The Best Men’s Swim Shorts for Summer Holidays

Words by Tony Wilkes

What defines first-class swim shorts? Practicality, of course – no one wants to find theirs have slipped off after diving in. But beyond comfortable fits and quick-drying fabrics, today’s best pairs have to work outside the water, too. Whether you prefer plain and simple or tropical prints, these are the best men’s swim shorts to make a splash in 2025, whatever your holiday calls for.

Perfectly pared-back, these are the swimwear equivalents of your trusty button-down shirt. Look for a regular straight-leg fit that hits around mid-thigh – guaranteed not to date. Love Brand & Co.’s Staniel shorts set the blueprint. Part of its commitment to wildlife conservation, the style is cut from quick-drying shell that’s entirely recycled. Note the handy flap pocket and two eyelets at the rear – releasing trapped air, they’ll prevent your swim shorts from ballooning post-plunge.

Summer is the time to play with colour and print. Bang on theme, Bluemint and Polo Ralph Lauren offer swim shorts inspired by holidays – think palm-lined beachfronts, classic convertibles and fresh seafood – meanwhile bolder tropical prints are also in their element. Elsewhere, family-owned Fedeli – founded in Monza, Italy – prints its bestselling Madeira shorts in classic paisley for a retro finish. They’re designed to dry in only 90 seconds, making them ideal for poolside lounging.

A man’s love for higher-rise shorts dates further back than Paul Mescal. Such menswear style icons as Paul Newman and Steve McQueen, captured on the beach in the 1960s, are enough to convince us to keep things brief. “I’ve seen an uptick in men seeking to enhance their leg muscles,” a personal trainer told GQ, reflecting on the trend for short-shorts. If that’s you, the season offers an array of pairs from Moncler, Vilebrequin, Emporio Armani and more.

Gone are the days when swim shorts were only worn in the water. Today, the best pairs flex from sea to socialising. Styles like Frescobol Carioca’s Angra Treliça shorts look the same as those for dry land, and will slot easily into the rest of your holiday wardrobe. To make matters easier, try a printed set. Matching pieces are the zero-effort route to looking put together. 

Perhaps after a day of sun-lounging, you plan to head for a smart-casual bite. Need to change? Not if you’re clever about it. Certain brands – TOM FORD, Ché, Polo Ralph Lauren – offer swim shorts that can be paired seamlessly with relaxed summer tailoring. Waistbands, complete with waist adjusters, resemble those of formal trousers, helping them blend with a linen blazer. Look to classic button-downs, polo shirts and loafers to complete the look.