In the United Kingdom (and in most other countries), embarking on a holiday is an exciting journey, and with Jet2holidays content going viral on social media, we are constantly reminded of the thrills of going on holiday. Or at least spending time at the pool somewhere local. As you anticipate sun-drenched beaches or cultural explorations, the final step before departure is packing. Ensuring you have everything you need, from travel documents to the right swimwear, sets the stage for a smooth and memorable experience from takeoff to touchdown. During the packing stage, the most common and important question is asked: What’s the guy's preferred choice, swim briefs or swim trunks?
The choice is more than just about fabric; it's about culture, confidence, and occasion. Let's dive in and explore the distinct personalities of these two swimwear staples.
Men's Swim Briefs vs. Swim Trunks
Men's Swim Brief: Confidence, Performance, and Liberation
Often dubbed ‘Speedos’ (after the iconic brand) or ‘budgie smugglers’ in the UK and Australia, the swim brief is a low-waisted, form-fitting style designed for minimal drag and maximum freedom of movement.
Design & Fit: Characterised by its sleek, anatomical cut and high-cut legs. The best ones are crafted from technical fabrics like polyamide or polyester mixed with elastane for a second-skin feel that’s both supportive and comfortable.
Best For: Serious swimming, competitive training, and sunbathing for an even tan. They are also a mandatory requirement in many French public pools for hygiene reasons, as they are less likely to be worn outside and thus bring in less dirt and germs.
Global Love: men's swim briefs are the norm across most of Europe, South America, and Australia. They are seen as a practical, confident, and liberating choice.
The Swim Trunk: Versatility, Modesty, and Casual Cool
Swim trunks are the go-to for many men. They typically feature a square-cut design, sitting at the top of the thigh, offering more coverage than a brief but less than board shorts. They are the perfect middle ground.
Design & Fit: Usually equipped with a drawstring waist and often features a built-in mesh or microfiber inner brief for support and comfort, eliminating the need to wear anything underneath. Modern trunks come in a huge range of lengths, patterns, and materials, including quick-dry recycled fabrics.
Best For: Holidaymakers, pool parties, family beach days, and anyone who values versatility. Many styles are designed to double as casual shorts away from the water.
Global Love: The undisputed favourite in the United States and the United Kingdom, where their modesty and casual aesthetic align with broader fashion sensibilities.
Quick Comparison Guide
Coverage:
- Swim Briefs - Minimal, form-fitting -
- Swim Trunks - Moderate, more coverage on the thighs
Primary Use:
- Swim Briefs - Swimming, training, sunbathing
- Swim Trunks - Leisure, beach days, multi-purpose
Key Benefit:
- Swim Briefs - Freedom of movement, hygienic, no drag
- Swim Trunks - Versatile, modest, stylish
Typical Fabric:
- Swim Briefs - Polyamide/Elastane blends for stretch
- Swim Trunks - Nylon, Polyester; often quick-dry
What Do Men Prefer Where?
Cultural preferences in men's swimwear are fascinating and often deeply ingrained.
Europe: In countries like France, Italy, and Spain, men's swim briefs are standard issue. The European attitude is one of practicality and body confidence. As they say in France, “Les Shorts Et Caleçons Sont Interdits” (shorts and pants are prohibited) at many public pools.
USA & UK: In these countries, men's swim trunks and board shorts have long dominated the scene. However, attitudes are shifting. Sales of swim briefs are seeing significant growth in the UK, with reports of a 200% spike in sales for major brands in Europe and a 89% year-on-year increase in searches for "budgie smugglers". This suggests a move towards greater confidence and perhaps European influence.
Australia: A nation of two minds! Aussies famously coined the term "budgie smugglers" and have a strong surf culture that leans towards boardshorts. However, the men's swim brief remains incredibly popular for actual swimming and is a common sight on beaches.
Do British men wear swim briefs or swim trunks?
So, where does this leave the modern British man? Does his choice change based on his destination? Or does he see men's briefs as too minimalistic?
Historically, the British man has overwhelmingly preferred the modesty and versatility of swim trunks, whether at a local lido or on a Mediterranean holiday. But today, the answer is becoming more nuanced:
At the UK Beach or Pool: Trunks likely remain the safe and common choice. The climate often demands a bit more coverage, and the cultural norm makes them a comfortable option for most.
On a Holiday Abroad: This is where preferences might flex. A Brit heading to a Spanish resort or a French beach might pack both. The trunks for general lounging and the briefs for serious swimming, or if they plan to visit a local pool with strict hygiene policies. The influence of seeing other European men confidently in briefs can also be a liberating experience.
At the Gym Pool: For a man who swims for fitness, performance often trumps fashion. Here, the swim brief or its longer cousin, the jammer, is often the preferred technical choice for its lack of drag and freedom of movement.
The rise of body confidence, the influence of social media, and celebrities like Theo James sporting sleek briefs are empowering more British men to choose based on personal preference rather than outdated stereotypes.
What's Your Swimwear Style?
The best swimwear is ultimately the one that you feel most confident and comfortable in. Whether you're a dedicated swimmer needing the performance edge of a brief or a holidaymaker who values the versatile style of a trunk, your choice is a reflection of your personal style.
We want to hear from you! Here at Club Seven Menswear, we're curious about what you really think.
What do YOU prefer when going to the beach, on holiday, or at the pool?
Do your choices change depending on where you are going?
Do you stick with trusted trunks wherever you are?
Have you embraced the European brief for holidays abroad?
Or does it depend entirely on your activity?
Let us know in the comments below or on our social channels! Your insights might just help another guy make his perfect swimwear choice this summer.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Explore the Club Seven Swimwear Collection to find styles that suit your destination and your confidence.
Club Seven Menswear: Comfortably sexy men's underwear and swimwear
I’ve been wearing speedos style swimwear for 25years. Not a swimmer or driver. But enjoys at the beach working on my all over tan. I prefer speedo style with no inner linings and light material. Next best thing to being naked at the beach. I’m Canadian.