Best swim trunks for 2026
Our picks for the best swim trunks of 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement. Picks come from reputation, long-term owner feedback, and published expert reviews.
For most people, the Hurley Men’s Phantom 20 Inch Boardshorts are the best all‑around pair, they balance comfort, durability, and style at a reasonable price.
If you’re on a tighter budget, the Saenger Men’s Quick Dry Swim Trunks punch well above their cost, while the O’Neill Men’s Hybrid Boardshorts are worth the splurge for premium materials and versatile land‑to‑water performance.
Finding a great pair of swim trunks is harder than it looks. The market is flooded with hundreds of options, and fit varies wildly between brands. Many trunks either stretch out after a few wears, trap sand, or dry too slowly for a day at the beach or the boat. This site cuts through the noise, helping you pick a pair that actually lasts, fits well, and looks good, without overpaying or settling for junk.
Hurley Men's Phantom 20 Inch Boardshorts
The best all‑around swim trunk for most guys
4.7out of 5A perennial favorite for good reason: a stretchy, quick‑drying fabric that feels like nothing on, a secure Velcro fly, and a classic 20‑inch outseam that hits right above the knee. Owner reviews consistently praise its longevity and comfort.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Saenger Men's Quick Dry Swim Trunks
Incredible value without the cheap feel
4.3out of 5Surprisingly strong for the price: a 4‑way stretch material, mesh liner, and a drawstring that actually stays tied. Hundreds of owners note the fabric holds its shape after a full summer of wear, making it the go‑to for budget‑minded shoppers.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →O'Neill Men's Hybrid Boardshorts
Premium build for land and water
4.6out of 5Built like a crossover short: thick, structured fabric that works from the surf to the bar, with a zip pocket and reinforced stitching. Expert reviews highlight the tailored fit and durability, though the price is noticeably higher than most.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →How we choose our picks
We don’t run lab tests or time how fast trunks dry in a controlled environment. Instead, we rely on what actually matters in the real world: long‑term owner feedback on forums and retailer reviews, published assessments from gear and fashion outlets, and our own analysis of failure patterns. The most common complaints we see, stretched waistbands, broken drawstrings, worn‑out seams after one season, guide our picks toward models that hold up over time. Beyond durability, we focus on fit consistency, fabric feel, and functional details like pocket security and quick‑drying performance. A trunk can have every feature on paper but still miss the mark if it doesn’t drain water well or feels clammy after swimming. We prioritize trunks that earn consistent praise from a wide range of body types and use cases, from beach lounging to active water sports, so the recommendations work for most people, not just one niche.
Start here: pick by what you need
How we pick
Swim Trunk Picks is independent. We don’t take payment for placement and a commission never moves a product up our list. Our rankings come from research, not sponsorships.