Swim Shorts – Best Picks, Fit Guide & Care Tips for 2025
Finding the right pair of swim shorts for 2025 means balancing style, performance, and fit. Recent editor tests from GQ, Men’s Health, and The Strategist consistently highlight brands like Bather, Fair Harbor, Rhone, Proof, Patagonia, lululemon, J.Crew, and Orlebar Brown as top contenders. Whether you need a pair for lap swimming, beach volleyball, or poolside lounging, the market now offers more technical fabrics, sustainable materials, and tailored cuts than ever before.
The biggest shift in recent years is the return to shorter inseams. Five to seven inches is now the sweet spot for most men, while longer board shorts remain popular for surfers and those who prefer extra coverage. Built-in liners, quick-dry blends, and recycled materials are becoming standard features across both performance and fashion-led shorts.
This guide breaks down the best swim shorts for men in 2025, explains how they should fit, compares major brands, and offers practical care advice so your investment lasts longer.
What Are the Best Swim Shorts for Men in 2025?
| Factor | Best For | Example Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Versatility & Style | Bather |
| Best for Swimming | Performance & Quick Dry | Proof |
| Best Comfort/Everyday | All-day wear, no-chafe liner | Fair Harbor |
| Best for Lounging | Premium Style | Orlebar Brown |
- The market splits between performance swimwear (Nike, Proof, Speedo) and fashion-led shorts (Ralph Lauren, Orlebar Brown, J.Crew).
- Sizing concerns – especially inseam length and liner presence – are the most common undressed needs among buyers.
- Consumers often confuse “swim trunks” and “board shorts”; clarifying the difference can capture valuable search traffic.
- Care and longevity of swim shorts is a high-intent, underserved topic that builds trust and E-E-A-T.
- Bather is named best overall by both GQ and The Strategist, while Fair Harbor’s Bayberry Trunk is Men’s Health’s top pick.
- Rhone’s 5.5-inch R&R Trunk is cited as the most flattering cut by Men’s Health.
- lululemon’s Swim Short is the best linerless option for those who prefer flexibility.
| Key Facts About Men’s Swim Shorts |
|---|
| Standard inseam lengths range from 4 to 10 inches; 5.5–7 inches is most common. |
| Most swim shorts include a built-in mesh liner for support and modesty. |
| Nylon and polyester blends are the dominant materials for quick-drying and durability. |
| Designer shorts often use cotton or cotton-poly blends, which dry slower but look dressier. |
| GQ’s 2025 roundup includes Ché Studios and Asket alongside Bather and Orlebar Brown. |
| Fair Harbor uses recycled materials and a no-chafe liner in its quick-dry fabric. |
| Patagonia appears in GQ’s tested favorites and REI’s assortment, signaling outdoor credibility. |
| Chubbies offers 4-inch, 5.5-inch, and 7-inch inseams, making it a versatile option for different lengths. |
| REI stocks 9-inch boardshorts for taller wearers or surf-oriented use. |
How Should Swim Shorts Fit?
Finding the Right Length
Inseam length is the most important fit factor. Shorter cuts (4–5.5 inches) read as modern and athletic; Men’s Health specifically calls a 5.5-inch inseam the most flattering. Mid-length options around 7 inches are the safest all-purpose choice, widely available from brands like Chubbies, Fair Harbor, and Amazon Essentials. Longer boardshort cuts (9–10 inches) suit taller men, surfers, or anyone who prefers more coverage. REI’s assortment includes 9-inch boardshorts for this group.
Waist and Inseam
Most swim shorts use an elastic waistband with a drawstring for adjustment. Some designer styles rely on drawstrings alone, which can be less secure. Always check the size chart; many brands offer waist sizes from 28 to 40 inches. Inseam options vary by brand – Fair Harbor offers 5 to 10 inches, while Chubbies offers 4, 5.5, and 7 inches.
Lined swim shorts add support and reduce chafing. If you prefer to wear compression underwear or want more flexibility, choose a linerless option like lululemon’s Swim Short. Fair Harbor’s no-chafe liner is a standout feature for comfort.
The Role of the Liner
The built-in mesh liner is a major comfort decision. Lined shorts provide support and modesty without needing extra underwear. Linerless options give you freedom to choose your own base layer, but they may require more careful washing to avoid odor. Men’s Health recommends lululemon’s Swim Short as the best linerless pick, while Fair Harbor’s lined trunks are praised for anti-chafe design.
Nike vs. Ralph Lauren vs. Calvin Klein: Which Brand is Best?
Nike: Performance and Sport
Nike is a long-standing leader in athletic swimwear, known for its Dri-FIT technology that wicks moisture and dries quickly. The brand’s swim shorts are built for active use – swimming, running on the beach, or gym workouts. They typically feature a secure liner, elastic waist, and a range of inseam lengths. Nike’s durability is well-established, though the brand focuses more on function than fashion.
Ralph Lauren: Classic Preppy Style
Ralph Lauren’s swim shorts lean toward classic, preppy aesthetics. The Polo Ralph Lauren 5.75-Inch Traveler Classic Swim Trunk is Men’s Health’s pick for most versatile. However, fabric composition varies: some styles use cotton, others cotton-polyester blends. Always check the tag – cotton-rich shorts dry slower than synthetics. Ralph Lauren shorts are widely available at department stores and online.
Calvin Klein: Modern Minimalist
Calvin Klein offers a clean, modern look with minimal branding. Their swim shorts often come in solid colors with a streamlined fit. The brand uses a mix of nylon and polyester for quick drying. Calvin Klein’s collection is available on their official site and at multi-brand retailers like Footasylum.
Other Notable Brands
Beyond the big three, several brands stand out in 2025 roundups. Bather is praised for overall quality and fashion-forward but wearable design. Fair Harbor uses recycled materials and a no-chafe liner. Rhone delivers a tailored short cut. Proof is built for performance. Patagonia offers outdoor credibility. J.Crew provides a classic preppy look. Orlebar Brown is the go-to for premium, resort-ready swimwear.
Nike and Proof use technical synthetics for quick drying. Ralph Lauren and J.Crew often use cotton blends that look dressier but take longer to dry. Orlebar Brown’s tailored shorts use a cotton-polyester mix for a balance of style and function.
Swim Trunks vs. Board Shorts: What’s the Difference?
Key Differences in Design
Swim trunks are typically shorter (5–7 inch inseam), tighter, and often include a built-in liner. Board shorts are longer (9–10+ inches), looser, and originally designed for surfing. Board shorts usually lack a liner and have a flat front with a drawstring closure. The material is often quick-dry polyester, but board shorts may have a more rugged feel.
When to Wear Trunks
Trunks are ideal for swimming laps, beach sports, and poolside lounging. Their shorter length and liner provide support and ease of movement. They also work well under shorts for a quick change.
When to Wear Board Shorts
Board shorts are best for surfing, paddleboarding, or any activity where you need extra coverage and freedom of movement. They are also popular among men who prefer a looser fit or have longer legs. REI’s assortment includes 9-inch boardshorts for this purpose.
Hybrid Styles
Hybrid shorts combine elements of both. They usually have an 8–9 inch inseam, subtle patterns, and quick-dry fabric, making them suitable for both water and casual wear. Men’s Health highlights Polo Ralph Lauren’s Traveler Classic as a versatile hybrid option.
Designer swim shorts using cotton blends can stay wet for hours. If you plan to transition from water to a restaurant or bar, choose a quick-dry synthetic or a hybrid style. Always check the fabric composition.
Evolution of the Men’s Swim Short
- 1930s – Introduction of the first modern swim trunks.
- 1990s – Rise of board shorts influenced by surf culture.
- 2000s – Board shorts become mainstream, with long lengths (20+ inches) popular.
- 2010s – Shift back to shorter, tailored trunks (5–7 inch inseam).
- 2020s – Performance fabrics and sustainable materials gain prominence.
- 2025+ – Hybrid shorts (swim + lounge) emerge; focus on versatile design and recycled materials.
Facts vs. Myths About Swim Shorts
| Statement | Status | Clarification |
|---|---|---|
| Swim shorts and board shorts are the same thing. | Myth | Swim trunks are shorter and tighter; board shorts are longer and looser, originally for surfing. |
| Nike makes durable and high-performance swim shorts. | Well-established | Nike is a long-standing leader in athletic swimwear, known for Dri-FIT technology. |
| Ralph Lauren swim shorts are always 100% cotton. | Uncertain | Ralph Lauren uses various blends; some are cotton-polyester for faster drying. Always check the tag. |
Why This Matters for Your Wardrobe
Choosing the right swim short is about balancing form and function. For active swimming, prioritize technical fabrics (nylon/polyester) with quick-dry capabilities and a secure liner. For lounging or casual wear, a designer option like Ralph Lauren or Calvin Klein offers elevated style, though often at the cost of slower drying times. The trend in 2025 continues moving towards shorter inseams (5–7 inches) for a modern silhouette, but classic board shorts remain popular for those wanting more coverage. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your primary use case – lap swimming, beach volleyball, or poolside relaxation.
What the Experts Say
“The best swim shorts for the long, hot summer of 2026 feature styles from Asket to Ché Studios.”
– GQ Magazine (2025 roundup)
GQ’s editors tested multiple brands and highlighted Bather as a top overall pick, also noting Orlebar Brown for a tailored, upscale look. Men’s Health and The Strategist similarly recommend Fair Harbor for everyday comfort and Rhone for a flattering short cut.
What to Look For
Watch for brands offering shorts made from recycled materials – sustainable swimwear is a growing trend. Hybrid shorts with an 8–9 inch inseam and subtle patterns can transition from water to dinner table. Online fit tools are becoming standard; use them for accurate sizing. For a broader view of summer apparel, see our Black Cardigan Buying Guide and Best Nike Running Shoes for 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About Swim Shorts
Can I wear swim shorts as regular shorts?
It’s not recommended for extended wear as they lack the comfort and pockets of casual shorts. However, hybrid ‘walk-shorts’ are designed for dual use.
Do all swim shorts have an elastic waistband?
Most do, but some designer shorts have a drawstring only. Elastic provides a more secure fit.
How often should I replace my swim shorts?
Every 1–2 years, or when the elastic wears out, the liner degrades, or the color fades significantly.
Can I machine dry swim shorts?
Avoid machine drying as high heat damages the elastic and liner. Air dry instead.
What is the best inseam length for a modern look?
5.5 to 7 inches is the most flattering and versatile range for most men.
Are expensive swim shorts worth it?
Higher-priced shorts often use better materials, have reinforced seams, and offer more stylish designs. Brands like Orlebar Brown and Bather justify the cost with quality and longevity.
Should I buy lined or linerless swim shorts?
Lined shorts offer built-in support and reduce chafing. Linerless shorts give you flexibility to wear your own underwear. Choose based on comfort preference.
How do I remove sunscreen stains from swim shorts?
Rinse immediately after use, then wash with a gentle detergent. Avoid rubbing, which can push the stain deeper. Air drying in sunlight can help fade stains.
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