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Why guys should wear Speedos (from form to function)

Reasons you should rock this unfairly maligned piece of swimwear

Man getting out of pool
Jacob Lund / Shutterstock

The warm weather is here, and summer is almost in full swing. Along with the sun beating down on you and the hot weather comes the inevitable trip to the beach or pool to take a cool dip and find a little reprieve from the sweltering heat. Of course, there are dozens of swim trunks for you to choose from now that beach season is upon us, but there is one that you should consider — the Speedo.

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I know what you’re thinking; Speedos are tiny, intimidating, and leave very little to the imagination. But here are some reasons that you should rethink wearing one of these fantastic suits. After all, you work really hard in the gym all winter — show it off.

They’re flattering

What is the point of working on yourself and taking care of your body if you can’t show it off? Well, besides the obvious health benefits, we mean. But if you’ve been putting in the work to not only feel good but to look good too, why cover up all that effort?

You may be thinking that you have to sport a rock-hard six-pack to pull off a Speedo, but in reality, Speedos flatter almost all body types. Why? In most cases, they’re less constricting than tighter swim trunks or shorts, so they don’t pinch the skin or create a “muffin top” look. Yes, you’re technically exposing more skin, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re exposing more flaws; a Speedo could help de-accentuate spots you consider to be problem areas! 

They’re stylish

Being a stylish man involves making a statement, and a Speedo does just that. They often come in fun patterns and bold colors, bringing a dash of fashion to any poolside outfit. Plus, they’re always going to look trendier than board shorts or more traditional swim trunks simply because of their crisp and snug silhouette, making them perfect for the beach or the pool. 

They’re edgy

Speaking of making a statement, there’s no better way to stand out on a crowded beach than by wearing a Speedo. The confidence it takes to slip into these skimpy briefs speaks volumes about the person wearing them. It says you’re self-assured. It tells people you’re secure, sexy, and playful. Sure, all eyes will probably be on you, but in a good way. So don’t forget to include Speedos on your beach gear list.

They’re comfortable

Man in a Speedo
Mika Ruusenen / Unsplash

Like any item of menswear, the fit is essential for comfort. As long as you get the proper cut for your body, we think you’ll find that swim briefs are more efficient and enjoyable to swim in than traditional trunks. Swimming and frolicking in the ocean waves are effortless without all that extra fabric getting in the way. Speedos also dry a lot faster than other swimsuits, which makes for an altogether more comfortable experience once you’re out of the water.

They’re cheeky

It’s high time that men embrace themselves. Guys, owning your body and loving your physical appearance is important. You work hard; you’re allowed to enjoy and embrace your best physical attributes. Wearing a Speedo will enable you to own your body and live free from constraints.

They’re packable

Man swimming
Pavel Danilyuk / StockSnap

Speedos are also super packable. They take up virtually no space in your favorite backpack, allowing you to travel light on your way to the beach. They’re also the perfect item to put in your hiking pack for that unexpected dip into any cenote or waterfall you come across. If you have to pack your Speedos away wet, you can rest assured that they won’t be too cumbersome once you change back into your dry clothes. Nobody likes carrying a damp pair of shorts in an already heavy pack.

They’re fun

Truthfully, Speedos are just plain fun. They turn heads. They start conversations. They make you feel confident. Different. Unique. Sure, they’re a little outlandish and unexpected, but that’s all part of their magic. In a world where every other guy will wear the same boring board shorts, be the dude who stands proudly on the beach rocking that Speedo.

They’ve been around forever

When you rock a Speedo on the beach or by the pool, you’re wearing a brand that has stood the test of time for close to 100 years. According to the company’s website, Speedo, the brand worn by countless Olympic swimmers, got its start way back in 1928 on Australia’s legendary Bondi Beach.

Speedo’s founder, Alexander McRae, a Scottish immigrant to Australia, became famous for developing the racerback suit, which had open shoulders and exposed the swimmer’s back, allowing for a greater range of motion. It was also the first non-wool swimsuit (and don’t get us started about the horrors of swimming in wool). The company was originally named Fortitude, but thankfully, the name soon changed to Speedo (a play on the slogan “Speed in your Speedos”) and a legendary brand was born.

How to look good in a Speedo

Man wearing a Speedo and getting out of the water
Pexels / Pixabay

You may think you have to spend hours in the gym every day if you are going to look good in a Speedo. But the truth is that you can do just a few simple things to help you gain the confidence to rock one of these bad boys. The first is to run. Let’s be honest: Leaning out and getting rid of a few extra pounds will make you feel great in virtually anything, so start there, and you will feel better almost instantly.

Next is toning. Pullups will broaden your back, pushups will bulk up your chest, and situps will give you a little definition to complement the pounds you’re dropping. Just like any good workout routine, don’t forget the lunges. You are showing a lot of leg, so make sure those legs are looking as good as they can.

You don’t always have to look like James Bond coming out of the water to rock a Speedo, but you do need the confidence of a movie star. With these reasons, there shouldn’t be any doubt in your mind that you should run to the nearest swim shop or jump online to the best retailer and pick out your first or newest Speedo. You never know; you may just be the best-looking guy on the beach and probably the talk of the crowd.

Mark McKee
Mark is a full-time freelance writer and men's coach. He spent time as a style consultant and bespoke suit salesman before…
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