Just like with all clothing, swim shorts also have new trends every year. Colors that were gone for years suddenly come back, certain prints are everywhere, and a style that was once avoided becomes the season’s big hit. Which men’s swim shorts are popular, what do you see a lot on beaches and in pools, and which colors are trendy now? Below, we list the main men’s swim short trends for this year (2026), divided into three themes: styles, colors, and prints — plus a few handy details.
1. The styles: tight is gaining ground
The clearest development in recent years is that men are increasingly choosing a tighter swim short. Where the long knee-length short was long the norm, you now see many more short and fitted models. A brief explanation per style:
The swim brief is the classic and is clearly on the rise. Not always charmingly named in everyday language, but more and more men see the benefits: maximum freedom of movement, lightweight, and you get an even tan. Functional swimmers and holidaymakers heading to France or Italy consciously choose it. Check out the swim briefs for men.
The swim boxer is just as popular and is basically a swim brief with short legs. Ideal if you want the benefits of a tight model but prefer just a bit more coverage. This style is becoming more popular every year. Check out the swim boxers.
The short swim short (short short) is the trend for those who find tight still a bit daring but want it short. It covers about a quarter of the thigh, is finished with a contrasting trim and a V-split at the hip for extra freedom of movement. Ultralight, flexible, and quick-drying — and your legs get maximally tanned. Check out the short swim shorts.
The classic swim short falls just above the knee and remains popular, especially because you can also wear it as a regular short. Less suitable for lap swimming, but versatile on the beach. Check out the swim shorts.
2. The colors: bright, brighter, brightest
Every year there is one standout color you see everywhere. Bright, fluorescent colors have been a steady trend for several seasons: neon pink, lime (neon green), bright orange, and vivid blue. They pop off the beach and give that instant summer feeling — neon colors stand for positive and sunny for good reason. Lime in particular remains a recurring hit.
Prefer something calmer? Then black and dark blue remain timeless. Often combined with one or two accent colors, so you still have a fresh detail without it being too much. A nice middle ground: a neutral base with a brightly colored trim or print. Bright colors are found in all styles — swim briefs, swim boxers, and swim shorts.
3. The prints: flowers, fruit, and all-over
Besides solid colors, prints have been indispensable on the beach for years. The three most popular directions:
The floral print makes a comeback every time: often bright and in a mix of colors. Requires some courage, but beautiful to see and easy to combine with a plain t-shirt or polo.
The all-over print with a small, repeated motif — flamingos, pineapples, melons, ice creams, or rubber ducks. Cheerful, trendy, and typically summery.
The photo print goes a step further: a photographic print over the entire short, for example, a summer coastal village or underwater scene. Maximum holiday feeling.
The great thing about all these prints: they make you happy. Did you usually go for black or dark blue? Then try adding a color or print — you’ll see it boosts your summer mood. Find them all in the swim shorts.
Handy details to watch for
Trends aren’t just about looks. A few practical things that are increasingly requested:
- Zipper pockets — handy to safely carry your key or some money to the beach. Check out swim shorts with zippers.
- Quick-drying material — great if you go in and out of the water several times a day. Check out the quick-drying swim shorts.
- Inner lining — for extra comfort and support. Check out swim shorts with inner lining.
Which swim short trend suits you?
In summary, this season is all about three things: tighter and shorter styles, bright colors, and cheerful prints. Whether you choose a functional swim brief, a flexible short short, or a boldly printed swim short — there’s a trend for every type of man.
Browse the full collection of men’s swim shorts and find your favorite. All styles, all sizes (S to 8XL), and always affordable.
