11 Best Swim Shorts for Men of 2026

The maamgic 5-inch compression trunk puts anti-chafe performance first, pairing a smooth liner with zippered side pockets that stay secure through sprints and surf. Quick-dry fabric and a tailored cut keep things crisp, but the real story is the liner: it won’t bunch, rub, or shift during high-output movement. Other compression shorts may lean into stretch-fabric comfort or novelty prints; this one stays focused on unfiltered mobility.

If your beach routine involves more than a towel and a book — think volleyball, bodysurfing, or a morning swim circuit — the support and 5-inch leg make a meaningful difference. The trade-off is that the compression liner takes longer to dry than breezy mesh, and the price is a step up from casual trunks. For active users, that premium covers the anti-chafe engineering, not just the logo.

Where the top pick stops at 7 inches, the Amazon Essentials trunks extend coverage to a knee-grazing 9-inch inseam, ideal for swimmers who prefer a longer silhouette. While the big & tall alternative offers extended sizing, these trunks land on a more traditional fit with a mesh liner and drawstring closure, all at a notably lower price point. The fabric feels soft and the construction holds up well to repeated beach days and machine washes.

Budget-conscious families and anyone stocking up for vacations will appreciate the value. The longer cut suits taller builds or anyone who wants less thigh exposure. Sizing can run small in some cases, so checking the size chart and considering a size up is a prudent move. Drying time may be longer than expected — these are not the quickest-drying trunks around, so plan for a post-swim hang rather than immediate dryness.

Big and tall shoppers get a longer 9-inch cut that covers the knee, paired with bold, fade-resistant prints that hold up through pool and ocean sessions. The fit runs true to size for most larger builds, and the mesh lining provides enough support for casual swimming without feeling restrictive.

These trunks work best for men with a standard big or tall build who want a longer inseam and vibrant colors at a low price. The waistband’s interior drawstring channel can feel scratchy against bare skin, and those with very muscular thighs may find the leg openings snug. Checking the size chart helps, but the tradeoff is manageable if you prioritize extended sizing and value over a perfectly smooth waistband.

The standout retro prints and mid-thigh inseam give these trunks a distinctive personality that the top pick’s more universal 7-inch silhouette lacks. The shorter length and bold colorways create a look that feels straight out of a classic surf video, while the mesh lining keeps things breathable for casual water days.

Ideal for men who prioritize head-turning retro style and a cut that shows off the legs over the all-purpose coverage of longer trunks. The mesh liner provides light, non-chafing support, but it requires gentle handling — aggressive washing shortens its life. Sizing runs small, so ordering one size up is a practical move to get the intended, non-restrictive fit.

The built-in compression liner delivers chafe-free support during swimming, running, and gym workouts, a clear step up from standard mesh liners. Unlike most compression trunks that cap at 2XL, this one scales all the way to 6XL, and two zippered pockets keep cards and keys secure without flapping.

Active guys who want one pair of shorts for pool laps, beach runs, and weight sessions will appreciate the liner’s stay-put fit. The quick-dry claim is not as fast as marketing suggests — the compression layer can hold moisture, leaving the shorts damp for several hours after swimming. That tradeoff is tolerable if chafe prevention and pocket security matter more than lightning-fast drying.

Compression comfort and secure zippered pockets in a 7-inch cut make these trunks a strong pick for active beachgoers and pool swimmers who want chafe-free support. The compression liner stays in place during sports, and the mid-length inseam offers more coverage than ultra-short alternatives. Sizing runs small, so ordering up may be necessary. It earns fewer reviews than the top pick, and maamgic’s own 5-inch compression model appeals if you prefer a shorter, more mobile cut.

The Tyhengta trunks’ zippered pockets stay closed during swims, keeping essentials safe, and the mesh lining is comfortable for all-day wear. The fabric is thin, however, and may become slightly translucent when wet — a trade-off for the lightweight feel. They suit swimmers who prioritize pocket security over thick material, but those concerned with privacy in and out of the water should look elsewhere.

The soft, quick-dry fabric and eye-catching tropical prints set these shorts apart, and most standard builds find the fit comfortable and true to size. Sizing feedback is mixed, with athletic thighs sometimes finding the cut too snug. Compared to more established options in the category, the shorter track record makes long-term durability less certain, so these trunks best suit shoppers who prioritize unique style over proven longevity.

Stretchy fabric and a compression liner give these trunks a secure, athletic feel that stays put during beach volleyball or paddleboarding. The variety of patterns offers a sharper look than basic solid trunks. Sizing can be tricky—the 5-inch cut and compression fit may feel too snug if not sized up, and the shorter length won’t suit everyone. For those who prioritize a sleek, supportive short and are willing to check the size chart carefully, this is a premium option worth considering.

FT FENTENG delivers comfortable, quick-dry swim trunks in a big & tall cut that avoids the tight, restrictive feel many larger men encounter. The mesh liner and relaxed fit work well for casual beach days and poolside lounging. Thin fabric is the main trade-off: it dries fast but feels flimsy, and pockets can invert when wet. Sizing may run small at the waist, so checking the size chart is wise. For the price, it is a functional option if you accept the material’s boundaries.