Summer is cooking, which gives us plenty of reason to go swimming at the beach or the pool. But before you get out your bathing suit from last year, consider the many varieties of men’s swimsuit options to choose from. From body hugging briefs to comfortable and roomy boardshorts the full lineup of swim attire is meant for different needs. Let’s take a look at the top options for male swimsuit styles for catching a wave:

1. Boardshorts

Many folks mistake boardshorts for classic swim trunks, however, we note some distinct differences that make board shorts a comfier option for summer activities. Let’s start with the fit. Boardshorts tend to be both longer and wider compared to swim trunks. Also, boardshorts feature a solid vs. stretchy waistband with a tie and don’t also include the mesh liner that swim trunks almost always have. Boardshorts are a great option for an array of summer activities (i.e., surfing, swimming, volleyball, frisbee, barbecues, and so much more!).

2. Swim briefs

Even though Speedo is a sports brand, we synonymously call swim briefs the slang term, “speedo”. These swim style briefs are meant to compress the body while offering good coverage with a heavy elasticized hip strap that keeps everything snuggly in place. While some men prefer the minimal yet compressive coverage of a brief at the beach, this style is really meant for sports, to provide maximum range of motion for swim racing with no added material at the legs or knees to bring down your lap time.

3. Swim trunks

Perhaps the most classic and popular swimwear option for guys, the swim trunk offers traditional coverage (i.e., usually above the knee) with a mesh inner liner, and a stretchy waistband with a drawstring for that perfect fit. Like boardshorts, swim trunks often offer velcro pockets for carrying phones, lighters, and keys at the beach (just remove prior to taking a swim).

4. Swim shirts

While not a popular item at the beach or pool, many surfers, snorkelers, and men prone to sunburns opt for wearing a swim shirt over their swim bottom of choice. Swim shirts offer the same coverage as a regular shirt (in long or short sleeve options), but they’re constructed of super thin, sung-fitting, water resistant material that protects the skin from UV sun damage.