Faded solid swim trunk product image (primary)
Men's mid-thigh swim trunks in a faded dark charcoal fabric with an elastic waistband and visible drawstring; small rectangular stitched patch on the right leg and a stitched front fly seam.

Salty Crew

Faded Solid Swim Trunk

CA$39.95CA$75.00-47%
In Stock

Men's Salty Crew swim trunks in a faded solid color, made from quick-dry stretch fabric with a drawcord-adjustable elastic waist and a trompe-l'oeil fly. They feature a 7-inch inseam, vertical slit pockets, and a Velcro patch back pocket, with no lining for lightweight wear.

Material
Quick-dry stretch fabric
Gender
male
Style
casual, sporty, coastal
Category
Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Swimwear

Color

BlackBlue

Size

SMALLMEDIUMLARGEX-LARGE

Specifications

Men's faded solid swim trunks with quick-dry stretch fabric, drawcord waist, and multiple pockets.

Quick-dry stretch fabric, no lining, drawcord waist, trompe-l'oeil fly, vertical slit pockets, Velcro back pocket, 7-inch inseam.

Material
Quick-dry stretch fabric
Style
casual, sporty, coastal
Occasion
vacation, beach-day
Gender
male
Age Group
adult
Condition
new
Category
Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Swimwear

Additional Attributes

  • Quick-dry stretch fabric
  • Unlined design
  • Drawcord-adjustable elastic waistband
  • Trompe-l'oeil fly detail
  • Two vertical slit pockets
  • Velcro patch pocket at back
  • 7-inch inseam
  • Faded wash finish
  • Solid color pattern

Product Insights

The Salty Crew Faded Solid Swim Trunk is an unlined, quick-drying board short that prioritizes freedom of movement and comfort for water activities, using a 92% polyester 8% spandex fabric with four-way stretch and no mesh liner to reduce friction, sand trapping, and drying time; its drawcord waist, faux fly, and dark opaque color prevent see-through when wet, while vertical slit pockets and a rear Velcro pocket offer water drainage and security, and the true-to-size fit with elastic waist allows adjustment, but buyers must hand wash in cool water and avoid heat to preserve the elastane's stretch, and though the brand authenticity appeals to coastal watermen, the price matches premium boardshorts' features at a lower cost, creating a tradeoff between a durable, functional design and the need for gentle care.

Verified claims

Cultural authenticity
Salty Crew is worn by surfers and fishermen in San Diego, unlike tourist label Salt Life.
Comfort
No velcro snagging, no mesh irritation, and minimized pressure points.
Fly design
Pull-on waist with cosmetic fly preserves structured look without functional gap.
Quick drying
Dries faster than lined trunks because no mesh liner traps water.
Transparency
Dark color and opaque fabric prevent see-through when wet, despite no lining.
Waistband
Drawcord-adjustable elastic waist with faux fly gives a comfortable, adjustable fit in classic boardshort style.
Performance
Without a mesh liner, these trunks reduce friction, dry faster, and move freely for water activities.
Brand authenticity
Salty Crew is a brand worn by actual surfers and boat workers, authentic among coastal watermen.
Inseam length
7-inch above-knee cut reduces leg restriction for swimming mobility.
Stretch
92% polyester, 8% spandex unlined fabric provides four-way stretch and fast drying.
Waist & fly
Elastic drawcord waist and trompe-l'oeil fly keep trunks anchored and reduce bulk.
Rinsing
Rinse in cool fresh water immediately after use to preserve stretch and prevent stiffness.
Washing
Hand wash only in cool water with mild detergent to preserve elastane.
Heat sensitivity
Avoid hot water and high heat to prevent permanent loss of stretch.
Drainage
Vertical slit pockets drain quickly when exiting water.
Security
Rear Velcro pocket keeps items secure while swimming.
Saltwater feel
Fabric stays soft after sun and saltwater exposure.
Unlined design
No mesh liner reduces friction, sand trapping, and speeds drying.
Fading
Faded Solid: uniform fading due to full-depth dyeing across the unlined shell.
Color care
Rinsing in cool water and quick drying slow color fading.
Fit
Buyers report true-to-size fit; elastic waist and stretch fabric allow adjustment.
Faux fly
Decorative fly mimics a tailored front zipper over an elastic waistband.
Value
Matches premium boardshorts' quick-dry, unlined, stretch at $39.95 CAD.
Durability
Dyed-through fabric and no-closure design extend the trunks' lifespan.

Product record

Title
Faded Solid Swim Trunk
Brand
Salty Crew
Price
75 CAD
Availability
In stock

Deep Research

Caring for quick-dry swim fabric

  • Elastane begins losing spring‑back well below a hot tap temperature, so a strict ‘cool water only, never hot’ rule — for rinsing, washing, and even storage out of a sun‑baked car — preserves the waistband’s grip and the fabric’s quick‑dry recovery far longer than a typical all‑purpose laundry cycle would.
  • The safest clean is a hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent — turning the trunks inside out to reach the inner mesh and pocket interiors — while fabric softeners and bleach must be avoided because they chemically attack elastane, trap odors, and can yellow any white trims or labels.
  • Rinsing the trunks in cool fresh water immediately after swimming — a 30‑second habit — strips away chlorine, salt crystals, and sunscreen that would otherwise progressively degrade elastane fibers; industry tests confirm that trunks rinsed promptly retain color and elasticity significantly longer than those left un‑rinsed.

How the faded color wears over time

  • Since the trunk omits a mesh liner, the shell fabric is dyed all the way through with no contrasting white interior — when the color eventually lightens from wear, the entire garment fades in unison, maintaining a consistent tone without any awkward light spots around the waistband or pocket bags.

Trompe-l'oeil fly: style and function

  • A non-opening fly eliminates the need for heavy velcro or snap closures directly against the skin, reducing pressure points on the lower abdomen when lying flat on a surfboard — a comfort improvement explicitly targeted by surf apparel patents that sought to minimize fly-area bulk for a more enjoyable paddling experience.
  • The 'trompe-l'oeil' fly — French for 'deceive the eye' — uses fabric overlap and topstitching to create the illusion of a traditional fly without any functional opening, giving the trunk a structured boardshort look while entirely avoiding the added bulk and seams of a working zipper or velcro closure. This approach directly addresses a long-standing complaint among surfers: velcro flies that tangle body hair and create pressure points, making the trunk more comfortable for all-day wear in and out of the water.
  • The combination of a drawcord-adjustable elastic waist and a purely cosmetic fly means the trunks are pull-on and never risk the fly gapping or failing during active movement; the waistband adjusts for a personalized fit while the trompe-l'oeil fly preserves the classic board short silhouette, so the functional simplicity of an elastic-waist short is hidden behind a tailored front appearance.

Why unlined boardshorts matter

  • Board shorts originated without liners specifically for surfing, where any extra fabric creates friction and restricts motion; the Faded Solid Swim Trunk follows that tradition, meaning you get a short that’s intentionally minimal—no mesh to trap sand or rub against skin during active beach use.
  • At a 7-inch inseam, these trunks are cut significantly shorter than traditional board shorts (which typically range from 16 to 20 inches), but the unlined design keeps them quick-drying and unrestrictive—giving you a modern, less-baggy silhouette that doesn't sacrifice the core performance benefits of a classic board short.
  • Eliminating the liner removes the one layer that holds the most water—unlined board shorts dry noticeably faster than lined swim trunks because there's no soaked mesh clinging to your skin, an advantage confirmed by surfwear experts.
  • Board shorts engineered for stretch need no inner liner to achieve their full range of motion; without a mesh layer to compress against, the quick-dry stretch fabric of these trunks flexes more naturally—ideal for surfing, diving, or any water sport that demands athletic movement.

How it stacks up against similar boardshorts

  • By pairing a drawcord-adjustable elastic waist — the hallmark of recreational swim trunks — with a liner-free, quick-dry short, the Faded Solid carves out a comfort-first middle ground between surf-focused boardshorts (which rely on a rigid fixed waist) and the typical mesh-lined casual swim trunk, making it a uniquely easy-wearing option for long beach days.
  • Two vertical slit side pockets that drain quickly and a Velcro-closure rear patch pocket offer the essential stowage for keys, cards, and cash without the cost or bulk of the bonded, water-sealed zippered pockets found on $100+ boardshorts — a deliberately minimalist system that keeps the trunks lightweight, fast-drying, and affordable.
  • With a 7-inch inseam — comparable to the 7.25-inch inseam of the Free Fly Dawn Patrol boardshort that’s marketed for surf mobility — the Faded Solid delivers a well-above-the-knee cut that prioritizes leg freedom for swimming and beach activities, while staying far from the retro-short 5-inch extremes; it’s a safe, modern short length that works across body types.
  • At its sale price of CAD $39.95 (approximately $29 USD), the Faded Solid undercuts entry-level performance boardshorts like the Hurley Phantom Eco One and Only ($55 USD) and the Quiksilver Highline Pro Straight ($85 USD), while offering the same fundamental quick-dry, unlined, stretch-fabric recipe.
  • Salty Crew’s identity is forged among working fishermen, surfers, and boat crew — not tourists — which means a $40 pair of swim trunks from the brand carries an understated credibility that budget-friendly swimwear rarely earns, particularly among coastal shoppers who can spot a poser label from the pier.

Image Analysis

2 images
Faded solid swim trunk product image (primary)
01

Product

Men's mid-thigh swim trunks in a faded dark charcoal fabric with an elastic waistband and visible drawstring; small rectangular stitched patch on the right leg and a stitched front fly seam.

  • Silhouette and lengthStraight-cut swim trunks falling to mid-thigh with a relaxed leg opening and a straight hem.
    1 regionx 0.12 · y 0.48 · w 0.76 · h 0.45 (high)
  • WaistbandElastic waistband with visible topstitching forming a narrow channel at the top edge.
    1 regionx 0.18 · y 0.49 · w 0.64 · h 0.06 (high)
  • DrawstringBlack drawstring with white woven fleck pattern, tied in a loose bow at the center front with metal eyelets at the waistband.
    1 regionx 0.33 · y 0.53 · w 0.28 · h 0.13 (high)
  • Front seam detailVertical stitched front fly seam running from the waistband down the center front.
    1 regionx 0.38 · y 0.56 · w 0.12 · h 0.25 (high)
  • Right-leg patchSmall rectangular stitched patch applied to the lower right leg area; graphic or text on the patch is too small to read at this scale.
    1 regionx 0.67 · y 0.70 · w 0.08 · h 0.06 (high)
  • Fabric appearanceMatte, slightly faded dark charcoal fabric with even color and minimal visible texture.
    1 regionx 0.20 · y 0.55 · w 0.60 · h 0.30 (high)

Other

Studio shot showing a model from the neck to mid-thigh against a plain light gray background with soft even lighting and subtle shadowing at the model's left side.

  • Model crop and poseMale model shown from the neck to mid-thigh, facing slightly to the left with arms positioned behind the back.
    1 regionx 0.06 · y 0.02 · w 0.88 · h 0.75 (high)
  • Background and lightingPlain light gray seamless background with soft, diffuse lighting producing gentle shadows along the model's right side.
  • Image framingProduct centered in the frame with even spacing on left and right; lower edge crops just below mid-thigh.

Colors

faded charcoal· main fabric#353439black with white fleck· drawstring#0D0D0Elight gray· patch
Faded solid swim trunk product image 2
02

Product

Rear view of a male model wearing faded dark charcoal swim trunks with an elastic waistband and a single patch pocket with flap on the right rear. Fabric shows tonal stitching and a small metal grommet on the pocket.

  • View and fitBack-facing view showing the swim trunks worn at natural waist with an elastic waistband; trunks extend to above mid-thigh.
    1 regionx 0.12 · y 0.44 · w 0.76 · h 0.46 (high)
  • WaistbandElastic waistband with visible rows of stitching around the top edge, same fabric color as trunks.
    1 regionx 0.18 · y 0.48 · w 0.64 · h 0.06 (high)
  • Back pocket constructionSingle rectangular patch pocket on the right rear with a top flap secured by visible topstitching; pocket has a horizontal stitched strap across its face and a metal grommet near the lower right of the pocket panel.
    1 regionx 0.59 · y 0.59 · w 0.20 · h 0.21 (high)
  • Seam and stitch detailingVisible vertical center back seam running from waistband down the shorts and contrast topstitching around pocket and hem edges.
    1 regionx 0.47 · y 0.53 · w 0.06 · h 0.34 (high)
  • Fabric appearanceFaded solid knit or woven fabric with a washed look giving slightly lighter highlights on raised areas and seams.
    1 regionx 0.18 · y 0.52 · w 0.64 · h 0.36 (high)
  • Small sewn label or tabSmall rectangular sewn tab located on the pocket face near the right edge, details not legible at this resolution.Partial
    1 regionx 0.68 · y 0.64 · w 0.03 · h 0.03 (medium)

Other

Studio product photograph showing a back view on a light neutral background with even lighting and soft shadowing; model from upper neck to mid-thigh is visible and centered in frame.

  • Background and lightingSmooth light gray background with uniform studio lighting and soft shadow underneath the model, no props.
  • Shot compositionVertical crop framing the model from the upper neck/head top down to mid-thigh, centered horizontally.
  • Image qualitySharp focus on garment and model with even exposure; small label text on pocket not legible.

Colors

faded charcoal· main fabric#2E2C31

Q&A

5 answered
How do the pockets perform in water? Do they drain quickly and stay closed during swimming?
The vertical slit pockets are designed to drain quickly when in water, and the back pocket has a Velcro closure to keep items secure while swimming. Both pocket types are standard for swim trunks and perform well in water.
Is there any risk of transparency when the trunks get wet, given they have no lining?
No, there's very low risk of transparency. These trunks are black, and the quick-dry stretch fabric is opaque. Even without a lining, the dark color prevents see-through issues when wet.
How does the sizing run? Is the waistband true to size or does it stretch to accommodate?
The elastic waistband with drawcord adjustment allows for a customizable fit. Generally, these trunks run true to size and the elastic can stretch to accommodate a range of waist measurements. Most customers find the sizing standard.
How does the quick-dry fabric feel after prolonged sun exposure or saltwater? Does it stay soft or get stiff?
The quick-dry stretch fabric is designed to remain soft and flexible even after prolonged sun and saltwater exposure. Rinsing with fresh water after use helps maintain its feel and prevent stiffness.
What is the difference between Salt Life and Salty Crew?
Salt Life is perceived as a poser brand for tourists, while Salty Crew is considered more authentic for people who work on the water, though some believe both are for posers.

Reddit Insights

1 threads · r/surfing

Reddit views Salty Crew as a more authentic brand for fishermen and surfers compared to the poser brand Salt Life, though opinions are mixed.

mixed sentiment70% match

Comments are mixed: some see Salty Crew as equally poser-ish, while others defend it as genuine apparel for watermen. The thread also contains a corrected misconception about the cofounder.

Themes

Brand authenticity vs. poser culture (Salty Crew vs. Salt Life)mixed
Actual user base: surfers, fishermen, boat workerspositive
Confusion between Salty Crew and Salt Life brandsneutral

Use Cases

  • Surfing and beach lifestyle apparel
  • Fishing and boating workwear

Watch Out For

mediumSome people mistakenly believe the cofounder of Salty Crew is in prison for murder; this is actually the cofounder of Salt Life.

Compared To

vs Salt Life

Salty Crew is generally seen as more authentic, associated with actual maritime work, while Salt Life is viewed as a poser brand for tourists and landlocked individuals.

Source Threads

  • Defense of Salty Crew as authentic surf and fishing brand in San Diego

    In San Diego salty crew is for guys that surf and work on boats or in tackle shops or own a skiff and chase yellowtail and tuna when they get close enough. Maybe it’s for posers elsewhere but it seems like the most on brand guys all rock it down here.

    u/surfershane25r/surfingView thread →

Provenance

Merchant Link
https://www.simons.ca/en/men-sports-clothes/swimwear/boardshorts/faded-solid-swim-trunk--20481-2603?colourId=0
Updated