Review: Swimming trunks

Additional buoyancy, chlorine-resistance, long-lasting comfort or classic style. Whatever you’re looking for in your next pair of swimming trunks, the Outdoor Swimmer team has your expert guide.

HUUB Alta Buoyancy Short | £79.99 *BEST FOR TRAINING*

They say: With additional hip and thigh buoyancy, used in training you will find a beneficial increase in core stability and assisted hip rotation for improved pool training sessions and swim times. This high-quality swim short has been designed with input from Swim Smooth and Professor Huub Toussaint, a combination of knowledge unmatched in the swim world of triathlon.

We say: Comfortable and surprisingly lightweight for neoprene. Felt a lift in my upper legs, which is great for front crawl, not so much for breaststroke. Helps with drag, but not magic, need to kick a little to get full benefit. Design is cool and they look good on. Not sure I would wear in the pool but as someone with heavy legs and not very buoyant, they did make a difference to my outdoor swimming.

Speedo Essential Endurance+ Jammer | £28

They say: For a classic look that never goes out of style, this aquashort has a modernised fit. Offering both freedom of movement and an enhanced comfortable fit, it has an internal drawstring for added security. Our 100% chlorine resistant, Endurance+ fabric makes this style ideal for regular sessions in the pool. Keep it simple in classic navy for a timeless swim style you know you can rely on.

We say: A simple design, but these trunks have been a staple for my swims for many years, providing a snug fit and minimum drag. With correct care, these jammers will withstand frequent use in even the most chlorinated pools. A great option for those looking for a supportive fit in and outside the pool.

Aquasphere Essential Jammer | £40

They say: The Essential Jammer has been designed to assure long lasting comfort during swim training. Crafted with X-Play sustainable fabric, it allows high flexible fit guaranteeing greater range of motion. This training suit is made of 5 plastic bottles! Aquasphere craftsmanship is based on advanced patented technologies, high-quality materials and driven by our swimmers’ community.

We say: Lightweight, a good fit and the waist sizing is accurate. The shorts’ comfortable and light fabric ensures there is minimum drag when swimming. They have proved very durable, held shape and colour through numerous swims in chlorinated pools, open water and the sea. They also look good and come in three colours.

Coots JT Jammer | £110 *BEST UK MADE*

They say: Swim shorts made in East London inspired by the story of John ‘the Bootleg Swimmer’ Trudgen. Constructed from an ultra-chlorine resistant techno fabric. The regenerated nylon (ECONYL®) is made entirely from recycled plastic and fishing nets saved from the ocean. Produced in a limited quantity in a zero-waste factory.

We say: A high-ticket purchase that performs well in the water. We love the sophisticated asymmetric design, towelling bag and commitment to ethical consumerism. They are a good fit with a full brief lining and grippers on the thighs. Designed for both serious and leisure swimmers.

Funky Trunks Lippie Launch | £25.95 *OUR WINNER* 

They say: Cruise through the water in total comfort and support with my 16.5cm sides and stitched front pouch for added room and double lining for support. I’ve got a drawcord to keep me locked in position and a wide elastic leg opening and waistband for added comfort around your hips and legs. Made from our exclusive C-Infinity fabric, a 100% Italian polyester that is a colourful breakthrough in chlorine resistant fabric technology!

We say: The latest togs from Funky Trunks are designed to get you noticed at the water, but these are also long-term Outdoor Swimmer favourites. The linings are bright coloured which is much better than a white lining if you are swimming in mucky water. The drawcord keeps them where they should be. Comfy, well- made and durable, these are a top-quality pair of trunks.

Budgy Smuggler Orcas | £33

They say: Budgy Smuggler started as a bit of a laugh in a backyard in Australia when some mates decided to write ‘Budgy Smuggler’ on the back of a speedo-style swimwear. Sad fact – they only realised the incorrect spelling after it was too late to change back again. So budgy smuggler should have been budgie smuggler!

We say: On a mission to banish board shorts, Australian brand Budgy Smuggler make fun briefs that top the table in out-there designs. This orca print is one of our favourites but choose from everything from aubergines to neon leopard print. As well as getting yourself noticed, they are a well-made pair of trunks that will last rather than just being fast fashion.

Find all the gear you need for open water swimming, from trunks and swimming costumes to tow floats and changing robes, at the Outdoor Swimming Shop. Read more gear reviews.