Choosing the Right Men's Swimwear for Summer 2026
Every year, it's the same scenario. We rummage through the bottom drawer, pull out the 2019 swimsuit—the one that still smells a bit of sunscreen and optimism—and wonder if the elastic will hold for another dive. We often end up going with it, purely out of habit. Yet, between the one that takes three hours to dry and the one that slips off as soon as you jump off the pier, your swimsuit is undoubtedly the most technical piece in your summer wardrobe.
Choosing the right swimsuit is a bit like choosing your glasses frames: you think it's a minor detail until you find yourself in front of the mirror (or at the edge of the big pool). It's an equation that blends comfort, practicality, and timeless style. We've broken down the criteria that really matter, from flattering cuts to durable materials, so your next dive is as refreshing as it is flawless.
What to remember in 30 seconds
- Shorts, boxer briefs, or briefs: it's all about use (and thigh tan).
- The material accounts for 80% of its lifespan: prefer technical recycled fabric over cotton.
- The ideal size: one that holds without cutting off circulation.
- Care: rinsing with clear water is the secret to longevity.
- Made in France: a worthwhile investment over 4 or 5 summers.
Which cut to choose? Shorts, boxer briefs, or swimming briefs
It's the debate that has animated changing rooms since time immemorial. Beyond trends, each cut meets a specific need. The idea isn't to follow fashion, but to know what you'll be doing with your afternoon.
The swimming trunks
It's the classic, the king of the beach and the patio. The swim shorts are perfect for those who love versatility: you can go from beach volleyball to lunch without having to go back to the changing room. For a balanced look, aim for mid-thigh. It's more modern and, let's be honest, it's better for your tan.
The swim shorts
The boxer brief is the sensible and elegant choice. More fitted than shorts, it offers impeccable support and ultra-fast drying. At Le Slip Français, we've put all our expertise into this cut to make it flatter the leg without being too restrictive. It's the ideal swimwear for those who alternate between swimming laps in the pool and lounging on the sand.
The swimming trunks
Let's be honest: the swim brief has long suffered from a... complicated image. Yet, technically, it's the undisputed champion. For competitive swimming, it's the only one that doesn't create drag in the water. For tanning, it's the ultimate weapon. And for style? Worn with confidence, it's incredibly effective. We're rehabilitating the swim brief because it's minimalist, practical, and dries in a flash.
The material: what really makes the difference
If you only remember one thing, let it be this: never swim in cotton! A cotton swimsuit is a sponge that weighs three kilos when wet, takes two days to dry, and eventually sags miserably.
For a swimsuit that lasts, we focus on polyamide or recycled polyester. Why? Because these fibers are designed to resist external aggressions: pool chlorine, ocean salt, and sun UV rays. We prioritize technical materials that retain their color and shape.
The other magic ingredient is elastane. It's what allows the swimsuit to follow your movements and return to its original shape after each dive. A good amount of elastane prevents the "gaping swimsuit" effect after three swims. By choosing ethically sourced materials and French manufacturing, we ensure that the fabric won't stretch out at the first opportunity.
What size to choose and how should it fit?
This is the question everyone asks in the changing room, and no one really answers. Generally, a swimsuit should be fitted. Not so tight as to leave marks, but close enough to the body to stay in place when you get out of the water. Don't forget that once wet, the fabric tends to stretch slightly under the weight of the water.
If you're hesitating between two sizes, consider the intended use before comfort. For swimming laps, go down a size; support is paramount. For the beach and lounging, going up a size will offer more comfort.
When it comes to body shape, the cut is everything.
- Swim shorts that fall below the knee can make you look shorter and visually shorten the leg; it's not about body type, it's about proportion.
- If you are rather short, shorter cuts (briefs or mid-thigh shorts) lengthen the line.
- If you are tall and slender, classic shorts provide structure without overwhelming.
- And if you have an athletic build, swim boxers enhance without restricting (which is why they are often the default choice for people who don't want to overthink it!)
Slip Tip: Find a personalized size guide on each of our products – it's two minutes well spent before ordering!
How to care for your men's swimsuit so it lasts
Buying a nice swimsuit is good. Keeping it for more than one summer is better. A swimsuit is the most mistreated garment in your closet: it endures salt, chlorine, and sunscreen, a formidable cocktail for elastic fibers.
- Systematic rinsing: After each use, rinse it in cold water. This eliminates 90% of corrosive agents.
- Gentle wash: A machine wash at 30°C is more than enough. Forget the high-speed spin cycle; it breaks down elastane fibers.
- Dry in the shade: Direct sunlight is tanning's best friend, but dyeing's worst enemy. Lay your swimsuit flat to dry, in the shade.
- No tumble dryer: This is certain death for your swimsuit. Intense heat bakes the elastic.
A well-cared-for swimsuit is a companion that will easily stay with you for 3 to 5 seasons. That's the real sustainable luxury. This is also one of the reasons we manufacture in France: not for the symbol, but because mastering the chain from end to end is what allows us to guarantee that a swimsuit truly goes the distance.
You've covered the theory. Now for the practice: Discover the LSF Men's Swimwear Collection
In summary
Choosing your swimsuit ultimately means finding the balance between technicality and pleasure. Don't neglect material quality and be honest about your actual use. Once you've found a cut you feel good in, all that's left is to wait for the water to reach an acceptable temperature. We'll take care of the outfit, you take care of the dive.