As we dive into the Spring/Summer 2025 season, men’s swimwear is making waves with a fresh take on classic surf culture. The laid-back vibes of the ’90s and ’00s are riding high once again, fueled by the growing popularity of the #SurfSkate lifestyle. From bold colors and vintage-inspired prints to sustainable fabrics and versatile designs, the latest trends are all about embracing the carefree spirit of the beach while staying true to your personal style. Get ready to catch the perfect wave and make a splash with these must-have looks for the upcoming season.
Table of Contents
1. Mood and color palette for S/S 25
2. Key pieces: The swim short
3. Key pieces: The board short
4. Key pieces: The rash guard
5. Key pieces: The modular trouser
6. Key pieces: The hooded layer
Mood and color palette for S/S 25
The mood for the Spring/Summer 2025 men’s swimwear season is all about capturing the laid-back, carefree spirit of classic surf culture. It’s a time to embrace the nostalgia of the ’90s and ’00s while infusing a fresh, modern twist. The color palette for this season reflects the vibrant energy and natural beauty of the beach, with a mix of bold, eye-catching hues and more muted, earthy tones.
Aquatic shades like deep blues and greens evoke the cool, refreshing waters of the ocean, while sunny yellows and oranges bring to mind the warmth of the sand and the brightness of the sun. Coral pinks and reds add a pop of tropical flair, perfect for channeling those vintage Hawaiian shirt vibes. These vibrant colors are balanced by classic neutrals like crisp white and deep black, which provide a timeless foundation for any swimwear look.
To really capture the essence of the SurfSkate trend, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between bold and laid-back. Pair a bright, patterned swim short with a more subdued rash guard, or mix and match solid colors with vintage-inspired prints. The key is to have fun with color and pattern while still maintaining a sense of effortless cool.
Key pieces: The swim short
The swim short is a quintessential piece in any men’s swimwear collection, and for the Spring/Summer 2025 season, it’s all about embracing a bold, retro-inspired aesthetic. Taking cues from the iconic styles of the ’90s and ’00s, the swim shorts of this season are shorter in length, typically featuring a five-inch inseam that strikes the perfect balance between classic and contemporary.
One of the key trends for swim shorts this season is the use of all-over prints, particularly those that showcase graphic patterns reminiscent of the surf culture era. Tropical motifs like hibiscus flowers, palm leaves, and abstract ocean-inspired designs are sure to make a splash, especially when rendered in vibrant, eye-catching color combinations.
To keep things feeling modern and fresh, many brands are opting for recycled or bio-based materials in their swim short construction. Sustainable fabrics like recycled polyester or nylon, as well as innovative plant-based alternatives, offer the same level of comfort, durability, and performance as traditional materials, but with a reduced environmental impact. In addition to eco-friendly fabrics, functional details like cargo pockets or zippered closures add a practical touch while nodding to the SartorialSkate trend.
Key pieces: The board short
For those seeking a more classic surf look, the board short is an essential piece in any Spring/Summer 2025 men’s swimwear collection. This season, the board short takes on a relaxed, elongated silhouette that effortlessly combines comfort and style. The use of cut-and-sew panels adds visual interest and dimension to the design, while flat waistbands with corded center-front ties provide a secure and adjustable fit.
When it comes to materials, the focus is on sustainability and performance. Recycled and bio-based nylon options are increasingly popular, as they offer the same level of durability and quick-drying properties as traditional fabrics while minimizing the environmental impact. These eco-friendly materials not only contribute to a more sustainable future but also cater to the growing demand for responsible fashion choices.
To elevate the board short’s aesthetic appeal, many designers are experimenting with a mix of printed and solid color panels. This creative combination adds a modern, eye-catching twist to the classic silhouette. Alternatively, strategically placed prints or embroidered badges can provide a subtle yet effective means of adding visual interest and brand identity to the piece.
The versatility of the board short makes it a go-to choice for a wide range of beach and water activities. Whether paddling out to catch some waves or simply enjoying a leisurely day by the shore, this key piece offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality.
Key pieces: The rash guard
The rash guard, a staple in any surfer’s wardrobe, is set to make a stylish splash in the Spring/Summer 2025 men’s swimwear collections. This season, designers are elevating the humble rash guard by incorporating innovative fabric technologies and eye-catching graphic elements that seamlessly blend form and function.
One of the key updates to the rash guard for S/S 2025 is the use of body-mapped panels and four-way stretch fabrics. These design elements not only provide enhanced comfort and freedom of movement but also create a more flattering silhouette that adapts to various body types. The strategic placement of these panels can also help to improve the garment’s overall performance, ensuring that it stays in place during even the most intense surf sessions.
In addition to advancements in construction, the rash guard also benefits from the use of cutting-edge materials. Recycled polyester fibers and bio-based alternatives are increasingly being used to create high-performance fabrics that are both environmentally friendly and durable. Some brands are even incorporating advanced features like UVA/UVB protective coatings or natural UV-resistant fibers to provide extra sun protection for the wearer.
Key pieces: The modular trouser
Versatility and adaptability are key themes in the Spring/Summer 2025 men’s swimwear collections, and nothing embodies this better than the modular trouser. This innovative piece offers a fresh take on beachwear, providing the wearer with a stylish and practical option that effortlessly transitions from the shore to the street.
Taking inspiration from the relaxed silhouettes of vintage skate culture, the modular trouser features a wide-leg cut that prioritizes comfort and ease of movement. The standout feature of this piece is its zip-off functionality, allowing the wearer to quickly convert the trousers into shorts, depending on their needs and preferences. This adaptable design makes the modular trouser a true hero piece for those seeking a streamlined and efficient approach to beachwear.
When it comes to fabrication, the focus is on lightweight, breathable materials that offer both comfort and durability. Responsibly sourced cotton and other eco-friendly fibers are popular choices, as they align with the growing demand for sustainable fashion solutions. Some brands may even experiment with innovative materials like color-grown cotton or bacteria-dyed fabrics to further reduce their environmental impact.
To enhance the laid-back, effortless vibe of the modular trouser, many designs incorporate a drawstring waist or a relaxed elastic waistband. This not only adds to the comfort factor but also allows for a more customizable and secure fit.
Key pieces: The hooded layer
As the Spring/Summer 2025 men’s swimwear collections continue to prioritize versatility and functionality, the hooded layer emerges as a key piece that seamlessly bridges the gap between beachwear and streetwear. This adaptable garment offers the perfect solution for those seeking a stylish and practical option for pre- and post-beach activities.
Drawing inspiration from the world of streetwear, the hooded layer features a relaxed, oversized silhouette with long sleeves and a generous hood. The addition of a henley neckline adds a touch of coastal charm, creating a design that effortlessly blends urban and beach aesthetics. This fusion of styles makes the hooded layer a versatile choice that can be easily dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
In terms of materials, the hooded layer is crafted from a lightweight, double-layer fabric that offers both comfort and functionality. The outer layer is typically made from a soft, sweat-like material, such as organic cotton or a cotton-blend fabric, providing a cozy and familiar feel. The inner layer, on the other hand, is designed to wick away moisture and dry quickly, making use of innovative fibers like recycled polyester or bamboo. This combination of materials ensures that the hooded layer remains comfortable and practical, even after a long day in the sun and surf.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Spring/Summer 2025 men’s swimwear trends are a testament to the enduring influence of surf culture and the growing demand for versatile, sustainable, and stylish beachwear. By embracing the laid-back aesthetics of the ’90s and ’00s while incorporating innovative materials, eco-friendly practices, and functional design elements, these key pieces – from the bold swim short to the adaptable modular trouser – offer a fresh and exciting approach to men’s swimwear.
