Just Bones Boardwear

High-tech fabrics and design innovations unite with retro influences and clean tailored styling for men’s beachwear

By N. Jayne Seward

Men’s swimwear is hitting the beach and the street for Season 2017 in hot style. Shorter lengths, vibrant prints and high-tech details are the look of the season. Swimwear is both modern and versatile, in trendy tailored silhouettes that appeal to today’s active and high-tech lifestyles. To satisfy men’s need to be comfortable and their desire for options that go from beach to street, designers are innovating new styles made with quick-dry fabrics and adding functional sportswear to their collections. The mini-me concept of children’s swimwear matching Dad’s is also key for the season.

“Men are looking for swimwear that befits many occasions, and individual trunks that can be worn throughout the day,” says Garrett Neff, KATAMA founder and creative director, who is offering a shorter-length, tailored trunk that can also be worn to the resort bar or restaurant. “As always, we want to present class and sophistication while still looking approachable and sporty. This means looking to the ’50s and ’60s, to eras that remind one of the gentlemen of yesteryear, but with the most updated materials for fast-drying wearability.”

Men’s swimwear for Season 2017 is trending in shorter lengths, retro styles and a multitude of bright, colorful prints. “The men’s beachwear look this season is definitely bright, bold patterns and very colorful designs, as well as classic solid colors updated with bold contrast detail,” says Cecile Revah, CEO at BUGATCHI. Photo prints, florals, geometrics and conversational patterns in soft quick-dry fabrics and smart contrasting trim details are all trending, she adds.

SHAN is mostly about prints for 2017. Visualize Hawaiian-themed summer trunks in bright colors, and fashion-cut swim trunks in a multitude of bold colors and classic prints that range from light and dark blue to black and white designs. Overall, color is key, and classics are a sure bet for retailers.

According to Jennifer Weisman, JUST BONES BOARDWEAR owner/designer, stylish hybrid shorts/boardshorts are the hottest look this season. “Shorts manufactured with quick-dry, functional fabrics that can easily go from the water to hanging out at a bar or restaurant are fantastic,” she says. “Just throw on a tailored shirt or linen top, and you are ready to go from the beach to a hip bar. You can also pack less when traveling and vacationing—a definite plus!” Cover-ups aren’t the first thing that comes to mind with men’s beachwear, but the need to cover up and look fashionable—on or off the beach—is increasingly important. “I think a great knit zip or pullover hoodie/sweatshirt is always in style,” says Weisman. “Many guys love the flexibility and comfort they provide. You can dress them up or down.”

For 2017, SNAPPER ROCK launched a collection for adults, which includes men’s rash tops that are certified 99.9 percent UV-protective and are made in a comfortable four-way stretch fabric.

Going forward, the incorporation of technology into swimwear will continue to grow according to top company executives at UNDERGROUND BEACH CLUB. They point to innovations such as fabrics that allow a relaxed, comfortable fit, as well as water-resistant pouches for phones, money, passports and other valuables.

STTARWISH Designs has also introduced techy details, including signature zipper pullers for back pockets, which give the customer a way to keep personal items safe.

According to Elie Jr. Nasri, co-founder and director of menswear development at EVERYDAY SUNDAY, swimwear innovations include new coatings applied to fabrics to maximize the water-repelling effect, laser-cut holes, and fused zip pockets and seams for more high-end products. “Technology drives us forward,” says Nasri. “So I think that will inspire us in our designs. There’s a big ‘active’ movement shifting towards a cleaner, healthier lifestyle, where people want to move and feel good about themselves, so that’s where functionality will continue to be so important.”