Men's Swimwear Buying Checklist: 5 Things to Check Before You Buy

Buying swimwear online is easier when you know what to check before you add a pair to your cart. The goal is not to chase every feature. The goal is to choose a pair that fits your plans, your style, and the product information available on the page.

Start with BG's Swimwear and Shorts collection or compare the Board Shorts collection if you already know you want a board-short look.

1. Start with where you will wear them

Pool days, beach trips, casual errands, and travel days do not all call for the same look. A bolder print can be fun for vacation. A simpler color may be easier if you want to wear the shorts away from the water.

If you want a casual outfit after swimming, plan the full look before buying: shorts, tee, hat, and shoes.

2. Check the waistband

The waistband is one of the first details to inspect in product photos. Look for whether the listing shows a drawstring, elastic waist, fixed waistband, or another closure style. If the page does not clearly answer your fit question, contact BG before ordering.

One style to compare is Men's and Teen Boys' Elastic Waist Board Shorts.

3. Use the photos to judge length

Do not assume exact inseam unless the product page gives it. Use the product photos to judge whether the short looks longer, shorter, relaxed, or closer to a swim-trunk shape.

If you prefer more coverage, compare longer-looking board short styles. If you want a cleaner poolside look, a shorter visual length may feel easier.

4. Match the print to the rest of your outfit

A bold print works best when the top stays simple. A quieter short gives you more room to use a brighter tee or cap. If you are not sure, start with one standout piece and keep the rest calm.

Examples to compare include Men's Board Shorts - Striped - Black and Men's Board Shorts - Striped - Blue.

5. Read the return and shipping details

Fit can be hard to judge online, so check the policy before checkout. BG offers free U.S. shipping on orders $50+. Eligible items may be returned within 30 days, while final sale items and gift cards are not returnable. Original shipping is non-refundable, and return shipping may apply unless the item is defective or incorrect.

Read the Refund Policy and Shipping Policy before ordering if fit or timing matters.

Who this checklist helps

This checklist is useful if you are choosing swimwear online and want fewer surprises. It is especially helpful if you care about how the shorts look beyond the pool.

Who should slow down before buying

Slow down if you need exact fabric, care, lining, stretch, or performance details and the product page does not show them. Those details should come from the listing or customer service, not from assumptions.

FAQ

What should I check first when buying swimwear online?

Start with use case, waistband, and photos. Those three details usually answer the biggest fit and styling questions.

Should I buy swimwear based only on size?

No. Size matters, but photos, waistband style, length, and return eligibility also matter.

Can swimwear work as casual shorts?

Sometimes, especially for casual warm-weather plans. Keep the rest of the outfit simple if the shorts have a bold print.