Retro Shorties 2.0 vs Men's Swim Trunks: Fit and Length
By Mix n' Match Swimsuits & Swimwear | Kortni Jeane | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Men's Retro Shorties 2.0 and Black Men's Swim Trunks on length, lining, waistband and fit so you can pick the right short swim shorts for men.
Quick answer
Choose the Men's Retro Shorties 2.0 if you want a shorter, retro cut with a mesh lining and elastic drawstring waist. Choose the Black Men's Swim Trunks if you prefer an unlined trunk that hits above the knee and lets you wear your own compression shorts.
Length and leg shape: shorter retro cut vs above-knee trunk
The Retro Shorties 2.0 uses a short Euro fit with a side split hem that is shorter than the original Retro Shorties. That shorter split gives you more room to move and a distinctly retro look, but it also means more thigh exposure than a standard trunk.
The Black Men's Swim Trunks are cut to typically hit right above the knee. That extra length covers more of the thigh and reads as a classic swim trunk, which suits anyone who feels underdressed in very short swim shorts.
Lining and waistband: built-in mesh vs unlined tie waist
The Retro Shorties 2.0 has a mesh lining and an elastic waistband with a matching drawstring. The mesh gives you a ready-to-wear layer, while the elastic plus drawstring lets you fine-tune the waist without a purely lace-up closure.
The Black Men's Swim Trunks are unlined and tie at the waist. The listing notes that most men prefer to wear compression shorts with these trunks, so plan on adding a liner short if you want support. The tie waist keeps the look clean but offers less stretch than an elastic band.
Pockets and fabric: similar stretch, different storage details
Both styles are made from stretchy material so they move with you. The Retro Shorties 2.0 has two front pockets and piping on the bottom and side hems for a retro detail. The Black Men's Swim Trunks have two front pockets and one back pocket with velcro.
The practical difference is small but real: the back velcro pocket on the trunks gives you a spot for a key or card, while the Retro Shorties 2.0 keeps the retro piping look without a listed back pocket.
Trade-offs to weigh before you choose
- Shorter retro look vs more coverage: Pick the Retro Shorties 2.0 for a short Euro fit with a split hem. Pick the Black Swim Trunks for an above-knee length that covers more thigh. Try both over your usual underwear at home if leg length is your main concern.
- Built-in mesh vs unlined with your own liner: The Retro Shorties 2.0 includes a mesh lining. The Black Swim Trunks are unlined, so plan to wear compression shorts if you want support. If you already own supportive swim liners, the unlined trunk may feel more familiar.
- Elastic drawstring vs tie waist: The Retro Shorties 2.0 combines an elastic waistband with a matching drawstring. The Black Swim Trunks tie at the waist without a listed elastic band. If you like a snug, adjustable waist, the elastic-plus-drawstring option is the safer pick.
- Sizing rule for both: Both styles are listed as true to size. The Retro Shorties 2.0 adds that if you are between sizes, you should size up. Order your normal size first; only go up if you are genuinely between two sizes.
Product facts at a glance
- Men's Retro Shorties 2.0: Short Euro fit with a side split hem that is shorter than the original Retro Shorties. It gives you the shortest, most retro leg line of the two, so pick it only if you are comfortable with more thigh exposure.
Men's Retro Shorties 2.0 - Black | Men's Swim Trunks: Unlined trunk that typically hits right above the knee, with a tie waist. You will likely need to add compression shorts for support, but you get more coverage and a classic trunk length.
Black | Men's Swim Trunks
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Swimmers who want a short, retro leg line with a split hem and built-in mesh support
- Men who prefer an elastic waistband with a drawstring for a dialed-in fit
Not for
- Anyone who wants more thigh coverage or a classic above-knee trunk length
- Men who prefer an unlined trunk they can pair with their own compression shorts
