How to Find the Perfect Swimsuit Length for Men

Consider activity, occasion, trends, and body type for swimsuit choice.

There are often quite a few factors that go into deciding which swimsuit is the right one for you.

The color or print of a swimsuit is likely what first catches your eye when browsing, but typically the best place to start is determining which swimsuit cut or length you need.

So, how do you go about determining which swimsuit length to pick?

Well, for starters you might be surprised to learn just how many different swimsuit styles and lengths are available to men nowadays.

One way to get started is by considering what you’ll be wearing the swimsuit for, such as a certain occasion or activity.

If you’re a guy that likes to purchase a single swimsuit to cover every possible swimwear occasion, you’re going to want to opt for a versatile length that works well in lots of scenarios.

On the other hand, if you’re someone that enjoys having a few different options that are more precisely tailored to certain occasions or activities, you’ll want to grab a few swimwear choices of various lengths.

Here, we’ll cover the various swimsuit lengths for men, what lengths are best for certain activities, and how to match swimsuit length to certain body types.

Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by The Underwear Review. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.

What Are the Different Swimsuit Length Options for Men?

Beyond offering variety in style and appearance, the different lengths of men’s swimsuits offer men various options in functionality.

So, whatever your style preferences are or whichever event you planning on wearing it for, there’s definitely a swimsuit out there with your name on it.

Starting with the longest (and working toward shortest), let’s take a look at the most popular men’s swimsuit lengths.

Swimsuit Length Option 1: Board Shorts

A popular choice among men with a wide application, board shorts offer a baggier fit and long length that typically falls at or just below the knee.

This full coverage design provides extra protection during water activities and have a versatile fit for wearing outside the water, as well.

Available on Amazon: Quicksilver Everyday Boardshort

The Quicksilver Everyday Boardshort features a classic boardshort design from an iconic surf brand.

This boardshort offers both comfort and performance in a stylish and versatile fit.

Check out our full list of the Best Boardshorts.

Swimsuit Length Option 2: Swim Jammers

Designed for performance and comfortable enough for extended wear, swim jammers often extend all the way to the knee and provide a stretchy full coverage fit.

This design looks similar in nature to cycling shorts or compression shorts and is used by athletes to reduce drag in the water.

Shop at HisRoom: Speedo Endurance Swim Jammer

Available on Amazon: Speedo Endurance Swim Jammer

The Speedo Endurance Swim Jammer is a high-quality jammer option with a performance design in a comfortable streamlined fit.

This swim jammer utilizes covered elastic leg hems to keep in place and has low moisture absorption properties to maintain a lightweight feel.

Check out our full list of the Best Swim Jammers.

Swimsuit Length Option 3: Swim Shorts

The classic and most common choice among men, swim shorts offer a familiar fit (just like a pair of shorts) that can vary in length from above the knee to mid-thigh.

This well-known design offers comfort, security, mobility, and versatility, making them a great option for nearly any occasion or activity.

Shop at 2(X)IST: 2(X)IST Ibiza Swim Short

The 2(X)IST Ibiza Swim Short features a clean and stylish design with a 4-inch inseam length that hits mid-thigh for ease of movement both in and out of water.

This swim short has a supportive built-in pouch for support, a fully lined quick-dry mesh interior, a zippered fly, and a clean snap closer.

Check out our full list of the Best Swim Shorts.

Swimsuit Length Option 4: Swim Trunks

A more modern take on swim shorts, swim trunks offer a comfortable form-fitting design that continues to grow in popularity among men.

This versatile option typically extends no more than a few inches down the leg, offering coverage for the necessities while still retaining great freedom of movement.

Shop at 2(X)IST: 2(X)IST Cabo Swim Trunk

The 2(X)IST Cabo Swim Trunk features a comfortable polyester spandex fabric blend with second skin feel and an elastic waistband with a sporty drawstring tie for a custom fit.

This swim trunk has a seamless back construction, compression stitching for added mobility, and an ultra-supportive swim pouch.

Check out our full list of the Best Swim Trunks.

Swimsuit Length Option 5: Swim Briefs

Also enjoying a new surge in popularity, swim briefs, which are also known as speedos, offer a streamlined look in a breathable and mobile cut.

This minimal coverage design covers everything you need without extending to the legs and is perfect for those looking to show off their physique.

Shop at HisRoom: Gregg Homme Coast Swim Brief

The Gregg Homme Coast Swim Brief features a comfortable and stylish two-tone design with the perfect amount of stretch.

This swim brief utilizes soft and breathable fabric, a contoured pouch with enhancing properties, and a unique drawstring waistband.

Check out our full list of the Best Swim Briefs.

Swimsuit Length Option 6: Swim Bikinis

Similar to the swim brief but with a narrower cut in the front, sides, and back, swim bikinis offer an enhancing and figure-flattering fit.

This minimal coverage design is great for those that want plenty of freedom while still retaining some coverage in the pouch and backside areas.

Available on Amazon: BANG! Solid Swim Bikini

The BANG! Solid Swim Bikini features an extra low-rise cut in a classic racing design with flattering features and a trendy look.

This swim bikini sports a comfortable and lightweight body-hugging fit with four-way stretch and a drawstring waistband with signature metallic tips.

Check out our full list of the Best Swim Bikinis.

Swimsuit Length Option 7: Swim Thongs

The skimpiest and most breathable option of all, swim thongs merely offer coverage to your front pouch area with fabric running between your glutes to the back and connecting via waistband.

This extra minimal coverage design is perfect for those looking to flaunt their figure, soak up the sun, and enjoy a next to nothing feel.

Shop at HisRoom: Gregg Homme Caliente Swim Thong

Available on Amazon: Gregg Homme Caliente Swim Thong

The Gregg Homme Caliente Swim Thong is a stylish and classic swim thong option with the perfect balance of stretch and support.

This swim thong sports a soft and breathable fabric blend and is available in a variety of stylish non-see-through colors.

Check out our full list of the Best Swim Thongs.

What Is the Best Swimsuit Length for Men?

One of the most common swimwear questions we see is whether there’s a certain swimsuit length that’s considered the best option for men.

When you take into the varying styles, preferences, body types, and interests of men, the short answer is no. Unfortunately, there isn’t really a “best” option for men in general.

You could opt to go with current trends however and what’s considered a popular swimsuit length among men at the moment.

While longer swim shorts that cover most of the thigh have long been a classic among men, shorter lengths, such as form-fitting swim trunks and swim shorts with shorter cuts that fall around mid-thigh, have been enjoying a surge in popularity as of late.

Another way to determine the best swimsuit length is by determining which length or style tends to work best for whichever event or activity you’re wearing to.

For example, if you’re all about getting your laps in at the pool, swim jammers offer a performance design in a streamlined fit that will keep you comfortable and focused on the task at hand.

Hitting the beach for some fun and sun? Swim briefs and swim trunks are versatile choices that offer comfort, function, and style both in and out of the water.

Looking to catch some waves or enjoy other water activities? Board shorts and swim shorts are favorites among surfers and active individuals alike as they offer full coverage while remaining comfortable and easy to move in.

Going sunbathing? Skimpier options like the swim bikini for swim thong will allow for optimal sun exposure and minimal tan lines.

So, while there isn’t a universally considered best swimsuit length for men, matching preferred swimsuit lengths with their given activities will lead you to the best swimsuit pick and an enjoyable experience.

Considering Body Type When Choosing Swimsuit Length

Another method that may help you pick out the right swimsuit length is by your matching swimsuit choice to your body type.

In other words, picking out a swimsuit length or style that helps to accentuate certain features of your body.

Some men like to pick out a swimsuit that they feel enhances their best features or gives them a more flattering fit.

For example, if you have an athletic or muscular build, you may opt to show off your physique in a minimal coverage design like a swim bikini or a swim thong.

Or if you’re someone with a tall and lean build, you may consider going with some board shorts or swim shorts to add some volume to your lower body for a more balanced look.

On the other hand, if you’re someone with a shorter build, you may want to go with some swim trunks or swim briefs to add some length to your legs for a more balanced look.

Now, keep in mind, these are just a few tips based on general style guidelines that have developed over the years for highlighting certain features.

When it comes to picking out your swimsuit, remember to go with the option that you like best regardless.

In other words, there are no set rules for what you can and can’t wear. All swimsuit styles are fair play for any body type.