There is no lack of swimsuit designs available nowadays, whether it is for men or women. However, we want to focus primarily on men's swimwear in our post today.
The age-old query, "What does one wear beneath swim trunks?" pertains to men's swimwear, especially swim shorts.
There is no scarcity these days. The possibilities here vary from going "commando" (i.e., wearing nothing at all, au naturel) to donning a piece of clothing made particularly to be worn underneath them, and everything in between, including regular underwear (though, underwear is not advisable option – more on that later).
The age-old question of what to wear underneath swim trunks pertains specifically to men's swimwear, especially quick dry board shorts.
In the end, everything comes down to personal choice. However, the kind and/or design of swim shorts will undoubtedly influence and/or prescribe what is worn (or not worn) underneath them as well.
Having said that, there are many various styles of swimwear and swim shorts available for guys nowadays. For the purpose of clarity (and for use as references throughout the essay), let's briefly define some of the most popular styles.
But first, let's be clear that throughout the article, the word "swim shorts" will encompass/refer to all of the most popular designs discussed, whether they are for men or women.
However, we want to focus primarily on men's swimwear in our post today. The age-old query, "What does one wear beneath swim trunks?" pertains to men's swimwear, especially swim shorts.
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Best Underwear for Under Swim Trunks
1. Swim Trunks
The most traditional swimwear in the country is trunks. They are designed to be worn casually both in and out of the water and often have a standard shorts-style cut.
Additionally, the lining of swim trunks is often made of polyester or mesh (though some do not).
2. Board Shorts
For surfers, board shorts were created as an alternative to swim trunks. They descend further (at or just below the knees) and provide more protection as a result. Typically, they don't have any type of lining.
3. Square-Cut Shorts
Swim trunks are a thinner, more form-fitting alternative to square-cut shorts. They are more prevalent among European guys.
4. Jammers
Because they serve to decrease drag, jammers are knee-length, form-fitting men's swimsuits used by competitive swimmers and water sports athletes.
These form-fitting compression suits are highly reminiscent of compression shorts and cycling bottoms (essentially the same thing, except without the cushioned crotch/buttock region).
5. Speedo
Men's speedos, sometimes known as "banana hammocks" in colloquial use, are tiny, fitting swimwear. Swim briefs/swim underwear is the official style name (Speedo is the trademark/brand name rather than the real style name).
There is really no need for extra layers below if one has picked a pair of swim shorts with a liner. Going "commando" is thus entirely normal and acceptable in this situation.
However, sometimes one's preferred pair of swim shorts won't have a liner or the one that does won't fit well, so they'll want an option to wear below to provide support, comfort, and/or more covering.
Although some people may want to use their usual underwear since it is readily available and costs less, this is not advised.
Cotton and water do not get along well over extended periods of time; the fabric itself does not hold up well and eventually it will absorb water, which may become unpleasant. The majority of daily underwear is composed of cotton.
One may wear a variety of additional things beneath their swimwear. Compression shorts and other clothing made expressly for this purpose are among the alternatives available.
Can You Wear Compression Shorts Under Swim Trunks? Do You Wear Anything at All Under Them?
There are various distinct types of swim shorts for guys, as you can see from the introduction. Others of which have no liner; some of which have a mesh/netted or polyester lining for support, comfort, and/or added covering.
There is no need to wear anything extra below swim shorts if you choose a pair with a liner (we'll talk about liners more later in this post, but for now... ).
While some people may like these more modern designs, many alternatives on the market right now don't have a liner, and these people still desire some extra support, comfort, and/or covering below. What should one do in this situation, then?
First things first: regardless of whether the swim shorts you choose include a liner, you are more than welcome to go "commando" if you feel comfortable doing so.
However, you might choose something like swim briefs or compression shorts if you are not at ease and/or would want some support, comfort, or more covering.
The greatest solution is not your regular boxers or briefs, despite the fact that they may appear like a nice, affordable alternative.
Cotton and water do not get along well over extended periods of time, as was indicated in the introduction. Additionally, most boxers and briefs are comprised of cotton or a cotton mix.
So, if you plan to remain dry and on land, they could be OK. Your regular underwear is not a wise decision, however, if you plan to be in the water and/or get wet.
The cotton will also take up water. The very soaked cloth then presses up against your skin, which may result in chafing or irritation (which may be uncomfortable or irritating).
Additionally, this water absorption will result in weight gain, which will eventually make swimming more difficult.
Compression shorts, surf undershorts, or swim briefs/underwear (sometimes known as a "banana hammock"/Speedo) are better options composed of moisture-wicking material.
All of these solutions are comparable in price, so choosing one will ultimately depend on whatever one feels most comfortable with, while one's precise budget will undoubtedly be a consideration.
Conclusion
As we've already indicated, if your swim shorts include a liner, you should use them. We've also highlighted some of the finest underwear for swimming. Wearing more layers below is not necessary.
However, if a person's swim shorts don't have a liner and they want more support, comfort, or covering, they may make that decision.
Just keep in mind that it's best to avoid using cotton or everyday underwear; instead, stick to clothing made of moisture-wicking material.
