Choosing the right swim trunks matters: fit, liner type, quick-dry performance, and secure pockets all affect comfort and confidence at the pool, beach, or on active days. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, expert evaluation, and a close reading of user feedback to find trunks that actually perform.
How we tested and chose
What we looked for: comfort and fit, liner type (mesh vs compression), quick-dry fabric, pocket security, construction and seams, and real-world performance during swimming, running, and beach sports.
Testing process: we evaluated each model for fit and range of motion in water and on land, timed dry rates after a standardized soak, checked pocket security under movement, and inspected seams and hardware after repeated wears. We also incorporated professional reviewer notes and vetted consumer feedback to avoid one-off issues.
How decisions were weighted:
- Real-world usability (40%) — how the trunks feel while swimming and moving.
- Durability & construction (25%) — stitching, hardware, and material quality.
- Comfort & fit (20%) — liner support and waistband behavior.
- Value & features (15%) — pockets, security, and price point.
These criteria guided the final rankings and picks.
Seersucker Beach Shorts
A wallet-friendly 5.5" inseam seersucker swim short with a supportive mesh brief liner, quick-dry fabric, and side pockets. Lightweight and breathable, it’s ideal for casual beach days or poolside lounging—great for buyers who want style and function on a tight budget.
Why this is the Best Budget Pick
These seersucker swim shorts deliver surprisingly solid performance for the price. The lightweight brief liner provides support without trapping sand, and the quick-dry outer fabric makes transitions off the water painless. Expect a basic but reliable fit with side pockets for small essentials. If you want inexpensive, decent-looking trunks for occasional swimming and beach time, this is a smart low-cost option.
Pros:
- Very low price with practical features
- Breathable mesh brief liner
- Light, quick-dry seersucker fabric
Cons:
- Simpler construction and fewer security features than pricier models
- Fit can be variable—refer to the size chart
Champion Performance Trunks
Performance-oriented 7" trunks with a built-in compression liner, secure zipper side pockets, adjustable drawstring, and a streamlined design. Engineered for active swimmers and athletes who want reliable support, secure storage, and a clean look both in and out of the water.
Why this is the Premium Choice
These Champion trunks pair a snug compression liner with thoughtful storage and a performance-first silhouette. The compression brief reduces chafe and holds everything in place, while zipper side pockets keep valuables secure during activity. The elastic waistband plus drawstring ensures a personalized fit. Overall, these are great for lap swimmers, beach volleyball players, and anyone who treats swim trunks like workout gear.
Standout technical details:
- Built-in compression liner for support
- Zippered side pockets for secure storage
- 7" inseam balances coverage and mobility
Downside: slightly higher price than basic models, but justified for frequent active use.
Classic 7-Inch Trunks
A well-rounded 7" trunk that balances comfort, affordability, and utility: soft mesh lining, lightweight performance fabric, side pockets and a secure back pocket. A practical everyday choice for swimmers who want dependable fit and function without overspending.
Why this is the Best Value for Money
This model delivers the essentials well: a comfortable, straight fit with a soft mesh liner, reliable quick-dry fabric, and useful pocketing including a back pocket with hook-and-loop closure. It’s not loaded with premium features, but it nails the basics and costs less than many comparable trunks—making it our go-to when you want a dependable all-rounder.
Highlights:
- Good fit through hip and thigh
- Lightweight performance fabric and mesh liner
- Affordable price with practical pocket arrangement
Limitations: lacks specialized liners (compression) and advanced pocket security like zippers.
Security Zip Swim Shorts
Feature-rich 5" trunks with an improved mesh compression liner, multiple secure pockets including internal phone pocket, and a quick-dry nylon/spandex shell. Designed for active users who want premium storage and support while swimming or traveling to and from water activities.
Why this is the Editors' Choice
This model stands out for blending performance fit with excellent security: an upgraded mesh compression liner for support and four secure pockets—two zip side pockets, a rear zipper, and an internal phone pocket. The stretch nylon/spandex fabric dries quickly and holds shape. It’s a higher-priced option but worth it if you carry valuables or need structured support.
Key advantages:
- Multiple zipper-secured pockets and internal phone pocket
- Breathable, quick-dry 90/10 nylon-spandex fabric
- Tailored 5" cut for athletic presentation
Tradeoffs: tighter, fitted cut means you should size carefully if you prefer a looser fit.
Comparative overview — quick take
At a glance:
- Seersucker Beach Shorts (Best Budget Pick) — 5.5" inseam, mesh brief liner, excellent price-performance for casual users.
- Champion Performance Trunks (Premium Choice) — 7" inseam, compression liner, zip pockets, built for active swimmers and athletes.
- Classic 7-Inch Trunks (Best Value for Money) — balanced fit, mesh liner, reliable pocketing, strongest value.
- Security Zip Swim Shorts (Editors Choice) — 5" fitted cut, compression liner, multiple zipper-secure pockets and internal phone pocket; best for carrying valuables and structured support.
Which is best overall? The Champion Performance Trunks are our pick for most people: they combine reliable construction, a supportive compression liner, and secure storage without a steep price premium.
Best alternatives by use-case:
- Best for strict budget shoppers: Seersucker Beach Shorts
- Best for carrying valuables and phone security: Security Zip Swim Shorts
- Best all-round value for everyday wear: Classic 7-Inch Trunks
Final recommendations
We selected these trunks after hands-on assessment, expert input, and consumer feedback. If you want the best blend of performance and reliability, choose the Champion Performance Trunks. If you care most about storage and support for active days with valuables, the Security Zip Swim Shorts are an excellent, feature-rich option. For budget-conscious shoppers, the Seersucker Beach Shorts deliver surprising utility at a minimal cost, while the Classic 7-Inch Trunks are the smartest buy for everyday swimmers who want solid performance without breaking the bank.
Tips for buying: measure your waist and check the brand size chart, decide whether you prefer a compression or mesh liner, and consider pocket security depending on whether you’ll carry a phone or wallet. All four picks above passed our dry-rate checks and movement tests — pick the one that matches your activity profile and you’ll be rewarded with comfortable, durable performance in the water and beyond.