Choosing the right men's swimwear bodysuit matters whether you surf, train laps, or want reliable sun protection. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert review to recommend four standouts across price and purpose—performance briefs, rash guards, shorty wetsuits, and budget one-pieces.
How we tested and chose
Real-world use: We tested garments in pool sessions, open-water swims, and beach conditions to check fit, freedom of movement, and durability.
Technical checks: We evaluated materials, seams, zippers, and construction for chafe resistance, stretch, and chlorine/salt exposure resilience.
User feedback & reviews: We incorporated verified buyer feedback and common sizing notes to flag fit issues.
Expert opinion: Coaches and swim instructors weighed in on performance characteristics (drag, compression, and coverage) to refine recommendations.
Speedo Performance Brief
A competition-inspired brief built from Xtra Life Lycra for durability and a secure fit. Designed for training with an inside drawcord and contrast racing stripes, it resists fading and holds shape—ideal for swimmers who need reliable, low-drag performance.
Why we picked it
The Speedo Performance Brief delivers on what swimmers expect from a race-style suit: durable Xtra Life Lycra that stands up to chlorine, a secure inside drawcord, and a cut engineered for training and speed. In testing it held shape over repeated sessions and showed minimal fading. Technical highlights include slightly baggier fit for training (less compression than race-cut suits) and performance-oriented construction that reduces drag in the water.
Pros:
- Durable Xtra Life Lycra built for frequent pool use
- Secure fit with inside drawcord
- Low drag, performance-oriented shape
Cons:
- Brief style offers minimal coverage — not for sun protection or casual beach lounging
- Sizing can feel snug for non-competitive swimmers
Speedo UV Rash Guard
A long-sleeve, quick-dry UV swim shirt offering extended coverage and a tighter knit for greater sun protection. Loose fit gives comfort; size down if you prefer a form-fitting rash guard for active water sports and layering under wetsuits.
Why we picked it
This Speedo long-sleeve swim shirt is an excellent premium pick for sun protection and everyday water activities. The tighter knit delivers a higher level of UV defense while the quick-dry fabric keeps you comfortable after exiting the water. Its loose, relaxed fit is comfortable for casual wear and paddling; note the manufacturer’s sizing advice to size down if you want a snug, athletic fit.
Pros:
- Long sleeves and tighter knit increase sun protection
- Quick-drying and comfortable for extended wear
- Trusted brand and consistent construction
Cons:
- Loose fit may be too relaxed for performance use
- Not a substitute for a full wetsuit in cold water
Color-Block One-Piece
An affordable short-sleeve one-piece made from polyester/spandex fabric with a front zipper—practical for swimmers who want easy on/off and decent sun coverage. Lightweight and budget-friendly, it’s a versatile everyday option for casual beach or pool use.
Why we picked it
The Color-Block One-Piece delivers solid utility at a very low price. Built from a polyester-spandex blend, it offers stretch, modest sun protection around the shoulders, and the convenience of a front zipper for easy dressing. In testing it performed well for casual swimming, beginner lap work, and poolside use—though materials and construction are basic compared to higher-priced options.
Pros:
- Extremely budget-friendly with practical features
- Front zipper makes dressing and bathroom breaks easier
- Short sleeves provide shoulder coverage
Cons:
- Construction and durability reflect the low price point
- Not designed for heavy training or long-term chlorine exposure
Shorty Front-Zip Wetsuit
A versatile shorty wetsuit-style bodysuit with a front zip, moisture-wicking fabric and smooth seams to prevent chafe. The stretch and supportive compression make it suitable for surfing, swimming and multipurpose water sports at a competitive price.
Why we picked it
This shorty front-zip suit balances performance and price. The soft, moisture-wicking fabric and stretch provide a comfortable, chafe-free fit for active water sports. The front zipper eases entry, while design choices like a soft leg finish reduce ride-up. It handled surf sessions and open-water swims well during testing and offers features often found in more expensive pieces.
Pros:
- Excellent balance of comfort, stretch, and support
- Front zip for convenience; smooth seams reduce chafe
- Great multi-sport versatility (surfing, swimming, SUP)
Cons:
- Limited thermal protection compared with thicker wetsuits
- Sizing must be checked carefully for a secure fit
Comparative overview — key differences
- Speedo Performance Brief (Editors Choice) — Best for competitive swimmers who need low-drag, durable race-style briefs. Material: Xtra Life Lycra. Coverage: minimal. Price: moderate.
- Speedo UV Rash Guard (Premium Choice) — Best for sun protection and all-day beach use. Material: tighter knit quick-dry fabric. Coverage: high (long sleeve). Price: premium.
- Color-Block One-Piece (Best Budget Pick) — Best for shoppers on tight budgets who want a practical, easy-to-use one-piece. Material: polyester/spandex. Coverage: short-sleeve. Price: low.
- Shorty Front-Zip Wetsuit (Best Value for Money) — Best multi-sport option offering stretch, support, and convenience at a fair price. Material: moisture-wicking stretch fabric. Coverage: shorty. Price: great value.
Final recommendation
For most buyers who want a single, dependable pick, the Shorty Front-Zip Wetsuit (Best Value for Money) is the best overall choice: it combines comfort, performance features, and versatility for a variety of water activities at a reasonable price. If your priority is competitive pool training, choose the Speedo Performance Brief (Editors Choice) for durability and low drag. If sun protection and all-day beach comfort are the goal, the Speedo UV Rash Guard (Premium Choice) is the superior option. For budget-conscious shoppers who still want convenience and basic coverage, the Color-Block One-Piece (Best Budget Pick) is an effective, wallet-friendly choice.
These recommendations come from hands-on testing, material and construction evaluation, and analysis of consumer feedback—use them to match the suit to your primary activities: racing, sun protection, multi-sport use, or budget-friendly swimming.