As temperatures soar and beach days beckon, men's swimwear is stepping into the spotlight in 2025 with bold new styles, sustainable materials, and fashion-forward details. Whether you're gearing up for a tropical getaway or just updating your poolside wardrobe, this season's trending swim trunks offer something for every guy. From tech-savvy trunks to luxury resort-ready cuts, the variety available is more impressive than ever. Read as we dive into the hottest men's swim trunks making waves this summer, complete with data-backed popularity and where to shop them.
Bold Prints & Statement Patterns
This summer, men aren’t shying away from making a splash with eye-catching patterns. From tropical florals and tie-dye to retro geometrics and animal prints, trunks are louder and prouder than ever. These designs not only offer personality but help break away from the standard solid-color norm, adding excitement to beachwear. Brands like Vilebrequin and Bather are leading the charge with playful yet sophisticated designs, blending vibrant palettes with flattering cuts.
- Example: Vilebrequin Moorea Tropical Turtle Trunks
- Why It’s Trending: According to Google Trends, searches for "men’s floral swim trunks" have spiked over 60% compared to last summer, signaling their widespread appeal.
Sustainable Swimwear
As eco-conscious fashion gains traction, trunks made from recycled ocean plastics, biodegradable fabrics, or sustainably-sourced materials are dominating the market. These eco-trunks not only look good but help reduce environmental impact—a win-win. Leading the way are Patagonia, Outerknown, and Fair Harbor, all offering trunks that blend ethical craftsmanship with stylish design. Some brands even donate a portion of proceeds toward marine conservation.
- Example: Outerknown Apex Trunk by Kelly Slater
- Why It’s Trending: A report from Business of Fashion highlights sustainability as one of the top 5 priorities for menswear consumers in 2025, particularly among Gen Z and millennial buyers.
Shorter Inseams Are In
Long board shorts are taking a backseat as 5" inseams and above-the-knee cuts dominate the scene. These retro-inspired fits offer a flattering, tailored look while providing greater freedom of movement. They also dry faster and keep you cooler, especially during outdoor activities. Whether you're sunbathing or tossing a frisbee, short trunks are making functionality fashionable.
- Example: Chubbies The Everywear Trunks (5.5" inseam)
- Why It’s Trending: Pinterest's 2025 Summer Style Report notes a 75% increase in searches for "short swim trunks," showing a clear preference for this breezy, athletic look.
Solid Colors & Minimalist Styles
If bold patterns aren’t your thing, minimalist trunks in muted tones like sage, navy, terracotta, and sand are also hugely popular. These understated styles offer versatility, pairing effortlessly with tees, button-downs, or even a lightweight blazer for casual resort wear. Perfect for guys who value subtlety, these trunks are also easy to match with other beach accessories like sandals, sunglasses, and hats.
- Example: Everlane ReNew Swim Short
- Why It’s Trending: Lyst's 2025 Menswear Report shows a 40% increase in purchases of solid-color swimwear since last year, indicating that simplicity still reigns supreme for many.
Performance-Focused Swimwear
For the active guy who lives an adventurous summer lifestyle, swim trunks that double as performance shorts are a game-changer. Made from quick-dry materials and often featuring compression liners, water-resistant pockets, and UPF protection, these trunks transition easily from the beach to a workout. Ideal for paddle boarding, jogging, or even impromptu beach workouts, they offer top-tier mobility and comfort.
- Example: Ten Thousand Set Short
- Why It’s Trending: A recent survey by Men's Health found that 1 in 3 men prefer dual-purpose swimwear for fitness and function, especially those who travel light.
Luxury Swim Trunks
Luxury labels are diving deeper into men’s swimwear, offering elevated fabrics, tailored silhouettes, and polished detailing. These premium trunks are ideal for poolside lounging at upscale resorts or stylish beach parties. Labels like Orlebar Brown and retailers like MR PORTER are making high-end beach fashion more accessible, with pieces that look as good out of the water as they do in it.
- Example: Orlebar Brown Setter Swim Shorts
- Why It’s Trending: According to MR PORTER's sales data, designer swimwear is seeing double-digit growth, especially among affluent, fashion-forward shoppers who value quality over quantity.
The best swim trunks for you will depend on your lifestyle, body type, and fashion sense. If you're adventurous and bold, go with prints or performance wear. If you lean classic or eco-conscious, solid minimalist or sustainable trunks might be your go-to. What matters most is feeling confident and comfortable—the rest is just style points. This season offers unprecedented variety, making it easier than ever to find your perfect fit.
Quick Shopping Guide:
- Bold Prints: Vilebrequin, Bather
- Sustainable: Patagonia, Outerknown
- Short Inseams: Chubbies
- Minimalist: Everlane, Lululemon
- Athletic: Ten Thousand
- Luxury: Orlebar Brown, MR PORTER
With these trends in mind, you can hit the beach in comfort and confidence. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.
