For over 100 years swimwear has dominated the fashion landscape throughout the summer months.

Swimwear is important as it takes you through a mountain of memories in your lifetime; from riding the waves, to wild swimming in a deserted lake, to hitting the hotel pool on the first day of your holiday. It’s important to make sure that the swimwear you choose both suits the situation and makes you feel confident and feeling your best. After all you want to make the best memories possible.

Men have a whole host of different swimwear options for consideration, from small briefs, to the slightly more giving trunks, to the everyman’s board shorts. With swim shorts being the most universal choice from both a suits-most-situations perspective and holding the highest preference among men, this article will be entirely focused around this classic cut.

The StyePilot team have handpicked the best swim shorts on the high street this Spring/Summer so you don’t have to go out hunting. Let us know which pair is your favourite in the comments section or on Instagram.

Thanks to our friends over at Hatherley Manor Spa for allowing us to shoot there.

Palm Tree Print Mid Length Swim Short by boohooMAN

Take the Mediterranean with you wherever you go this summer with these palm tree shorts. The dark purple base overlayed with green palm tree print means that you’re guaranteed to make a lasting impression wherever you are. The length of the shorts come comfortably above the knee, with the fabric feeling premium creating a fit that will compliment most men. Pair with a plain white tee to draw attention to the palm tree print.

Echo Racer Swim Shorts by Superdry

These shorts are instantly recognisable as Superdry and will definitely make a statement when you rock up at the beach. The dark navy panels meshed with light blue and pink panels make a fantastic colour-block combination for this season. You’ll be very thankful for the quick dry technology when you forget to pack the towel. The shorts also come in a variety of other prints including all-over ice lolly and a palm tree pattern which are both great for when you’re heading off to brighter shores.

Sustainable Quick Dry Swim Shorts by Marks & spencer

These classic look swim shorts pack in a lot of features. Made from 100% recycled materials; you don’t have to feel guilty about splashing out on another pair of swim shorts this summer. If you’re planning on hitting a pool these shorts are perfect for you thanks to the chlorine resistant technology which keeps them looking and feeling in top-notch condition. Other useful features include quick dry technology as well as UPF protection against harmful rays.

Stripe Swim Short in Mid Length by boohooMAN

Every man can rock this pair of swim shorts. The classic vertical stripes in navy and white gesture towards the timeless nautical theme making these the ideal staple piece for the beach, dock or poolside. You can be sure that they will see you through the next few Spring/Summer seasons. Pair with a similar vertical striped shirt to turn up the volume.

Bardo 80’s Swim Shorts by Fila and only at Urban Outfitters

Exclusive to Urban Outfitters, these Fila 80’s colour block shorts bring a retro addition to your summer swimwear wardrobe. The bright blue, yellow, red and white collide together flawlessly creating an explosion of boldness. Every angle offers a different colour. The Fila branding guarantees a high level of quality in terms of both style and material.

Runner Swim Shorts by boohooMAN

This classic cut nods gently to the 80’s whilst remaining contemporary to today’s market. The white piping detail along the sides and bottom compliments the pale pink to create a subtle yet stylish piece. Style with a grey t-shirt to fully enhance the pink. Other colour options include a deep pink as well as pale blue.

Pink Tiger Print Swim Shorts by Topman

The oriental-style tiger print brings something unique to the high street selection of swim shorts this season. The intricate details mean your eyes keep picking out new elements each time you wear them.

Beach Volley Swim Shorts by Superdry

Simple can be king. Completely different to the prior pair of Superdry, these shorts come in one all over colour. Still following the theme of standing out; the neon lime green colour is electric and one of our favourites this season. The shorts come complete with zipper back pocket which will be a lifesaver this summer. If you’re not brave enough to choose this shade yourself the product also comes in a colour scheme from black all the way through to pink.

STYLING TIPS

With so many different styling options out there it can be overwhelming to decide what’s going to look best with your shorts. Here’s our quick styling tips to make sure you’re on trend:

• Sliders. The hottest footwear trend from the past two years has hit the market again this season. Sliders are great to wear around the pool or on the beach and will instantly up your fashion game. Try the Tommy Hilfiger sliders we featured in our shoot.
• Shirt. Let your shorts do the talking. Marry a plain short sleeved shirt, and style it with the buttons all open for a retro California throwback. If you aren’t confident enough to bare your torso, then a simple short sleeve tee will also work the same.
• Accessories. If you want to style the look further so you’re not limited to just sticking to the beach or pool, finish the look off with a classic hat like this from John Lewis. Be warned that hats will only work with a classic swimwear look (think plain shorts and simple sliders).

Hatherley Manor Spa

Thanks again to the team at Hatherley Manor Spa for allowing us to shoot at their luxury Cotswolds based hideaway. If you’re looking to get away from the big city, check out the great packages that are available to detox, relax and unwind throughout the summer.