Men's Beachwear Buying Guide

The majority of us have been cooped up all winter, longing for that first day of warm weather when we can hit the beach.   When the summer season arrives, that means it's time to throw on a bathing suit  and get out there.  However, therein lies the problem.  Many men wear the same swimwear  year after year, and it's about time to bid farewell to those old swim trunks  and invest a new pair of board shorts.   But not to worry, we are here to help you out. 

How Many?

Ideally, you can afford to have two or three bathing suits each summer season, but keep in mind how many times each one will actually be worn.  It's more realistic to buy just one or two new suits, but it really is a judgment call.  If your bathing suit is a classic cut and color, then you can pull it off for years to come.  However, if it's a trendy pattern and style, chances are you will be sick of it by the end of the summer anyway. 

Your Options

So what are your options when it comes to buying new beachwear? 

The Speedo Well, we think that the Speedo  should be banned from your options altogether, as it lacks style and is designed for professional swimmers who need aerodynamics.  Aside from being unattractive, they are generally uncomfortable as well.  The feeling of discomfort is exactly the same to that of wearing regular briefs,  so imagine the feeling that occurs when the salt of the ocean dries up on the tight polyester and slowly grinds into skin.  Ouch.	Classic Shorts Regular swim shorts  are perfect matches for older, respected men who don't seek attention and who generally don't care much about fashion. They will usually buy the same shorts in a variety of colors, which will last them for many seasons.  Shorts are generally less risque, as they reveal just the right amount of skin and adjust to each individual's physique.  They are also extremely comfortable, especially with today's high-tech fabrics, which dry almost instantly.	Board Shorts The big thing now in men's swimwear is the youthful surfer/skater look.  Perfect for young men, board shorts  fall longer than the standard swim shorts do, and often come in a variety of prints to choose from.  Though some will come with cargo pockets,  know that this trend has been phasing out slowly.

Shop Specifics

Already know what you are looking for?  Browse through these suits to find the right one for your needs and your wallet.

Shop by Color Find a swim suit in the hottest colors. White  Yellow  Orange  Red  Pink  Purple  Green  Brown  Grey  Dark Grey  Black	Shop by Size Narrowing down your size will help your search. Small  Medium  Large  XL  XXL	Shop by Brand Buying is easier when you know just what you like. Billabong  Diesel  Hurley  Lost  Nautica  Quicksilver  Speedo  Volcom

Related Guides

Check out some of our other buying guides for even more beach essentials.

Beach Games	Flip Flops	Sunglasses	Sun Protection	Water Sports

External Links

• AskMen.com:  Not sure what to wear?  Find the answers to your questions.  
• Beach-Clothing.com:  Read more about the different types of beachwear available to men.
• MensHealth.com:  Articles to help you get your body beach-ready.
• SportsAuthority.com:  A comprehensive swim suit guide that men can understand.