This story is part of our Summer Preview, a collection of features, guides and reviews to help you navigate warmer months ahead.
Easy-wearing, nondescript and tough as nails, today’s best swim trunks can go from the beach to the bar — and everywhere in-between. Many brands now offer water-appropriate styles with design cues lifted from traditional shorts. As it turns out, the summer’s best trunks aren’t just for swimming.
Alex Mill Pull-On Tech Shorts
Location: Ace Hotel, Los Angeles, CA
These all-terrain nylon shorts have an elastic waistband with a paracord drawstring. They also feature a mesh lining, welted hand pockets and a zippered back pocket to keep your essentials organized.
The Rest
Medallion Kalamkari Camp Shirt by Gitman Bros. Vintage $205
Horsebit Loafers by Rancourt $340
Mini Dove Necklace by Miansai $175
Giorgio Galli S1 Automatic Watch by Timex $450
329 Sunglasses by Eyevan 7285 $413
Patagonia Wavefarer Shorts
Location: Salazar, Los Angeles, CA
Made from rapid-drying nylon with 4-way stretch, these shorts have mesh pockets that help water drain faster. This style also includes belt loops and a traditional fly.
The Rest
Shirt by Todd Snyder $198
Woven Leather Slip-Ons by Mohinders $145
1970 Worn & Wound LE Watch by Dan Henry $290
Legacy Sunglasses by Akila $95
Filson Green River Shorts
Location: Point Dume, Malibu, CA
These quick-drying, lightweight shorts have an elastic waistband with a drawstring. Made from 5-ounce cotton-nylon the style has front patch pockets with mesh linings — for fast draining — and rear Velcro patch pockets.
The Rest
T-Shirt by Lady White Co. $55
Palm Tree Zip Up Hoodie by The Elder Statesman $1,665
Denim Jacket by Wrangler $49
Boston Sandals by Birkenstock $145
Travel Cap by Battenwear $60
Onia Calder Trunks
Location: Vasquez Rocks Park, Agua Dulce, CA
Made from moisture-wicking, quick-drying nylon, these trunks have elastic paneling at the back of the wait and a superfine (read: comfortable) mesh lining. The style has large, reinforced side pockets and a back pocket secured by a snap.
The Rest
New Camp Shirt by Industry of All Nations $155
Italy Smoking Jacket by The Elder Statesman $1,795
Slip-Ons by Vans $50
U1-FM Diver Watch by Unimatic $680
Reynolds Sunglasses by Jacques Marie Mage $895
Outerknown Nomadic Volley Shorts
Location: General Admission, Venice, CA
These quick-drying trunks are made from recycled polyester. The easy-going style has an elastic drawstring-waist, a zip back pocket and side-seam front pockets.
The Rest
Zuma Shirt by Battenwear $190
Trucker Jacket by Levi’s $62
Slips-Ons by Sabah $195
Sector Dive Watch by Nodus $435
Sturges Sunglasses by Jacques Marie Mage $625
A version of this story originally appeared in a print issue of Gear Patrol Magazine. Subscribe today.
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