For the beach, pick swimwear that stays put in waves and sand: a square-leg trunk or board-style short with a drawstring and quick-dry fabric. For the pool, a closer cut such as a swim brief or tight square-leg trunk gives you freedom for laps and loungers. Here is how the main styles compare, so you can pack the right pair for each day.
Beach vs pool: what actually changes
The same swimsuit can do both, but the two settings ask different things of it. At the beach you deal with waves, sand, volleyball and long stretches of sun. At the pool you swim in straight lines, sit on hot tiles and walk past a lot of people on the way to the bar.
- Beach: more coverage, a secure drawstring, fabric that sheds water and sand quickly.
- Pool: a close, streamlined cut, low drag, and a look that still works at the poolside bar.
- Resort days: a style you can wear from the sunbed to lunch without feeling underdressed.
The four main styles compared
| Style | Coverage | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Board-style short | Most coverage, mid-thigh | Surf days, beach bars, relaxed walks |
| Square-leg trunk | Medium, short leg | Beach volleyball, snorkelling, all-round use |
| Swim brief | Minimal, low rise | Pool laps, sunbathing, warm destinations |
| Printed or metallic brief | Minimal, statement look | Pool parties, festivals, holiday evenings |
Square-leg trunks: the do-it-all beach pick
If you only pack one pair, make it a square-leg trunk. It covers more than a brief but moves more freely than a long short, so it suits swimming, paddleboarding and a game of beach volleyball in the same afternoon. Look for an external drawstring over an elastic waistband, which lets you tighten the fit after a swim.
The Square Leg Board Swim Trunks are made from 82% polyamide and 18% spandex, with a visible drawstring and a colour-block design. The Slim Fit Square Leg Trunks use the same 82/18 blend with contrast panels at the waistband and thigh.
Swim briefs: pool days and warm destinations
A swim brief is the classic choice for lap swimming and sunbathing because there is very little fabric to hold water or add drag. It also means less to dry afterwards, which is handy when you swim in the morning and head straight out for lunch.
- Choose a low-rise cut if you like a modern line and a lower waistband.
- Check for a drawstring so the fit stays secure when you dive in.
- A lined pouch keeps everything comfortable and in place.
The Quick Dry Swim Briefs add a zippered pocket for keys or a few small items, which is useful when you leave a towel on a sunbed. If you want a deeper look at this cut, read our men's swim briefs guide.
Prints and colour: what works where
Beach light is bright, so mid-tones and bold prints read well against sand and sea. Navy, teal and black are the safe choices that go with everything. Prints and metallics are for the days when you want to be noticed, such as a pool party or a boat trip.
The Printed Beach Swim Shorts are a 90% polyester, 10% spandex blend with a regular fit, and the metallic briefs shimmer in direct sunlight. Browse more patterns in our printed collection.
Quick fit check before you buy
Swimwear should feel snug but never restrictive. Stand up, squat once and raise your arms: the waistband should stay in place and the legs should not ride up. Tie the drawstring in a flat bow so it does not dig in when you sit on a lounger. If the fit feels right dry, it will usually feel right wet, because stretch fabrics relax slightly in the water.
Think about what you will do most. A long day of swimming and snorkelling rewards a secure, close cut. A slow day of reading and cocktails leaves room for a looser or more colourful pick. There is no wrong answer, only the one that matches your plans.
Packing tips for a beach and pool trip
- Take at least two pairs so one can dry while you wear the other.
- Pair one trunk style with one brief for variety.
- Rinse in fresh water after salt or chlorine and dry in the shade.
- Check the size chart before ordering; swimwear fits closer than regular shorts.
For more warm-weather ideas, see our guide to underwear for hot weather and summer travel.
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Frequently asked questions
Are swim trunks or swim briefs better for the beach?
Trunks suit most beach days thanks to extra coverage and a secure fit in waves. Briefs are great for sunbathing and warm, calm water.
Can I use the same swimsuit at the beach and the pool?
Yes. A square-leg trunk with a drawstring and quick-dry fabric handles both, so it is the easiest single pair to pack.
How should I size swimwear?
Measure your waist and compare it with the size chart on the product page. If you are between sizes or have muscular thighs, many people choose the larger size.
How do I look after swimwear?
Rinse it in fresh water after each swim, wash as the care label says and let it dry away from direct heat.
Find your next pair
Ready to build your holiday set? Explore the full men's swimwear collection or browse our shorts for the walk to the beach bar. Every order ships in discreet packaging.
