Finding the best swim trunks for boys can make summer adventures more comfortable, stylish, and fun.
Whether your child is heading to the beach, pool, splash pad, or family vacation, the right swim trunks should offer comfort, durability, and sun protection for active days outdoors.
Today’s boys swim trunks come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and lengths. Many options now include UPF 50+ sun protection, quick-drying fabrics, and comfortable features that parents appreciate.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best swim trunks for boys and share tips on choosing the right pair for comfort, protection, and style.
Not sure how UPF protection works? Be sure to read our guide to the best sun protective clothing for kids to learn how UV-protective fabrics help keep children safe during outdoor play.
Why Quality Swim Trunks Matter
A good pair of swim trunks does more than look great.
The best boys swim trunks should:
- Dry quickly after swimming
- Provide comfortable movement
- Hold up to chlorine and salt water
- Offer UPF sun protection when possible
- Stay comfortable during all-day wear
Many modern swim trunks are designed for both water play and everyday summer activities, making them a versatile addition to any child’s wardrobe.
What To Look For When Buying Boys Swim Trunks
UPF 50+ Sun Protection
Many swim trunks now feature UPF-rated fabrics that help block harmful UV rays.
While swim trunks don’t replace sunscreen, they provide an additional layer of protection for covered areas.
Looking for even more sun protection? Pair these swim trunks with one of the best UV protection rashguards for kids and toddlers for extra coverage during long days outdoors.
Quick-Dry Fabrics
Quick-drying materials help keep kids comfortable both in and out of the water.
Polyester and recycled polyester blends are popular choices because they dry fast and resist fading.
Comfortable Waistbands
Look for:
- Elastic waistbands
- Adjustable drawstrings
- Soft interior linings
These features help ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Durable Construction
Boys tend to put swimwear through a lot of wear and tear.
Reinforced stitching and quality fabrics help swim trunks last throughout the entire swim season.
Best Swim Trunks For Boys
UPF 50+ Swim Trunks
UPF swim trunks provide additional sun protection during outdoor play.
Many brands now offer stylish prints and bright colors while incorporating UV-protective fabrics directly into the material.
These trunks are especially helpful during long days at the beach or pool.
Kids UV Swim Shorts | Dark Navy
Available in Sizes 2T to 12 Yrs
Keep your child comfortable and protected during sunny adventures with these versatile Dark Navy UV Swim Shorts from Jan & Jul.
Made from lightweight, quick-dry fabric, these swim shorts are designed for active kids who love spending time at the beach, pool, splash pad, or backyard sprinkler.
Key Features
✔ UPF 50+ sun protection helps block up to 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays
✔ Quick-dry fabric keeps kids comfortable both in and out of the water
✔ Soft, lightweight material allows for unrestricted movement
✔ Elastic waistband provides a secure and comfortable fit
✔ Classic dark navy color pairs easily with rash guards and swim tops
✔ Durable construction designed for frequent summer wear
These practical swim shorts are an excellent choice for parents looking for comfortable, sun-safe swimwear that works for everything from swimming lessons to family beach vacations.
Use my coupon code “peachcobbler” and you’ll get 10% off!
Where To Buy: Jan & Jul
Many of these brands also offer matching sun hats for kids to help create a complete sun-safe summer outfit.
LUCOWEE Boys Swim Trunks with Compression Liner
Keep your child comfortable, supported, and sun-safe during all summer activities with these LUCOWEE Boys Swim Trunks.
Designed for active play in and out of the water, these swim shorts combine performance fabric with a secure fit and built-in comfort liner.
Key Features
✔ Recycled 4-way stretch fabric made from 90% recycled polyester and 10% spandex for flexibility and durability
✔ UPF 50+ sun protection helps shield kids from harmful UV rays
✔ Quick-dry, water-resistant, and moisture-wicking material keeps kids dry and comfortable
✔ Built-in soft boxer brief compression liner reduces chafing and provides supportive comfort
✔ Adjustable drawstring waistband with metal grommets ensures a secure, customized fit
✔ Designed for swimming, beach days, pool time, water parks, running, and active play
✔ True-to-size fit with adjustable waist allows room for growth and long-term wear
There are lots of colors to choose from in these swim trunks for boys including ‘Fluorescent Lime.’
Whether it’s swimming, sports, or everyday outdoor fun, these versatile swim trunks are built to move with your child while keeping them comfortable and protected all day long.
Where To Buy: Amazon
I included this next swim set, because it gets VERY positive reviews from parents and has built-in UPF50 protection!
Simple Joys by Carter’s Boys Rashguard and Swim Trunk Set
Make summer outings easier with this coordinated two-piece swim set from Simple Joys by Carter’s.
Featuring a matching rashguard top and swim trunks, this set combines comfort, sun protection, and kid-friendly style for days spent at the beach, pool, or splash pad.
Key Features
✔ Includes a matching rashguard top and swim trunks for a complete swim outfit
✔ Available in both short-sleeve and long-sleeve options for flexible sun coverage
✔ Built-in UPF 50+ protection helps shield sensitive skin from harmful UV rays
✔ Lightweight, quick-dry fabric keeps kids comfortable in and out of the water
✔ Fun prints and vibrant colors kids will love wearing
✔ Tagless design helps prevent irritation and improves comfort
✔ Ideal for beach vacations, swimming lessons, pool days, and outdoor summer play
Designed with both parents and kids in mind, this practical swim set makes it easy to stay comfortable, protected, and ready for every summer adventure.
Where To Buy: Amazon
Another style of swim trunks that you might like for your child are classic board shorts.
Classic Board Shorts
Board shorts remain one of the most popular swim trunk styles for boys.
Their longer length provides extra coverage while offering a sporty look that works well at the beach, pool, and splash pad.
Parents often appreciate the comfortable fit and versatility of board shorts for active kids.
Qterdiz Boys Swim Trunks
These Qterdiz boys swim trunks are designed for active summer fun, combining lightweight comfort with a modern look that works just as well at the beach as it does by the pool.
Key Features
✔ Ultra-lightweight fabric provides a breathable, comfortable fit
✔ Quick-dry material helps keep kids comfortable after swimming
✔ Soft mesh liner helps reduce chafing and irritation
✔ Elastic waistband with adjustable drawstring for a customized fit
✔ Rear pocket offers convenient storage for small essentials
✔ Modern board short design with stylish summer-ready patterns
✔ Suitable for swimming, surfing, boating, fishing, beach vacations, and everyday summer wear
✔ Flexible, lightweight construction allows for unrestricted movement during active play
Whether your child is splashing in the pool, building sandcastles on the beach, or enjoying a family vacation, these versatile swim trunks offer comfort, style, and practicality for all-day summer adventures.
Where To Buy: Amazon
Aisyee Boys Hawaiian Swim Trunks
Add a splash of tropical style to your child’s summer wardrobe with these vibrant Aisyee Hawaiian Swim Trunks.
Featuring colorful island-inspired prints and practical performance features, they’re designed to keep boys comfortable during long days of swimming and outdoor fun.
✔ Crafted from durable 100% polyester fabric that stands up to active play
✔ UPF 50+ fabric helps provide extra protection from harmful UV rays
✔ Bright, fade-resistant Hawaiian prints stay colorful wear after wear
✔ Lightweight construction allows for comfortable movement
✔ Soft mesh liner enhances breathability and helps prevent discomfort
✔ Chlorine-resistant and saltwater-resistant materials help extend durability
✔ Quick-drying fabric keeps kids comfortable after swimming
✔ Great for beach vacations, pool days, water parks, and summer outings
Whether he’s exploring the shoreline, splashing in the pool, or enjoying a family getaway, these stylish swim trunks offer a fun combination of comfort, durability, and sun-safe protection.
Where To Buy: Amazon
For the younger crowd there are character-themed swim trunks that little guys really love wearing.
Character-Themed Swim Trunks
Character swimwear continues to be a favorite among younger boys.
Popular options often feature:
- Marvel superheroes
- Disney characters
- Cartoon favorites
- Sports themes
These fun designs can help encourage kids to get excited about dressing for summer activities.
If you’re shopping for younger children, you may also want to browse our guide to baby boy swimwear for summer adventures.
First one on my list is these swim trunks for younger boys in a Pokemon print.
Pokémon Boys Swim Trunks
Young Pokémon fans will love making a splash in these colorful Pokémon swim trunks featuring some of the franchise’s most popular characters.
With bright graphics and built-in sun protection, they’re a fun choice for beach days, pool parties, and summer vacations.
Key Features
✔ Officially licensed Pokémon swim trunks featuring Pikachu, Charmander, Ivysaur, and Wartortle
✔ UPF 50+ fabric helps protect skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays
✔ Eye-catching sublimation graphics with vibrant, fade-resistant colors
✔ Quick-drying material keeps kids comfortable in and out of the water
✔ Lightweight design allows for easy movement during swimming and outdoor play
✔ Fun character-themed style that Pokémon fans will be excited to wear
✔ Ideal for beach trips, pool days, vacations, birthday gifts, and summer activities
✔ Durable construction designed to keep up with active kids
These playful swim trunks combine sun-safe protection with favorite Pokémon characters, making them a summer essential for boys who love adventure both in and out of the water.
Where To Buy: Amazon
Disney Mickey Mouse Boys Swim Trunks
Bring some Disney magic to summer adventures with these Mickey Mouse swim trunks.
Featuring bright character graphics and comfortable performance features, they’re designed to keep little ones comfortable whether they’re splashing in the pool, building sandcastles, or enjoying a family vacation.
Key Features
✔ Officially licensed Disney swim trunks featuring Mickey Mouse and friends
✔ UPF 50+ fabric helps reduce sun exposure during outdoor water activities
✔ Soft, breathable material provides all-day comfort
✔ Quick-drying fabric keeps kids comfortable transitioning from water to land
✔ Built-in compression liner offers extra support and reduces chafing
✔ Four-way stretch construction allows for unrestricted movement
✔ Elastic waistband makes dressing easy and provides a comfortable fit
✔ Lightweight board short styling works for swimming, beach days, and summer play
✔ Easy-care fabric can be machine washed for convenient cleaning
Perfect for Disney fans who love spending time outdoors, these swim trunks combine playful character style with practical features that parents will appreciate all summer long.
Where To Buy: Amazon
These Spider-Man swim trunks from Marvel are also a big win with little guys.
Marvel Spider-Man Boys Swim Trunks
Let your little superhero swing into summer FUN with these Marvel Spider-Man swim trunks.
Featuring bold Spider-Man graphics and performance-focused features, these swim shorts are designed to keep kids comfortable and protected during all their warm-weather adventures.
Key Features
✔ Officially licensed Marvel Spider-Man swim trunks featuring vibrant superhero artwork
✔ UPF 50+ fabric helps provide protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays
✔ Lightweight, breathable material designed for active kids
✔ Quick-dry fabric keeps children comfortable in and out of the water
✔ Built-in compression liner offers support and helps reduce chafing
✔ Four-way stretch fabric allows for unrestricted movement during play
✔ Comfortable elastic waistband makes dressing quick and easy
✔ Relaxed board short styling works for swimming, beach trips, vacations, and outdoor activities
✔ Easy-care fabric can be machine washed for convenient cleaning
✔ Great gift idea for Spider-Man fans who love the beach, pool, and outdoor adventures
Whether he’s splashing in the waves, exploring the pool, or enjoying a family vacation, these Spider-Man swim trunks combine superhero style with practical comfort for endless summer fun.
Where To Buy: Amazon
UPF swim trunks are just one part of a complete sun-safe outfit. For more tips on protecting children outdoors, read our guide What Should Kids Wear in the Sun?
Eco-Friendly Swim Trunks
Many brands now produce swim trunks using recycled materials.
Eco-friendly options allow parents to make more sustainable choices while still providing comfort, durability, and sun protection.
Hanna Andersson Boys Swim Trunks
Available in Sizes 2 to 12
These colorful Hanna Andersson swim trunks combine comfort, durability, and eco-friendly materials, making them a great choice for active boys who love spending time at the beach, pool, or splash pad.
Key Features
✔ Made from 100% recycled polyester microsanded swim twill
✔ Soft mesh lining crafted from recycled polyester and spandex for added comfort
✔ Fun allover print that adds personality to summer outfits
✔ Easy-fit design allows for comfortable movement during active play
✔ Encased elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord for a secure fit
✔ Convenient on-seam pockets and back patch pocket
✔ Above-knee length provides a classic swim trunk style
✔ OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified materials
✔ Contains 100% GRS-certified recycled polyester
According to customer reviews, parents really like these swim trunks beause they are excellent quality, provide good sun protection, and the fabric is very soft.
Also, there are lots of FUN vibrant designs to choose from. 🙂
Designed for comfort, performance, and everyday summer fun, these swim trunks are a practical and stylish option that boys can wear from the pool to the beach and everywhere in between.
These swim trunks come in lots of different colors and designs that boys will LOVE.
Where To Buy: Hanna Andersson
Here is a rashguard swimwear set from The Children’s Place that is made from recycled materials.
The Children’s Place Boys Rashguard and Swim Trunk Set
Available in Sizes X-small to XX-large
Keep your little swimmer comfortable and protected with this stylish two-piece swim set from The Children’s Place.
Featuring a coordinating rashguard top and swim trunks, it’s designed for active summer adventures at the beach, pool, or splash pad.
Key Features
✔ Includes a matching short-sleeve rashguard and swim trunks
✔ Built-in UPF 50+ protection helps shield skin from harmful UV rays
✔ Rashguard made from soft, stretchy recycled polyester and spandex jersey fabric
✔ Swim trunks crafted from durable recycled polyester twill
✔ Comfortable crew neck and raglan sleeves allow for easy movement
✔ Mesh-lined swim trunks provide breathable comfort
✔ Elastic waistband with functional drawstring offers an adjustable fit
✔ Back patch pocket for small essentials
✔ Above-knee length provides a classic swim trunk style
✔ Made with recycled materials for a more eco-conscious choice
According to customer reviews, parents really like this rashguard with matching shorts because it is well-made and very durable.
The sizing is spot on and this set dries quickly! Best of all, the colors are bright so you can see your child on the beach.
This coordinated swim set makes getting ready for summer fun simple while giving parents peace of mind with comfortable coverage and reliable sun protection.
LOTS of great colors to choose from for boys including ‘Tie Dye Yellow.’
Where To Buy: Amazon
Top Brands Parents Love
Hanna Andersson
Hanna Andersson is known for durable fabrics, playful prints, and UPF-protective swimwear designed for active children.
Jan & Jul
Jan & Jul offers lightweight, quick-drying swimwear designed with UPF 50+ protection and kid-friendly patterns.
Carter’s
Carter’s continues to be a favorite among parents thanks to affordable pricing, comfortable designs, and practical swimwear sets.
The Children’s Place
The Children’s Place offers a wide variety of colorful swim trunks and coordinated swimwear collections for boys of all ages.
How To Style Boys Swim Trunks
Pairing swim trunks with the right accessories helps create a complete summer outfit.
Consider adding:
- Rash guards for extra sun protection
- Water shoes for splash pads and beaches
- UPF sun hats
- Lightweight cover-ups
For additional sun-safe swimwear ideas, see our guide to best UV protection rashguards for kids and toddlers.
Frequently Asked Questions By Parents
What are the best swim trunks for boys?
The best swim trunks combine comfort, durability, quick-dry fabrics, and UPF protection.
Are UPF swim trunks worth it?
Yes. UPF swim trunks provide an extra layer of sun protection while children play outdoors.
What length swim trunks are best for boys?
This depends on personal preference, but mid-length trunks are often the most versatile option.
Should boys wear swim trunks with mesh lining?
Many parents prefer mesh-lined swim trunks because they provide additional comfort and support.
How many swim trunks should a child have?
Most families find that two to three pairs are ideal for vacations, pool days, and everyday summer use.
🌞 More Summer Essentials for Sun-Safe Fun
As you plan your child’s summer wardrobe, it helps to think beyond just swim trunks.
Building a complete sun-safe outfit ensures your little one stays protected, comfortable, and ready for every beach day, pool trip, or outdoor adventure.
Explore these related guides to find even more helpful ideas and must-have essentials for summer:
- Best UV Protection Rashguards for Kids and Toddlers
- Best Baby Boy Swimwear for Summer Adventures
- Best Sun Hats for Kids: Fun and Functional Designs for Every Age
- Stylish Toddler Rash Guard Swimwear for Boys
Final Thoughts
The best swim trunks for boys combine style, comfort, and practical features that make summer adventures more enjoyable.
Whether you’re looking for UPF 50+ protection, quick-dry fabrics, character-themed designs, or eco-friendly options, there are plenty of great options available for every age and activity level.
For more sun-safe swimwear inspiration, explore our guides to baby boy swimwear for summer adventures and toddler rash guard swimwear for boys.
