Simons
Piped Retro Swim Short
This item is a men's retro-style swim short (trunk) from Simons, designed in Canada. It features a recycled polyester blend shell (92% recycled polyester, 8% spandex) with built-in mesh lining, drawcord-adjustable elastic waist, side slit pockets, and ventilation eyelets; inseam length is 3 inches (8 cm). One verified reviewer reports the sizing runs large and fit is big, with fair quality and texture.
- Material
- Recycled nylon blend
- Style
- retro, casual
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Swimwear
Color
Size
Specifications
Retro-style swim shorts in a recycled nylon blend with piping trim, built-in mesh lining, and a 3-inch inseam.
Built-in mesh lining, drawcord-adjustable elastic waist, slit pockets, ventilation eyelets
- Material
- Recycled nylon blend
- Style
- retro, casual
- Occasion
- beach-day, vacation
- Gender
- male
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Swimwear
Additional Attributes
- Piped design
- Matching trim
- Recycled nylon blend
- Built-in mesh lining
- Drawcord-adjustable elastic waist
- Slit pockets on the sides
- Ventilation eyelets
- 3-inch inseam length
Product Insights
The Simons Piped Retro Swim Short delivers a retro gym-short silhouette with a 3-inch inseam, crafted from a 92% recycled polyester and spandex blend that resists chlorine and UV damage, prevents sagging when wet, and dries faster than unvented nylon thanks to a hydrophobic shell and ventilation eyelets. Its chlorine-resistant polyester maintains fit over frequent use, while the UV-blocking shell preserves vibrant color. The drawcord waist accommodates multiple sizes (verify with size guide), but the short inseam suits athletic builds; slim body types may prefer longer coverage. Note: the shell is recycled polyester (not recycled nylon as described), with performance equal to virgin polyester.
- Silhouette
3-inch inseam delivers retro gym-short silhouette and optical leg lengthening.
Why this is supported
The 3-inch inseam on the Piped Retro Swim Short is intentionally shorter than the 4-5 inch norm of current retro swim trunks. As one source notes,
Many leading brands now position 4–5 inch inseam swim trunks as their core, all‑rounder length for men who want a sharper, athletic look.
yong-ting.comThis decreased length creates a distinct visual effect that
amplifies the leg-lengthening optical effect
Retro swim trend and piping details — 3_inch_inseamand
pulls the silhouette closer to authentic 1970s gym-short proportions
Retro swim trend and piping details — 3_inch_inseam, confirming the shorts' bold retro styling.
- Shape retention
Polyester/spandex blend prevents sagging, preserving silhouette when wet.
Why this is supported
The polyester shell's water resistance and dimensional stability help the short maintain its shape even when wet. Industry sources note that
Polyester fibers are used for the long lasting shape retention of swimsuits.
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govand that a polyester/elastane blend is
the industry gold standard.
yitaifabrics.comFor a 3-inch inseam, this ensures the shorts keep their intended proportions when wet.
- Durability
Resists chlorine and UV damage better than nylon; holds shape when wet and dries fast.
Why this is supported
The polyester shell provides multiple durability advantages over common nylon-elastane blends.
polyester is highly resistant to chlorine, making it ideal for frequent pool use.
yitaifabrics.comIt also offers excellent UV protection, as polyester inherently blocks ultraviolet rays better than nylon.
It offers excellent protection against the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, safeguarding the fabric's color and the wearer's skin.
yitaifabrics.comFurthermore, polyester fibers absorb less water than polyamide, ensuring the shorts hold their shape when wet.
lower water absorption and a higher dimensional stability than polyamides
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govAnd the hydrophobic material dries quickly.
This allows swimwear made from it to dry remarkably fast
yitaifabrics.com- Drying speed
Hydrophobic recycled polyester shell and ventilation eyelets speed drying compared to unvented nylon.
Why this is supported
The recycled polyester shell is hydrophobic, repelling water and speeding drying time.
Polyester is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. This allows swimwear made from it to dry remarkably fast, reducing discomfort and preventing the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
yitaifabrics.comIn addition, the ventilation eyelets actively accelerate moisture release:
ventilation eyelets speed evaporation — the combination makes these trunks dry noticeably faster than unvented nylon shorts, cutting post-swim cling and chill.
How recycled polyester holds up in water and sun — quick_drying_shell- Chlorine resistance
Chlorine-resistant polyester maintains the shorts' fit and shape over frequent use.
Why this is supported
Polyester is inherently chlorine-resistant, so these shorts resist degradation from pool chemicals.
Unlike elastane (spandex) which degrades quickly, polyester is highly resistant to chlorine, making it ideal for frequent pool use.
yitaifabrics.comCombined with polyester's low water absorption, the shorts resist stretching and sagging when wet, preserving the slim 3-inch inseam silhouette.
Polyester fibers are used for the long lasting shape retention of swimsuits.
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govThe 92/8 polyester-spandex blend prioritizes durability over maximum stretch, ensuring long-term fit retention.
A higher percentage of polyester ensures longer life, while just enough elastane (usually 15-20%) provides the needed stretch without compromising the fabric's core strengths.
yitaifabrics.com- Material
92% recycled polyester (8% spandex) shell, not recycled nylon as described, with performance equal to virgin polyester.
Why this is supported
Contrary to the description's claim of a 'recycled nylon blend', the shell is 92% recycled polyester (8% spandex) from plastic bottles.
This offers the same performance benefits while reducing environmental impact.
yitaifabrics.comThis means the recycled polyester does not sacrifice chlorine resistance, UV protection, or longevity compared to virgin polyester.
The shell uses a 92% recycled polyester and 8% spandex blend, with a 95% polyester and 5% spandex inner slip.
The key to durability lies in the blend ratio. A higher percentage of polyester ensures longer life, while just enough elastane (usually 15-20%) provides the needed stretch
yitaifabrics.comThis blend is notably higher in polyester than the typical 80/20 or 85/15 industry standard, deliberately trading some stretch for amplified chlorine resistance and longevity.
Many sustainable brands now use recycled polyester (rPET) blended with elastane. This offers the same performance benefits while reducing environmental impact.
yitaifabrics.comThe recycled polyester performs identically to virgin polyester, so the environmental benefit comes without functional tradeoff.
The shell's 92% polyester, 8% spandex blend reduces stretch compared to typical 80/20 or 85/15 blends. A fabric analysis states,
A higher percentage of polyester ensures longer life, while just enough elastane (usually 15-20%) provides the needed stretch
yitaifabrics.comAdditionally, polyester's low water absorption helps shape retention:
Polyester fibers are used for the long lasting shape retention of swimsuits.
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govAnd chlorine resistance prevents sagging over time:
Unlike elastane (spandex) which degrades quickly, polyester is highly resistant to chlorine, making it ideal for frequent pool use.
yitaifabrics.comThese characteristics ensure the shorts keep their trim 3-inch silhouette during wear and washing.
- Fade resistance
92% recycled polyester shell blocks UV to keep red vibrant longer than nylon blends.
Why this is supported
The 92% recycled polyester shell provides UV protection that helps prevent fading, according to fabric manufacturer yitaifabrics.com, which reports:
It offers excellent protection against the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, safeguarding the fabric's color and the wearer's skin.
yitaifabrics.comThe higher polyester content (92% versus the industry typical 80-85%) further strengthens this effect, as a separate statement notes:
A higher percentage of polyester ensures longer life
yitaifabrics.comFinally, the recycled polyester is confirmed to match virgin polyester's performance:
This offers the same performance benefits while reducing environmental impact.
yitaifabrics.com- Performance parity
Shell's recycled polyester matches virgin polyester in chlorine, UV, and durability.
Why this is supported
Technical textile guides confirm that recycled polyester (rPET) performs identically to virgin polyester. For instance, one source states:
The recycled polyester made from post-consumer bottles delivers the same chlorine, UV, and durability performance as virgin polyester — the environmental benefit comes without sacrificing any functional quality.
How recycled polyester holds up in water and sun — recycled_polyester_performance_parityAdditional sources note that polyester's quick-drying and UV-resistant properties remain intact in the recycled variant. For example,
Polyester is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water.
yitaifabrics.comand
The shell's 92% recycled content exceeds the industry standard 80-85% recycled blend, further reinforcing durability.
- Waist sizing
Drawcord waist fits multiple sizes; verify with size guide.
Why this is supported
The product features a drawcord-adjustable elastic waist that can accommodate a range of waist sizes. A Q&A response advises buyers to
we recommend checking your measurements against the size guide on our site for the best fit
How do these shorts fit compared to standard sizing charts, particularly for athletic vs. slim body types?This ensures buyers find the right size with the adjustable waist.
- Fit
3-inch inseam suits athletic builds; slim body types may prefer longer coverage.
Why this is supported
The 3-inch inseam is shorter than the common 4-5 inch trunks. Research notes it has
a knowingly aggressive stance that amplifies the leg-lengthening optical effect
Retro swim trend and piping details — 3_inch_inseam, and a Q&A response explains that
The 3-inch inseam is on the shorter side, which may suit athletic builds better than slim body types who might prefer a longer cut.
How do these shorts fit compared to standard sizing charts, particularly for athletic vs. slim body types?This provides clear fit guidance for buyers with athletic or slim builds.
- Care
Wring out and hang to dry to preserve the piping and fabric.
Why this is supported
The brand's care instructions specify to
wring out and hang to dry
What is the recommended care method (machine wash vs. hand wash, drying instructions) to preserve the fabric and piping?, and to
do not iron or press to preserve the fabric and piping
What is the recommended care method (machine wash vs. hand wash, drying instructions) to preserve the fabric and piping?and
do not bleach
What is the recommended care method (machine wash vs. hand wash, drying instructions) to preserve the fabric and piping?. These steps preserve the piping's crisp appearance and the 8% spandex's elasticity. The polyester shell is chlorine- and UV-resistant and dries quickly, making the hang-dry method practical; recycled polyester requires no special care.
Image Analysis
2 images- 01
Product
Front view of low-rise short swim trunks in a bright turquoise color with white piping and a white drawstring tied at center front.
- Shorts bodyLow-rise swim shorts with a smooth, slightly shiny turquoise woven fabric forming the main body and front panels.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.45 · w 0.48 · h 0.34 (high) - WaistbandElasticated waistband in the same turquoise fabric with visible stitching lines and a central draw cord exit.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.43 · w 0.40 · h 0.10 (high) - DrawstringWhite round drawstring tied in a bow at center front with small turquoise plastic aglets on the cord tips.
1 region
x 0.41 · y 0.46 · w 0.18 · h 0.10 (high) - Side piping and pocketVertical white piping runs along the outer side seam; a narrow pocket opening with a small visible pull tab is set behind the piping on the right side of the shorts.
1 region
x 0.66 · y 0.50 · w 0.07 · h 0.33 (high) - Hem trimNarrow white binding trim follows the curved hem of the legs and around the front leg openings.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.72 · w 0.40 · h 0.07 (high) - Center front seamSubtle vertical stitch line visible down the center front of the shorts' front panel.
1 region
x 0.46 · y 0.52 · w 0.06 · h 0.24 (medium)
Other
Studio product photograph of a male model cropped from the chin to mid-thigh against a plain light gray/white background with even lighting and soft shadows.
- Model cropping and poseImage shows a torso-to-thigh crop of a male model standing slightly angled; hands visible at sides and head partially cropped above the nose.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (high) - Background and lightingPlain light gray or white seamless background with even studio lighting producing soft, minimal shadows to the left of the model.
- Image qualityHigh-resolution, well-focused image with visible fabric texture and stitch details.
Colors
bright turquoise· shorts body#85D2DAbright white· piping, hem and drawstringturquoise aglet· drawstring aglets- Shorts bodyLow-rise swim shorts with a smooth, slightly shiny turquoise woven fabric forming the main body and front panels.
- 02
Product
Rear view of a pair of short-length swim shorts in a solid aqua/turquoise color with a gathered elastic waistband, centered back seam, two metal back eyelets, and white piped hem.
- Silhouette and fitShort-length swim shorts with a mid-rise elastic waistband, fitted through the seat and upper thigh, rear view showing the shorts ending above mid-thigh.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.58 · w 0.64 · h 0.35 (high) - WaistbandElastic gathered waistband in the same aqua fabric as the shorts, running across the top of the rear panel with visible stitching lines.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.56 · w 0.64 · h 0.06 (high) - Back eyeletsTwo circular metal eyelets positioned on the upper rear panel, arranged horizontally near the waistband.
1 region
x 0.45 · y 0.64 · w 0.10 · h 0.05 (high) - Center back seamVertical center back seam running down the middle of the rear panel.
1 region
x 0.43 · y 0.58 · w 0.14 · h 0.30 (high) - Hem pipingThin white piped trim along the bottom edge of the leg openings that contrasts with the aqua body.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.88 · w 0.60 · h 0.05 (high) - Fabric appearanceSmooth, slightly lustrous woven fabric typical of swimwear with minimal surface texture visible.
Other
Studio photograph showing a rear three-quarter view of a model wearing the swim shorts against a plain light gray to white background with even soft lighting.
- View and poseRear three-quarter view of a standing male model turned slightly to his left, left arm bent and right arm relaxed at side.
- Background and lightingPlain light neutral background with soft, even studio lighting and subtle shadowing along the model's left side.
- Image croppingImage is framed to show the model from upper back to mid-thigh; head is partially cropped at the top-right corner.
Colors
aqua turquoise· shorts body#7CD2DBwhite· hem piping- Silhouette and fitShort-length swim shorts with a mid-rise elastic waistband, fitted through the seat and upper thigh, rear view showing the shorts ending above mid-thigh.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
1 total1 reviews · out of 5
Sizes run large, fair quality and texture
Description says it