New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change.
Surf’s up, dudes — and if you’re still pulling on the same chlorine-stained trunks from last summer, we have news: it’s time to upgrade. Bathing suit season isn’t just about looking good poolside, it’s about feeling like the sun-soaked legend you are — from the beach bar to the backstroke. Whether you’re lounging at the lake or booking it to the Bahamas, there’s never been a better time to refresh your rotation of swimwear.
We scoured the internet, sampled fits, and judged the elastic waistbands so you don’t have to. Think neon prints, compressive liners, 5-inch inseams, and breathable stretch. This year’s lineup features editor favorites, TikTok sleepers, customer cult classics, and even a few under-$30 bangers that actually look expensive.
Unless you frequent the more scantily-clad beaches abroad, the one thing you’ll need to make sure you have for summer is a great pair of swim trunks. And after a year of wear from the beach and chlorine, chances are it’s time for a new suit in 2025.
From baggier trunks to board shorts for days out on the boat, check out our list below for comfortable and stylish swim trunks that will make any man beach-body ready just by putting on a pair of shorts.
Best Men’s Swim Trunks Overall: Vuori Cruise Boardshort
VuoriOne day, you’ll be able to swim in a sea free of discarded plastic bottles, with the help of these shorts.
Vuori believes in a clean ocean and eco-friendly clothing, which is how the Cruise Boarshorts came about. They are made with recycled plastic bottles but feel super high-quality in and out of the water. The shorts come in a variety of colors as well, including the blue above, pink, yellow, and black.
Size options: 28-40 | Color options: Available in one print | Materials: n/a
Best Designer Swim Trunks: Orlebar Brown Bulldog Gray Malin Côte d’Azur Swim Shorts
Orlebar BrownThese are not your average swim trunks — they’re swimwear in the same way a Rolex is a watch. Orlebar Brown’s Bulldog silhouette is tailored to perfection, with side-fasteners for a customizable fit, a mid-length cut that flatters just about everyone, and quick-dry fabric that still looks crisp out of the water. But what sets this pair apart is the limited-edition collaboration with photographer Gray Malin, featuring an aerial print of the Côte d’Azur that turns your ass into a walking art exhibit.
The Post’s commerce editorial director, Barret Wertz, said, “This bathing suit is expensive as hell, and it looks like it. This is the suit to wear when you really want to get noticed. Orelbar Brown really made waves in swimwear when it printed Slim Aarons on its trim-fitting Bulldog style, so now that vibe has become an iconic look. This time, it’s another famous leisure photog, Gray Malin. A word of warning, size up, because this style runs a little small.”
Size options: 28-40 | Color options: Available in one print | Materials: 45% Recycled Polyester, 45% Polyester, 10% Elastane
Best Fast Drying Swim Trunks: Patagonia Baggies 5″
Dick's Sporting GoodsPatagonia’s cult-loved Baggies are iconic for a reason. The quick-dry nylon sheds water fast and the mesh liner adds just enough support for ocean dips or waterfall climbs. Plus, they come in a ridiculous range of patterns and colors — from solid black to 90s throwback prints — and are Fair Trade sewn for bonus feel-good points.
Size options: S-XXL | Color options: 18 | Materials: 4-Ply 4.9 oz Recycled Nylon
Best Long Swim Trunks: Kanu Surf Men’s Barracuda Swim Trunks
AmazonIf Amazon chose it, it has to be good. This pair of trunks from Kanu Surf are an Amazon Choice product, racking up over 63,000 reviews and counting. Join the many loyal supporters of the brand, rocking trunks in any of the 40+ colors and patterns.
Size options: S-5X | Color options: 43 | Materials: 100% Polyester
Best Swim Trunks with UPF: Outerknown APEX Evolution Trunk by Kelly Slater
OuterknownDesigned in collaboration with Kelly Slater, these trunks are as technical as they are stylish. The Apex Trunk is made with 86% recycled polyester and offers UPF 50+ sun protection without feeling bulky. With a bonded back pocket, welded seams, and clean aesthetic, it’s ideal for the guy who appreciates thoughtful design.
Size options: 28-42 | Color options: 8 | Materials: 90% NetPlus® Recycled Nylon, 10% Spandex
Best Swim Trunks with Compression Lining: LRD Men’s Swim Trunks
AmazonSome of us like extra coverage and support, which is why we’re adding these swim trunks from Amazon to our cart. They have just enough stretch to comfortably swim laps, but are long enough to enjoy away from the pool or beach. Available in a variety of snazzy prints, they also have side pockets, and a mesh compression interior short that is as comfy as a pair of boxer briefs.
Size options: S-XL | Color options: 14 | Materials: 97% Polyester, 3% Spandex
Best Cool Men’s Swim Trunks: Fair Harbor The Anchor
Fair HarborThese are the Amazon of swim trunks — crowd-pleasing, eco-friendly, and engineered to flatter. The Anchor features a recycled polyester shell, a silky smooth boxer-brief liner, and a discreet zipper pocket. Over 21,000 reviews back it up as one of the best all-around trunks out there.
According to Wertz, “this brand walks the walk when it comes to sustainability (each pair is made from recycled plastic bottles), but that’s not the only reason we love it. The Anchor trunks nail that just-right length and laid-back style that somehow looks good on everyone. Function meets form without screaming ‘performance wear.'”
Size options: S-3X | Color options: 22 | Materials: 88% Recycled Polyester, 12% Spandex
Best Board Trunks: O’Neill Outseam Hyperfreak Stretch Swim Boardshort

O’Neill’s Hyperfreaks are the go-to boardshorts for guys who actually board. Designed with O’Neill’s Hyperdry fabric and four-way stretch, they’re lightweight, high-performing, and cut to move like a second skin. No liner, no drag, just pure performance with a low-profile waistband that won’t dig in. Plus, they dry ridiculously fast.
Size options: 28, 40 | Color options: 2 | Materials: 89% Polyester, 11% Elastane
Best Brief: Vilebrequin Men Swim Brief Solid
VilebrequinFor those who enjoy European vacations, here is a suit for you. Bare it all in a comfortable swim brief that will give you the best tan lines and least bulk under shorts or pants before jumping in the water. The briefs come in both green and blue, as well as a super fun neon green with shells. Like all Vilebrequin suits, minimalism is key and, well, they are definitely minimal.
Size options: XS-XXXL | Color options: 2 | Materials: n/a
Best Plus Size Swim Trunks: Chubbies Classic Lined Shorts
ChubbiesThese Chubbies are super stylish, especially a shorter look and a fun time hanging by the pool. Check out the neon sign palm tree print, lined with a matching stretch liner to keep everything contained.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.


