Australian summer has one dress code at the beach: less is more. Whether you call them swim briefs, speedos or budgie smugglers, the classic men's swim brief is back, and it's not just for lap swimmers anymore. Here's how to pick the right pair before the sand gets hot.
Why swim briefs are having a moment
Boardshorts had a long run. But more blokes are switching to swim briefs because they're simply better in the water. There's no heavy, soggy fabric dragging behind you, no drawstring digging in, and no waiting an hour for your shorts to dry before you can sit in the car. They pack down to nothing, they don't balloon when you dive in, and (let's be honest) they look good.
What to look for in a men's swim brief
1. A supportive front pouch
This is the difference between a swim brief you forget you're wearing and one you're adjusting all day. A shaped, supportive pouch keeps everything secure when you're catching waves, diving off the jetty or walking up the beach. Every DINGO swim brief is cut with a supportive front pouch that holds its shape in and out of the water.
2. The right rise
A low-rise cut sits below the navel and gives that clean, classic beach look. It's the most flattering option for most body types and the one you'll see on Bondi on a Saturday.
3. Fabric with stretch and recovery
Look for a nylon and elastane blend. Nylon gives durability and a smooth finish; elastane gives stretch so the brief moves with you and snaps back into shape. Our swim briefs use an 80% nylon / 20% elastane blend for a second-skin fit.
4. A cut that suits you
Swim briefs range from full-back to minimal coverage. If you want to stand out, go for a bolder, low-rise, minimal-back cut. If you're new to briefs, start with a classic colour like black or navy.
The DINGO swim lineup
- Classic Black: the one every man should own. Low-rise, body-enhancing, goes with everything.
- Navy: a little softer than black, still timeless.
- Camo: for when you want to be noticed. Pairs with the Camo Pack if you want the matching compression brief.
- Utility: black with rugged utility side clips and our triple-stacked DINGO logo. The statement piece.
Can't choose? The Speedo Summer 3-Pack gets you Camo, Navy and Classic Black at bundle pricing, so you've always got a dry pair for the next swim.
Getting the size right
Swim briefs should feel snug when dry, because fabric relaxes slightly in the water. DINGO fits true to size: our model is 182 cm with a 32-inch waist and wears a Medium. Between sizes? Size down for a firmer, more compressive fit, or up for a more relaxed feel. Check the full size guide before you order.
FAQ
Are swim briefs and speedos the same thing?
Yes. "Speedos" and "budgie smugglers" are everyday Aussie slang for men's swim briefs: a close-fitting, brief-style swimsuit.
Can I wear swim briefs if I've never worn them before?
Absolutely. Start with a classic colour like black or navy and a size that feels secure. Plenty of guys never go back to boardshorts once they've tried them.
How should swim briefs fit?
Snug, with no gaping at the legs or waistband. They should stay put when you dive in without digging in when you're walking around.
Do you ship Australia-wide?
Yes, and orders over $100 AUD ship free with express shipping. See Shipping & Returns for details.
Ready for summer? Shop DINGO swimwear →