What to Wear Under Swim Trunks for Comfort and Style

By Shelby Bonner Sep 03, 2023

Have you ever put on your swim trunks and wondered what to wear underneath them? Or if you should wear anything underneath them?

There are many different types and styles of swimming trunks, whether you are swimming, lounging, or doing a long list of other water activities. You should be comfortable in your swim trunks and be able to go through your day unbothered and confident.

However, many different factors like chafing and modesty can interrupt your activities which is why there are many options on what to wear under them to help solve these issues. Let’s take a closer look at what to wear under your swim trunks.

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Dress Code

Whether you are at the local pool or beach, swim trunks are the typical attire for men. There are a variety of styles, lengths, and aesthetics to choose from. They are generally meant for lounging as well as water sports like swimming and paddle boarding.

However, depending on your need and comfort level, swim trunks on their own might not be enough or offer enough support or coverage.

Check out these men's swimwear brands.

Types of Swim Shorts

There are different types of swim shorts including swim trunks and board shorts which have a few key differences. Knowing what type of swim shorts you have will help you decide what to wear under them.

Check out these different swim shorts options.

Swim Trunks

Swim trunks generally have a mesh liner that provides more coverage and comfort.

Swim trunks have an elastic waistband and drawstring for a more comfortable, looser fit. They also usually have several pockets on the side and back.

Check out these swim trunks.

Board Shorts

Board shorts are longer, usually going to the knee, and do not generally have a liner. Their waistband is more form-fitting as they are often worn for higher-impact activities such as surfing. They have few to no pockets and no drawstring.

Both swim trunks and board shorts are made of stretchy material and quick-drying materials like nylon and polyester.

Check out these board shorts.

Built-in Liner

If you are wearing swim shorts that have a liner, you may not need to wear anything underneath them as long as they provide enough coverage and comfort for you.

Find more lined swim trunks here.

Boxers

If you are wearing board shorts with no liner, or want an additional layer, boxers are a popular choice to wear under your swim trunks. Boxers are an easy, accessible option that can act like a liner and provide more coverage and comfort.

Discover these boxers.

Briefs

Briefs, like boxers, are an easy option to add more coverage. Unlike boxers, briefs are more form-fitting, offering more support.

Try out these briefs.

Swim Briefs

Swim briefs are different than everyday briefs. They are designed for swimming and water activities and are often made from fabric that is stretchy and quick-drying.

They are meant to offer the support and performance you need so you can enjoy your time in the water without worry.

Find more brief underwear options here.

Fabric

Whether you choose boxers, briefs, or another option, the fabric you choose is important. Certain fabrics like nylon and polyester are stretchy and will dry quickly.

Fabrics used in swimwear also have four-way stretch, meaning they will move with you and will retain their form, so they don’t easily get stretched out.

Other fabrics like cotton are meant to absorb liquid and will not dry quickly, meaning your underlayer will remain wet and heavy for most of the day. Cotton unlike other fabrics is also not a stretchy fabric, meaning it will not hold its shape as well and may degrade sooner.

Alternative fabrics like organic cotton and bamboo will have a similar soft feel of cotton while also not absorbing bacteria and chemicals from the water as much as cotton.

Learn more about organic cotton.

Moisture-Wicking Material

Another factor to consider is whether your underlayer is made of moisture-wicking material. Moisture-wicking material is made from synthetic fibers and draws moisture from the skin and releases it into the air, making them great for swimwear, In the water, they will absorb both sweat and water and will dry quickly.

Moisture-wicking material also stops chemicals and bacteria from the water from getting absorbed into your clothes and skin, helping to prevent irritation and rash.

Find more moisture-wicking fabric here.

Compression Shorts

Compression shorts are a great choice under swim trunks and board shorts. They are form-fitting, offering support and coverage and most are made of moisture-wicking material, meaning they will dry quicker and help prevent unwanted bacteria growth.

Most are made of stretchy material, meaning they will hold their shape and not degrade quickly if they get wet.

Check out these compression shorts.

Thong

A thong is a good choice if your swim trunks have a low waste line or if you want additional coverage and support without creating an additional layer down the length of your thighs.

There are also many choices of thongs, including thong swimwear which like your swim trunks, will dry quickly, stretch with you, and retain their shape for many uses.

Discover these men's swimwear brands.

Nothing

If your swim trunks have a built-in liner, or you do not need additional support or coverage, many people opt to wear no additional layer under their swimsuit.

This is the more breathable, lightweight option.

Find more swim trunks here.

Longevity

One last factor to consider is how often you are swimming or doing water activities. Your boxers and briefs from your closet are great for quick, one-time use.

However, if you are looking for a long-term solution, investing in underlayers made from fabrics meant for water and movement might be a good idea.

They will not degrade or lose their shape quickly and can be used again and again for your water activities without worry.

Learn more about washing and caring for your clothes.

No matter what you choose, make sure you are feeling confident and comfortable, and enjoy the water!

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About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.