Mens swim shorts come in a variety of styles, but the agreed choice for the man who wants to looks just right, whatever the casual occasion, is definitely beach shorts. Unlike other mens swim shorts, beach shorts suit everybody, and there is a style to fit your mood, from Olympic swim team aspirant to “Bring me another cold one please”. Just want pair aren't going to carry you through in comfort, so what constitutes the ideal beach short wardrobe?

Mens Swim Shorts – Our Recommended Selection.

When You're Feeling Sporty

The choice for serious swimming and water sports has to be a trimly cut, minimal leg length pair in a quick drying technical fabric. Maybe choose a fabric with a bit of stretch, definitely man made to avoid sag. Pockets are probably not such a big issue, and the choice of colour is up to you, but maybe neon makes sense if you're planning to swim in the sea – just that bit easier to spot if you do happen to wipe out.

Lounging Around

Whether it's on the beach, by the pool, or in the garden, choose a light crisp fabric like chambray, and a leg length that's a couple of inches above the knee. This not only looks smart, it protects the upper thighs, a particularly sensitive skin area, from sunburn. Plenty of handy pockets, including at least one inside pocket and one with a zip, are good to keep keys, change, phone, and all those other lounging around essentials. For colours, go for something light, to reflect the sun, or choose a classic jungle print for a bit of retro chic. Surfer style prints with abstract waves are fashionable right now, and look good in blues and greens.

For Semi-Casual Occasions

Maybe it's an informal after work meeting with colleagues, a barbie with the boss, or even a casual beach bar drink with a client. Again, look for a couple of inches above the knee in length, go for a good tailored look, and select a Chino type fabric in a solid colour like navy, sage, grey or tan. Top it with a good quality short sleeved linen shirt, worn outside the shorts, in a toning colour or in white.

On The Dance Floor

You reckon yourself as a latter day John Travolta. You have all the moves, and your wife only cringes a bit. To avoid looking completely like your dad dancing at a wedding, choose swim shorts in a great patterned fabric, as wild as possible, and pair them with a plain white shirt to show off your tan and look good under the lights. Mid thigh length or longer shorts look best, please don't go skimpy unless you really do look like John Travolta. Thirty years ago. Do not wear socks with sandals whatever the temptation, barefoot is good, or a cool pair of canvas or leather thongs. Not rubber or plastic ones.

At Home

Home is the place where you can let it all hang out, although make sure you don't frighten the kids. Home is the place to dig out your old favourites – the much loved beach shorts that have served you well but which you've retired from public view. A wardrobe full of men's swim shorts means you're never at a loss for what to wear, whatever the occasion.