Swim briefs give you the least fabric and the most freedom, swim trunks sit in the middle with a short square leg, and board shorts cover the most and suit a relaxed look. The right choice depends on where you swim, how much coverage you want and how long you stay in the water. Here is how the three compare so you can pack with confidence.
The three cuts at a glance
| Cut | Coverage | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Swim briefs | Minimal, high leg line | Lap swimming, sunbathing, warm-weather holidays |
| Swim trunks (square leg) | Short upper-thigh leg | Pool days, all-round beach wear |
| Board-style shorts | Longer, looser leg | Water sports, beach walks, casual cafes |
Swim briefs: light, quick and minimal
A brief is the classic choice if you swim regularly or want an even tan. There is little fabric to hold water, so it dries quickly, and the snug shape stays put when you dive or turn at the wall. Look for an adjustable drawstring so the waist is secure without digging in.
- Our quick-dry swim briefs have an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring and a zippered pocket for keys or small items.
- The product page notes that if you have muscular legs and prefer a looser feel, you can size up.
- Check the size chart on the product page before ordering.
New to the cut? Our swim briefs guide covers fit and fabric in more depth.
Swim trunks with a square leg: the middle ground
If a brief feels like too little but board shorts feel like too much, a square-leg trunk is the answer. It stays close to the body, so there is no flapping fabric when you swim, yet the leg covers the top of the thigh. It is also easy to wear from the pool to a lunch table.
- The slim-fit square-leg trunks are made from 82% polyamide and 18% spandex, with a drawstring closure and a colour-block design. Colours: Deep Blue, Black, Green and Sky Blue.
- The tight square-leg version uses the same 82/18 blend in a plain, minimal look. Colours: Navy, Green, Black and Sky Blue.
- Both come in sizes S to XXL.
Board-style shorts: relaxed and active
A longer leg suits surfing, paddleboarding and beach volleyball, where you want a bit more coverage and a casual feel. The trade-off is more fabric, so they can feel heavier when wet if the material is not quick-drying.
- The square-leg board swim shorts use 82% polyamide and 18% spandex, with an external drawstring over an elastic waistband for quick adjustments. They come in eight colours, from Black and Navy Blue to Rose and Pink.
- The printed beach swim shorts are 90% polyester and 10% spandex in a regular fit, with a drawstring and room in the front.
How to choose for your trip
- Swimming laps or training: choose a brief or a tight square-leg trunk for the least drag.
- Beach and pool mix: a square-leg trunk works from sunbathing to a drink at the bar.
- Water sports and walks: pick board-style shorts for extra coverage.
- Packing light: take one brief and one trunk, so you can rotate while the other dries.
Planning a longer trip? Read our beach holiday packing guide and our comparison of beach and pool swimwear.
Colour and style notes
Swimwear is where colour pays off. Deep blues, navy and black are easy to mix with a white shirt on the walk back from the beach, while greens and sky blue feel fresh in bright light. Colour-block panels add a sporty edge, and prints make a statement at a resort pool. If you only pack two pairs, choose one plain and one bold so you can swap depending on the day. Whatever you pick, try it on at home first and move around, so you know it stays comfortable when you are in the water.
Fit and care tips
- Measure your waist and compare it with the size chart on each product page, because cuts differ.
- Rinse swimwear in fresh water after the sea or a chlorinated pool.
- Dry it flat in the shade rather than in direct sun.
- Check the care label on each product before washing.
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Frequently asked questions
Are swim trunks or swim briefs better for swimming laps?
Briefs and tight square-leg trunks both work well, because they stay close to the body and cause little drag. Pick the one you find more comfortable.
Do I need a lining or a pocket?
It depends on your habits. Our quick-dry swim briefs include a zippered pocket for small items, while other styles keep things simple.
What does a drawstring do?
It lets you fine-tune the waist so your swimwear stays in place when you dive, swim or play on the beach.
Should I size up in swimwear?
Follow the size chart first. For our quick-dry swim briefs, the product page suggests sizing up if you have muscular legs and like a looser fit.
Find your swim style
Browse the full men's swimwear collection, explore shorts for the relaxed end of the range, or see what is popular in our best sellers. Every order ships in discreet packaging.
