It’s a question that might not get asked out loud too often, but it’s definitely on people’s minds: should you wear underwear under your swim shorts? Whether you're at the beach or lounging by the pool, plenty of men choose to wear underwear underneath their swimwear. But why?
Let’s dive into the reasons some men make this choice—and whether it's actually a good idea.
Why do people wear underwear under their swimming shorts?
For many men, it comes down to comfort. If you're used to wearing underwear every day, going without can feel a bit strange. Others wear underwear under their swim shorts for added support—a little extra comfort or protection never hurts.
But it’s not just practical. Style plays a role too. Some guys simply like the look or feel of wearing underwear under their swimwear. At Muchachomalo, we totally get that—especially when you’re rocking bold boxer shorts.
Benefits of wearing underwear under your swim shorts
So, why might it be a good idea? Here are a few upsides:
Extra support: Especially with tighter swim shorts, underwear can help keep everything in place. It’s not for everyone, but for some, it really makes a difference.
Hygiene: Switching environments—say, from pool to beach—can leave you wanting a fresher feel. Underwear adds that extra layer of clean.
Less revealing: Not everyone wants to show everything off. A layer underneath can help you feel more covered and confident.
Downsides of wearing underwear under your swimshorts
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and waves—there are some drawbacks to layering up:
Uncomfortable: Wet underwear under swim shorts can cause chafing and irritation. Most modern swim shorts already have a built-in liner that does the same job—without the extra layer.
Unhygienic: If you’ve been wearing the same underwear all day, bringing it into the pool isn’t ideal. Tip: if you must, make sure it’s a clean pair.
Slow drying: Extra fabric holds water, making your post-swim experience damp and uncomfortable. Nobody wants soggy underwear sticking around after a dip.
Swimming shorts with inner briefs as an alternative
If you're on the fence, consider this: swim shorts with built-in inner briefs. These are designed to give you comfort, support, and freedom—no extra underwear required.
They look good, feel great, and dry faster than double layers. No fuss, just function and style.
Looking for that perfect pair? Check out our collection of swim shorts — or explore our range of mens tight swim trunks if that’s more your style.
So, should you wear underwear under swim shorts?
In the end, it’s up to you. Wearing underwear under your swim shorts isn’t a must, but it can offer more comfort or confidence depending on what you need.
What really matters? That you feel good—whether you go solo or double up. Confidence is the best thing you can wear.