Dive in: these are the best swim shorts for summer
How to make a splash when heading poolside…
It’s finally beginning to heat up outside, and the wider world – from the Maldives to the Med – is ready to welcome jet-setters once again, following a long and seemingly endless period of gloom. And it’s not a minute too soon; we were starting to worry that all those new sunglasses and citrus-heavy scents we’ve been collecting would go unused. Thankfully, June is on the doorstep, and, so, we’ll be off on our high-climes sojourns within a flash.
With this in mind, and with everything from far-flung infinity pools to local lidos opening up once again, we need swimwear now more than at any other time in the year. And Gentleman’s Journal has rounded up the best to buy now, from unembellished options to bright, bold alternatives. So, go on – dive in and make a splash…
David Gandy Wellwear, Short Length Swim Shorts
Let’s begin with something that’s a failsafe for most men: the classic navy option. And few individuals have had as much experience dipping in and out of the sea in perfectly formed trunks than model David Gandy – so, naturally, we look to his label to sort us out with this beachside fundamental. Though we could talk longingly and lovingly about the fuss-free design (the contrasting white drawstring appears to be the only embellishment), its pared-down look belies the fact that, perhaps more importantly, the material offers UV protection, and is also crafted from polyamide yarn, which, in other words, means that if/when they hit landfill, they’ll biodegrade in just a few years.
Orlebar Brown, Setter Shorts
Celebrated for its playful prints, vibrant hues and all-round superlative swimwear, we, of course, have to turn to Orlebar Brown in this shortlist. The Setter shorts offer a more tailored fit (the shaped waistband, concealed snap closure and the label’s signature side fasteners allow for an extremely well-cut silhouette), and the quick-drying recycled polyamide from which it’s made has a touch that sits somewhere between lustrous and substantial. For us, the best part is the golden hue – a design feature as vibrant as it is beautiful when hit with sunlight. Additionally, because it cuts close to the thigh, we recommend pairing it with something equally as sharp – a Sunspel T-Shirt and minimalist sneakers will do the job when bar-hopping in Lisbon.
Tom Ford, Slim-Fit Short-Length Swim Shorts
Thanks to its poppy hue that sits in the middle of pastel and bold, as well as its contrasting white piping, this Tom Ford option has drawn our heads for its retro-style sophistication. The overall look, and the flash of blue, somewhat reminds us of that celebrated sea-surfacing scene in Casino Royale – and, the adjustable buckled waist tabs allow you to constantly change the tightness, depending on how much summer-holiday feasting is to be done.
Gusari, The Deia
Named after a small coastal village in Mallorca, The Deia is anything but minuscule when it comes to aesthetics, its vibrant, imaginative pattern – waves of black, pink and blues – a fine statement for the season of sartorial expression. What we appreciate most is that though the style is a little eye-catching, it’s all honed in by the neutral blue spine that runs throughout, meanwhile the slim-look and single buckle create a refined, sophisticated feel that anchors the bold scheme.
Love Brand & Co., Elephants of India Staniel Swim Shorts
Finally, for something that is, once again, a slight change from the ocean of beige and tan-coloured cargo trunks seen in marinas around the world, Love Brand & Co.’s creation – which is done out in a pattern of burgundy elephants (the brand is a partner to wildlife conservation charity Elephant Family) – has a look that will shimmer against the heat. It’s made with a slightly more relaxed fit than the options above, so may be better suited for those who prefer not to be too confined by their wears, and, better still, it’s produced from 100 per cent recycled fabric.
Want more hot-weather content? These are the best SPF products to buy now…
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
