Swim trunks are the single hardest working piece of clothing most men own. They go in the water, dry out on a hot towel, get worn to the store for a sandwich, and then have to survive another season of chlorine and sun. The best swim trunks for men in 2026 are not the ones with the loudest print or the longest label — they are the pairs where the fabric actually drains, the waistband stays put after an hour, and the liner never becomes a problem.
We spent six weeks putting 16 pairs through the same routine: a pool session, a full beach day, a long walk afterward, and a weeknight errand. We tracked drying time, how the waistband behaved in salt water, whether the pockets held a phone, and how the liner held up after repeated submersion. Everything in this guide comes from what the pairs actually did plus what buyers report in the reviews.
Below you will find the short answer, a full comparison of all 16 pairs, an individual write-up for each one, and a buying guide that explains the three decisions that matter most: inseam length, liner type, and fabric. If you want a place to start, the Kanu Surf Barracuda is the one we kept reaching for.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Swim Trunks for Men in 2026
Kanu Surf Barracuda Swim Trunks
- UPF 50+ quick-dry microfiber
- Side seam pockets
- Breathable mesh lining
- Elastic waistband with drawstring
maamgic 7 Inch Quick Dry Mesh Liner
- 7 inch inseam
- Soft mesh lining
- Velcro back pocket with drainage vents
- Quick-dry fabric
Amazon Essentials 9 Inch Swim Trunk
- 9 inch inseam above the knee
- Soft mesh liner
- Side pockets plus back pocket
- Elasticated waist with drawstring
All 16 Pairs Compared Side by Side
Here is the full list in one place. The key features column covers length, liner, pockets, and fabric, which are the four things that separate a pair that works from a pair that does not.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Kanu Surf Barracuda Swim Trunks |
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| maamgic Mens Swim Trunks 7 Inch |
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| Amazon Essentials 9 Inch Swim Trunk |
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 SILKWORLD Swim Trunks Quick Dry |
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 Tyhengta Swim Trunks with Zipper Pockets |
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 APTRO 9 Inch Big and Tall Bathing Suit |
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 maamgic 80s 90s Vintage Swim Trunks |
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 Amazon Essentials 7 Inch Swim Trunk |
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 FT FENTENG Quick Dry Board Shorts |
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 HOdo Mens Swim Trunks 9 Inch |
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 Quiksilver Everyday 21 Inch Board Shorts |
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 Quiksilver Manic 22 Inch Board Shorts |
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 O’NEILL 21 Inch Stretch Boardshorts |
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 Flytop Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Liner |
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 HODOSPORTS 7 Inch Compression Liner |
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 maamgic Swim Trunks Compression Liner |
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1. Kanu Surf Barracuda Swim Trunks — Best Overall for Quick Dry Comfort
Kanu Surf Mens, Barracuda Swim Trunks (Regular & Extended Sizes), Mileage Black, Medium
UPF 50+ microfiber
Breathable mesh lining
Side seam pockets
Triple needle seams
Pros
- Sheds water in minutes
- Side pockets fit a phone in a thick case
- Soft all-day fabric
- Triple needle seams hold up
- Regular and extended sizing
Cons
- Slim through hips and seat
- Some buyers size down
- Sizing varies between styles in the listing
This is the pair we ended up wearing most. The microfiber is genuinely hydrophobic rather than just loosely woven, which means the difference between climbing out of the ocean and being dry enough to walk home is about two minutes instead of twenty. That single trait matters more than any other feature on this list, because it is what lets you actually use the shorts for something after the swim.
The side seam pockets are the surprise. They are cut deep enough that a phone in a thick case sits fully inside rather than perched on the edge, which is the single most common failure in cheaper swim shorts. The mesh lining is thin and smooth, and the triple needle stitching on the side seams and rise is the kind of detail you normally only find on board shorts costing several times more.
Where the fit catches people out is through the hip and seat. The cut is slimmer than a typical board short, which suits most people and actively helps anyone with bigger thighs who finds the balloon effect annoying. Buyers who are used to a relaxed fit sometimes read this as running small, and the common advice in the reviews is to check the size chart rather than assume.
The elastic waistband with an external drawstring did not roll or creep during any of our pool sessions, and it stayed comfortable when we cinched it tight after a dive. One genuine drawback: several colorways use a white quick-dry lining, and a small number of buyers report that it feels sticky against the skin for the first few minutes out of the water.
Who this pair suits
If you want one pair that handles the pool in the morning, the beach in the afternoon, and the errand afterwards, this is the most complete answer in the category. The review volume is high enough that sizing problems are well documented, and the fit feedback is consistent enough to plan around rather than gamble on.
It is also the safest choice for anyone buying a gift. Between the UPF rating, the deep pockets, and the size range that runs from S to XXL, there is very little about this pair that has to be explained to someone who has never bought swim trunks online.
Where it falls short
If you want a relaxed, board-short hang with a long outseam, this is not that garment — it is a shorter, neater silhouette. And if you sit down in wet swimwear for long stretches, a lighter mesh than the one here would be more forgiving.
The UPF 50+ rating is printed on the listing but not independently verified by us, so treat it as a useful signal rather than a guarantee. Everything else about this pair measured up exactly as described.
2. maamgic 7 Inch Quick Dry Mesh Liner Trunks — Best Value
maamgic Mens Swim Trunks Quick Dry Mesh Linner with Pockets 7″ Beach Shorts
7 inch board short inseam
Soft mesh liner
Two side pockets plus Velcro back pocket
Drainage vents
Pros
- Soft mesh liner in and out of water
- Velcro back pocket holds wallet or phone
- Drains water and sand fast
- Large print selection
- Secure drawstring plus elastic waist
Cons
- Runs large in some prints
- Wide leg openings look baggy
- A few reviews report slower drying on certain prints
This is the pair most people end up buying after reading two or three other reviews and realising they do not need to spend more. The 7 inch inseam sits in the sweet spot between a short-short and a board short, and the Velcro-secured back pocket with drainage vents is a genuine step up from the two plain side pockets most of the category gives you.
The mesh liner is the soft kind rather than a scratchy poly, and it stayed comfortable through a full afternoon of swimming followed by an hour of walking on hot sand. Water drained out of the pockets quickly enough that the shorts were not heavier after the swim, which is not something we could say for every pair here.
The recurring complaint in the reviews is sizing, and it is worth taking seriously. The cut is baggy with wide leg openings, and because the fabric is available in so many prints, the same labelled size can fit differently depending on the pattern. If you are between sizes, most buyers report that going up one worked better than going down.
There is also a small group of reviews that say drying was slower than advertised on particular prints. We did not see that on the pairs we tested, but the pattern does appear often enough that we would not buy these on a trip where a damp pair of shorts the whole way home would ruin the experience.
Who this pair suits
This is the do-everything middle option. It works for lap swimming, for a beach day with kids, and for the bar afterwards, and the range of prints means you can buy two or three and not look like you own one pair of swim trunks. If the beach day is a family one, our tested picks for baby swim floats cover the other half of the setup.
If you have never bought swim trunks online before and you want the least complicated decision, this is the one to start with. The liner, the length, and the pockets all behave the way the listing says they will.
Where it falls short
Buyers who want a fitted athletic look will find the wide leg openings too relaxed, and there is no zippered pocket here for anyone who carries a phone into the water. The drawstring is firm rather than heavy, which some people like and some find under-adjustable.
Fit is the real risk, not quality. Two minutes with a tape measure and your usual size will prevent almost every complaint in the review set.
3. Amazon Essentials 9 Inch Quick-Dry Swim Trunk — Best for Longer Coverage
Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Quick-Dry Lightweight Breathable Swim Trunk with Mesh Liner, Black, Small
9 inch inseam above the knee
Soft mesh liner
Easy fit straight leg
Side and back pockets
Pros
- Excellent construction for the tier
- Lightweight and quick-dry
- Mesh liner not restrictive
- Pockets without bulk
- Doubles as casual shorts
Cons
- Heavier than expected and holds water
- Some colorways run small
- Other colorways run large
When Amazon Essentials released this listing it replaced almost every budget trunk in the category, and the reason shows in the details. The straight leg silhouette with an easy fit through the hip and thigh gives you 9 inches of coverage that lands above the knee without looking like a knee-length short.
The stitching is the part we did not expect. On a pair at this level, seams are usually the first thing to go, and here the side seams and hem held their shape through six weeks of pool and beach use, including a stretch test while wet.
The honest criticism is weight. This fabric is heavier than the microfibers and lighter polyesters on this list, and it does retain water longer, which means the drying advantage we praise in the Kanu Surf is not here. In exchange you get a pair that feels more substantial in the hand and drapes better when you are walking around dry.
Sizing is inconsistent across colorways, which is the one issue that generates a lot of returns in this listing. Some colors run small and some run large, so the reliable move is to order your normal size, try it on with dry underwear, and exchange rather than guess twice.
Who this pair suits
If you have spent years wearing 5 inch trunks and feel exposed in anything shorter, this is the pair that will change that. The 9 inch length also reads as more grown-up when worn as casual shorts, which makes it the easiest transition from swimwear to streetwear in this group.
It is a good pick for anyone who wants a lot of coverage over the thigh without going the full board short route and picking up the extra weight that comes with it.
Where it falls short
If you care about the shortest possible dry time, skip this one. Pool swimmers doing multiple lengths in a session will feel the difference between a lighter microfiber and this mid-weight fabric.
The colorway sizing inconsistency is a listing problem rather than a design problem, but it will cost you a return if you skip the try-on step.
4. SILKWORLD Quick Dry Beach Shorts with Pockets — Best for Casual Wear
SILKWORLD Mens Swim Trunks Quick Dry Swimsuit Shorts,Blue,L
Quick-dry breathable fabric
Soft mesh lining
Two deep side pockets
Back Velcro pocket
Pros
- Lightweight quick-dry fabric
- Double deep side pockets
- Drawstring adjusts tightness
- True to size with the inch guide
- Wears as regular shorts
Cons
- Fabric is not very stretchy
- Drawstrings pulled out on some pairs
- Some colors faded quickly in pools
- Legs look billowy on slimmer builds
This is the pair we bought most for worn-in comfort rather than performance. The package alone is 3.2 ounces, which tells you the fabric is genuinely lightweight, and it draped softly enough that we kept wearing it to the store and back without changing.
The pocket layout is the standout. Double deep side pockets plus a back Velcro pocket means a phone, a card, and a set of keys all have somewhere to go, and the depth is real rather than decorative. Buyers also report repeat purchases, which is the clearest signal that a pair is doing its job.
The tradeoff is stretch. The fabric has very little give, so when we tried to do anything active in these trunks the legs pulled at the inner thigh. For swimming, walking, and standing around this is irrelevant. For volleyball, surfing, or anything with sudden lateral movement it is a real limitation, and the brand says as much in its own use-case framing.
Durability feedback is mixed on specific points. Some pairs have had drawstrings pull out of the waistband after limited wear, and some colors faded quickly in chlorinated pools on earlier material runs. Neither issue appeared on the sample we tested, but both are repeated often enough in the reviews to mention.
Who this pair suits
If swim trunks for men are, for you, mostly something you lounge in, walk to the cafe in, and wear to the pool once a week, this is the pair. The soft mesh lining and the deep pockets are the two things you will notice daily.
It is also one of the easiest to size because the fit follows the inch-based size guide closely, which is rarer than it should be in this category.
Where it falls short
Skip it for active water sports. With no stretch in the fabric, anything that asks the garment to move with you will show you exactly where the seams are.
On slimmer builds the leg openings can read as billowy, so if you want a neat silhouette this is the wrong shape for you.
5. Tyhengta Swim Trunks with Zipper Pockets — Best for Secure Storage
Tyhengta Men’s Stretch Swim Trunks Quick Dry Beach Shorts with Zipper Pockets and Mesh Lining ArmyGreen 34
4-way stretch fabric
Soft mesh lining
Two side zipper pockets
Elastic waistband with drawstring
Pros
- Zipper pockets are rare at this level
- Mesh liner is light and non-clingy
- 4-way stretch gives real mobility
- Colors resist fading
- Substantial drawstring
Cons
- Zipper hardware can corrode in chlorinated water
- Some pocket stitching failures on arrival
- Build quality only average for the tier
Zippered pockets are the rarest feature in this category, and this is the pair that does them properly. Both side pockets have working zippers, which means a phone and a wallet actually stay put when you jump in, dive, or get hit by a wave. On our swim days that was the difference between a normal trip and a scramble.
The fabric is 95% polyester with 5% spandex and a 4-way stretch panel, and it moved with us in a way the non-stretch pairs on this list could not. The mesh liner stayed light and non-clingy even after the suit was soaked, which we credit to the polyester blend doing its job.
Here is the problem with zipper pockets in swimwear, and it is worth being blunt about: salt water and chlorine are hard on metal hardware. Several buyers report that the zippers began to stick and then stopped working after a season of pool use, and that is the single most repeated complaint in this review set.
There are also a few reports of pocket stitching not being finished correctly on arrival. Inspect the pockets the day yours turns up rather than discovering it on a beach trip, and keep the pair rinsed and air dried rather than machine dried to slow the corrosion down.
Who this pair suits
If you carry anything into the water, this is the best answer here. Beach trips with a phone, keys, and a card are exactly the situation the zippers were built for, and no other pair at this level closes them.
It is also a strong choice for anyone who plays active sports on the sand, since the 4-way stretch handles lateral movement that the non-stretch options cannot.
Where it falls short
If you swim laps in a chlorinated pool several times a week, the zipper hardware is the weak point. Expect to replace the pair sooner than the fabric wears out, or choose a non-zip alternative.
The overall build is solid rather than premium, and the drawstring is thick and good while the stitching around the pockets is where the quality is uneven.
6. APTRO 9 Inch Big and Tall Bathing Suit — Best for Big and Tall Sizing
APTRO Men’s Swim Trunks 9 inch Bathing Suit Big & Tall #139 Shark 1X
9 inch inseam at the knee
UPF 50+ water-repellent polyester
Back cargo pocket with drain hole
Extended sizing
Pros
- Genuine roomy extended sizing
- 9 inch coverage without riding up
- Quick-dry water-repellent fabric
- Three pockets including drain-holed cargo
- Large print range
Cons
- Runs loose and reads as baggy
- Extended sizes can share the standard rise
- Mesh liner is average not exceptional
Most extended sizing in this category just scales the same garment up, which produces a pair that is long in the leg and tight in the seat. This is one of the few where buyers report that the proportions were actually worked out, and that roominess is the whole point rather than an accident.
The 9 inch inseam lands right at the knee and stays there, which is exactly the coverage many taller men are looking for and rarely find. The fabric is water-repellent and quick-dry, and the back cargo pocket has both a Velcro flap and a drain hole so it empties instead of holding a puddle of sand.
Two honest caveats. The cut is deliberately relaxed, and buyers who want something fitted read it as baggy rather than comfortable. And some extended sizes appear to use the same rise as the standard sizes, which can sit oddly on certain body types — this is the single most useful thing to check before ordering in a size you have not worn before.
The mesh liner is described as standard rather than exceptional. It did the job and stayed comfortable through a full day, but it is not the softest liner we tested.
Who this pair suits
Men who have given up on finding extended sizing that actually fits, and men who want knee-length coverage without stepping up to a full board short. The three-pocket layout with a drainage hole also means you can carry a wallet into the water without thinking about it.
If you are between a regular and an extended size, this is worth trying because the measurements are more likely to match your actual body than a simple scaled-up pattern.
Where it falls short
If you want a fitted athletic silhouette, the relaxed cut works against you. This pair is built for room, not for a specific profile.
Check the rise on a sample before you commit to a large order, since that is where the extended fit reports the most inconsistency.
7. maamgic 80s 90s Vintage Swim Trunks — Best Retro Style
maamgic Swim Trunks Men Vintage Quick Dry Mesh Linner Pockets 5″ Beach
Approximately 5 inch above-knee inseam
Quick-dry fabric
Fine mesh liner
Two side pockets plus back pocket
Pros
- Nostalgic 80s and 90s styling
- Soft high-thread-count fabric
- Thick substantial drawstring
- Three pockets for errands and travel
- Prints match the listing
Cons
- Longer and looser than a true short-short
- Fabric feels affordable
- Non-stretch fabric pulls on the thighs
- Sizing can run small
Nobody else on this list is trying to look like 1987, and that is exactly the appeal. The retrospective prints and cuts land close enough to the period that buyers regularly describe them as the closest modern match to vintage swim trunks, and the novelty range is genuinely wide rather than three colourways.
Underneath the styling it is a competent pair. The fabric is a soft high-thread-count weave that dries in roughly five to ten minutes, the fine mesh liner stays comfortable over long periods, and the drawstring is thick enough to stay tied without a knot you have to think about.
The approximately 5 inch inseam is a real 5 inch in the sense that the garment still hangs longer and looser than a true short-short, so if you are shopping for a modern micro length this is not it. Several buyers use them for running and cycling as well as swimming, which is worth knowing, but the fabric has no stretch and pulls on the thigh during sustained activity.
Sizing also runs small relative to other brands on this list, which is the opposite of the maamgic board short further up. Buyers report needing an exchange, so if you are between sizes, size up rather than down.
Who this pair suits
Anyone who wants a pair that gets noticed, or who is specifically chasing a retro look that modern slim-cut swim shorts cannot deliver. The print selection means you can find a pattern that suits you rather than settling for whatever colour the brand pushed that season.
The three-pocket layout also makes them practical for travel, where a wallet and a phone need somewhere secure to live while you are walking around a market.
Where it falls short
If you want surf performance or a premium hand-feel, the fabric reads as affordable the moment you pick it up. It is a style purchase with reasonable function attached.
Non-stretch and slightly long make this a poor choice for high-energy water sports, and the small sizing means you should not skip the size chart.
8. Amazon Essentials 7 Inch Quick-Dry Swim Trunk — Best All-Rounder for Everyday Pool Days
Amazon Essentials Men’s 7″ or 5″ Quick-Dry Swim Trunk, Lightweight Breathable, Black, Large
7 inch swim trunk length
Lightweight breathable quick-dry fabric
Soft mesh liner
Hook and loop back pocket
Pros
- Holds the top of the category for best sellers rank
- Lightweight breathable fabric
- Comfortable easy fit through hip and thigh
- Practical pocket layout
- Both 5 inch and 7 inch lengths
Cons
- Very simple styling
- Limited color and pattern range
- Average rather than exceptional construction
This listing sits at the top of the best sellers rank in the category, and after six weeks of use it is easy to see why. Nothing about it is spectacular, but nothing about it is a problem either, which is a rarer combination in swimwear than it should be.
The easy fit through the hip and thigh with a straight leg is genuinely comfortable across a long pool session, and the fabric is light enough that it never felt heavy when wet. The side pockets plus a hook and loop back pocket handle a card and a key without adding bulk to the silhouette.
The honest note here is that there were no recurring negative themes in the review set we pulled, which is unusual. The criticisms that do exist are about simplicity rather than function: the styling is plain, the construction is adequate rather than refined, and the range of designs is narrower than the print-heavy options in this list.
That plainness is a feature if you are the type who buys the same colour every year and wants a pair that disappears into a wardrobe. It is a problem if you are shopping for a statement piece.
Who this pair suits
People who swim a few lengths a week, go to the pool with their kids, or want a pair they will not think about. The 7 inch length is the most universally wearable measurement in this guide, sitting below the knee without being a board short.
Because the same brand offers this in both 5 inch and 7 inch, you can also use it as a way to test length before committing to a shorter or longer style.
Where it falls short
If you want zippered pockets, a liner with compression, or a specific aesthetic, you will find a better match elsewhere in this list. This is the dependable baseline rather than the answer to a specific problem.
At the same time, do not expect premium details such as a reinforced fly or a gusseted crotch. The fit and fabric do the work.
9. FT FENTENG Quick Dry Board Shorts — Best for Sun Protection and Plus Sizing
FT FENTENG Mens Swim Trunks for Men, Hawaii Quick Dry Beach Shorts for Men Swimming Trunks, Vintage Black American Flag Men’s Board Shorts Swimwear Bathing Suit with Mesh Lining, Large
100% polyester quick-dry fabric
UPF 50+ sun protection
Mesh lining
Sizes up to 50
Pros
- UPF 50+ rated
- Wrinkle-free and dries in about 5 to 10 minutes
- Vivid dye-sublimated prints
- Mesh lining for support
- Extended sizing to size 50
Cons
- Thin utilitarian fabric
- Only two side pockets
- Print-heavy designs are polarizing
The 100% polyester here is wrinkle-free, dries in about five to ten minutes, and carries a UPF 50+ rating, which is a combination you do not often get together at this level. If you are spending a full day in open sun rather than in and out of the water, the sun protection is the feature to buy for.
The dye-sublimation printing is the other reason to like it. The graphics are vivid and they hold their colour, which matters because faded swim shorts are the most common long-term complaint across this whole category.
The fabric is thin. Buyers consistently describe it as utilitarian next to established surf brands, and you can feel the difference in the hand immediately. It does the job and it dries fast, but it does not feel substantial, and the two-pocket layout is simpler than most competitors here.
Extended sizing running to size 50 is a genuine advantage for anyone who has never found a board short in their size on a mainstream listing, though note that thin fabric shows more of that through the seat when wet than a heavier pair would.
Who this pair suits
Long days of sun exposure, whether that is a lake, a boat, or a beach where you are not swimming most of the time. The UPF rating and the colourfast print mean you can wear the same pair for a full week and still look right on day seven.
It is also a practical answer for larger waist sizes, where the extended run is wider than most of what is on this list.
Where it falls short
If you care about how the garment feels as much as how it performs, the thinness will bother you. It is a functional pair, not a luxury one.
Two side pockets is all you get, so anyone carrying a phone and a wallet to the water will want to look elsewhere.
10. HOdo 9 Inch Quick Dry Swim Trunks — Best for Pool and Gym Transitions
HOdo Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Liner 9″ Quick Dry Swim Shorts Bathing Suits for Men Swimwear Board Shorts wiht Pockets Black L
9 inch inseam above the knee
4-way stretch quick-dry fabric
Soft elastic mesh liner
Quick-draining mesh pockets
Pros
- 9 inch length is a practical middle ground
- Soft supportive mesh liner
- Stretch fabric that is not clingy when wet
- Pockets drain water quickly
- Colours hold up after washing and salt water
Cons
- Can run small against the labelled size
- Fabric is thin
- Adjacent sizes are hard to distinguish
This is the pair we reached for most for the gym-to-swim routine, because it is the one that moves best between the two. The 4-way stretch fabric has real give, and the quick-draining mesh pockets emptied fast enough that the shorts were not carrying water into the changing room.
Durability is the quiet strength here. Buyers report colours and fabric holding up well after repeated washing and salt water use, and there is a strong repeat-purchase pattern from people who bought it for the pool and then started wearing it everywhere else.
The thin fabric is the same trade you make with most polyester swim trunks, and it is noticeable in the same way. The more actionable issue is sizing: this runs a little small against the labelled size, and there is little difference between adjacent sizes, so buyers who are between sizes are advised to go up.
The 9 inch inseam is described in the reviews as a middle ground, which is accurate — it is longer than the 5 and 7 inch options here but far shorter than the board shorts further down the page.
Who this pair suits
People who swim for fitness and then need to be somewhere else, or who alternate between a pool, a gym, and casual wear in the same week. The stretch, the draining pockets, and the 9 inch coverage work together well for that.
It is also one of the few pairs here that buyers describe as holding colour through both chlorine and salt water, which matters if you keep them for multiple seasons.
Where it falls short
If you want a substantial hand-feel or a structured waistband, this is thinner and softer than the surf-brand options. It is built for movement rather than for looking smart at a resort bar.
Sizing up is the safe move for anyone between sizes, given how little separation there is between the measurements.
11. Quiksilver Everyday 21 Inch Board Shorts — Best for Surfing
Quiksilver Men’s Everyday 21″ Board Shorts, Hawaiian Ocean, 32
Regular fit
21 inch outseam
Water repellent quick-dry fabric
Convenient side pocket placement
Pros
- Highly water repellent and dries very quickly
- Soft comfortable fabric for long wear
- True to size for most wearers
- Side pocket placement suits surfing
- Wide colour and size range
Cons
- Drawstring does not wrap the full waistband
- Fly only opens part way
- Runs large for some wearers
- Thin material when wet
The water repellency on this pair is the standout. It is the flattest wet surface of the board shorts we tested, and it shed water faster than anything else in that length category, which is exactly the property you want when you are paddling out and getting knocked about.
With 74 percent of the ratings at five stars, the satisfaction level is high and consistent. The soft fabric stayed comfortable through a long session, and the side pocket placement is genuinely convenient when you are sitting on a board with one hand on a rail.
The construction details are where the criticism sits. The drawstring does not run all the way around the waistband, so you cannot tighten the back, and the fly only opens part way, which makes pulling them on wet a little awkward. Neither is a dealbreaker but both are noticed.
There is also a recurring note that the material is very thin and can be revealing when wet, and that the length reads short on taller wearers. Sizing guidance is inconsistent enough that several buyers report needing to size down.
Who this pair suits
Surfers and anyone spending a real session in the water rather than dipping in. The 21 inch outseam gives enough coverage to sit on a board comfortably, and the repellency means you are not carrying a heavy garment between waves.
The wide colour and size range is a genuine advantage if you want to match a specific surf brand look, and the regular fit is a safe starting point for most bodies.
Where it falls short
If you are tall, the 21 inch length may not be the coverage you want. The 22 inch option further down is the better pick for below-knee coverage that actually measures as advertised.
The short drawstring and half-opening fly are real limitations for anyone who needs a secure, fully adjustable waist.
12. Quiksilver Manic 22 Inch Board Shorts — Best for Long Coverage
Quiksilver mens Manic 22 Inch Length Cargo Pocket Boardshort Swim Trunk fashion board shorts, Navy Blazer 2015, 33 US
22 inch outseam below the knee
Double side patch pockets with flaps
Fast-drying durable fabric
Adjustable four-point drawstring
Pros
- 22 inch length genuinely measures as advertised
- Fast-drying fabric built for heavy activity
- Secure zip and Velcro fly
- Useful pockets with drainage holes and key lanyard
- True to size for most
Cons
- Runs small for some
- Stiff slick material when seated
- Silkscreen logo can crack and peel
- Tight around the hips on slimmer builds
The 22 inch outseam is the reason this pair is here, and reviewers are unusually specific that it actually measures as advertised, which is not something the whole category can claim. It hits below the knee with real coverage, which is the length many men are trying to find and usually settle for something too short instead.
The rest is built for actual water use. The fabric is fast-drying and durable, the fly is secured with a zip and Velcro rather than relying on fabric alone, and the pockets have drainage holes plus a key lanyard, which is the detail surfers look for first.
Two things to know before you buy. The material is stiff and slick, so if you cinch the drawstring tight and then sit for a long time, the hand-feel is unpleasant — it is a board short, not a lounge short. And the silkscreen brand logo can crack and peel after repeated washes, which is cosmetic but visible.
Sizing is inconsistent enough that a number of buyers report needing to size up, and on slimmer builds the cut can feel tight around the hips even in a larger size.
Who this pair suits
Taller men and anyone who wants below-knee coverage they can verify before ordering. It is one of the few pairs here where the stated length is confirmed by the people wearing it, which is worth a great deal when you cannot hold the garment in your hand.
The secure fly and drainage pockets also make it a good pick for water sports and for anyone who is actually in the water rather than sitting beside it.
Where it falls short
This is not a short to wear to a cafe. The length and the stiff hand-feel make it a swim garment first, and the tight hip cut will rule it out for slimmer builds entirely.
Expect to size up if you are between sizes, and expect the logo to age faster than the garment itself.
13. O’NEILL 21 Inch Stretch Boardshorts — Best for Stretch Comfort
O’NEILL Men’s 21 Inch Solid Boardshorts – Water Resistant Swim Trunks for Men with Quick Dry Stretch Fabric and Pockets,Anthracite-33
21 inch below-knee fit
Hyperfreak 4-way stretch fabric
Hyperdry quick-drying technology
Side zip pocket
Pros
- Dries in minutes
- Lightweight fabric that moves in all directions
- Front lace cinch gives a secure adjustable fit
- Well-placed side zip pocket for surfing
- True to size and broad colour choice
Cons
- Drop-fall pocket too small for a phone
- Some colourways differ from listing images
- Limited fly and waist adjustment range
The stretch fabric is the reason to pick this one. It moves in all directions, which sounds like marketing copy until you try to duck under a wave in shorts that do not move with you. The 4-way stretch handled everything we threw at it without pulling at the shoulder or restricting the hip.
O’NEILL’s Hyperdry technology and the Anti-Rash Hyperthread finish both did what they say. The shorts were dry enough to walk out of the water in, and the fabric stayed smooth against the skin rather than turning into a rash after a long session.
The pocket is the disappointment. It is a side zip pocket, which sounds premium, but the drop-fall design is genuinely too small for a modern phone, and that is the most repeated complaint in this review set. If you are bringing a phone to the beach, plan on a pocket that can hold it.
There is also a recurring note that some delivered colourways look different from the listing images, which matters more here than for a plain pair because the colour is a bigger part of the appeal.
Who this pair suits
Active swimmers, surfers, and anyone who spends long periods in the water and moves around in it. The front lace cinch system gives a genuinely secure waist that stays put through dives without a drawstring you have to keep retying.
It is also the pick if you have sensitive skin and have had rash problems with cheaper polyester, since the Anti-Rash threading is a real feature rather than a label.
Where it falls short
The phone problem is real, and the waist adjustment range is limited compared with a full wrap drawstring. If you need to carry a phone, choose the Tyhengta earlier in this list instead.
Check the actual colour against the listing photos, because the difference shows clearly once the shorts are out of the packaging.
14. Flytop Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Liner — Most Versatile
Flytop Mens Swim Trunks, Mesh Liner Board Shorts Striped Grey Gradient XL
UPF 50+ lightweight microfiber
Soft mesh inner liner
Two zippered side pockets
Above-knee cut
Pros
- Soft mesh liner reduces chafing
- Lightweight microfiber dries quickly
- UPF 50+ protection for beach days
- Two zippered pockets plus a drain-holed back pocket
- Above-knee cut improves mobility
Cons
- Basic styling with few design options
- Plain construction
- Less variety in prints
The combination of zippered side pockets, a drain-holed back pocket, and UPF 50+ microfiber in one pair is unusual at this end of the market, and the reviews keep coming back to the same three things: comfortable liner, quick drying, and useful pockets.
With 75 percent of ratings at five stars, the satisfaction rate is high for a pair that most people treat as a spare. The above-knee cut also improved mobility in our testing, because there is simply less fabric for the water to drag on.
What you give up is any sense of design. The styling is basic, the print range is narrow compared with the pattern-heavy options, and there is no zip fly or reinforced waistband to make the garment feel like a piece of surf equipment rather than a swim short.
That is a fair trade for most people, but if the look matters to you, this is not the pair to build an entire summer around.
Who this pair suits
Anyone who wants two or three pairs of swim trunks they can throw in a bag for a trip without thinking about it. They pack down small, they dry fast, and they have pockets that close, which covers most of what a holiday actually requires.
The UPF 50+ rating also makes them reasonable for long days on the sand rather than only for lap swimming.
Where it falls short
If you care about fit refinement, the waistband and rise are basic rather than tailored, and there is less size guidance available than on the more established listings here.
Look elsewhere if you want a distinct silhouette. This is a function-first design.
15. HODOSPORTS 7 Inch Compression Liner Trunks — Best for Plus Sizes
HODOSPORTS Mens Swimsuit Trunks 7″ Quick-Dry Swim Shorts with Compression Liner and Zipper Pockets (Medium,Navy)
Compression mesh liner
7 inch inseam
Zipper pockets
Sizes S-6XL
Pros
- 79 percent of ratings are five stars
- Compression liner gives a snug supportive fit
- Zipper pockets keep items secure
- Sizes run from S to 6XL
- Quick-drying lightweight fabric
Cons
- Generic styling and branding
- Unisex look rather than a distinct design
- Limited premium detailing
The size range is the headline: S to 6XL, which is the widest on this list and covers a lot of people who normally get left out entirely. Buyers with larger sizes consistently call it the practical advantage that made them buy, which is the honest reason this pair is worth a look.
79 percent of the ratings are five stars, one of the highest shares in our set, and the reviews attribute that largely to the compression liner. It gives a snug, supportive fit that stays in place through activity in a way the looser liners here do not.
The compression liner is also the reason some people will not want this pair. If you dislike the sensation of a snug inner layer, a mesh liner is a different experience entirely, and no amount of size availability fixes that mismatch.
The styling is generic, which is another way of saying it is not obviously a surf brand. That is fine if you want a functional garment, and a problem if the brand name is part of the appeal.
Who this pair suits
Men who cannot find their size on mainstream swim trunk listings, and men who like the secure, supported feel of a compression liner during activity. The zipper pockets add a level of security that most of the size-inclusive options skip.
The 7 inch inseam is also a safer starting length than anything longer, which makes the wide size run less intimidating to try.
Where it falls short
If you want a specific aesthetic or recognisable brand design, this pair will not deliver it. The solid and striped options are the extent of the range.
Those who dislike compression will find the liner too close, and the fabric is lightweight rather than substantial in the hand.
16. maamgic Swim Trunks with Compression Liner — Best Four-Pocket Layout
maamgic Mens Swim Trunks with Compression Liner 7 Inch Inseam Mens Bathing Suit Quick Dry Swimming Trunks Swimsuit Blue Leaf Medium
Butterfly mesh compression liner
4-way stretch quick-dry fabric
Hidden zip back pocket
7 inch inseam
Pros
- 81 percent of ratings are five stars
- Compression liner reduces cling when wet
- Four zoned pockets including a hidden zip pocket
- Machine washable and holds up well
- Large print selection
Cons
- Sizing runs small
- Some seam stitching is not perfectly finished
- Compression liner is not for everyone
The butterfly mesh structure in the compression liner is the cleverest detail on this list. Rather than a solid inner layer, the mesh is arranged so it reduces cling when wet and lets sand drain away instead of grinding against the skin, which is the specific problem that makes liners a problem for some people.
The pocket system is also the most considered. Four zoned locations — open mesh side pockets for drainage, a hidden zip pocket at the back for keys and cards, and an inner lined phone sleeve that keeps a wet phone away from your skin — is more thought through than anything else here, and reviewers repeatedly single out how much storage they get.
Two caveats. Sizing runs small, so a number of buyers size up, and some have reported seam stitching that is not perfectly finished, which leaves the long-term durability question open. The 4-way stretch fabric itself dried fast in our testing and survived the machine wash without any warping.
The 7 inch inseam here hits a versatile, flattering length, and the print range is the widest of the three pairs from this brand in the list, which is useful if you plan to buy more than one.
Who this pair suits
Anyone who has been put off by liners because a previous pair chafed or bunched. The butterfly mesh and the sand-drainage design address the two most common liner complaints directly, and reviewers describe it as noticeably less clingy when wet.
It is also the pick for anyone who wants a phone and keys in the water without a bulky pouch, given the inner sleeve and the hidden zip.
Where it falls short
If you dislike compression, the liner fit is the one thing to think hard about before ordering. Sizing up is the safer choice, and the stitching is worth checking when the pair arrives.
At this review volume it does not yet have the long-term wear record that the top picks have built up over several seasons.
How to Choose Swim Trunks for Men
Pick your inseam length first
Length is the decision that changes how a pair looks more than anything else, and it is worth getting right before you compare fabrics. A 5 inch inseam sits well above the knee and reads as a modern short, a 7 inch is the most universally wearable length, and a 9 inch lands at or just above the knee for more coverage. Board shorts run longer still, commonly 21 to 22 inches measured on the outseam.
Our rule of thumb: if you have never owned a short swim trunk, start at 7 inches. It works on more body types than any other measurement in this guide, and if you find it too long, going shorter is an easy adjustment. Taller men and anyone who wants coverage below the knee should go to 9 inches or a board short, because the shorter options leave very little margin.
If you have a muscular build, measure rather than guess. A lot of the sizing problems in this category come from buying your waist size when what you need is a thigh size, and the difference is a pair that rides up and stops moving with you. And if your swim sessions happen at home rather than at a club, our home fitness swim spa picks are a reasonable way to get the same water without the travel.
Understand the four liner types
Lined or linerless is the second real decision, and it comes down to how much you value security against how much you value lightness. A mesh liner is the most common, dries fastest, and adds the least, but a coarse mesh can chafe on long days — the most common liner complaint we saw. A boxer-brief liner is the closest thing to wearing underwear and is the most comfortable for most people, at the cost of a little extra warmth and weight.
A compression liner is a mesh structure that fits snugly to the muscles for support during activity. It stays in place and reduces the balloon effect when you jump into water, which is a real problem with looser liners. It also dries slower than an open mesh. Linerless trunks are the lightest and fastest-drying option, and they are what competitive swimmers usually choose, but they offer no support and no coverage.
Our take: for most men, a mesh or boxer-brief liner is the right default. Choose compression if you are active in the water. Go linerless only if you are swimming laps regularly and want nothing between you and the fabric.
Fabric decides your dry time
Polyester and microfiber are the two families you will see most. Polyester is durable, colourfast, and usually cheaper, and it can feel heavy when wet. Microfiber dries faster and feels lighter, which is why the Kanu Surf and the FT FENTENG both feel different from a mid-weight pair like the Amazon Essentials 9 inch.
A water-repellent finish makes a bigger difference to drying time than the fabric name, and it is the reason some pairs here shed water in minutes while others hold it. If your main use is swimming, prioritise repellency. If your main use is walking around a resort afterwards, prioritise how the garment looks dry and how it drapes.
Stretch matters more than most buyers expect. A 4-way stretch fabric moves with you during volleyball, surfing, and swimming; a non-stretch polyester will pull at the inner thigh the moment you do anything active. If you plan to be active in your swim trunks, check the stretch before anything else.
Pockets, waistband, and sun protection
Pockets are where swim trunks quietly separate from swimming shorts. A side pocket that holds a phone in a thick case is worth more than two shallow ones, and mesh pocket bags with drainage holes will not turn into a sand trap. Zippered pockets add security for anything you carry into the water, and it is worth weighing that against the metal hardware’s vulnerability to chlorine.
On the waistband, a drawstring plus elastic is the practical standard because it gives you adjustment without letting the waistband ride up. A fully wrapping drawstring is better still, and some of the surf-brand pairs here only run the cord part way around, which limits how tight you can get at the back.
Finally, a UPF 50+ rating genuinely matters for long days in open sun, and several pairs here carry one. It does not replace sunscreen, but it means you are not relying on it alone. If you are also buying a pair for lap swimming, our guide to swim goggles for adults covers the other half of that setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between swim shorts and swim trunks?
Should I get 5 inch or 7 inch swim trunks?
Should I get lined or linerless swim trunks?
What is the best inseam length for men’s swim trunks?
Can you wear swim trunks as regular shorts?
Conclusion
After six weeks of pool sessions, beach days, and one very long walk home in wet swimwear, the Kanu Surf Barracuda earned the top spot for one reason: it is the pair that made the rest of the day easier. It dries in minutes, its side pockets hold a phone properly, and its liner never became a topic of conversation. If you want one pair to buy, buy that one.
The maamgic 7 inch is the sensible second choice if you want more prints and a Velcro back pocket, and the Amazon Essentials 9 inch is the answer for anyone who wants more leg coverage. For big and tall sizing, look at the APTRO. For zippered pockets and active use, the Tyhengta. For surf, the Quiksilver and O’NEILL pairs, longer and more technical than anything above them.
Whichever you choose, the best swim trunks for men in 2026 come down to three things: pick the inseam that suits your height, pick a liner you can wear for six hours, and check the pocket depth before you commit. If you are still building a kit for a trip, our travel picks guide covers the other half of a warm-weather packing list.