How does the mesh liner compare to compression-lined swim trunks?

The mesh liner here provides coverage and support without the tight, underwear-like feel of compression liners. It breathes better and drains water faster, but offers less hold than compression fabric. If you prefer a snugger, athletic fit, compression-lined versions are also available.

Will the back zipper pocket keep a phone dry?

The zippered pocket seals out water when you're swimming, but it's not waterproof—some moisture can still seep through the zipper over time. It works well for keeping items secure and mostly dry during quick swims, but for full submersion or long water time, a separate waterproof case is safer.

How long does the fabric take to dry?

The polyester-spandex shell dries significantly faster than cotton or heavy board-short material. Most wearers find them dry enough to sit comfortably within 30 to 60 minutes of leaving the water, depending on heat and airflow. They won't be soaking wet through your drive home.

Is the 5.5-inch inseam shorter than standard swim trunks?

Yes, most board shorts run 7 to 9 inches or longer. A 5.5-inch inseam sits higher on the thigh and is closer to retro or European-style swim briefs than American board shorts. If you're used to knee-length trunks, these will feel noticeably shorter.

Can I return or exchange these if the fit isn't right?

No, these are marked as final sale, meaning all sales are final with no returns or exchanges. Make sure you're confident in your size before ordering.

The Arboretum 5.5" (Classic Lined Swim Trunk)

machine washable

The 3-second version

5.5-inch inseam shows leg without riding up or feeling too short
Four-way stretch shell moves with you in water and on land
Mesh liner breathes and drains without compression feel
5.5-inch inseam runs shorter than most board shorts
Fitted stretch cut, not loose or baggy
Final sale—no returns or exchanges

Why it's on GiftsFeed

5.5-inch swim trunk with mesh liner and four-way stretch

Most swim trunks either dry quickly but lack support, or include a liner that feels like restrictive athletic underwear. This version uses an open-mesh liner instead of compression fabric, so you get coverage without the squeeze. The four-way stretch shell matters more than it sounds—standard swim fabric only stretches in one direction, which is why so many trunks bind when you bend or sit. Here the fabric gives in all directions, and the quick-dry polyester blend means you're not sitting in wet fabric through lunch after a morning swim. If you've been choosing between supportive-but-slow-drying and comfortable-but-saggy, this splits the difference.

Good gift when

People who want swim trunks that work for active water sports, not just lounging
Anyone tired of heavy, slow-drying board shorts that stay damp for hours
Those who prefer shorter inseams but still want full coverage and support
Anyone who needs a back pocket that actually keeps things dry

Skip it if If you prefer longer inseams or looser-fitting swim shorts, the 5.5-inch cut and stretchy fit here will feel too short and athletic compared to traditional board shorts.

Specs

Inseam: 5.5 inches
Shell fabric: 92% polyester, 8% spandex
Liner fabric: 55% mesh, 45% spandex
Waistband: Elastic with built-in drawstring
Pockets: Two mesh side pockets, one zippered back pocket
Stretch: Four-way stretch
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Sizes available: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL

What's included

One swim trunk

If you're giving it

You'll need their size

Requires accurate waist sizing, and final-sale status means no exchanges if fit is off.

The details

These swim trunks sit at a 5.5-inch inseam—short enough to show leg without feeling like you're wearing underwear. The shell combines polyester and spandex for stretch that moves in every direction, so you can dive, climb onto a boat, or chase a frisbee without fabric fighting you. The mesh liner provides coverage without the compression feel of some athletic underwear-style options.

The waistband is elastic with a built-in drawstring, letting you dial in the fit whether you're swimming laps or just wading. Two mesh side pockets drain water quickly and hold small items like keys or a card, while the back zippered pocket seals out moisture for phone or wallet storage when you're dry. The shell dries fast enough that you won't be sitting in damp fabric for hours after you leave the water.

Four-way stretch means the fabric gives both lengthwise and widthwise, which matters when you're kneeling to help a kid build a sandcastle or sitting on a paddleboard. The polyester-spandex blend doesn't sag or cling when wet, and the mesh liner breathes better than solid nylon once you're out of the water.

Machine wash cold and tumble dry low—no hand-washing or line-drying required. The construction holds up to regular laundering without the drawstring knotting or the mesh tearing at the seams.

Chubbies

The Arboretum 5.5" (Classic Lined Swim Trunk)

Quick-drying swimmers built with stretchy shell fabric and compression-free mesh support

$40$79.5050% offat chubbiesshorts.com

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Quantity

Buy from Chubbies

Ships and sold by Chubbies. About this merchant

The 3-second version

5.5-inch inseam shows leg without riding up or feeling too short
Four-way stretch shell moves with you in water and on land
Mesh liner breathes and drains without compression feel
5.5-inch inseam runs shorter than most board shorts
Fitted stretch cut, not loose or baggy
Final sale—no returns or exchanges

Questions

How does the mesh liner compare to compression-lined swim trunks?: The mesh liner here provides coverage and support without the tight, underwear-like feel of compression liners. It breathes better and drains water faster, but offers less hold than compression fabric. If you prefer a snugger, athletic fit, compression-lined versions are also available.
Will the back zipper pocket keep a phone dry?: The zippered pocket seals out water when you're swimming, but it's not waterproof—some moisture can still seep through the zipper over time. It works well for keeping items secure and mostly dry during quick swims, but for full submersion or long water time, a separate waterproof case is safer.
How long does the fabric take to dry?: The polyester-spandex shell dries significantly faster than cotton or heavy board-short material. Most wearers find them dry enough to sit comfortably within 30 to 60 minutes of leaving the water, depending on heat and airflow. They won't be soaking wet through your drive home.
Is the 5.5-inch inseam shorter than standard swim trunks?: Yes, most board shorts run 7 to 9 inches or longer. A 5.5-inch inseam sits higher on the thigh and is closer to retro or European-style swim briefs than American board shorts. If you're used to knee-length trunks, these will feel noticeably shorter.
Can I return or exchange these if the fit isn't right?: No, these are marked as final sale, meaning all sales are final with no returns or exchanges. Make sure you're confident in your size before ordering.