The right pair of swim shorts should work as hard as you do on a summer weekend. They need to handle a morning swim, a lap of the pool, lunch at the beach kiosk and the walk home, without clinging, chafing or taking all afternoon to dry. Yet most of us pick a pair based on colour alone and find out the rest later.
This guide covers what actually matters when choosing men's swim shorts: fabric and drying time, lining, fit, length, pockets and how to look after them. It also introduces the new Island and Coastal colourways in the New Summer 2026/27 Collection.
Quick answer: look for lightweight, quick-drying fabric with a comfortable mesh lining, an adjustable waistband so the fit stays secure in the water, a mid-thigh length that suits both swimming and walking, and pockets you can actually use. Then choose a colour you will want to wear all summer.
1. Fabric, lining and drying time
Swim shorts spend most of their life wet, so fabric is the first thing to check. Lightweight synthetic fabrics tend to shed water quickly, which means less time sitting in damp shorts after you leave the water. Swim Shady men's swim shorts are made from 100% polyester, feature quick drying technology and are mesh lined, so you can go from the water to the cafe without a change of clothes.
2. A fit that stays put
Nobody wants to adjust their shorts mid-wave. An elasticated waistband with an adjustable cord lets you set the fit once and forget about it, whether you are diving off a rock pool or chasing a kid down the beach. Swim Shady swim shorts include both an elasticated waistband and a cord for exactly this reason. They come in sizes S, M, L, XL and 2XL, so check the options on each product page before you order.
3. Length: why mid-thigh works
| Length | Good for | Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Short | Sun-seekers, a retro look | Less coverage, less versatile away from the water |
| Mid-thigh | Swimming, walking, pool days, relaxed beach lunches | A flexible all-rounder for most body types |
| Knee-length | Board sports, extra coverage | Can feel heavy and slow to dry when wet |
Swim Shady swim shorts sit at mid-thigh, a length that looks sharp on the sand, moves freely in the water and works just as well beside the pool.
4. Pockets that earn their place
Pockets are the feature people notice once they have them. Look for pockets that are secure enough for a key or card and positioned so they do not flap about when you swim. Swim Shady swim shorts have two side pockets, an internal key pocket, and one back pocket with a magnetic closure. The back pocket also converts into a compact bag, which makes storage and travel simpler when you are packing for a weekend away.
5. Colour that works with everything
The best swim shorts are the ones you reach for first. Solid, confident colours pair easily with whatever else is in the bag. The new Island and Coastal colourways give you four options: Island Navy, Island Maroon, Coastal Blue and Coastal Green. Each is a limited edition and priced at $99 AUD.
Prefer a pattern? Our earlier prints, including Evergreen Diamond, Sapphire Sand and Mint Flare, are still in the swim shorts collection.
Looking after your swim shorts
A little care goes a long way. As a general rule for swimwear, rinse your shorts in fresh water after swimming in the ocean or a chlorinated pool, and let them dry out of direct, harsh sun. Always follow the care label on your pair.
Complete the beach day
Good shorts are the start of an easy beach day. Add a Luxury Beach Towel in a matching summer colour, a reversible Swim Bag to carry it all, and the Swim Shady solo beach shade, designed for one person, for a little shade of your own between swims.
Frequently asked questions
What are Swim Shady swim shorts made from?
They are made from 100% polyester with quick drying technology, and they are mesh lined.
Do the swim shorts have pockets?
Yes. There are two side pockets, an internal key pocket, and one back pocket with a magnetic closure, which converts into a compact bag for storage and travel.
What length are they?
Mid-thigh.
What sizes are available?
S, M, L, XL and 2XL.
How do I keep the fit secure?
The shorts have an elasticated waistband and an adjustable cord so you can set the fit to suit you.