Valet. Advocates
Classic
Swim Trunks
When it comes to swimwear, you can't go wrong with a classic pair of trunks in a bold throwback color, with a trim fit and a good backstory. Shorter and slimmer than the puffy, elastic-waisted suits most guys sport, the fit and feel of these will leave you looking taller, trimmer and tanner. Ain't nothing wrong with that.
Birdwell Beach Britches
- Founded: 1961
- Backstory: Founded in Santa Ana, California, the family-run business offers double layered, quick-drying trunks in more than two dozen colors.
- Material: Surfnylon
$61, at Birdwell Beach Britches
Sundek
- Founded: 1958
- Backstory: Known for the rainbow on the back and a small loop sewn into the waistband, which surfers used to hang-dry them (often from a car's antenna).
- Material: Nylon
$119, at Nordstrom
Katin
- Founded: 1959
- Backstory: They started out stitching durable trunks from remnant sailcloth for surfers and have made board shorts for SoCal lifeguards since the 1960s.
- Material: Nylon canvas
$75, at Sid Mashburn
