What to Wear Under Swim Trunks: A Dive into Comfort, Style, and the Unexpected

When it comes to swimwear, the question of what to wear under swim trunks is one that has sparked countless debates, from beachside bonfires to the depths of online forums. While the answer may seem straightforward to some, the reality is that the choice of undergarments beneath your swim trunks can have a significant impact on your comfort, style, and even your swimming performance. In this article, we’ll explore the various options available, the pros and cons of each, and some unexpected considerations that might just change the way you think about your swimwear.

The Basics: Going Commando

For many, the idea of wearing nothing under their swim trunks is the most natural choice. After all, swim trunks are designed to be worn without additional layers, and going commando can offer a sense of freedom and ease that’s hard to beat.

Pros:

• Comfort: Without the added layer of underwear, swim trunks can feel lighter and more breathable, especially in hot weather.
• Quick Drying: Swim trunks are designed to dry quickly, and without underwear, you’ll spend less time feeling damp after a swim.
• Simplified Laundry: Fewer layers mean less laundry to deal with after a day at the beach or pool.

Cons:

• Chafing: For some, the lack of a protective layer can lead to chafing, especially during prolonged periods of activity.
• Visibility: Depending on the material and fit of your swim trunks, going commando might lead to some unintended exposure, particularly when wet.

The Classic Choice: Underwear

For those who prefer a bit more coverage or support, wearing underwear under swim trunks is a common choice. However, not all underwear is created equal when it comes to swimming.

Pros:

• Support: Underwear can provide additional support, which can be particularly beneficial during activities like surfing or water sports.
• Comfort: For some, the familiar feel of underwear can make swim trunks more comfortable, especially if they’re not used to going commando.

Cons:

• Wetness: Regular underwear isn’t designed to handle water, and once wet, it can become heavy, uncomfortable, and slow to dry.
• Hygiene: Wet underwear can trap moisture against your skin, potentially leading to irritation or even infections.

The Hybrid Option: Swim-Specific Underwear

Recognizing the need for a middle ground, some brands have developed swim-specific underwear designed to be worn under swim trunks. These garments are typically made from quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials that offer the best of both worlds.

Pros:

• Comfort and Support: Swim-specific underwear is designed to provide the support of regular underwear while being more comfortable and functional in wet conditions.
• Quick Drying: These garments are made from materials that dry quickly, reducing the risk of discomfort and irritation.
• Hygiene: Swim-specific underwear is often treated with antimicrobial agents to help prevent odors and infections.

Cons:

• Cost: Swim-specific underwear can be more expensive than regular underwear or going commando.
• Availability: Not all brands offer swim-specific underwear, so finding the right fit and style might require some searching.

The Unexpected: Compression Shorts

For those who are serious about their water activities, compression shorts are an option worth considering. Originally designed for athletes, compression shorts offer a range of benefits that can enhance your swimming experience.

Pros:

• Muscle Support: Compression shorts provide support to your muscles, which can help reduce fatigue and improve performance during long swims or water sports.
• Reduced Chafing: The snug fit of compression shorts can help prevent chafing, making them a good choice for those who are prone to irritation.
• Quick Drying: Like swim-specific underwear, compression shorts are made from materials that dry quickly, keeping you comfortable in and out of the water.

Cons:

• Fit: Compression shorts need to fit snugly to be effective, which can make them uncomfortable for some people.
• Cost: High-quality compression shorts can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for a pair that’s specifically designed for swimming.

The Fashion Statement: Linerless Swim Trunks

Some swim trunks come with built-in liners, which are essentially mesh briefs sewn into the inside of the trunks. These liners are designed to provide support and coverage without the need for additional underwear.

Pros:

• Convenience: Linerless swim trunks eliminate the need to choose and pack separate underwear, making them a convenient option for travel.
• Support: The built-in liner provides a level of support that’s similar to wearing underwear, but without the added bulk.
• Style: Many people find that linerless swim trunks offer a cleaner, more streamlined look, especially when wet.

Cons:

• Comfort: The fit of the built-in liner can vary, and some people find them uncomfortable or restrictive.
• Durability: The mesh liners can wear out over time, especially if they’re not cared for properly.

The Minimalist Approach: Thongs and G-Strings

For those who prefer minimal coverage, thongs and G-strings are an option that’s gaining popularity, particularly among those who want to avoid tan lines or simply prefer a more revealing look.

Pros:

• Tan Lines: Thongs and G-strings minimize tan lines, making them a popular choice for those who want an even tan.
• Freedom: The minimal coverage can offer a sense of freedom and lightness that’s hard to achieve with more traditional options.

Cons:

• Comfort: Thongs and G-strings can be uncomfortable for some, especially during prolonged periods of activity.
• Exposure: The minimal coverage can lead to unintended exposure, particularly in certain swimming conditions.

The Practical Choice: Board Shorts with Liners

Board shorts are a popular choice for surfing and other water sports, and many come with built-in liners that provide support and coverage without the need for additional underwear.

Pros:

• Support: The built-in liners offer a level of support that’s similar to wearing underwear, but without the added bulk.
• Durability: Board shorts are designed to withstand the rigors of water sports, making them a durable option for active swimmers.
• Style: Board shorts come in a wide range of styles and colors, making it easy to find a pair that suits your personal taste.

Cons:

• Comfort: The fit of the built-in liner can vary, and some people find them uncomfortable or restrictive.
• Drying Time: Board shorts can take longer to dry than other types of swimwear, which can be a drawback if you’re planning to spend a lot of time in and out of the water.

The Eco-Friendly Option: Sustainable Swimwear

As awareness of environmental issues grows, more people are turning to sustainable swimwear options. These garments are made from eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester or organic cotton, and they often come with built-in liners or are designed to be worn without additional underwear.

Pros:

• Environmental Impact: Sustainable swimwear reduces your environmental footprint, making it a good choice for eco-conscious consumers.
• Comfort: Many sustainable swimwear options are made from soft, breathable materials that are comfortable to wear in and out of the water.
• Style: Sustainable swimwear comes in a wide range of styles, so you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for sustainability.

Cons:

• Cost: Sustainable swimwear can be more expensive than traditional options, though the price is often justified by the quality and environmental benefits.
• Availability: Not all brands offer sustainable swimwear, so finding the right fit and style might require some research.

The Final Splash: Making Your Choice

Ultimately, the decision of what to wear under your swim trunks comes down to personal preference, comfort, and the specific activities you’ll be engaging in. Whether you choose to go commando, wear underwear, opt for swim-specific garments, or explore more unconventional options, the key is to find what works best for you.

Remember, the right choice can enhance your swimming experience, providing comfort, support, and style that allows you to focus on enjoying the water. So, the next time you’re packing for a day at the beach or gearing up for a swim, take a moment to consider what’s beneath your swim trunks—it might just make all the difference.

Related Q&A:

Q: Can I wear regular cotton underwear under swim trunks? A: While you can wear regular cotton underwear under swim trunks, it’s not recommended. Cotton absorbs water and takes a long time to dry, which can lead to discomfort and potential hygiene issues.

Q: Are there any health risks associated with going commando under swim trunks? A: Generally, there are no significant health risks associated with going commando under swim trunks. However, if you’re prone to chafing or irritation, you might want to consider wearing a protective layer.

Q: How do I know if my swim trunks have a built-in liner? A: Most swim trunks with built-in liners will have a mesh or fabric lining sewn into the inside of the trunks. If you’re unsure, check the product description or look for a tag inside the trunks that indicates the presence of a liner.

Q: Can I wear compression shorts under any type of swim trunks? A: Yes, you can wear compression shorts under most types of swim trunks. However, make sure that the compression shorts fit snugly without being too tight, as this can affect your comfort and mobility.

Q: Are there any specific care instructions for swim-specific underwear? A: Swim-specific underwear should be rinsed thoroughly after each use to remove chlorine, salt, and other contaminants. It’s also a good idea to wash them in cold water with a mild detergent and air dry them to maintain their shape and functionality.