Some men think the mesh lining in swim shorts is perfectly fine. Others absolutely hate it. You? You’re probably looking for swim shorts without an inner lining - and you’ve come to the right place.
Not every pair of swim shorts has that mesh lining. And that’s not a mistake; it’s simply a conscious choice. For many men, it’s much more comfortable. No tugging, no itching, no checkered pattern imprinted on your thighs.
Why choose swim shorts without an inner lining?
There are a few good reasons:
- More freedom of movement: No tight mesh pulling at your skin when you move. Handy for sports, surfing or simply doing wild cannonballs.
- Dries faster: Fewer layers of fabric = dries faster. Especially nice when you want to grab something from the beach bar in between.
- No chafing: Especially during long days at the beach or walks in wet swim shorts. Swim shorts with mesh lining can start chafing then.
- Lighter feel: Especially with longer styles, these swim shorts feel pleasantly airy.
Who are they for?
For anyone who doesn’t like that confined feeling. You don’t have to be a surfer or beach bum - even if you’re simply relaxing by the pool, swim shorts without an inner lining are a great choice.
Whether you’re 25 or 55, it doesn’t matter at all. If you feel good in them, that’s what counts.
Are there any downsides?
Let’s be honest:
- Less support: Without an inner lining, everything hangs a little more loosely. Some men actually like that. Others prefer a bit more “support”.
- Thinner material? Sometimes the material is a little thinner because there’s no lining. So choose a colour or print that doesn’t show everything through when it’s wet. (Hans says: don’t go for pure white.)
@goedkopezwembroeken
Hans’s tip: Not sure? Do the squat test at home in front of the mirror. Put on your swim shorts, squat, jump and do a little dance. Nothing falls out? Then you’re good to go.
When should you wear swim shorts without an inner lining?
🏄 Surfing or stand-up paddleboarding: Many surfers consciously choose styles without an inner lining. More freedom of movement and less chafing.
🏊 Swimming in open water or a pool: No mesh to soak up water or get in the way while swimming.
☀️ Sunny holidays: Fewer layers of fabric = a faster tan and faster drying. Nice and practical.
🍔 Beach barbecue: Sit comfortably without anything digging in while you work your way through your third hamburger.
What should you look for when buying?
- Material: Choose quick-drying fabric such as polyester or a polyester/elastane blend.
- Length: Shorter for more sun on your legs, longer for more coverage (and room for pockets).
- Colour and print: With or without an inner lining, taste is personal. Go for whatever you like - tropical print, solid colour or classic navy blue
What about the size?
Between two sizes? Choose the smaller one. Without an inner lining, a loose fit is already airy enough - you don’t want them sliding down when you get out of the water.
Also check the size chart, so you can be sure you’re not taking a guess.
In summary:
Swim shorts without an inner lining are:
✅ Comfortable
✅ Quick-drying
✅ More freedom of movement
✅ Ideal for sports, sun and relaxation
And if you’re unsure: just buy a pair and try them. There’s a good chance you’ll never want to go back to those itchy mesh linings.
Want a pair?
Order before 1:00 p.m. on a working day and we’ll ship them the same day. Shipping is free. So if you’re torn between two, just get both. You don’t wear the same boxers every day either, do you?
Have questions? Email us, message us or throw a lifebuoy over the fence. We’re here to help.
