Men, it’s getting to be that time again: swimsuit season. Naturally, this doesn’t instill the kind of fear that it does in women, but it still requires some planning on your part. Before you go out and buy the first pair of trunks you can find with some beer logo on it, consider this: it’s just as important for you to find something that complements you and your style as it is for women.

First, consider the length of the suit. Unless you’re a competitive swimmer, I’m sure you don’t want to be that guy at the family pool who everyone awkwardly stares at because you decided to go tanning in your Speedo. Most men’s trunks are between mid-thigh and knee length. I would recommend staying on that path.

Another thing you may want to consider is how frequently you plan to go swimming this summer. If you go often, I recommend spending a little bit extra and buying one of a better quality. Chlorine will eventually cause the material to deteriorate, which causes the fabric to pill. Buying a decent-quality swimsuit may reduce the pilling and the swimwear may maintain its shape and sizing longer.

Now, please let me emphasize this: sizing is extremely important. If you get one that’s too small, you run the risk of looking like a grape-smuggler. If you get one that’s too big, you might end up (accidentally) showing off the goods. Most men’s swimwear is based on waist size, so make sure your measurements correspond with the size you choose. If you’re in between sizes, choose the smaller size, because fabric expands in water.

Men, much like women, have many options when it comes to choosing swimwear. They can be conservative and usual like board shorts, jammers, and boxer-brief swim trunks. But they can also be slightly more daring, like the men’s g-strings, thongs, and bikinis. While I have yet to see many men wear G-string swimsuits, I say, to each his own. Just remember to use sunscreen to prevent those unsightly tan lines.

You can find good-quality swimwear at a decent price through Target, JC Penney, and Sears. Usually, swimwear is discounted by May. However, if you cannot wait to buy your newest pair of swim trunks, most stores begin selling them by early March.

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