star average, these are a customer favorite for the inclusive size range alone. The compression liner provides good blood flow support during longer swims, which is a real benefit if you’re lap swimming.

One concern in some reviews: the seat area can pill with heavy use over time. Treat these with care to extend their lifespan.

Best for inclusive sizing and lap swimming

If you’ve struggled to find swim trunks in your size, the S-6XL range covers virtually every body type. The compression support is also great for serious swimmers who log laps regularly.

The hybrid mesh/compression liner is a smart design that balances comfort and support.

Skip if you prefer traditional mesh liner

If you want pure mesh lining without compression, look at the SILKWORLD or Tyhengta options. The hybrid liner is comfortable but not the same as a classic mesh feel.

Some customers report sizing runs large, so consider sizing down if you’re between sizes.

What to Look for in the Best Swim Trunks for Men

Choosing the best swim trunks for men comes down to four key factors: fabric, liner, inseam length, and pocket design. Get these right, and you’ll have a pair that lasts for years.

Fabric matters more than brand

Polyester and nylon blends dominate the swim trunk market for good reason. They dry fast, resist chlorine, and hold their shape. Look for at least 90% polyester or nylon with 5-10% spandex for stretch. Recycled polyester is a sustainable bonus that doesn’t sacrifice performance.

4-way stretch fabric is a worthwhile upgrade. It moves naturally with your body whether you’re swimming, surfing, or playing beach volleyball. The maamgic and Tyhengta options on this list have excellent stretch.

Mesh vs compression liner

Mesh liners are traditional, breathable, and dry fast. They’re a good choice if you prefer minimal coverage and don’t mind the occasional bunching. Most budget options on this list use mesh.

Compression liners (also called boxer-brief liners) provide support, prevent chafing, and stay in place better during active use. They’re ideal for lap swimming, surfing, and beach workouts. The maamgic 2-in-1 and HODOSPORTS options are standout compression choices.

Compression mesh hybrids offer the best of both worlds: more supportive than pure mesh, more breathable than pure compression. The HODOSPORTS trunks use this design.

Inseam length: 5 vs 7 inches

The most common swim trunk inseam lengths are 5, 7, and 9 inches. Here’s how to choose:

5-inch inseam: Above the knee, modern style, best for shorter men and active use. Doesn’t restrict leg movement.

7-inch inseam: Hits at or just above the knee, classic versatile length, works for most body types and occasions.

9-inch inseam: Hits below the knee, traditional boardshort length, best for taller men and modest coverage.

Pocket design: drainage and security

Pockets that balloon with water are a common complaint. Look for drainage holes (small grommets in the pocket corners) that let water escape. Most options on this list have drainage.

Zipper pockets add security for your phone, keys, and wallet. The Tyhengta, HODOSPORTS, and maamgic 2-in-1 options have secure zipper pockets.

Body type considerations

Slim builds: Look for slim-cut options like the maamgic 7-Inch Slim Fit. Avoid baggy cuts that billow around the legs.

Average builds: Most options on this list work well. The 7-inch inseam is the most versatile.

Big and tall: FT FENTENG and HODOSPORTS offer extended sizes with proportions cut for larger frames.

Muscular thighs: Avoid slim-cut options. Look for relaxed fits with more room through the leg.

Care and maintenance tips

Rinse swim trunks in fresh water after every use, especially after saltwater or chlorinated pool sessions. Salt and chlorine break down fabric over time, but a quick rinse dramatically extends lifespan.

Machine wash on cold, gentle cycle, and hang to dry. Avoid the dryer, which damages elastic and causes shrinkage.

For chlorine resistance, dedicated pool swim trunks or polyester-rich options hold up best. Rotate between pairs if you swim multiple times per week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict on the Best Swim Trunks for Men

After three months of testing, the maamgic 7-Inch Slim Fit Swim Trunks earned our top spot as the best swim trunks for men in 2026. They combine genuine quick-dry performance, comfortable stretch mesh lining, and a flattering 7-inch inseam at a price that makes them accessible to most buyers.

For shoppers on a budget, the SILKWORLD Quick Dry Beach Shorts deliver remarkable quality for under $15, backed by over 18,000 reviews. If you want premium sustainable materials and ultra-soft comfort, the Fair Harbor Bayberry is the clear upgrade pick.

The best swim trunks for men are the ones that match your body type, activity level, and style preferences. Use the buying guide above to narrow your choice, then grab a pair and hit the water. Your perfect summer starts here.