Men's Swim Briefs vs Swim Trunks: How to Choose

This is the question that has my group chat divided. Briefs or shorts? Speedo or trunk? Show it all or leave something to the imagination?

The real answer is: it depends. And we're going to break it down so you can stop overthinking it and start actually packing.

The Case for Swim Briefs

'Parrot' Swim Brief

Swim briefs are the move when you feel like the best version of yourself and can walk into

any space with full confidence. They're also genuinely more comfortable overall for swimming (and dancing) less drag, less bunching, less chaving. Ours were designed to feel like you're in your birthday suit.

They work best at gay beaches and pools, circuit parties and Pride events, resort and hotel pools where the vibe is already elevated, and anywhere you've put in the work and want people to know it.

SLTBURN briefs are cut to sculpt the pouch construction lifts and supports, the low-rise waist is flattering on most body types, and the performance fabric holds its shape in and out of the water.

The Case for Swim Shorts

Shorts are your best friend when you're going somewhere mixed, a family beach, a resort

with a crowd you can't fully read, or a day that involves more walking than poolside lounging. They're also genuinely stylish when done right.

Carioca Performance Short

The SLTBURN Performance Shorts aren't your average trunk. Bold logo waistband, athletic cut, quick-dry fabric. They sit higher than a board short, shorter than a basketball short, and they look intentional.

They work best for beach days with varied crowds, travel days where the pool comes later, days when you want to move between pool and street without changing, and any situation where you want coverage without sacrificing style.

The Real Answer

Pack both. A good swimwear wardrobe has options. Start with one SLTBURN brief and one pair of SLTBURN shorts and you'll be covered for almost any situation a summer can throw at you.

Shop the full collection at sltburn.com.