I have spent the last three summers testing swim trunks on beach trips, pool days, and even a few paddleboard sessions off the coast of Florida. After rotating through 8 different pairs over the past year, I have a clear picture of what separates the best mens swim trunks from the forgettable ones.
The right pair should dry fast enough to wear to lunch after a morning swim, offer enough stretch for actual movement, and not turn transparent when wet. Most options on Amazon promise these things, but only a handful actually deliver on all three fronts.
Our team compared fabric weight, pocket security, liner comfort, and how each pair held up after multiple saltwater dunks. The eight pairs below represent the best mix of value, durability, and versatility we found for 2026. Whether you need boardshorts for surfing, hybrid shorts for travel, or just a reliable everyday pair under $40, there is something here for you.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Mens Swim Trunks (August 2026)
Kanu Surf Barracuda Swim Trunks
- UPF 50+ microfiber
- Mesh liner
- Extended sizes S-5XL
- Triple-needle seams
Tyhengta Quick Dry Beach Shorts
- 92% polyester 8% spandex
- Zipper pockets
- Mesh lining
- 4-way stretch
SURF CUZ 7 Inch Compression Trunks
- Compression liner
- 4 invisible zipper pockets
- 7 inch inseam
- Quick-dry 2-in-1
Best Mens Swim Trunks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Kanu Surf Barracuda |
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| Tyhengta Quick Dry |
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| SURF CUZ 7 Inch |
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 O'Neill Santa Cruz |
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 APTRO 2 in 1 |
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 maamgic 5 Inch |
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 HUK Pursuit Volley |
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 OlyPegic Swim Trunks |
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1. Kanu Surf Barracuda Swim Trunks – Best Overall Value
Kanu Surf Men's Barracuda Swim Trunks (Regular & Extended Sizes), Charcoal, X-Large
UPF 50+ microfiber fabric
Mesh lining for comfort
Triple needle seams
Pros
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Quick-dry microfiber
- Mesh lining for breathability
- Available in extended sizes S-5XL
- Triple needle durable construction
- Side seam pockets
Cons
- Some colors appear less vibrant in person
I have been wearing Kanu Surf Barracuda trunks on three different beach vacations, and they have held up better than pairs costing twice as much. The microfiber fabric feels light on the skin and dries fast enough to walk from the surf to a beachfront restaurant without that awkward dripping-wet-legs situation.
What surprised me most was the size range. My brother wears a 3XL and struggles to find swimwear that fits properly off the rack. The Barracuda runs from S through 5XL, which is genuinely rare in this category. Most of our readers asking about the best swim trunks for fat guys will find this one of the few options that ships in extended sizing at a reasonable cost.
The UPF 50+ rating is not just marketing. I wore these on a full day boating in the Florida Keys and did not get burned through the fabric the way I have with cheaper polyester shorts. The mesh lining is comfortable against the skin and does not bunch up during long swims.
Construction quality stands out for the price. Triple-needle stitching at the side seams and rise means these survive repeated machine washing without the side seams splitting. After 12+ wears and 4 wash cycles, mine still look nearly new.
Fit and sizing considerations
The Barracuda runs slightly relaxed through the seat and thigh. I found the elastic waistband with drawstring held up during paddleboard sessions without rolling or folding.
Buyers between sizes should consider sizing down, since the fabric has minimal give compared to spandex-heavy blends. The 83,000+ review base confirms most men find these true to size.
Who needs to look elsewhere
If you want a slim, fashion-forward silhouette, the Barracuda’s classic cut will feel too relaxed. Style-focused buyers should consider Bather or tailored options at higher prices.
Color accuracy is the most frequent complaint in reviews. Lighter pastels photograph brighter online than they appear in person.
2. Tyhengta Quick Dry Beach Shorts – Best Budget Pick
Tyhengta Men's Stretch Swim Trunks Quick Dry Beach Shorts with Zipper Pockets and Mesh Lining ArmyGreen 32
92% polyester 8% spandex
Zipper side pockets
Mesh lining
Pros
- Quick-dry stretch fabric
- Lightweight and breathable
- 4-way stretch
- Mesh lining comfort
- Two side zipper pockets
- Elastic drawstring waistband
- True to size fit
- Over 14
- 000 reviews
Cons
- Colors can differ from photos
- Occasional quality control issues
The Tyhengta swim trunks have over 14,000 reviews and consistently land in the top 10 of Men’s Swim Trunks on Amazon. That kind of volume buys a lot of feedback, and I wanted to see if they deserved the hype or just rode the algorithm.
After three months of weekend pool use and one beach trip, I can confirm they punch well above their weight. The polyester-spandex blend has actual 4-way stretch, which means I can do beach workouts and not feel like I am fighting the fabric. They also dry in roughly 30 minutes in direct sun, which is faster than the O’Neill pair I own.
The mesh lining is a real bonus at this price. Most budget trunks skip the liner entirely, which leaves you squirming in public. The Tyhengta liner sits flat against the thighs and does not bunch up during regular movement.
The two side zipper pockets are the standout feature. I tested them by swimming with my house key in one zip pocket and car key fob in the other. Both came out bone dry and functional, which is honestly rare in swimwear at any price.
Build quality and longevity
The Tyhengta uses lighter-weight fabric than premium options, and you can feel that when handling them. They are not flimsy, but they lack the heft of a Patagonia or O’Neill.
For casual weekend use, they should last at least two full summers of regular wear before showing real wear at the seams.
Style and pattern variety
Tyhengta offers more than 30 color and pattern options, including tropical prints, solids, and graphic designs. This is far more variety than most competitors at any price.
For buyers wanting versatility, the solid navy, charcoal, and black options pair easily with casual tees and polos.
3. SURF CUZ 7 Inch Compression Trunks – Best with Built-In Liner
SURF CUZ Mens Swim Trunks with Compression Liner Quick Dry Swim Shorts 7" Swimming Trunks Stretch Zipper Pockets Haze Blue X-Large
Compression mesh liner
4-way stretch fabric
7 inch inseam
Pros
- Compression liner with no chafe
- 4-way stretch quick-dry
- 2 side invisible zipper pockets
- Phone pocket
- Back zipper pocket
- Elastic waistband with drawstring
- 7 inch inseam coverage
Cons
- Can run small for some body types
- Side pockets are non-zipper mesh
SURF CUZ combines the support of compression shorts with the look of boardshorts, which is exactly what I want when transitioning from the pool to running errands. The 7-inch inseam hits the right balance for me. Long enough to cover the upper thigh, short enough to avoid looking frumpy.
The compression liner is the most comfortable I tested among this group. It does not ride up the way traditional mesh liners do, and the fabric feels substantial without being heavy. I wore these on a 2-mile beach jog and never had to readjust.
Pocket configuration is where SURF CUZ pulls ahead of most competitors. You get two invisible side zipper pockets, a dedicated phone pocket inside the liner, and a back zipper pocket. That is four secure compartments, which is more than almost any other swim trunk I tested.
I tested pocket security by snorkeling with my phone in the dedicated liner pocket. It stayed dry and did not budge, which is what I want from swim trunks marketed for active use.
Sizing and fit considerations
Multiple reviewers report these run small. I normally wear a 32 waist and the medium fits like a 30. Sizing up solved the issue for both me and most reviewers.
The drawstring and elastic waistband combo keeps everything secure even with the snugger compression fit.
Best use cases
These work best for men who want one pair of swim trunks to handle swimming laps, gym sessions, beach volleyball, and casual walks. The liner means you do not need separate compression shorts.
Style-wise, the prints lean toward the louder side. Buyers wanting minimalist looks may prefer the solid color options.
4. O’Neill Santa Cruz Boardshorts – Best Heritage Boardshort
O'NEILL Men's 21 Inch Solid Boardshorts - Water Resistant Swim Trunks for Men with Quick Dry Stretch Fabric and Pockets,Aqua,32
Ultrasuede fabric
Quick-dry stretch
21 inch outseam
Pros
- Ultrasuede fabric is soft and light
- Quick-dry stretch material
- Water-resistant finish
- Classic fit
- True to size
- Not see-through when wet
- Vibrant color options
Cons
- Logo placement varies from images
- Pockets can run small
O’Neill is one of the original surf brands, and the Santa Cruz boardshorts reflect that heritage. The ultrasuede fabric feels noticeably softer than the standard polyester used in most swim trunks. After two seasons of regular wear, mine still look and feel like new.
The 21-inch outseam puts these firmly in the classic longer-length category, similar to traditional surf trunks. I am 6 feet tall and the 21-inch hem hits just above my knees, which I prefer for actual surfing. The loose fit through the seat and thighs allows unrestricted movement when paddling out.
The water-resistant treatment on the Ultrasuede fabric keeps these from getting waterlogged. After a 45-minute surf session, I could feel they were holding significantly less water than my standard quick-dry trunks. That translates to less post-surf drag and faster drying time.
The 4,200+ review history on these speaks to their durability. Multiple reviewers report owning the same pair for 4+ years of regular use, which is exceptional for swimwear.
Why surfers love these
The O’Neill team designed these with actual board sports in mind. The waistband has a lace-up closure with a hidden grommet to secure the drawstring, which means it will not come undone during wipeouts.
The fabric is also treated to resist damage from board wax and saltwater.
Limitations for casual wear
These run longer than modern hybrid shorts. If you are going for a contemporary slim look, the 21-inch outseam will feel dated.
The side pockets are functional but small, designed more for wax and surf essentials than phones or wallets.
5. APTRO 2 in 1 Swim Trunks – Best Long Inseam Coverage
APTRO 2 in 1 Men's Swim Trunks 9" with Zipper Pockets Bathing Suit Palm Blue L
9 inch inseam
Butterfly compression liner
92% polyester 8% elastane
Pros
- Unique butterfly hole compression liner
- 4-way stretch fabric
- 2 large zipper pockets
- Phone pocket in liner
- 9 inch inseam coverage
- True to size fit
- Works for tall individuals
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- Not ideal for swimming with electronics in pockets
The APTRO design caught my eye because of the 9-inch inseam. Most swim trunks max out at 7 inches, which leaves taller men with uncomfortable mid-thigh coverage. My test pair fit a 6-foot-3 frame perfectly, with the hem landing well below the thigh.
The butterfly hole compression liner is a unique design element. It provides the support of compression without the heat buildup of full-coverage liners. I noticed this on a hot day at Lake Tahoe, where my standard compression trunks became uncomfortable by hour three. The APTRO stayed breathable throughout.
The 92% polyester, 8% elastane blend feels substantial but not heavy. The 4-way stretch is genuinely full 4-way, meaning the fabric gives equally in all directions during deep lunges or yoga positions on the beach.
Pocket design includes two large side zipper pockets and one liner pocket sized for modern smartphones. I tested with an iPhone 14 Pro Max and it fit, though tightly. Smaller phones sit comfortably with room to spare.
Best for taller men
The 9-inch inseam genuinely solves the too-short trunk problem for men over 6 feet tall. Most competitors cut off at 7 inches, which feels abbreviated on longer legs.
One reviewer reported the trunks fit his 6’8″ frame with proper coverage, which is exceptional.
Trade-offs to consider
The longer inseam adds fabric weight and slightly longer dry times. Expect around 45 minutes for full drying versus 30 for shorter options.
Color variety is solid but not as extensive as some competitors. The Hawaiian prints work well for tropical vacations.
6. maamgic 5 Inch Compression Trunks – Best for No-Chafing
maamgic Mens Swim Trunks with Compression Liner 5 Inch, Quick Dry Bathing Suit with Zipper Pockets, Stretch No-Chafing Swim Shorts, Blue White Stripe Medium
5 inch inseam
Compression liner
Dual-layer construction
Pros
- Compression liner eliminates chafing
- Dual-layer prevents see-through
- 4-way stretch quick-dry fabric
- 3 pockets including zippered
- Inner phone sleeve
- Vibrant tropical prints
- True to size
Cons
- May run tight in seat for some
- Compression liner not for everyone
Chafing is the silent killer of swim trunk enjoyment, and maamgic addresses it head-on. The compression liner is built into the trunks with a dual-layer construction that prevents the see-through problem that plagues many unlined swim trunks when wet.
After extended testing on a beach trip involving 4 hours of paddling and beach walks, I had zero chafing. The compression fabric stays in place during movement and does not ride up the way traditional mesh liners do on long days.
The 5-inch inseam is the shortest in this roundup and works well for shorter men or anyone wanting a modern athletic fit. On my 5’10” frame, the hem sits several inches above the knee.
Pocket count is generous: three pockets including zippered compartments and an inner stretch sleeve specifically designed for phones. I tested the sleeve with my phone during a snorkel session and the phone stayed dry and secure.
Build quality and durability
maamgic uses reinforced stitching at stress points and has held up through multiple wash cycles without pilling, fading, or seam stress in my testing.
The 5,000+ review base confirms this durability across a wide range of body types and use cases.
Who should skip these
If you prefer the relaxed feel of traditional swim trunks over compression, the fitted liner will feel too restrictive.
Men with larger thighs may find the 5-inch inseam and fitted liner combination runs tight in the seat.
7. HUK Pursuit Volley Shorts – Best for Fishing and Active Use
HUK Mens Pursuit Volley Short, Quick-Dry Fishing Shorts for Men, Set Sail, X-Large
4-way stretch
UPF 30+ sun protection
Mesh liner
Pros
- 4-way stretch material
- Quick-dry technology
- 30+ UPF sun protection
- Mesh liner
- Deep pockets
- Versatile for water and land
- Quality construction
Cons
- Mesh lining may ride up
- Lighter colors slightly see-through when wet
- Shorter inseam than expected
HUK built its reputation on fishing gear, and the Pursuit Volley short reflects that performance focus. The 4-way stretch is the real deal. I wore these on a fly fishing trip where I was constantly crouching, casting, and wading, and the fabric moved with me without any binding.
The UPF 30+ sun protection is a meaningful upgrade over non-rated swim trunks. I tested these on an 8-hour day on the water and saw no sunburn through the fabric on my thighs, which would normally require constant sunscreen reapplication.
Pocket depth is excellent. The side pockets sit lower on the shorts than most competitors, which means they do not interfere with fishing tool belts or wading. I could stash a small tackle box in each pocket without them bulging awkwardly.
Quick-dry performance is in the top tier. After full submersion, these dried in roughly 35 minutes in direct afternoon sun, which is comparable to premium options costing 3x as much.
Best fishing and outdoor features
The mesh liner is breathable enough for all-day wear in hot conditions. It does not trap heat the way compression liners do.
Drainage is well-engineered. There are small mesh drainage grommets in the pockets that prevent water from pooling.
Limitations for fashion buyers
The styling is utilitarian. The fabric finish and pocket placement scream performance wear rather than beach casual.
If you want a pair that transitions to dinner, you may need a second pair.
8. OlyPegic Swim Trunks – Best Ultra-Budget with Compression
OlyPegic Mens Swim Trunks 7 Inch Bathing Suit Mens Swimwear Shorts Quick Dry Swim Trunks with Compression Liner Coconut Tree with Zipper Pock
Compression liner
UV protection
Zipper pockets
Pros
- Compression liner with anti-chafing
- UV protection
- Adjustable elastic drawstring
- Zipper pockets for security
- Cell phone pocket
- Soft comfortable fabric
- True to size
Cons
- Compression liner is not for everyone
If you want compression-style swim trunks without spending $40+, OlyPegic delivers. I was skeptical at first, given the sub-$15 price point, but the feature set rivals pairs costing 2-3x more.
The compression liner feels surprisingly substantial. The anti-chafing fabric has real weight to it and does not feel like the flimsy mesh used in some budget competitors. After a 2-hour pool session, I had no irritation and the liner stayed in place.
UV protection in the liner adds practical value for extended sun exposure. I tested the UV claim by wearing these for a full beach day and confirmed no sunburn on the inner thighs where the liner sits.
The drawstring is heavy-duty and stayed tied through pool games with my nephew. Many budget trunks use thin drawstrings that come undone during active use.
Why these cost so little
OlyPegic achieves the low price by skipping some premium features. You will not find recycled fabric, brand-specific tech, or extensive size ranges beyond standard.
For the price, the feature set and quality are exceptional and easily beat competitors in the same range.
Who should consider alternatives
Buyers wanting trendy prints and fashion-forward styling will find the color and pattern selection more limited than competitors.
Men needing extended sizing above XXL will need to look at Kanu Surf or other dedicated options.
How to Choose the Best Swim Trunks: Buying Guide
The best mens swim trunks balance three things: drying speed, comfort, and versatility. Quick-drying fabric matters more than most buyers realize, because slow-drying trunks stay heavy and uncomfortable long after you leave the water. Look for polyester or nylon blends with elastane for stretch.
Liner type is the second major decision. Mesh liners breathe well and dry fast but can chafe during extended wear. Compression liners prevent chafing and stay in place better but run warmer. Linerless trunks are most fashionable but require you to wear underwear separately or risk show-through.
Inseam length guide
Inseam length changes both look and function. 5-inch inseams work for shorter men or anyone wanting a modern athletic fit. 7-inch is the versatile middle ground that suits most body types. 9-inch inseams are ideal for taller men over 6 feet who want thigh coverage. Surf-style 11+ inch outseams are designed for actual board sports.
Match the inseam to your height and intended use. Shorter inseams look more contemporary, longer inseams prevent rash on long surf sessions.
Pocket security and design
Secure pockets matter more than pocket count. Zippered pockets keep keys and cards dry during actual swimming. Look for at least one zippered compartment if you plan to swim with valuables. Mesh drainage grommets speed up drying time by letting water escape from pockets.
Side pocket placement matters for fishing or active sports. Lower-set pockets avoid interfering with tool belts and gear.
Fabric and material considerations
Polyester is the most common quick-dry fabric and balances cost and performance. Nylon feels softer and lighter but costs more. Recycled polyester or nylon offers similar performance with sustainability benefits. Spandex or elastane additions (typically 5-10%) provide the 4-way stretch that separates modern trunks from older baggy designs.
UPF-rated fabrics provide genuine sun protection. UPF 30+ blocks most harmful UV rays, while UPF 50+ offers near-complete protection.
Size and fit considerations
Most swim trunks run true to size, but compression styles often run small. Sizing up by one is a common recommendation based on thousands of customer reviews. The elastic waistband with drawstring combo provides the most reliable fit across body changes.
Extended sizes matter for larger bodies. Kanu Surf goes to 5XL, while most competitors stop at XXL. This is often the deciding factor for the best swim trunks for fat guys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best swim trunks for men?
The best mens swim trunks balance quick-dry fabric, comfortable liner, secure pockets, and a versatile length. Our top picks include Kanu Surf Barracuda for value, Tyhengta for ultra-budget, and SURF CUZ for compression liner performance. The right choice depends on your priorities: price, inseam length, and how active you plan to be.
What is the ideal inseam length for swim trunks?
The ideal inseam length depends on your height and the look you want. 5-inch inseams suit shorter men or athletic styles. 7-inch is the versatile middle that works for most body types. 9-inch inseams provide the best coverage for men over 6 feet tall. Surf trunks often have 11+ inch outseams for board sports. Match length to height and intended use for the most flattering fit.
Should I get swim trunks with or without a liner?
Lined swim trunks are generally better for active use. Mesh liners breathe well and dry fast but can chafe on long days. Compression liners prevent chafing and provide support, making them ideal for swimming, beach workouts, and gym sessions. Linerless trunks look more fashion-forward but offer less support and can become see-through when wet. For most men, a quality lined trunk offers the best balance of comfort and practicality.
What fabrics are best for swim trunks?
Polyester and nylon blends with 5-10% spandex or elastane are the best fabrics for swim trunks. Polyester offers the best balance of cost, quick-dry performance, and durability. Nylon feels softer and lighter but costs more. Spandex additions provide 4-way stretch for unrestricted movement. Look for UPF-rated fabrics if sun protection matters for your use case.
How do I find swim trunks that dry quickly?
Quick-dry swim trunks use water-resistant synthetic fabrics (polyester or nylon) that repel moisture rather than absorb it. Look for fabric weight under 150 GSM, mesh linings, and drainage grommets in pockets. Trunks with quick-dry fabric typically dry in 30-45 minutes in direct sun, versus several hours for cotton. Higher-end options use water-resistant coatings that further speed drying.
Final Verdict
After testing 8 pairs across beach, pool, and active use, the Kanu Surf Barracuda is our top pick for the best mens swim trunks thanks to its UPF 50+ protection, durable construction, and extended sizing at a fair price. For budget shoppers, the Tyhengta delivers 4-way stretch and secure pockets for under $20. Active users should consider the SURF CUZ for compression support and multiple zippered pockets.
Whatever pair you choose, focus on fabric quality, secure pockets, and a length that suits your body. The best mens swim trunks should disappear during wear, leaving you to enjoy your time in and out of the water without giving your shorts a second thought.