A pair of swim trunks that balloon in the water, chafe with every step, or fade after two beach days is a fast way to ruin a vacation. Guys shopping for swimwear face a rotating set of trade-offs — inseam length, liner type, fabric weight, pocket security — that make the difference between trunks that work and trunks that frustrate. The best swimsuits for guys solve these problems with specific construction choices, not marketing promises.
I’m Mohammad — the founder and writer behind ProteinJug. I’ve analyzed hundreds of swim trunk spec sheets and customer feedback patterns to isolate the materials, stitching, and design details that actually hold up to saltwater, chlorine, and repeated wear.
Whether you wade into the surf, sit poolside with a drink, or chase kids through the shallows, the right swim trunks hinge on compression liners that stay put, quick-dry polyester blends that shed water fast, and pocket layouts that don’t drain your phone. This guide breaks down seven contenders to find your best fit in the best swimsuits for guys category.
How To Choose The Best Swimsuits For Guys
The swim trunk market is flooded with generic cuts and flimsy liners. Focusing on four key specs keeps you out of frustration territory.
Inseam Length and Your Activity
Inseam dictates how much thigh you show and how much freedom you have to move. A 5-inch inseam sits high and dries fastest — ideal for lap swimming or running into the surf. A 7-inch hit sits at mid-thigh and works for most beach-to-bar scenarios. A 9-inch option provides extra coverage but can trap water and restrict deep knee bends. Long boardies at 19 to 22 inches are for surfers who need a low profile and zero liner bulk.
Liner Type — Compression vs. Mesh
The liner is the part of the trunk that touches your skin for hours. Traditional mesh liners thin out over time, develop rough edges, and chafe after a full day of beach activity. Compression liners, usually made from a spandex-polyester blend, provide support, prevent chafing, and hold their structure through dozens of washes. Men with active routines or sensitive skin should prioritize compression-lined trunks.
Fabric Composition and Quick-Dry Performance
Most modern swim trunks use a polyester-spandex mix. Higher spandex percentages (10-15%) add stretch but can hold more water. Straight polyester blends dry faster but feel stiffer. A 90/10 polyester-spandex ratio offers the best balance — enough stretch for comfort, quick-dry performance that leaves you beach-ready in minutes, and enough durability to survive chlorine and saltwater exposure.
Pocket Strategy — Drainage and Security
Wet pockets that balloon and sag are the most common complaint among active guys. Look for mesh pocket lining or drainage grommets that let water escape quickly, and zippered security pockets if you carry keys or a phone. Avoid trunks with deep, unsecured pockets — they fill with water, drag you down, and dump everything when you dive. A single zippered side pocket is worth more than two open ones.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| difficort 9″ Compression Liner Premium |
Trunk | Active swimming & all-day wear | 9″ inseam, compression liner, zipper pocket | Amazon |
| MIVEI 22″ Board Shorts Premium |
Board Short | Surfing & diving without liner | 22″ outseam, 4-way stretch, UPF 50+ | Amazon |
| Quiksilver Surfsilk 19″ Boardies Premium |
Board Short | Brand-conscious surfers | 19″ outseam, Surfsilk fabric, no liner | Amazon |
| Cargo Pocket Trunk 9″ Premium |
Trunk | Carrying valuables securely | 9″ inseam, zipper cargo pockets, liner | Amazon |
| Generic 5″-7″ Compression Liner Mid-Range |
Trunk | Budget value in multiple inseams | 5″ or 7″ inseam, compression liner, UPF 50+ | Amazon |
| maamgic 7″ Stretch Trunks Mid-Range |
Trunk | Everyday beach-to-street | 7″ inseam, stretch fabric, quick-dry build | Amazon |
| Champion 7″ 2-in-1 Mid-Range |
Trunk | Reliable brand value | 7″ inseam, compression liner, board-short cut | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. difficort Mens Swim Trunks Quick Dry Bathing Suit 9 inch Inseam Board Shorts with Compression Liner and Zipper Pocket
The difficort trunks hit the sweet spot of activity readiness and daily comfort. The 9-inch inseam provides ample coverage while the compression liner eliminates the mesh chafing that haunts cheaper trunks. Reviewers consistently cite the liner as the standout feature — one buyer wore these every day on a Maui trip and reported zero irritation, even without his usual boxer briefs underneath.
Material construction holds its structure after repeated saltwater and chlorine exposure, with quick-dry fabric that sheds water in minutes. The zippered back pocket adds genuine security for keys or a phone — a detail missing from many mid-range options. Fit runs true to size with enough room in the seat for active movement without feeling baggy.
Cold-water swimmers note that the compression liner provides support without restricting circulation, and the 9-inch leg prevents the ride-up that shorter inseams suffer during deep-water kicks. The only caveat is limited color options compared to larger brands, but the quality of the build justifies the narrower palette.
Why it’s great
- Compression liner eliminates mesh chafing
- Secure zippered pocket for valuables
- Quick-dry fabric survives daily wear
Good to know
- Limited color selection
- 9″ inseam may feel long for shorter men
2. MIVEI 22″ Men’s Board Shorts Swimwear No Mesh Lining – Long Swim Trunks Surf Shorts Bathing Suit with Zipper Pocket UPF50+
MIVEI takes a different approach — no liner at all, targeting surfers and divers who prefer wearing trunks over a separate suit. The 22-inch outseam sits below the knee, giving a classic surf silhouette that stays down during paddling and duck dives. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with the body without the restriction of a built-in liner.
Reviewers highlight the lightweight, fast-drying material and accurate sizing. Scuba divers specifically praise the no-mesh design for eliminating chafing during long underwater sessions. The UPF 50+ rating is a genuine bonus for extended sun exposure on the water. The fabric has enough stretch to feel soft against the skin without feeling flimsy.
The main trade-off is the absence of any built-in support. Men accustomed to a compression liner will need to wear something underneath or accept the free-hanging feel. The stretch fabric does provide a fitted look that minimizes bulk, but it is a distinct experience from a lined trunk. The zippered pocket is a welcome addition for keys or cash.
Why it’s great
- No mesh liner eliminates chafing entirely
- 22″ outseam stays put during active swimming
- UPF 50+ and 4-way stretch fabric
Good to know
- No compression liner — wear separates if needed
- Long outseam may not suit all body types
3. Quiksilver Mens Surfsilk Tijuana 19 Boardshorts
Quiksilver brings a heritage name and a proprietary fabric called Surfsilk. The material is noticeably softer and lighter than standard polyester blends — it has a woven feel that drapes well without clinging when wet. The 19-inch outseal sits just above the knee, splitting the difference between a short trunk and a full boardie.
Surfers and water-sports enthusiasts will appreciate the no-liner design that keeps the build simple and fast-drying. The drawstring is the only waist closure, and experienced users note it primarily secures the fly rather than cinching the waist. This is fine for wading and casual swimming, but active diving or water-skiing may require a tighter fit or a separate suit underneath.
The soft material and clean print options make these look sharp out of the water. Reviewers consistently mention the great fit and quality feel. The lack of any cargo or zippered pocket means you need a separate solution for valuables — these are pure performance boardshorts, not beach-to-street hybrids.
Why it’s great
- Soft, fast-drying Surfsilk fabric
- Classic 19″ surf silhouette
- Lightweight and minimal for active water use
Good to know
- Drawstring doesn’t tighten the waist effectively
- No pockets for carrying items
4. Mens Swim Trunks with Compression Liner Zipper Cargo Pockets Bathing Suit 9 Inch Quick-Dry Swimming Shorts
These trunks are built for the guy who carries everything — phone, wallet, keys, sunscreen — and doesn’t want to leave it on the beach. The zippered cargo pockets are the headline feature, providing genuine security for valuables without the sagging that kills unsecured pockets. The 9-inch inseam offers full coverage while maintaining a modern athletic silhouette.
The compression liner is well-reviewed for its support during active use. Buyers report that the trunks look sharp both in and out of the water, with a material that doesn’t cheapen after several washes. The true-to-size fit and comfortable liner make these a strong choice for days that mix swimming with errands or socializing.
The cargo pockets do add a slight weight when wet, but the mesh drainage prevents them from turning into water balloons. Men who prefer a sleeker profile may find the cargo design too busy compared to minimalist trunks, but the utility factor is hard to beat for beach trips or pool days with gear.
Why it’s great
- Zippered cargo pockets for secure storage
- Comfortable compression liner
- 9″ inseam provides good coverage
Good to know
- Pockets can feel slightly heavy when wet
- Cargo design is not minimalist
5. Mens Swim Trunks with Compression Liner Anti Chafe Quick Dry UPF 50+ Swimming Shorts 5″ 7″ Inseam Bathing Suit
This listing offers two inseam lengths — 5-inch and 7-inch — in one purchase, giving flexibility that most single-length trunks cannot match. The 5-inch runs short and fast-drying, ideal for serious swimming or hot days. The 7-inch is a safer all-rounder. The compression liner provides anti-chafe protection and support that holds up in hot tubs and saltwater alike.
Reviewers call out the vivid colors and the quality of the compression liner. The UPF 50+ rating adds genuine sun protection for long beach days. The material is lightweight, which is a double-edged sword — it dries fast and feels breezy, but some users note the thinness may compromise long-term durability compared to heavier trunks.
The fit runs true to size with a comfortable waistband. The main drawbacks are the lightweight construction — these feel best for swimming and lounging rather than rugged surf or diving use. For the value, though, the dual-inseam option and compression liner make these a solid budget-minded pick.
Why it’s great
- Choose between 5″ and 7″ inseams
- Compression liner prevents chafing
- UPF 50+ and quick-dry fabric
Good to know
- Lightweight material may feel thin
- Better for swimming than rugged surf
6. maamgic Mens Swim Trunks with Compression Liner Short Stretch Mens Bathing Suit Quick Dry Swimming Trunks Swimsuit
The maamgic trunks lean into comfort with a stretch-fabric construction that moves with the body rather than against it. The 7-inch inseam hits a versatile mid-thigh length that works for swimming, casual wear, and light activity. The compression liner is built into the stretch shell, creating a unified fit that reduces bulk.
Reviewers praise the quick-drying material and the comfortable adjustable drawstring. The colorful patterns and consistent sizing earn high marks for style and fit. Some users note that the material feels lighter compared to premium brands, which aids drying but may not feel as substantial against the skin.
The main criticism is pocket depth — the pockets function for flat items but lack drainage grommets or zippers, so they can hold water and feel insecure during active swimming. Men who carry phones or keys will want a more secure solution. The stretch fabric compensates with excellent range of motion for beach volleyball or paddleboarding.
Why it’s great
- Stretch fabric provides excellent range of motion
- Comfortable compression liner and fit
- Bright colors and bold pattern options
Good to know
- Pockets lack drainage and zippers
- Fabric feels lighter than premium competitors
7. Champion Mens Swim Trunks with Compression Liner, 2 in 1 Mens Bathing Suit Shorts, 7 Inch Inseam Board Shorts for Swimming
Champion brings brand reliability to the swim trunk category with a straight-ahead 2-in-1 design. The 7-inch inseam is a safe, standard cut that flatters most body types without being extreme in either direction. The compression liner is the core of the build, providing the same support that has made Champion a trusted name in athletic wear.
Reviewers consistently confirm true-to-size fit and comfortable feel. The board-short cut is clean and not overly baggy, making these appropriate for pool parties or casual beach days. The value proposition is strong — you get a recognizable brand backed by standard sizing and a functional compression liner at a mid-range entry point.
The main caution from real-world use involves sunscreen staining. A reviewer noted that repeated sunscreen application leaves white spots on the fabric that require extra cleaning effort. Men who spend full days reapplying SPF may want to pre-treat or choose darker colors. The basic styling lacks the zippered pockets or drainage features that more technical trunks offer.
Why it’s great
- Trusted brand with consistent sizing
- Comfortable 7″ 2-in-1 design
- Solid value for the quality
Good to know
- Fabric stains easily with sunscreen
- No zippered or drainage pockets
FAQ
What inseam length is best for swimming versus lounging?
Can I wear compression liner trunks without underwear underneath?
How do I prevent my swim trunks from fading in chlorine or saltwater?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the swimsuits for guys winner is the difficort 9-inch trunks because the compression liner eliminates chafing while the zippered pocket secures valuables — a rare combination at the price. If you want a surf-specific no-liner design with four-way stretch, grab the MIVEI 22-inch board shorts. And for brand reliability with true-to-size fit and a standard 7-inch cut, nothing beats the Champion 2-in-1 trunks.