10 best swim shorts for men UK 2023, including Stone Island, Reiss and Gant
It’s easy to overlook swim shorts, but you shouldn’t.
They might not be as integral to your look as the perfect-fitting T-shirt, or a versatile pair of jeans, but for times when you find yourself lucky enough to be by the pool or the beach, you won’t regret tracking down a pair of the best swim shorts.
Go for the right style and they’ll look just as good in the water as they do out of it, and with a quick-drying fabric and a sleek design, they can substitute for a regular pair of shorts at a moment’s notice.
But what exactly should you look for, and what are the brands worth checking out this summer? We’ve got the lowdown right here.
What to look for when buying swim shorts for men
Style/colour/pattern
Swim shorts are designed to do one thing and do it well, but it’s worth shopping around to find a pair you won’t be embarrassed to wear away from the pool.
There are of course numerous designs available, from tight-fitting Speedos to baggier board shorts, but for the most versatile of shapes, you should probably go for something in the middle.
Find a pair that is neither too tight nor relaxed, and look for a simple drawstring or the more tailored, fixed waistband style, and you’ll be on the right track.
Length
When it comes to length, try to find a pair that sits around a hand’s width above the thighs. You can of course go shorter or longer, but this average length will suit most body shapes and heights.
Shorter styles can be flattering, but avoid anything that finishes below the knee. Long shorts will make you appear shorter and are generally less flattering.
The best swim shorts for men, at a glance
- Best striped swim shorts - MaaMgic
- Best compression-lined swim shorts -
- Best colour-contrast swim shorts -
- Best designer swim shorts -
- Best tailored-look swim shorts -
MaaMagic
If you want to try a bit of colour and pattern but don’t want to commit to anything too bold, consider a pair of striped swim shorts.
Whether you go for red or pink, or the more versatile blue, a design with slim, contrasting stripes is surprisingly easy to wear. Keep the stripes thin and they mimic the pattern of an Oxford shirt, giving the shorts a slightly sharper feel than you might find with other patterns.
Indeed, wear them on their own in the pool, and simply throw on a linen shirt or knitted polo away from it. Easy to style and effortlessly cool, this might be the only pair you need on this list.
Arcweg
For a pair that is as comfortable as they are practical, consider these Arcweg swim shorts.
They come complete with a built-in compression liner that’s skin-tight for a sporty, supportive feel. It ensures you’ll never have to worry about the shorts rising up or falling down as you get out of the water, plus they come with an integrated pocket so you can store your phone in them once dry.
Elsewhere the shorts boast zip-up pockets for further security, while the water-resistant polyester fabric is designed to dry exceptionally quickly.
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Gant
For a pleasant splash of colour, look no further than these orange shorts by Gant.
Finished with a turquoise drawstring, they boast a mid-thigh length, subtle branding by the hem and a classic fit.
Stone Island
Stone Island might be more well known for its outerwear than its swim shorts, but this pair channels some of its more classic designs with its textured waterproof fabric.
Finished in black, Fuschia, sage or turquoise, they come with the Italian brand’s signature logo at the hem and boast a mid-length for maximum versatility.
Reiss
These Reiss swim shorts come with a smart, tailored design that makes them slightly dressier than regular pairs.
The fixed waistband and side adjusters ensure they’re as comfortable as they are smart, while the soft sage green colour will go with practically anything.
Spoke London
Specialising in well-tailored trousers, Spoke has applied its extensive experience to these swim shorts.
Available in a wide range of fits, with three builds and lengths, you can rest easy knowing you’ll find the perfect fit.
Next
With their subtle geometric pattern consisting of repeating navy and white shapes, this pair of swim shorts would look as good in the garden as they would in the pool.
They come complete with a short cut and with a bright blue waistband for a further pop of colour.
Jack and Jones
While most swim shorts will be made with smooth polyester fabric, you can occasionally find designs with a subtle bit of texture.
This Jack & Jones pair is made from a seersucker-like blend, which gives them a crumply feel that’s both soft and waterproof.
OAS
Instantly recognisable with their wide, sky-blue deck chair stripes, you’ll never get lost in this pair of swim shorts.
Made by OAS, they come complete with quick-drying fabric, a drawstring waist and a flattering mid-length cut.
H&M
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Designed for maximum versatility in the pool and out, these H&M swim shorts are both practical and stylish.
They’re made from waterproof nylon and come with a simple navy finish that looks great on the beach or by the bar.