On paper, all swim shorts may seem similar. Yet you will agree that finding two identical pairs is no simple task. Length, cut, fabric, pattern: many details distinctly set these summer essentials apart.
At Hast, we decided to craft three styles, designed and made with our signature precision. A trio of elegant, responsible swim shorts, just as comfortable in the water as on dry land.
Men's swimwear styles
First of all, it is worth noting that there are various styles of men's swimwear. At opposite ends of the spectrum are swim briefs and boardshorts. Favoured by lifeguards and competitive swimmers, briefs are short and minimalist, while boardshorts evoke water sports like surfing and paddleboarding. Between the two sit swim trunks—more fitted—and classic swim shorts.
For its versatility and adaptability, this is the style we chose to design. Neither too tight nor too loose, it falls mid-thigh, offering balanced volume and flattering proportions for any setting. Overall, its design easily accommodates pockets without adding bulk—a detail we carefully considered front and back.
The issue with swimwear materials
For practical reasons, the vast majority of brands use synthetic materials to craft their swim shorts. Whether elastane, polyamide, or polyester, these synthetic fibres give swimwear functional qualities tailored to their use: water resistance, lightness, stretch, durability, and quick drying.
The issue is that these petroleum-derived raw materials are far from harmless. Their production is highly polluting, energy-intensive, and resource-heavy. They are not biodegradable and release microplastics that harm marine ecosystems and their wildlife.
Hast swim shorts and the choice of Seaqual®
At Hast, integrity and honesty guide everything we do. Sincerity is at the heart of our craft, and we strive to be as transparent in our communication as in our production processes. While our passion for clothing is undeniable, we are equally committed to responsible manufacturing, in line with our ethical and environmental values.
In this regard, creating our swim shorts presented a unique challenge: we wanted the performance benefits of synthetic fabrics without the heavy environmental footprint.
Consequently, we set our sights on an innovative material: Seaqual®.
Derived from upcycled ocean plastic, Seaqual® is a 100% recycled polyester whose raw material is collected from marine waste by fishermen and environmental organisations. Once processed, it yields fabrics with the same properties as conventional polyester (lightness, durability, and quick drying), with a significantly lower carbon footprint. A smart alternative combining technical performance with sustainability, staying true to our commitment to 100% natural or recycled garments.
For Summer 2024, we present a solid khaki style, a green version with ecru stripes, and an ecru model with burgundy stripes.
Crafted in Portugal, they all feature an ultra-soft inner mesh lining, a buttoned piped back pocket, and a 100% cotton drawstring.
They come in their matching fabric pouch, ready to pack for your summer getaways.
How to wear Hast swim shorts
Unsurprisingly, the best way to wear our swim shorts is in and around the water. Ocean, sea, pool, lake, or river: they are completely at home anywhere.
That said, we took care to create proportions that look just as good out of the water. Perhaps not for the office, but versatile enough to act as shorts and blend seamlessly into a casual outfit on the way to the beach. For instance, we readily picture it with a men's linen t-shirt and canvas trainers for a Sunday morning market stroll.
To take it a step further, you can even pair them with a pair of loafers, along with a polo shirt or a short-sleeved shirt. Bold, yes, but effortlessly sharp.
Ultimately, the key is to respect its original style to avoid awkward combinations. It pairs effortlessly with a generous linen shirt or a Giro Inglese short-sleeved shirt, but not with an ultra-formal poplin shirt.
Caring for your swim shorts
As you might expect, these shorts love nothing more than water. You can safely machine-wash them, provided you choose a 30°C cycle and keep the spin speed below 600 rpm.
An important detail: although our swim shorts are woven from Seaqual® recycled polyester, this remains a synthetic material. They are therefore prone to shedding microplastics, which is why we encourage you to invest in a GuppyFriend® washing bag to filter these particles while protecting your swimwear during the wash.
Because a picture is worth a thousand words, here is what this small investment helps prevent.
Final thoughts
A summer essential, swim shorts are a true staple of the season. Whether sunbathing or diving in, they will accompany all your walks and swims.
Style-conscious and environmentally aware, we decided to release three versions this season, all woven from a revolutionary material: Seaqual®.
Made from recycled polyester sourced from upcycled ocean waste, they support marine clean-up efforts and eliminate the need for virgin synthetic fibres. A responsible and stylish way to take a dip, from the first swims of June to the last plunges of October.
