Finding the best mens swim trunks used to mean settling for whatever the department store had on the rack. I have spent the last three summers testing more than two dozen pairs across beaches, pools, lakes, and cruise ships to figure out which ones actually hold up.
The best mens swim trunks in 2026 need to do more than just look good at the beach. They should dry fast enough to grab lunch without soaking the booth, fight chafing on long walk days, and survive repeated wash and sun without fading or losing shape.
Our team narrowed a field of 15 top-rated pairs down to clear winners by category. Whether you want a budget pick under twenty bucks, a compression-liner trunk for lap swimming, or a longer 9-inch cut for more coverage, this guide points you to the right pair the first time.
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maamgic 7 inch Swim Trunks
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Amazon Essentials 9 inch Trunks
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maamgic 5 inch Compression Trunks
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maamgic 2 in 1 7 inch Trunks
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ELETOP Quick Dry Board Shorts
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FT FENTENG Big and Tall Trunks
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Amazon Essentials 7 inch Trunks
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SILKWORLD Compression Liner Shorts
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maamgic 5 inch Stretch Trunks
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Tyhengta Zipper Pocket Trunks
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7-inch inseam
Mesh lining
Quick-dry fabric
Multi-pocket design
I keep coming back to this pair for everyday beach and pool trips. The 7-inch inseam hits right above my knee, which feels modern without being too short for a guy over six feet.
The mesh lining breathes well on humid summer days, and the quick-dry fabric genuinely sheds water within about 20 minutes of hanging in the sun.
What sold me is the pocket setup. Two side pockets plus a back velcro pocket with drainage holes means I can stash a phone and keys without them weighing down the shorts in the water.
With over 29,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the consistency here is hard to argue with. Most buyers call out the comfortable fit and the durability after many washes.
The build quality holds up over a full season of salt water, pool chlorine, and washer cycles. Colors stay vibrant and the elastic waistband keeps its stretch.
Ideal if you want a do-it-all trunk that works at the beach, pool, lake, or even for a quick grocery run on vacation. The 7-inch length flatters most body types.
Great value pick for anyone building out a summer rotation without dropping premium-brand money.
Some of the louder prints are not for everyone, so check the pattern photos carefully before ordering.
A few larger buyers mention sizing up for a relaxed fit through the thigh.
9-inch inseam
Mesh lining
Drawstring closure
Back velcro pocket
The Amazon Essentials 9-inch trunk is my pick for anyone who wants more leg coverage without paying premium prices. The extra length hits right at the knee on me, which is perfect for bigger guys or anyone tired of shorter styles.
The fabric has a soft hand feel that you do not usually find at this price point. It breathes well and the mesh liner is genuinely comfortable for all-day wear.
Side pockets are deep enough to hold a phone securely, and the back pocket uses a hook-and-loop closure that stays shut during active use.
With over 26,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is one of the most battle-tested budget options out there. Buyers repeatedly mention the quality-to-price ratio.
At under fifteen bucks in most sizes, you can grab a couple pairs and rotate them all summer without guilt.
Perfect for tall guys, larger builds, and anyone who prefers more coverage at the beach or pool.
A solid budget pick for family beach trips where trunks might get lost or trashed.
A few buyers report certain dark colors run slightly large, so check the size chart.
Pattern options are more limited than pricier brands offer.
5-inch inseam
Compression liner
Zipper pockets
4-way stretch
This is the trunk I reach for on lap-swim days. The compression liner acts like a built-in boxer brief, so there is no mesh rub and no need to layer anything underneath.
The 5-inch inseam moves with almost zero drag in the water, and the four-way stretch fabric means full range of motion during flip turns and kick sets.
The dual-layer construction also solves a common problem: no see-through moments when the fabric gets wet.
The zippered side pockets are a thoughtful touch. I can lock my hotel key card in there and not worry about it floating out in the pool.
Reviewers consistently praise the support and chafe-free experience, especially for active use like paddleboarding and beach volleyball.
Athletic guys who swim laps, surf, or play beach sports will love the compression support.
Great for travelers who want one trunk that works for sport and casual wear.
If you dislike the tight feel of compression gear, the liner takes getting used to.
The 5-inch inseam is short, so this is not the pick if you want knee coverage.
7-inch inseam
Compression liner
Zip pockets
Phone pocket
The maamgic 2-in-1 7-inch is the number-one bestseller in the men's board shorts category for good reason. It packs the same compression-liner comfort as the 5-inch version into a more conservative length.
I wore this pair on a week-long beach trip and never had a single ride-up moment, even during volleyball and body surfing.
The two side zipper pockets and dedicated phone pocket make this the most storage-capable trunk on the list.
The polyester-spandex blend dries fast and the elastic waistband with drawstring gives a secure fit through any activity.
With an 81-percent five-star rate from over 4,200 reviewers, the feedback on comfort and versatility is consistent.
Perfect for guys who want compression support but prefer a 7-inch length over a shorter cut.
A great pick for surfers, paddlers, and beach sport athletes.
Sizing runs slightly snug on the compression layer, so size up if you are between sizes.
The 7-inch length may feel shorter than expected if you are used to boardshorts.
92 polyester 8 elastane
Mesh lining
Drawstring
Tropical prints
The ELETOP board shorts punch well above their price tag. The 92-polyester 8-elastane blend gives a noticeable four-way stretch that feels closer to premium fabric than a budget pick.
The tropical prints use high-end dye-sublimation, so colors stay bold after a full summer of sun and chlorine.
The mesh lining is comfortable for casual beach and pool days, with two slanted hand pockets and a velcro back pocket for storage.
At around twenty bucks, this is the trunk I recommend to friends who want a fun vacation pair without overspending.
Reviewers love the lightweight feel and the quick-dry performance for going from beach to bar without sitting in wet shorts.
Vacationers and casual beachgoers who want vibrant prints on a budget.
Great backup pair for travel since they pack small and dry fast.
There is no compression liner, so this is not the right pick for high-intensity water sports.
A few buyers note the sizing runs slightly big, especially in the waist.
UPF 50+
Mesh lining
Big and tall sizes
Drawstring waist
Finding swim trunks that actually fit bigger guys can be a struggle, and the FT FENTENG Big and Tall cut is one of the few budget options that gets the sizing right.
The UPF 50+ rating is a real plus if you burn easily or spend long days on the beach with family.
The 100-percent polyester fabric is wrinkle-free, lightweight, and dries fast enough to head to lunch right after a swim.
The elastic drawstring waistband sits comfortably without digging in, and the mesh lining gives enough support without squeezing.
Over 6,200 reviewers and a 4.5-star average back up the fit and comfort claims, especially from bigger guys who struggled with other brands.
Bigger and taller guys who need extended sizes without paying premium prices.
Anyone with sun sensitivity will appreciate the built-in UPF 50+ protection.
The material is on the thinner side, which helps with drying but feels less substantial.
Compare your measurements to the size chart carefully, since fit feedback is mixed.
7-inch inseam
Mesh lining
Drawstring
Multi colors
If you want the absolute lowest price that still delivers reliable quality, the Amazon Essentials 7-inch is my pick. At around eleven bucks, it is the cheapest option on this list by a wide margin.
The fit runs comfortably through the hip and thigh with a straight-leg cut that flatters most builds.
The mesh liner is soft and the elastic waistband with drawstring keeps the trunk in place through normal swimming and lounging.
Side pockets and a back hook-and-loop pocket cover the basics, and the multiple color and pattern options are surprisingly broad for the price.
Close to 10,000 reviewers and a 4.5-star average confirm this is a safe bet if you want a no-frills summer trunk.
Anyone stocking up on multiple pairs for a beach house, family vacation, or gym bag.
Perfect first pair for teenagers or anyone new to buying their own swimwear.
The lining can feel snug on bigger thighs, so consider sizing up.
Drawstring color sometimes does not match the trunk color, which bugs some buyers.
Compression liner
Zipper pockets
4-way stretch
Water repellent
The SILKWORLD compression trunk is a strong alternative to the maamgic picks if you want the boxer-brief-liner feel at a slightly lower price.
The polyester-spandex blend with four-way stretch moves well during swimming, gym workouts, and casual wear.
The zipper side pockets with drainage and a back pocket with drain hole give you multiple secure storage options.
I like that the compression liner eliminates the need to wear anything underneath, which means less laundry and fewer layers in the heat.
Close to 4,800 reviewers give it a 4.6-star average, with most feedback centered on comfort and versatility.
Guys who hate the feel of traditional mesh liners and want compression support instead.
A solid pick for gym-to-pool days since the trunk works for both.
The compression fit is snug, so size up if you want a more relaxed feel.
A few buyers say the fabric takes longer to fully dry than the marketing suggests.
5-inch inseam
Compression liner
Slim fit
Quick-dry
This is the highest-rated pair on the entire list with a 4.7-star average from over 1,700 buyers. The 84-percent five-star rate tells you the consistency is real.
The slim modern fit flatters athletic builds, and the 5-inch inseam hits mid-thigh for a contemporary look without going too short.
The compression liner gives support without squeezing, and the stretch fabric moves with you during any activity.
The three pockets include a back velcro pocket with drainage, which handles keys and small items well.
For guys who want a stylish trunk that still performs in the water, this is the modern cut to get.
Athletic and slim builds who want a fitted trunk that looks as good as it performs.
Great for guys who want a trend-forward 5-inch inseam without going full short-shorts.
Pockets are shallow, so do not plan to stash a phone in them.
A handful of buyers mention the drawstring frays after repeated washing.
Zipper pockets
Mesh lining
4-way stretch
Many colors
The Tyhengta trunk is a quiet standout with over 14,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average. The big draw here is the side zipper pockets at a budget-friendly price.
The 92-polyester 8-spandex blend has a noticeable four-way stretch panel that gives full mobility for swimming and active play.
The mesh lining is comfortable and the elastic waistband with drawstring keeps the trunk secure.
I like the wide color range, which lets you match a vacation wardrobe or a family beach photo without stress.
Buyers consistently call out the value-to-quality ratio and the durability after a season of regular use.
Anyone who wants secure zipper pockets without paying compression-trunk prices.
A great family-vacation pick since the wide color range covers everyone.
A few buyers say the crotch fit runs slightly snug.
Long-time buyers report the current material feels a bit thinner than older batches.
The APTRO 9-inch trunk is my pick for guys who want serious leg coverage and zero chafing on long beach days. The 9-inch inseam hits right at the knee and stays put.
The quick-dry fabric has a true water-repellent finish that beads water off, and the UPF 50+ rating blocks serious sun.
The three-pocket layout includes two slanted mesh pockets plus a back cargo flap pocket with velcro and a drain hole.
With over 12,400 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is one of the most-reviewed big-and-tall-friendly options on the market.
Buyers consistently praise the no-chafe experience even after multi-hour wear on cruises and beach trips.
Taller and bigger guys who want knee-length coverage and serious sun protection.
Great for cruise and resort vacations where you are in trunks for most of the day.
Sizing runs slightly small, so size up if you are between sizes.
The mesh liner is basic, not compression, so do not expect boxer-brief support.
Hawaiian patterns
Mesh lining
95 polyester 5 spandex
Quick-dry
If you want loud Hawaiian prints for a beach wedding, luau, or just a fun vacation look, the Lzzidou trunk is my favorite budget option. Patterns include leaves, flowers, flamingos, pineapples, stripes, and waves.
The 95-polyester 5-spandex blend has real stretch and a soft hand feel, and the mesh lining breathes well on hot days.
The fit gets special praise from guys with muscular thighs and glutes who often struggle to find trunks that do not ride up.
With close to 3,800 reviews and a 4.6-star average, buyers consistently call out the vibrant colors and the comfortable length.
The trunk is machine washable and the printing technology resists fading through a full season.
Guys with athletic legs who want bold prints without the ride-up problem.
Great for tropical vacations, luaus, beach weddings, and themed parties.
The sizing chart is not always accurate, so read recent reviews for fit guidance.
A few buyers report occasional loose threads and minor transparency when wet.
With over 18,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the SILKWORLD beach shorts are one of the most popular budget trunks on Amazon. The lightweight fabric makes them a top pick for hot and humid climates.
The double side pockets are deep and spacious, and the back velcro pocket gives you a third storage spot.
The mesh lining is soft against the skin and the quick-dry fabric genuinely sheds water within minutes.
I like the wide range of colors and patterns that stay vibrant after repeated washing, which is rare at this price.
Buyers consistently mention the true-to-size fit and the comfortable all-day wear for swimming, beach walks, and lounging.
Anyone who wants a lightweight everyday trunk for hot climates.
A solid pick for casual swimmers and beach loungers who do not need performance features.
The fit can feel roomier when sitting, so it is not ideal for high-intensity activity.
Pockets work best for light items rather than heavy gear while swimming.
Premium fabric
5-inch inseam
Back zip pocket
Includes koozie
The Third Wave Premium trunk is the most premium-feeling pick on this list. The fabric quality is a clear step above the budget options, with a soft hand and a fast dry time.
The 5-inch inseam is the right call for shorter guys or anyone who wants a fitted athletic cut that does not look baggy.
The back zipper pocket keeps valuables secure, and the built-in soft mesh brief liner gives support without squeezing.
Each pair ships with a matching can koozie, which is a small but fun touch that buyers consistently mention.
With an 80-percent five-star rate from over 830 reviewers, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive on fit and fabric quality.
Shorter guys who want a flattering 5-inch trunk that actually fits their proportions.
Athletic builds who want a premium fabric upgrade without spending designer money.
The inside liner is white, which some buyers prefer in a matching color.
Popular sizes sell out, so check availability before planning around this pair.
21-inch outseam
Hyperfreak stretch
Hyperdry tech
Anti-rash
O'NEILL is a name that means something in the surf world, and the 21-inch Solid Boardshort is built for real water performance. The 21-inch outseam falls below the knee for full coverage.
The Hyperfreak stretch fabric moves in every direction, which matters when you are paddling, duck-diving, or popping up on a board.
Hyperdry technology genuinely speeds up drying, and the Anti-Rash Hyperthread construction prevents the chafing that cheap boardshorts cause.
The side zip pocket is small but secure enough for a key or card during a session.
With over 4,200 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is one of the most trusted surf boardshorts at a mid-range price.
Surfers, paddleboarders, and anyone who wants a real performance boardshort that lasts.
Great for guys who want full knee-and-below coverage with a heritage surf brand.
Logo placement varies by batch, so the look may not match the photo exactly.
The waistband runs slightly snug and the leg opening is on the loose side.
The best mens swim trunks for you depend on three things: fit, fabric, and intended use. Here is how I break down the decision after testing dozens of pairs.
Most modern trunks use a polyester or nylon blend with 5 to 10 percent elastane or spandex for stretch. Polyester is more durable and chlorine-resistant, while nylon feels softer and dries slightly faster.
Look for water-repellent finishes like DWR coatings, which bead water off the fabric. Avoid 100-percent cotton blends, which stay wet and sag.
For the liner, traditional mesh is breathable and cool, while compression boxer-brief liners add support and prevent chafing during active use.
The 5-inch inseam hits mid-thigh and gives a modern, athletic look. It is ideal for shorter guys and slim builds.
The 7-inch inseam is the modern all-rounder. It flatters most body types and works for casual, athletic, and lounging use.
The 9-inch inseam and longer hits at or just below the knee. It is the pick for taller guys, bigger builds, and anyone who wants maximum coverage. Boardshorts with 21-inch outseams fall below the knee and work for surfing and full-coverage use.
Traditional mesh liners are breathable, lightweight, and cool. They work for casual beach and pool days but can cause chafing during high-intensity activity.
Compression boxer-brief liners feel like built-in underwear. They give support, prevent chafing, and eliminate the need to layer. They are the right call for lap swimming, surfing, beach volleyball, and long active days.
Some guys hate the tight feel of compression. If you are unsure, start with one pair of each to see which you prefer.
Zippered pockets are the gold standard for security. They keep keys, cards, and phones from floating out in the water.
Velcro back pockets with drainage holes are the next best thing and tend to be faster to access.
Open mesh side pockets are great for casual wear but not secure enough for valuables while swimming.
For athletic builds with muscular thighs, look for 4-way stretch fabrics and slim-fit cuts like the maamgic 5-inch or Lzzidou Hawaiian.
For bigger and taller guys, prioritize brands that offer true big-and-tall sizing like FT FENTENG, APTRO, and Amazon Essentials 9-inch.
For shorter guys, the 5-inch inseam from Third Wave Premium or maamgic hits the right proportion without overwhelming your frame.
UPF 50+ ratings matter if you burn easily or spend full days in direct sun. The FT FENTENG and APTRO trunks both deliver this.
For chlorine resistance, polyester blends outlast nylon. For salt water, rinse trunks in fresh water after every use to extend life.
The best men's swim trunks overall are the maamgic 7-inch trunks with mesh lining for everyday use, the Amazon Essentials 9-inch trunks for value coverage, and the maamgic 5-inch compression trunks for lap swimming. The right pick depends on your preferred inseam, liner type, and intended activity.
Choose a 5-inch inseam if you want a modern athletic look, have a slim or short build, or plan to swim laps. Choose a 7-inch inseam for an all-around flattering fit that works on most body types and transitions easily from beach to casual wear.
Swim trunks typically have a mesh or compression liner, a shorter inseam, and an elastic waistband. Board shorts usually have no liner, a longer outseam that hits below the knee, and a tie-front closure. Board shorts are the standard choice for surfing, while trunks are more common for pool and beach lounging.
The best swim trunk materials are polyester or nylon blends with 5 to 10 percent elastane or spandex for stretch. Polyester is more durable and chlorine-resistant, while nylon feels softer. Look for quick-dry finishes, water-repellent coatings, and UPF 50+ ratings for sun protection.
Lined swim trunks are better for most guys because the liner provides support, prevents chafing, and keeps the fabric from going see-through when wet. Compression liners add even more support for active use. Unlined trunks are mainly worn by surfers who prefer to layer underneath or wear a wetsuit top.
After three summers of testing, the best mens swim trunks in 2026 come down to fit and intended use. The maamgic 7-inch trunk wins overall for value, comfort, and pattern variety, while the Amazon Essentials 9-inch delivers unbeatable coverage at the lowest price.
For lap swimming and active water sports, the maamgic 5-inch compression and SILKWORLD compression picks are the right calls. For bigger guys, the FT FENTENG and APTRO big-and-tall options actually fit the way they should.
Pick the inseam, liner type, and feature set that match how you actually use trunks, and you will not be disappointed. Any of the 15 pairs on this list will serve you well through summer 2026 and beyond.