In the strict world of swimming pools, men’s swimwear leaves little room for improvisation. It’s not just an accessory — it’s a tool. It has to stay in place, dry quickly, allow full freedom of movement… and save you from awkward looks poolside. Between rules, fabrics to avoid, and more or less flattering cuts, choosing the right men’s swimwear for the pool can feel like an aptitude test. But don’t worry — we’ve broken it all down for you.
Why choosing the right swimwear for the pool matters
Balancing comfort, performance, and style
Diving into the water with trunks that are too loose and float around, or too tight and cut into your skin? Not a good idea. The right men’s swimwear for the pool should give you maximum comfort and freedom of movement. And if it can also save you from looking like a holidaymaker from 2003, even better.
In the water, any loose fabric or chafing quickly becomes an irritant. And let’s not forget style — your swimwear is probably the most visible piece you’ll wear in public. So choose one that feels and looks right.
Pool vs beach: different rules
At the pool, everything is… more regulated. No sand, no waves, but clear rules. Long boardshorts? Often banned. Men’s swimwear for the pool has to be snug-fitting, clean, and chlorine-resistant. Sorry — your beach boardshort won’t make the cut.
Why so many restrictions? For hygiene (long fibres pick up all sorts of debris) and performance (swimming with a parachute isn’t great for speed). You don’t need to be a pro swimmer, but if you like keeping a decent pace in your lengths, your swimwear choice matters.
Different types of men’s swimwear for the pool
The swim brief: minimalist and efficient
Simple, snug, and made for performance. The swim brief is designed to move, glide, and dry fast. It’s the choice of regular swimmers, fans of quick flutter kicks, and anyone who’s comfortable showing a bit more thigh.
- Total freedom of movement
- Dries in minutes
- Recommended (and sometimes required) in many public pools
Not for showing off — but perfect for serious swimmers.
The swim trunk: a great middle ground
More coverage than a brief but still close-fitting, the swim trunk sits between performance and modesty. It shapes to the body without being overly revealing.
- Accepted in most pools
- Modern, less divisive look
- Good support and balance between comfort and performance
The go-to choice for those who want to swim without sparking debate in the changing room.
The swim short: often banned
Ah, the trusty boardshort. A beach classic, but often rejected at the pool entrance. Most public pools ban them outright — not to be annoying, but because they hold water, bacteria, crumbs, and maybe even your forgotten metro ticket.
- Not allowed in most indoor pools
- Not ideal for serious swimming
- Casual look but out of place for training
Best kept for the beach or hotel pools where style matters more than lap times. Still want to check out Bluebuck swim shorts?
The jammer: for serious swimmers
Long, tight, and high-performance. The jammer is the go-to for competitive training or regular lap swimming. It gives just enough compression without restricting movement.
- Inspired by racing suits
- Reduces drag in the water
- Looks like you’re ready for a triathlon
The clear choice for those who count their laps.
How to choose the right men’s swimwear for the pool
Body shape: it’s about balance, not perfection
This isn’t about having the “ideal” body — it’s about finding balance. The right swimwear can flatter… or highlight the wrong areas. The goal: avoid style missteps.
We’ve already written a full guide on this: Which swimwear suits your body type? The men’s guide
Intended use: leisure, training, or relaxation?
Your pool swimwear will differ depending on whether you’re doing 10 lengths of freestyle or splashing around with the kids.
- Leisure: trunks are a safe choice
- Regular training: briefs or jammers, depending on preference
- Spa days: focus on comfort (and the venue’s dress code)
Swimming butterfly in boardshorts is about as practical as running in jeans.
Eco-friendly fabrics for pool swimwear
Recycled fibres that resist chlorine
Today, the best men’s swimwear for the pool can be technical, durable, and made from reclaimed fishing nets. Yes, really.
- SEAQUAL® fibre: made from recycled marine plastic waste
- ECONYL® fibre: regenerated nylon from industrial or ocean waste
These materials aren’t just for marketing — they hold up better against chlorine, keep their shape, and dry fast. Plus, they help reduce plastic pollution worldwide.
Brands that care
Some brands, like Bluebuck, prove that performance and eco-consciousness can go hand in hand. Their swimwear is built to last, locally made, and produced under fair conditions.
- Made in Europe (Portugal and Austria)
- Certified fabrics (GOTS)
- Clean, fitted designs made for real aquatic life
Choosing ethical swimwear is just one more box to tick. You don’t have to be perfect — but you can avoid swimming in brand-new petroleum without even knowing it.
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Choosing the right men’s swimwear for the pool isn’t about looking stylish on the beach. It’s about practicality, comfort, fabrics that stand up to chlorine, and cuts that suit you. Brief, trunk, jammer, recycled or not — the aim is to find one that works with you, not against you. And if it’s also ethical, durable, and a little stylish… no one will complain.