Australian brands won me over this year.

[Cody48]

I remember liking swim trunks even before I learned to read, so I eventually got to know many brands. For quite a while, I focused heavily on Japanese labels, but this year I found myself drawn to Australian products and, fortunately, I’ve found a lot of things I like.

For years, I ignored Aussiebum swimwear until I recently decided to give them a try, and I was pleasantly surprised.The way their standard model works is really interesting. If you’ve ever tried a pair, you’ve probably noticed they are looser than conventional trunks that try to lock everything in place. Aussiebum swimwear leaves the penis completely free, which generally results in a significant "swing" of the bulge and a constant feeling that something might slip out to those watching from the outside. I actually really liked that.

Another brand that caught my eye was Funky Trunks. I believe they are a younger brand; they have great marketing on Instagram, so I went to check them out. It’s a more sports-oriented brand with a wide range of products, which I really appreciate. They have a great variety of prints, and one that made me fall in love with them was a Pac-Man print that is truly charming.

Last but not least, I have to mention Budgy Smuggler. Their strategy of sponsoring rugby matches was genius, I must admit. Even though I consider the brand a bit more geared toward "older guys," I love it. The material is high-quality and comfortable—definitely something worth having at least one of in your collection.

I imagine there must be other brands besides these, so feel free to send me your recommendations!

[Torchwatch]

Welcome to the board.
You seem to like quality swimwear.
It's fun to explore different designs, colours and patterns, to see which brands get it right, look good and feel right to wear both in the pool and on the beach.

[minitim20]

I really like Aussie Bum, too. My most recent pairs are a red vertical stripe and a blue vertical stripe. The material is very thin, and the string to tie the suit seems to defy staying in a knot, and yet the suits stay on. The extra room up front is rather nice, even though I am not well endowed. The back is full enough to cover me without feeling like I am shrink-wrapped.

The variety in colors, patterns and outseams keep me coming back when I get the urge to buy a new suit.

I have not tried Funky Trunks yet. I'll look into them for the coming year.

[Fairfax]

I have become a fan of the Budgy smuggler brief of late.
They are a really well-made swimsuit with a side cut of around 5-6 cm which is about the limit of what the average guy is willing to wear in public.
They market their products in a non sexual way, it's just guys enjoying brief swim wear for the simple pleasure of it.
This means their customers are mostly aged 30 plus.
I like that they offer matching patterns with the female range.
I think they need some options other than the big logo on the rear of every swimsuit. Maybe some options with a sports or active wear theme.
Finally, I like that they have a bricks and mortar store in Sydney where you can see and touch most of the range. Rather than just making the usual online purchase then hope it fits when it comes.
I hadn't done that in decades!