Just because swim trunks are a casual item doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider their fit just like you do the rest of the items in your Essential Wardrobe. Like with anything else in our Fit Guide, a few missteps here or there and you could really not be doing your physique any favors.
So, now that you’re probably in the mindset for beach and pool time we thought we’d cover how your swim trunks should fit in our latest episode of 2 Minute Tuesday.
Length
Proportionally and visually, this is what looks best on men and as a basic rule, no matter how tall you are, your trunks should always above the knee by at least 3” above your knee.
Shorter Men
The length should hit at mid-thigh, at the longest. This proper length will make akes you (and your legs) look longer.
Taller Men
For the right proportions, you can go a little longer between 3” above the knee to mid-thigh, at the shortest.
Average Height Men
Go with the same guidelines as a taller guy, otherwise, your proportions will look off.
Fit
Ideally, you want to be able to pinch between a 1/2″ to 1” on either side of your thigh. You can go up a little bit if you must but any more and you’re right on the edge of looking a little bit baggy and sloppy.
The waist should fit perfectly around without too much sagging or tightness.
Should You Tailor Swim Trunks?
You can shorten them, but we don’t recommend trying to get the legs slimmed, because there’s usually pockets and other things in the way and it can get expensive. There are enough styles out there for every man to be able to find a good fit.