Finding the best men’s swimwear for Southern men shouldn’t be a chore. Some swim and beach shorts for men look ridiculous with patterns and designs no stylish man would wear. Imagine your dad with pink flamingos on his knee-length, baggy swim shorts, accessorized with black socks and sandals. You get the picture.
RELATED: Seersucker: How to Wear the South’s Classic Fabric
The Difference Between Board and Swim Shorts
Before we dive in to discover the best swimwear for southern men, you may wonder what’s the difference between swim shorts or board shorts. Board shorts are generally longer to project surfer’s legs from the wax applied to their boards. Swim shorts are shorter and usually have an interior mesh lining.
Vuori men’s swimwear with spandex liner for swimming and working out.
Shorter men’s swimwear lengths are in vogue this season, so you may want to amp up your leg routine for days in the gym or increase your cycling mileage to showcase your cut calves.
Here are several men’s swimwear options that combine functionally and styling for southern men of all types.
Vuori
Vuori is located in Encinitas, California, and prides itself on creating products through sustainability, ethical manufacturing, and community. I came across this brand shopping at Oko Lifestyle in Rosemary Beach, Florida.
The outer material and the interior spandex lining make the Stockton short ideal for kayaking to the beach then returning for a gym workout before enjoying happy hour in the neighborhood pool. Versatility is the key.
Silkworld
I discovered Silkworld swimwear on Amazon. They produce a variety of swim shorts and board shorts in a range of colors. More importantly, both the price point and quality are excellent.
Silkworld men’s swimwear is stylish with an affordable price point.
Silkworld men’s swimwear is also available at many national and regional department stores.
Uniqlo
The Uniqlo Active swim shorts are available in solid and prints. Mesh lining is standard with holes to drain excess water after a dip in the pool, lake, or ocean.
Uniqlo swim shorts are generally longer inseams, stopping a couple of inches above the knee.
RELATED: Best 30A Restaurants to Enjoy In 2021
Southern Tide
South Carolina-based Southern Tide apparel is available in upscale men’s stores throughout the South and online. Their swimwear comes in 6-inch and 8.5-inch inseams and a variety of patterns.
I love the stretch fabric because it allows lots of movement for playing beach volleyball or chasing small kids along the shoreline.
Peter Millar
Always a favorite of mine, Peter Millar offers several options in men’s swimwear. Their prints are classic and look much better than the nerdy patterns on many men’s swim shorts. These swim shorts are available online and at fine men’s stores for around $98.
Peter Millar is always a popular brand for Southern men. Their 2021 men’s swimwear line is versatile and stylish. (Peter Millar/2021)
Venroy
An Australian premium apparel company, Venroy men’s swimwear prices range from $85 -$140. Online shipping on my $100 order was free.
Swimsuits are 100 percent Microfibre Poly with front and rear pockets, mesh lining, and elastic waistbands.
Here’s to an extended summer around the pool, boating on your favorite lake, or lounging on gorgeous Southern beaches. Let us know if you purchased any of the brands above or if you’ve found other men’s swimwear lines you would recommend for Southern men.