Make a Splash: The 5 Best Men’s Swim Trunks for Summer 2025
Summer is calling, and that means it’s time to upgrade your swimwear. The right pair of swim trunks is about more than just hitting the water; it’s about comfort, style, and functionality that can take you from the pool to the boardwalk without missing a beat. Forget those baggy, water-logged shorts of the past—today’s best swim trunks are packed with features like quick-drying fabrics, secure pockets, and stylish cuts.
We’ve surveyed the options from top brands and retailers to find the five best swim trunks that will keep you looking and feeling cool all summer long.
Heads up: As an affiliate, Deal Llama may earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change.
1. Best Overall: Fair Harbor The Anchor
Why We Like It: Fair Harbor has perfected the swim trunk. “The Anchor” is famous for its ridiculously comfortable, built-in BreezeKnit™ liner that eliminates the need for traditional mesh, preventing any chafing. Made from recycled plastic bottles, these trunks are eco-friendly, stylish, and so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing them.
- Retailer: fairharborclothing.com, Amazon
- Material: Recycled Polyester / Spandex
- Key Features: Chafe-free boxer brief liner, quick-drying, zippered back pocket, durable water repellent (DWR) finish.
- Approx. Price: ~$72
Deal Llama Tip: While premium-priced, Fair Harbor often has sales around holidays. Signing up for their email list can also get you a first-time purchase discount.
2. Best for Activity: Patagonia Baggies
Why We Like It: A true icon for a reason. Patagonia Baggies are the ultimate “do-anything” shorts. They are incredibly durable, dry in an instant, and are designed for an active lifestyle, whether you’re surfing, hiking, or just chasing kids around the beach. They are a simple, rugged, and reliable choice that will last for many summers.
- Retailer: patagonia.com, REI, Amazon
- Material: NetPlus® recycled nylon faille
- Key Features: DWR finish, elasticized waistband with internal drawstring, quick-drying mesh liner, vertical side pockets designed to reduce drag in water.
- Approx. Price: ~$65
Deal Llama Tip: Baggies come in 5″ and 7″ inseam lengths. The 5″ is the classic, more modern fit, while the 7″ offers a bit more coverage.
3. Best on a Budget: Goodfellow & Co. Men’s Swim Trunks (Target)
Why We Like It: You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great pair of swim trunks. Target’s in-house brand, Goodfellow & Co., consistently delivers on-trend styles with solid quality at a price that’s hard to beat. They offer a huge variety of colors and patterns, UPF 50+ sun protection, and all the essential features you need for a day of fun.
- Retailer: Target
- Material: Recycled Polyester
- Key Features: UPF 50+ rating, built-in mesh liner, side and back pockets, wide range of patterns and colors.
- Approx. Price: ~$25
Deal Llama Tip: Wait for the Target Circle sales events, where you can often get an additional 20-30% off clothing, making these an absolute steal.
4. Best Classic Style: J.Crew Stretch Swim Trunk
Why We Like It: For a timeless, preppy look that’s always in style, J.Crew is the go-to. Their stretch swim trunks come in a variety of solid colors and tasteful patterns, with a fit that’s tailored but not tight. They’re the perfect choice for a resort vacation, a boat outing, or any time you want to look sharp by the water.
- Retailer: jcrew.com
- Material: Polyester / Elastane
- Key Features: Four-way stretch fabric, comfortable mesh liner, grommets at the back to prevent air bubble-up, multiple inseam options.
- Approx. Price: ~$79.50
Deal Llama Tip: J.Crew is famous for its sales. Never pay full price; wait for a 30% or 40% off code, which they offer frequently throughout the spring and summer.
5. Best Bold Print: Chubbies Stretch Swim Trunks
Why We Like It: If you want to make a statement, Chubbies is your brand. Famous for their fun, vibrant, and often humorous prints, Chubbies shorts are all about embracing the “weekend” mindset. They feature a comfortable stretch fabric and a classic, shorter inseam that’s perfect for showing off some leg.
- Retailer: chubbiesshorts.com, Amazon
- Material: Polyester / Spandex blend
- Key Features: Four-way stretch, anti-chafe mesh liner, tons of unique and retro-inspired prints, elastic waistband.
- Approx. Price: ~$69.50
Deal Llama Tip: Check their sale section for last season’s prints, which are often heavily discounted. Their “5.5-inch inseam” is their signature look.
Conclusion
Whether you prioritize chafe-free comfort, rugged durability, or bold style, there’s a perfect pair of swim trunks out there for you. By investing in a quality pair from this list, you’ll be ready for everything summer throws your way. Now go catch some rays!
