The best swim trunks of 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Hurley Phantom 20 Inch Boardshorts are the best swim trunks for most men, combining performance, comfort, and style in one reliable pair.
The Saenger Quick Dry Trunks are the top budget pick for casual use, while the O'Neill Hybrid Boardshorts justify their premium price with exceptional versatility.
A great pair of swim trunks does more than just cover you up, it needs to survive saltwater, dry quickly, and look good from the beach to the boardwalk. The right length, fabric, and pocket design can make or break your day in the sun. Whether you’re surfing, swimming laps, or just lounging poolside, the best trunks balance freedom of movement with a fit that stays put. Choosing well comes down to a few key decisions: inseam length (most men find 5 to 7 inches ideal), fabric weight, and whether you want a lined or unlined design. Quick-dry materials like polyester or nylon blends cut down on post-swim sogginess, while a secure zip pocket protects keys and cards. Below you’ll find our researched picks for the best swim trunks of 2026, ranked for different needs and budgets.
Hurley Men's Phantom 20 Inch Boardshorts
the do-it-all default
4.8out of 5The Hurley Phantom 20 strikes a near-perfect balance of stretch, drying speed, and classic board-short looks. It’s the pair you’ll reach for again and again, whether you’re out on the water or grabbing lunch after. Owner feedback consistently praises its comfort and durability through many seasons.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Saenger Men's Quick Dry Swim Trunks
affordable performance
4.3out of 5The Saenger Quick Dry Trunks deliver impressive value for a budget-friendly price. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and come with a mesh liner that many costlier pairs skip. While the materials feel less refined than premium options, they hold up fine for casual pool days and beach trips.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →O'Neill Men's Hybrid Boardshorts
the premium all-rounder
4.7out of 5O’Neill’s Hybrid Boardshorts blur the line between swim trunk and casual short, letting you go from water to dinner without changing. The fabric is noticeably softer and more tailored than standard boardshorts, and the pockets keep contents secure. It is a genuine investment piece that earns its higher price through versatility and build quality.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Hurley Men's Phantom 20 Inch Boardshorts | 4.8 / 5 | $$ | Active guys who want one pair of trunks for swimming, surfing, and everyday wear. | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Saenger Men's Quick Dry Swim Trunks | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Budget-minded shoppers or anyone who needs a functional backup pair for occasional use. | Check price → |
| Best value | O'Neill Men's Hybrid Boardshorts | 4.7 / 5 | $$$ | Travelers and anyone who wants one pair of shorts that can handle both swimming and casual | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Quiksilver Men's 18 Inch Volley Boardshorts | 4.6 / 5 | $$ | Guys who prefer a traditional board short length and a clean, understated look. | Check price → |
| Editor's pick | Billabong Men's Crossfire Boardshorts | 4.5 / 5 | $$ | Value-conscious shoppers who want a durable, no-nonsense boardshort for regular use. | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Hurley Men's Phantom 20 Inch Boardshorts: the do-it-all default
Best overallThe Hurley Phantom 20 strikes a near-perfect balance of stretch, drying speed, and classic board-short looks. It’s the pair you’ll reach for again and again, whether you’re out on the water or grabbing lunch after. Owner feedback consistently praises its comfort and durability through many seasons.
Pros
- Four-way stretch fabric moves easily during activity
- Dries faster than most comparable shorts
- Durable stitching holds up to repeated saltwater exposure
- Available in a wide range of solid colors
Cons
- Runs a bit long for those who prefer a inseam
- Limited patterned options if you want something flashy
Who it’s for
Active guys who want one pair of trunks for swimming, surfing, and everyday wear.Who should skip it
You prefer a shorter inseam (under 7 inches) or need a fully lined design.2. Saenger Men's Quick Dry Swim Trunks: affordable performance
Runner-upThe Saenger Quick Dry Trunks deliver impressive value for a budget-friendly price. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and come with a mesh liner that many costlier pairs skip. While the materials feel less refined than premium options, they hold up fine for casual pool days and beach trips.
Pros
- Very affordable for a lined, quick-dry trunk
- Mesh liner eliminates the need for separate underwear
- Lightweight and packable for travel
- Multiple color options at the same low price
Cons
- Stitching and zippers may show wear sooner than pricier brands
- Fabric feels a bit thin and less structured
Who it’s for
Budget-minded shoppers or anyone who needs a functional backup pair for occasional use.Who should skip it
You want premium fabric feel or plan to wear them for high-intensity water sports.3. O'Neill Men's Hybrid Boardshorts: the premium all-rounder
Best valueO’Neill’s Hybrid Boardshorts blur the line between swim trunk and casual short, letting you go from water to dinner without changing. The fabric is noticeably softer and more tailored than standard boardshorts, and the pockets keep contents secure. It is a genuine investment piece that earns its higher price through versatility and build quality.
Pros
- Hybrid design works well as everyday shorts
- Premium fabric feels soft and resists pilling
- Secure zip pockets keep valuables safe
Cons
- Higher price than most dedicated swim trunks
- Fewer colorways available than some competitors
Who it’s for
Travelers and anyone who wants one pair of shorts that can handle both swimming and casual outings.Who should skip it
You’re on a strict budget or need trunks purely for lap swimming (a traditional suit may dry even faster).4. Quiksilver Men's 18 Inch Volley Boardshorts: a classic with a modern fit
Runner-upQuiksilver’s Volley 18 is a time-tested silhouette updated with a slightly tailored cut and quick-dry technology. It offers a traditional boardshort feel without sagging. The 18-inch outseam gives good coverage, and the fabric holds up well session after session. A solid runner-up choice for the brand loyalist.
Pros
- Classic styling that never looks outdated
- Quick-dry fabric sheds water effectively
- Available in many colors and occasional limited editions
- Elastic waist with drawcord provides a comfortable fit
Cons
- Less four-way stretch than more modern competitors
- Can feel a bit stiff when new (needs a few washes to soften)
Who it’s for
Guys who prefer a traditional board short length and a clean, understated look.Who should skip it
You need maximum stretch for paddling or dynamic movement in the water.5. Billabong Men's Crossfire Boardshorts: a quiet favorite
Editor's pickBillabong’s Crossfire is a well-constructed boardshort that often flies under the radar. It features a durable polyester fabric and a comfortable fixed waistband. User reviews frequently note how well it holds its shape after many washes. At its price point, it delivers reliable performance without fuss.
Pros
- Tough construction that resists fading and tearing
- Secure pocket with drainage system
- Comfortable waistband that doesn’t dig in
Cons
- Limited pocket capacity (only one back pocket)
- Designs are mostly solid colors with minimal branding
Who it’s for
Value-conscious shoppers who want a durable, no-nonsense boardshort for regular use.Who should skip it
You need multiple pockets or prefer louder patterns.Best for specific needs
Best for performance
When you’re in the water as much as you’re out, stretch and drying speed matter most. The Hurley Phantom 20 excels here with its four-way stretch fabric and quick-dry construction. It moves with you during swimming or surfing and dries fast enough that you won’t be sitting in a wet seat on the ride home. It’s the top pick for active water use. Our pick: Hurley Men's Phantom 20 Inch Boardshorts.
Best for versatility
If you want one pair of shorts that works for swimming, walking around town, and even a casual meal, the O’Neill Hybrid Boardshorts are the answer. Their tailored cut and soft fabric make them passable as everyday shorts, while the quick-dry performance and secure pockets handle the water. They’re pricier, but for travelers or minimalists, the versatility is worth it. Our pick: O'Neill Men's Hybrid Boardshorts.
Best for value
Not everyone needs a premium boardshort. The Saenger Men’s Quick Dry Swim Trunks deliver all the basics, quick-dry fabric, a built-in mesh liner, and a comfortable waist, at a fraction of the cost of big-brand options. They’re ideal for the occasional pool-goer or someone assembling a spare pair for guests. The trade-off in long-term durability is fair for the price. Our pick: Saenger Men's Quick Dry Swim Trunks.
Our verdict
No single swim trunk works perfectly for every guy, but the Hurley Phantom 20 comes closest. It pairs athletic-ready stretch with a classic look, all at a mid-range price that doesn’t feel like a splurge. For those with specific needs, tighter budget, preference for hybrid wear, or love of tradition, the Saenger, O’Neill, Quiksilver, and Billabong picks each excel in their own lane. Pick the one that matches your routine, and you’ll be set for the sunniest months ahead.