The world's first swimsuit came about in Europe in the 1700s. But it was not until the popularization of sports competitions like the Olympics that the modern men's swimsuit emerged.
Men's swimming costumes have evolved a lot over the years. Today, the best men's swimwear ranges from Speedos and swim shorts to trunks and board shorts.
With so many options, it can be difficult to figure out which style is ideal for your body shape and type. Today, we're bringing you this guide to help you figure that out.
Want to know how to choose the best men's swimsuit for you? You need to know your options. Here are our top tips for finding the right swimwear just in time for rising temperatures.
Men's Swimsuit Styles
There are two overarching categories for men's swimwear styles: fashion swimwear and athletic swimsuits. The former is more functional and ideal for ultimate speed. Meanwhile, fashion swimwear is for every man.
What are the subcategories that fall under athletic and fashion men's swimming costumes? Here are the top four you need to know about.
Board Shorts
Board shorts are swimwear options that fit close to the body (but not tight) and end around the knee. They are the longest swimwear option for men. They also offer the most coverage, second only to wetsuits and drysuits.
Like most swimsuits, board shorts designers create their products from quick-drying materials like lycra or polyamide. Unlike swim trunks (more on these next), they don't have built-in netting or elastic in the waistband.
One of the great things about board shorts is that they can double as clothing. Just throw on a t-shirt and a pair of flip-flops to transition from the beach to a casual summer lunch.
Swim Trunks
Swim trunks are probably the most common men's swimwear style in the US. Like board shorts, they offer a loose fit and a longer length than athletic swim styles. The inseam on a pair of swim trunks can range from 32 cm to 41 cm.
Compared to board shorts, however, swim trunks have a more casual look. They tend to come with elasticated waistbands with longer crotches and droopier waists. They have fitted mesh linings on the inside for added support.
This is another great option for men who want to transition their swimwear to casual wear. Check out our USA Flag Men's Swim Trunk to see for yourself how well this pair would fit into your casual summer wardrobe.
Swim Shorts
Swim shorts are like a cross between a speedo, a board short, and a swim trunk. They are shorter and tighter than a swim trunk, but they offer more coverage than a speedo. They have non-elasticated waists like board shorts.
Sometimes called square cut swimsuits, swim shorts have inseams varying from 15 cm to 23 cm. This style looks more like a pair of fitted boxer briefs than a men's swimsuit. For an example, look at our Optical Army Pouch swim short.
Because most swim shorts are so underwear-like, we do not recommend them for wearing beyond the beach or pool. But your favorite swim shorts can do double-duty as a pair of boxers.
Swim Briefs
If you are looking for men's sexy swimwear, this option is for you. Also known as speedos, men's swimwear briefs come in a variety of cuts, including classic, thong, and bikini. At ABC Underwear, we also have a hot short style!
Another name for the men's swim brief is the racing brief. That is because the original swim brief was designed for professional swimmers. The close fit of this style creates the least amount of drag in the water.
Yet, athletes are not the only men who wear swim briefs. This style is highly popular throughout Europe. Confident men often choose this option to show off their physiques.
How to Pick the Best Swimsuit for You
Are you in the market for a new swimsuit? You probably know your budget, but what other factors can you use to pick the perfect pair? Find out next.
Coverage
One of the top deciding factors for men when choosing swimwear is coverage. Speedos offer the least amount of coverage, followed by swim shorts and some swim trunk styles. Board shorts tend to offer the most coverage.
It is important to note that swim shorts and trunks tend to have highly variable lengths. If you find a pair you like but feel they are too revealing, search for a similar style with a longer inseam.
Body Type
Different styles of swimwear are more suited to certain body types. For example, men with shorter legs can benefit from shorter inseams and higher cuts on the legs.
If that sounds like you, go for swim shorts or even a speedo. But if you have skinnier legs, avoid these cuts, as they can make them look even thinner. Instead, go for elasticated trunks that add volume around your thighs.
Taller men can afford a longer inseam. Again, men with thinner legs should go with looser-fitting options. Board shorts are a great idea if you have this body type.
Color
Swimsuits come in a variety of colors and patterns for men. The first step to choosing the right one is to decide whether you want a solid color or something more fun. Then, you can pick the right shade for you.
A great way to find a color that suits you is to look at your veins. Men with blue veins should reach for cool-toned colors like blue, gray, or green. Men with green veins are warm-toned and look great in yellow and orange.
Get the Best Men's Swimwear at ABC Underwear
These days, men have almost as many swimsuit styles available as women. It can feel overwhelming to pick just one. We hope this guide has helped you figure out how to narrow down your options.
Are you looking for the best place to buy a swimsuit online? ABC Underwear sells the best men's swimwear styles and colors at an affordable price. Browse our options to choose a swimsuit that'll make you feel like a million bucks!
