MFMGiven that summer holidays are a thing again, I’ve spent some time thinking of all the essential items men take with them on a trip abroad. I realised that swimming shorts are pretty low down on the list of necessities. We think of t-shirts for the day time, short sleeved shirts for the evening, sandals, trainers, linen trousers, the list goes on. But swimming shorts are an after thought, which seems a bit odd when a holiday to Spain mainly means sitting around a pool or next to the sea.
Surely the humble trunk needs more consideration?
In recent years, swim shorts have become more considered in terms of style. They are no longer the cheap, plain items picked up at the last minute. People pay more attention to what they wear, and rightly so. Knowing where to look is always the hardest job, so lucky for you, I’ve done the leg work and found them for you. There really is no excuse to keep buying them from the airport any more.
Adidas – 3 Stripe Swim Short (Crew Blue) £29
These shorts are all about the classic American school gym look. Reminiscent of vintage Adidas pieces, the aptly-named shade of ‘Crew Blue’ rounds the whole look off nicely. Dodgeball, anyone?
ARKET – Swim Shorts (Dusty Green) £35
Made with ENCONYL yarn, a material derived from nylon waste and recovered fishing nets, these shorts are super lightweight and surprisingly soft. They have an elasticated waist and a practical inside pocket with a key hook. Never lose your keys in the sea again.
WOOD WOOD – Roy Swim Short (White Stripes) £85
These striking striped shorts are a familiar sight with fans of Wood Wood. They’re made with durable polyester and lined with breathable mesh, meaning they are suitable for both swimming and sports. If you’re partial to a nautical theme, these maritime-striped wonders will be perfect for you.
Paul Smith – Classic Artist Stripe Swim Short (Multi) £99
If you’re after a retro feel, these rainbow-tinged shorts from sartorial icon Paul Smith will definitely upgrade your poolside style. They’re cut for a comfortable fit and crafted with recycled polyester, keeping them breathable as well as stylish. You can’t go wrong with the classics.
Norse Projects – Hauge Swim Short (Sporting Green) £60
Expertly crafted in Portugal by a brand who really just know what they’re doing, these quick- drying polyester dreamboats are also kitted out with three pockets and an adjustable waist for comfort. The rich sporting green shade is super stylish, harking back to classic British motor racing of the past.
Written by Tom Loughran