5 Ezra-Approved Swim Trunks for the Modern Gentleman

Despite the planet’s best efforts, summer is still on its way. It’s too soon to tell if you’ll be lounging poolside or kicking back in a backyard kiddie pool, but either way, you’re going to need a stylish pair of swim trunks in which to laze away the sunny days. Here are five that Ezra recommends.

Chubbies
The name is a clue to not take these trunks — or life — too seriously. Dedicated to having fun and looking good while doing it, Chubbies swim shorts (shown above) run the gamut from bright and bold to classic and cool, with a little bit of everything in between. Handy accents like zippered pockets and four-way stretch mean you’re ready for wherever the day takes you.

Eubi
This newish brand’s mission is to “stop guys from wearing boring shorts,” so expect fun, colorful prints from independent global artists. Housed in both LA and Melbourne — two places that definitely know beachwear — the brand got its start when influencers embraced the high-quality, trademarked fabric and excellent customer service. Socially conscious as well, Eubi donates money to Trees.org for each pair of shorts sold.

Orlebar Brown
Modeled after the California surf culture of the 1950s and ’60s, these jaunty shorts have a whiff of vintage suavity to them. Vibrant watercolor scenes are one way to go, while solids and chambray also have their charms. A tailored fit and signature side fasteners set them apart, while the five-year guarantee ensures they’ll last as long as you love them.

Vuori
Sustainable fabrics form the basis of these boardshorts, which look stellar in and out of the water. The brand’s name means “mountain,” and founder Joe Kudla created the line to improve upon activewear that wasn’t keeping up with his adventurous lifestyle. Athletes pounced, and now you can find the high-tech, high-style clothing at three California storefronts, online, and at hundreds of retailers around the country.

Calzedonia
Trunks, shorts, briefs — whatever your preference, you’ll find it with this Italian brand. Streamlined, classic, and comfortable, the no-frills designs have all the basics (quick-drying fabric, reinforced waistband) and a few neat additions (plenty of pockets). As this is a European brand, expect a slimmer fit and the occasional “sei in forma!” (“you’re so in shape!”) to be tossed your way.