Whether you're lounging by the poolside, heading for a quick dip at the beach or enjoying water sports, the right pair of swim shorts makes all the difference. They're more than just functional swimwear; they define your style and enhance comfort. This guide covers everything you need to know about swim shorts for men: from Pier St Barth's signature styles and fits to styling tips and care basics.

What Are Swim Shorts?

At their core, swim shorts are a type of men's swimwear designed for comfort, quick drying and performance in and out of water. Unlike traditional briefs or Speedos, swim shorts are cut like casual shorts, often with a relaxed fit and an elastic or adjustable waistband. They're typically made from lightweight fabrics, such as polyester, nylon, or poly-blends, that dry quickly and resist damage from chlorine or saltwater. Many come with inner mesh linings for support, although some modern tailored styles opt for a sleeker feel by skipping this feature.

In short, swim shorts bridge functionality and fashion, making them the go-to choice for most men.

How Should Swim Shorts Fit?

Getting the fit right is the key to both comfort and confidence. Here are a few simple rules:

1. Waist: Swim shorts should sit comfortably on your waist without digging in or sagging. Look for adjustable waistbands for flexibility.
2. Length: The most flattering cut for most men ends mid-thigh (around 5–7 inches inseam).
3. Leg opening: Avoid overly baggy shorts; a slim but comfortable fit around the thighs looks cleaner and moves better in water.
4. Rise: The shorts shouldn't sit too low; mid-rise is best for swimming and lounging.

Fit by Body Type

• Taller frames look best in mid-to-long inseams (7-9 inches) with bold prints or horizontal stripes.
• Shorter frames benefit from 5-7 inch inseams in solids or small-scale prints.
• Athletic builds suit mid-thigh tailored cuts that highlight shape.
• Broader builds should choose structured waistbands, darker shades, and 8–9 inch inseams for balance.
• Men with larger thighs should opt for a roomier cut through the leg to avoid riding up.

Tip: If you're unsure, choose a mid-thigh tailored cut. It's universally flattering and versatile.

Types of Swim Shorts at Pier St Barth

At Pier St Barth, swim shorts are designed to capture the effortless elegance of St. Barth's island lifestyle. The collection blends tailored refinement with sporty looks, offering a wide range of options that are sure to suit your personal style. Here's a closer look at the signature styles:

Tailored Swim Shorts

Pier St Barth's tailored designs are crafted for men who value sophistication as much as comfort. With clean lines, adjustable waistbands and premium quick-drying fabrics, these shorts look just as sharp with a linen shirt as they do in the pool.

• Bora Bora Swim Shorts: A refined cut with a sleek, tailored finish that feels polished yet relaxed. Perfect for resort settings, these shorts transition effortlessly from poolside lounging to sunset dinners by the sea.
• Hamptons Swim Shorts: Inspired by classic men's trousers, these retro swim shorts feature signature side-fasteners for a bespoke waist adjustment and a tailored fit. Crafted from quick-dry polyester, they're as practical as they are refined. Ideal for both relaxed seaside days and stylish evening outings.
• Odyssey Swim Shorts: Engineered for performance, these quick-dry four-way stretch shorts deliver comfort, mobility and sleek style. Designed with an ergonomic waistband and reinforced zip fly, they offer a secure yet flexible fit. Functional details like dual front pockets and a rear zippered pocket make them practical both on and off the beach.

Sport Swim Shorts

Sporty yet stylish, these shorts are made for beach days, boat trips and spontaneous swims. Featuring elastic waistbands and lightweight materials, they deliver all-day comfort without compromising on looks.

• Catamaran Swim Shorts: Inspired by the thrill of sailing, these shorts are crafted from high-performance stretch polyester for maximum comfort and movement. Their sporty design and quick-dry fabric make them perfect for active days on the water. Finished with a versatile look that works just as well ashore as it does at sea.
• Formentera Swim Shorts: Designed for the modern explorer, these retro-inspired shorts feature a bold white double border that channels classic coastal style. The elastic waistband with drawstring ensures a flexible, secure fit through every activity. Perfect for sailing or a competitive game on the sand.
• Lebron Swim Shorts: Inspired by the power and energy of basketball's greatest, these athletic swim shorts are built for performance and style. Crafted with side slits for enhanced movement, they deliver flexibility for both land and sea activities. Perfect for everything from ocean swims to fast-paced games on the beach.
• Cannes Swim Shorts: A Pier St Barth signature, the Cannes shorts feature cross-zip front pockets and a sporty yet refined design. The drawstring waistband provides a secure, personalized fit for active beach days.
• Pier Swim Shorts: The original Pier design that started it all, these shorts embody the spirit of sun, sea and effortless style. A relaxed fit with an elastic drawstring waistband ensures all-day comfort. Perfect for beach days, boat trips or laid-back afternoons by the pool.
• South Beach Swim Shorts: Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Miami's iconic shoreline, these shorts bring bold energy to every adventure. Designed with a flexible drawstring waistband, they offer comfort and a secure fit for active movement. A standout choice for beach sports, ocean swims, or simply chilling by the beach.

Best Fabrics for Swim Shorts

At Pier St Barth, every pair of swim shorts is designed with performance and comfort in mind. The fabrics are carefully selected to keep up with an active lifestyle while maintaining a refined look.

• Quick-Dry Polyester: Lightweight and durable, this fabric ensures shorts dry fast after a swim and hold their shape throughout the day.
• Four-Way Stretch Blends: Found in performance styles like the Odyssey, these blends allow full mobility while managing moisture with ease.
• High-Performance Polyesters: Used across both tailored and sport collections, offering breathable comfort, lasting color and resistance to salt and sun.

Styling Swim Shorts: Occasions & Outfits

Swim shorts aren't just for the water. With the right styling, they can carry you from the beach to a sunset dinner.

• Beach day: Keep it casual and comfortable with a lightweight T-shirt or tank top, paired with flip-flops or espadrilles. Styles like the Pier are perfect here, giving off a relaxed, energetic vibe while still looking sharp. Add a cap and sunglasses to complete the carefree, coastal look.
• Pool party: This is the moment to elevate your swimwear. A tailored style, such as the Hamptons or Bora Bora, paired with a crisp linen button-down, makes an effortless statement. Slip into espadrilles or a pair of Birkenstocks for a polished finish.
• Resort wear: For a chic holiday-ready outfit, lean into muted tones or elegant patterns. Pair tailored shorts like the Odyssey with a linen or cotton polo shirt for understated sophistication. Add a woven belt and loafers or clean sneakers to complete a look that's just as fitting for strolling the marina as it is for a seaside dinner.
• Sporty look: Active days demand comfort and freedom of movement. Opt for dynamic styles like the Catamaran or Lebron, designed with performance in mind. Pair them with a sleek rash guard or fitted performance tee and finish with lightweight trainers or water shoes for a look that is ready for both the sand and the sea.
  

Care Basics: How to Maintain Swim Shorts

Proper care extends the life of your swim shorts and keeps them looking sharp.

1. Rinse After Use: Always rinse your shorts in fresh water after a swim. Chlorine, salt and sand can break down fibers over time and cause colors to fade. A quick rinse helps remove these elements before they set into the fabric. Don’t wring them out; instead, roll them gently in a towel to remove water.
2. Hand Wash When Possible: Gentle hand washing with mild detergent is the best way to keep fabrics feeling soft and looking vibrant. If you use a washing machine, place your shorts in a mesh bag on a delicate cycle to minimize wear.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, fabric softeners and strong detergents can weaken fibers and strip away color. Stick to gentle, eco-friendly cleaners that protect both your shorts and the environment.
4. Air Dry: Don’t tumble dry. High heat from dryers can shrink or warp the fabric, weakening fabric elasticity. Instead, hang your shorts in the shade to air dry naturally. This not only preserves their fit but also prevents sun damage that can cause fading.
5. Store Properly: Once completely dry, fold or store your shorts flat in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them damp in a bag or drawer, as this can cause mildew and unpleasant odors.
   
6. Rotate pairs: If you swim often, allow fabric to recover between uses.

By following these steps, you'll keep your Pier St Barth swim shorts in peak condition, ready for every new adventure by the sea.

Swim Shorts FAQs - Everything You Wanted to Know

What's the difference between swim trunks and swim shorts?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences. Swim trunks usually refer to looser, elastic-waist designs that lean more casual and sporty. Swim shorts, on the other hand, can include tailored, hybrid or sport styles like those at Pier St Barth. They often have a sharper cut, premium fabrics and versatile styling that transitions seamlessly from the water to social settings.

Do swim shorts need lining?

Not necessarily. Many traditional designs come with mesh lining for extra support during water activities. However, premium tailored shorts often skip the lining to create a sleeker, more comfortable fit. Pier St Barth offers both lined and unlined options, so you can choose based on your comfort preference.

Can you wear swim shorts casually?

Yes, especially if you choose tailored or hybrid-inspired designs. Pair them with a linen shirt or a polo, and you'll have an outfit that works perfectly for strolling through town, relaxing at a beach club or heading to a casual dinner. Tailored styles like the Hamptons or Bora Bora are made to blur the line between swimwear and daywear.

How many pairs of swim shorts do I need?

It depends on your lifestyle, but at least two is a smart start. Have one sport style for active days on the water, like the Catamaran or Lebron and one tailored option for elevated occasions, such as the Hamptons. Frequent travelers or those on longer holidays may want a small rotation to cover different moods, colors and activities.

Are patterned swim shorts still in style?

Absolutely. Bold tropical prints and retro designs bring personality to your beach look and remain a staple season after season. At the same time, timeless solids like navy, black, or olive will never go out of style and are easier to dress up with shirts and accessories. A well-rounded wardrobe includes a mix of both.

What length of swim shorts is most flattering?

Mid-thigh lengths (around 5–7 inches inseam) are universally flattering, balancing comfort and style for most body types. Shorter cuts create a more retro, athletic look and work well on leaner frames, while longer cuts offer modesty and are great for taller men. Pier St Barth's collection includes options across the spectrum, so you can find your best fit.

How should I pack swim shorts for travel?

The best way is to roll them instead of folding, which saves space and helps prevent creasing. Because Pier St Barth shorts are crafted from quick-dry fabrics, they are ideal for travel, drying overnight and ready to wear the next morning. Pack a mix of tailored and sport styles to cover both relaxation and activity.

Conclusion

Swim shorts aren't just for the water; they're an everyday summer staple that brings together comfort, style and ease. Pier St Barth's collection has something for every vibe, from sharp tailored styles to sporty cuts and relaxed resort-ready designs.

Pick the fit and fabric that works best for you, take care of them, and they'll stay with you for many summers to come. With this guide, you're set to find your go-to pair and wear them from the beach to the bar without missing a beat.

Find your perfect pair of swim shorts, made for comfort, style, and summers that last.