Think beach and most guys like to think bikinis, but what’s more important is the choice of male beachwear as you enjoy the sun, sand and surf this summer. From board shorts, jammers, trunks, speedos to mankinis, there’s an ever increasing variety of men’s swimwear. So how do you find the perfect suit for you to chill out in?
You can begin by striking thongs, G-strings or mankinis off the list (unless you’re Borat!). Fashion designer Amanda Bachalli advises, “Make your choice based on what you’re going to be doing at the beach. Are you going swimming, playing a sport or just lounging around?” While jammers and briefs are suitable for serious swimming, board shorts are best for surfing and trunks are the most versatile.
Model Acquin Pais tells us, “I usually prefer swim trunks but if I’m going surfing, then the longer board shorts are more comfortable.” Though he’s always in shape for the beach, the model admits, “I wouldn’t wear a pair of speedos. I think celebs like Daniel Craig and John Abraham look great in them but they’re not for everyone.” Acquin adds, “In India especially, guys tend to focus on the upper body while working out so they end up with skinny legs. To carry off speedos you need to not only be fit, but also have a strong pair of legs. Otherwise you’ll just look like Johnny Bravo!”
Event organiser Zubair AH agrees, saying, “If I had that kind of body, then I’d show it off in a pair of speedos too.” Seeing as most guys aren’t 007 material, however, he adds, “I think swim trunks are the best choice. They’re quite a bit roomier, they’re comfortable and they suit most guys.”
Amanda adds, “What guys need to do is stop playing safe and experiment more with bright colours and patterns. Even if they’re wearing plain trunks, they can have colourful trimmings to brighten it up.”
Student Pradeep Rao sums it up saying, “The beach is where you go to see and be seen. So get in shape, go shopping and don’t forget your sunscreen!”