Sports, Tailored & Hybrid Swim Shorts: Which Style Is Right For You?

Resort style today is all about keeping it easy and looking sharp without trying too hard. Gone are the days of baggy board shorts. Now it’s about finding a pair that fits your lifestyle, whether you’re diving into the ocean, chilling by the pool or grabbing a drink after a swim.

At Pier St. Barth, we design swim shorts that fit every vibe. They’re stylish, comfortable and made from high-performance fabrics that keep you cool through the day.

In this guide, we’ll break down the three main styles: Sports, Tailored and Hybrid, so you can find the one that feels made for you.

Sports Swim Shorts

Ideal for: Guys who live for the water, beach games, and days packed with sun and movement.

If you’re the kind of guy who’s always on the move, into beach games, or up for a quick surf, the Sports Swim Shorts from Pier St. Barth are made for you.

Light, quick-drying and built for action, these shorts are perfect for everything from beach volleyball and paddleboarding to spontaneous boat rides. They feature an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring to keep things secure, a breathable mesh lining for comfort and lightweight nylon or polyester fabric that dries in minutes. They’re built for performance but still look sharp enough to wear straight from the waves to the bar.

Features at a glance:

• Elastic waistband with drawstring for a secure, flexible fit.
• Quick-dry technical fabric that keeps you comfortable in and out of water.
• Breathable inner mesh lining for airflow.
• Lightweight design that doesn’t cling or weigh you down.

Style tip:

Pair them with a fitted resort polo or a lightweight tee for a clean, relaxed look that works both on the sand and at the beach club. Add slides or sneakers to finish it off and you’re set for the day.

Pros:

• Great for active days, swimming, and water sports.
• Super comfortable and fast-drying

Cons:

• More casual and less structured, so not ideal for dressier settings.

Shop the look:

• South Beach Sports Swim Shorts – a clean, solid-colour classic built for performance
• Cannes Sports Swim Small Wave Shorts – a playful pattern inspired by beach energy
• Pier Sports Swim Coral Shorts – a bold coral tone that brings out the island vibe.
• Pier Sports Swim Copa Edge Shorts – sporty and versatile, perfect for travel and outdoor adventure

Tailored Swim Shorts - The Elevated Resort Shorts

Ideal for: Those who like their resort look a little sharper, perfect for poolside lounging, beach clubs, and sunset dinners.

If your holiday mood calls for something clean, smart and stylish, then the tailored side of swimwear is where it’s at!

Picture a pair of shorts that look as sharp as tailored trousers but feel as easy as your favorite swim shorts. The waistband is structured, the front is clean and flat, and those side tabs let you adjust the fit just right. You’ll feel just as comfortable stepping off a boat as you will walking into a beach club. Made from a quick-dry woven fabric with a hint of stretch, they move with you while keeping that effortlessly polished look. You’ll find them in the Tailored Swim Shorts collection on the Pier St. Barth website.

Highlights:

• Structured waistband with side tabs for a bespoke fit (see the Hamptons, inspired by classic trousers).
• Flat-front silhouette and refined closure (zip or button) give it that clean look.
• Quick-dry woven fabric blends smartness with swim-readiness.
• Subtle stretch woven in so you’re not feeling confined after a dip.

Style tip:

Throw on one of these tailored shorts with a relaxed linen shirt, then roll up the sleeves for a little zoom. Loafers or espadrilles complete the look.

Pros:

• A refined silhouette makes it ideal for resorts, beach-club dinners or yacht-side sundowners.
• Smart enough to skip the casual “swim short look” and go straight to “I mean business - but make it holiday”.

What to keep in mind:

• These are less about full-on surfing or chasing waves; the fit is firmer and the design leans style-first rather than raw performance.
• If you’re planning an ultra-active water-sports day, a more athletic cut might serve better.

Top picks to explore:

• Bora Bora Tailored Swim Shorts – A standout print or pattern for when you want tailored and a little personality.
• Hamptons Tailored Swim Shorts (solid or stripe) – the staple of the category.
• Tailored Swim Shorts – Solid Colors, Minimal, clean colours if you prefer a quiet canvas.

When you’re packing for a holiday, consider the tailored swim as your smart-casual anchor piece. And in the tailored swim range at Pier St. Barth, you’ve got the cut, the fabric and the aesthetic to make it count.

Hybrid Swim Shorts

Ideal for: Travellers who pack light and move seamlessly between water and city.

A modern wardrobe essential, Hybrid Swim Shorts are built for those who want versatility without compromise. Featuring belt loops, hidden zips, drainage eyelets and 4-way stretch fabrics, they’re equally at home in the sea, by the pool or at a resort café.

Features at a Glance:

• 4-way stretch, water-repellent fabric.
• Belt loops & hidden zip pockets.
• Drainage eyelets for quick drying.
• Structured yet comfortable fit.

Style Guidance:

Pair with button-up shirts, resort knits and slides for effortless transitions from swim to city.

Pros:

• All-day wearability.
• Adaptable design.
• Sophisticated edge.

Cons:

Slightly heavier fabric than pure swim options

Care & Fabric Tips

Your Pier St. Barth swim shorts are designed to travel far and last long, but a little care goes a long way in keeping them looking sharp season after season. These shorts are made from premium quick-dry fabrics with just the right amount of stretch, so treating them gently helps preserve their shape, color and feel.

Here’s how to keep them in top condition:

• Rinse after every swim: Salt water and chlorine can be harsh on fabric over time. Give your shorts a quick rinse in cool, fresh water after each swim to wash away any residue before it sets in.
• Skip the strong stuff: Avoid bleach, harsh detergents and fabric softeners. A small amount of mild soap or gentle detergent is all you need. Wash them by hand or on a delicate cycle in cold water to protect the fibers and fastenings.
• Air dry the right way: Lay them flat or hang them in the shade to dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight or tumble drying, as heat can fade colors and weaken elastic fibers.
• Store smart: Once dry, fold them neatly or hang them to keep their structure intact. Avoid leaving them rolled up or damp in a bag, especially after a swim.

Each pair of Pier St. Barth swim shorts are crafted with precision, performance fabrics and durable stitching so they age beautifully with care. Look after them well, and they’ll keep looking as good as they feel - from one island escape to the next.

FAQs: Finding Your Perfect Swim Shorts

1. What’s the difference between Sports, Tailored, and Hybrid Swim Shorts?

Sports Swim Shorts are made for movement and active days by the water. Tailored Swim Shorts focus on structure and sophistication, perfect for resort dining or beach clubs. Hybrid Swim Shorts combine both worlds - designed for travel, they’re smart enough for the city and comfortable enough for the sea.

2. Which swim shorts are best for all-day wear?

If you like to keep things simple and travel light, Hybrid Swim Shorts are your best bet. They’re made with quick-dry and stretch fabrics, so you can swim, explore and dine without needing to change.

3. Are Pier St. Barth swim shorts suitable for both swimming and casual wear?

Absolutely. Every Pier St. Barth short is designed to move effortlessly from beach to bar. The Sports styles are ideal for swimming and water sports, while the Tailored and Hybrid shorts are perfect for poolside lounging, travel, an evening out, and a quick swim.

4. How should I choose the right fit for my body type?

If you prefer a relaxed, athletic look, go for Sports styles. For a more refined, fitted silhouette, Tailored Swim Shorts are the way to go. If you’re somewhere in between wanting versatility and comfort, the Hybrid range is your sweet spot, as it is multifunctional 

5. How do I care for my swim shorts to make them last longer?

Rinse them in cool water after every swim to remove salt or chlorine, wash gently with mild detergent and dry them flat in the shade. Avoid tumble drying or leaving them damp in a bag. With a little care, your Pier St. Barth shorts will look and feel new season after season.

Conclusion

No two days or destinations are the same, and your swim shorts should keep up with every mood, every tide and every escape. Whether you’re diving into cool blue waters, wandering barefoot along the shore or heading out for cocktails at sunset, Pier St. Barth has a style that fits right in. Each pair is thoughtfully crafted to balance performance, comfort and design, so you never have to choose between looking good and feeling good. Because true resort style isn’t about standing out, it’s about moving effortlessly through every moment, wherever the day takes you. Shop your perfect fit and make every swim, sail, and sundown count.

Explore our latest men’s swim shorts collection, featuring Sports, Tailored and Hybrid styles designed for every destination - from beach clubs to open seas.