Can you wear swim trunks in France? – Decisive Beachwear (2024)

FAQs

Are you allowed to wear swimming trunks in France? ›

Now, I have something of the utmost importance to share with you – especially if you are a man and you want to go swimming in a public swimming pool in France. In France, swimming shorts are not allowed to be worn in swimming pools by men. In France, men must wear clinging swimming trunks to swimming pools.

There are many benefits to choosing swim trunks as your preferred form of beach attire. First, the netting included in the swim trunks means that you will not have to wear anything else under them to provide support.

The French fashion for tight-fitting trunks goes back more than 100 years, with French regulators deciding in 1903 that restrictions were needed to stop men wearing baggy swimsuits at the beach or around town and then bringing back dust, sand and sweat when they enjoy a dip in the pool.

Clothing rules in public pools in France are strict, for what authorities say are reasons of hygiene: caps are required, and baggy swim trunks or other voluminous clothing is generally banned. Wetsuits are not allowed in many pools too, as are some sun-protection suits.

You're not allowed to wear clothing on a nudist beach, but there's plenty of signage so you're unlikely to fall foul of this rule. I suppose it wouldn't be very fair on the naturists if people in clothes were there too. On all other beaches it is illegal to “bathe without a swimsuit or other nautical combination”.

France is a free country, you can wear shorts in Paris anytime and anywhere, with a few exceptions where there are actual dress codes (more on that below). Now, just because you can wear shorts, does it mean you're stylish? Does it mean you'll fit in with the locals? Does it mean Parisians will shun you?

They're comfortable

Swimming and frolicking in the ocean waves are effortless without all that extra fabric getting in the way. Speedos also dry a lot faster than other swimsuits, which makes for an altogether more comfortable experience once you're out of the water.

It should be pretty obvious that you can also wear swimwear while on the beach, while sunbathing, lounging, or between dips. So beachwear includes swimwear. But you can also wear other items on the beach that are definitely NOT designed for swimming in.

Board shorts are longer and droopier at the waist, creating a more casual or sporty look. Swim trunks are a bit boxier with a wider leg, giving a more classic silhouette. If you prefer a modern, sporty look but like the fit of swim trunks, you can always go for a longer inseam on a pair of trunks.

The French do not like long swimming trunks in the water. Short swimming trunks are considered more hygienic and environmentally friendlier than long trunks. A second reason for choosing tight-fitting trunks is the environment. Loose swimming trunks hold on to a lot more water than the tight-fitting versions.

Are speedos the law in France? ›

However, holiday hotspot France has had a long-enforced rule that means swimmers must wear a Speedo when swimming in a public swimming pool. Those who do not comply will be removed from the pool and asked to go get Speedos to re-enter.

Swimwear. Many parc owners have banned swim shorts, bermudas and cut-off jeans in the pools for hygiene reasons. To be safe please pack conventional swimwear eg. Speedo-style trunks or briefs.

To avoid looking like a tourist, you'll want to know what to wear in France. Our advice? Skip the baseball caps, white socks, sneakers, large colorful backpacks, and fanny packs. Instead, opt for dark skinny jeans, plain shirts without logos, and leather shoes.

At public pools men have to wear speedo type suits, as they are considered "more hygienic." At the beach you can wear whatever you want, although most of the men will be wearing their speedos.

Men must not wear extremely short shorts, chunky sports shoes, sweatpants, graphic tees, and clothes with bright and bold words on them when in Paris. Women should avoid wearing stilettos, brightly colored dresses, clunky accessories, and beachwear when in Paris.

Parisians do wear jeans and over the years they have become more of a classic French wardrobe staple. Jeans can easily be worn year-round and dressed up or down in that chic French way.

Avoid wearing brightly colored clothes or anything that screams “tourist!” and instead opt for muted colors and simple designs. Jeans and a t-shirt are always a safe bet, and if you're not sure what to wear, take a look at what the other people in the area are wearing.

French women usually style their favorite white denim with classic items, such as a timeless trench coat, a chic blazer, an oversized blue shirt, a nautical polo shirt, and stylish footwear. Keep scrolling below to see five chic outfit ideas featuring white jeans for any occasion.

Small, tight trunks can only be used for swimming. Bermudas or bigger swimming shorts can be worn elsewhere all day, so could bring in sand, dust or other matter, disturbing the water quality. “By banning them outright, we're not forced to stand there measuring what can be defined as swimming shorts.

You can wear any type of clothing to the Louvre Museum. There is no dress code.

Does anyone wear shorts in Paris? ›

In Paris, I think it's considered acceptable to wear shorts in the city when the weather gets warm (from 25°C or 77°F) and especially during “la canicule” (heat wave). Being French, I feel more comfortable (and safer) wearing bermuda shorts with a tailored finish than skirts or dresses in Paris.

In Hong Kong basically you'll see mens of all ages in speedos on beaches. Back in late 90s and early 00s, speedos were the only swimwear men wore. In recent years however, more young males tend to switch to board shorts on the beaches. About one out of three men still wears a speedo.

Usually, the lining is a mesh material with small holes. However, with technology advancements, more and more companies are making swim shorts and swim trunks without any lining. There is never a need to wear underwear beneath speedos (swim briefs); however, you can still be at risk of speedos being see-through.

Speedo is actually a brand of swimwear, not a specific garment. The brand has been around since the 1920s and is a favorite among Olympic athletes. Speedo makes many types of men's and women's swimwear, including briefs, rash guards, boardshorts, swim trunks, jammers, bikinis, and one-piece suits.

When you go to the beach, all you truly need is a bathing suit! Wear a cover-up, hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun. If you want to easily go out to eat or hit the boardwalk, wear a tank and shorts or maxi dress. Throw all of your stuff in a canvas beach tote, and wear flip-flops or sandals to the shore.

Garments for wearing at the beach, poolside, etc. in warm weather; esp., swimsuits and coverups.

In general, it's totally OK and even the norm to wear swim trunks as shorts, primarily because so many styles look like they came out of your regular shorts drawer anyway and no one will even notice.

Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Hence, let this be a new general rule: from boys' swim trunks to the adult version, you're good sans underwear as long as everything is covered up down there.

When properly worn, swim trunks and board shorts are not meant to have anything under them. However, some guys wear underwear beneath their swimwear because they are more comfortable with the second layer of clothing.

Can I wear sneakers in France? ›

You will blend in without any problem if you wear jeans and a pair of sneakers. Nike is an American brand, and it is very popular in France. Levi's, Diesel, Wrangler, and Calvin Klein are American brands, and they rule the jeans world in France too. So be comfortable in your sneakers, and enjoy the view.

Don't: Flip Flops

Flip-flops in France are reserved for beaches or for wearing around the house; everywhere else is a faux pas for sure. Anyone not abiding this suggestion might be teased with questions like “ou est la plage?” (“where is the beach”).

You might think that sandals are acceptable since heels are not but, you're dead wrong! Most Parisians do not wear sandals on the streets! Instead, you'll see most of them wearing sneakers or boots.

Though they won't call them “Speedos” (that is a brand, and many brands make swimming briefs) they are the norm in Europe. In France, swim trunks are forbidden in public pools.

Never allowing anyone to swim alone. Establishing pool rules for the whole family - no running by the pool, no diving, swim in pairs etc. Removing any objects like chairs or tables which children could use to climb over a pool fence. Keeping a phone near the pool in case of emergencies.

They were deemed to provide an unfair advantage to the wearer by FINA, which led to a ban on all swimsuits of a similar nature.

The choice of what to wear, or not to wear, under your boardshorts is, in the end, entirely up to you. But as a general rule of thumb, if your boardshorts have a mesh liner, you can skip the underwear.

Speedo briefs are ideal for competitive swimmers and divers. They are made of durable materials and fit tightly around the hips, minimizing extra fabric around the legs that create drag and impede speed and agility.

Make sure the speedo is not too tight or constricting. It should feel snug but the fabric should not dig into your skin. Walk around, squat, and sit in the speedo to ensure it is comfortable. If it feels comfortable on you, you will likely be more confident wearing it around.

13% of French women under 25 go braless, according to a poll* in June 2022, a stunningly higher figure than Spain (3%), Italy (2%), the United Kingdom and Germany (1%.).

Can you use US dollars in France? ›

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use Euros? The currency of France is the Euro. US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for Euros upon arrival.

If it doesn't specifically tell what you want to wear but says dress code, I would stick with dresses, skirts, or trousers to be on the safe side. I would also make sure to wear appropriate footwear like slingbacks, heels, or ballet flats. I wouldn't wear sneakers to a restaurant with a dress code.

Do men wear shorts in Paris? The answer is yes, IF your knees are visible or just slightly covered if standing still. Shorts that go below the knees are a big faux pas in Paris and should be avoided.

Think comfortable business casual when packing for France. Sneakers, jeans, a white T-shirt, and a black blazer would make a great outfit for walking the streets of Paris. You will look sophisticated without appearing that you have been trying too hard.

French men will occasionally wear shorts, but jeans are pretty much the go-to for most French people. Also, this packing list could be used for spring and fall too depending on the weather!

When you think “dinner in Paris”, you probably don't think to wear jeans. But, depending on the restaurant, you CAN wear jeans. I would probably opt for the jumpsuit or dress if you're headed to a Michelin-starred restaurant, but if you have a more casual dinner planned, go with your favorite pair of jeans!

The bottoms of choice for Parisian men are chinos or more of a slim fit or even a relaxed pair of dark jeans. You won't see Parisian mean wearing athletic apparel or shorts at all.

Parisian men tend to stick to neutral colors like black, white, gray, brown, and navy. These colors are versatile and can be easily mixed and matched. It's also important to note that Parisians tend to dress up a little more than what you might be used to.

However, holiday hotspot France has had a long-enforced rule that means swimmers must wear a Speedo when swimming in a public swimming pool. Those who do not comply will be removed from the pool and asked to go get Speedos to re-enter.

Though they won't call them “Speedos” (that is a brand, and many brands make swimming briefs) they are the norm in Europe. In France, swim trunks are forbidden in public pools. Though originally American, I now wonder why Americans have so much trouble with the sight of them.

What are the rules for swimming pools in France? ›

Never allowing anyone to swim alone. Establishing pool rules for the whole family - no running by the pool, no diving, swim in pairs etc. Removing any objects like chairs or tables which children could use to climb over a pool fence. Keeping a phone near the pool in case of emergencies.

Why is it compulsory to wear tight-fitting swimming trunks in France? The French actually have two reasons for this swimming pool policy: hygiene and the environment. People often wear long swimming trunks as a pair of shorts. For example, you wear them to the beach or while walking through the city.

They're stylish

Plus, they're always going to look trendier than board shorts or more traditional swim trunks simply because of their crisp and snug silhouette, making them perfect for the beach or the pool.

Tiny speedos and thongs

There's no official rule on this, but probably best to avoid tiny speedos, thongs and teeny weeny bikinis on family cruise lines. Don't forget to bring a cover up on a cruise.

For men, a typical pair of swim trunks will do just fine. European men seem to be adopting that type of suit lately I've noticed, so you won't feel out of place. I recommend choosing a neutral pair of swim shorts with pockets that look like regular shorts, in a solid color like black or navy.

Briefs: These are the classic swimwear that are very popular in Europe. They are discreet, comfortable, and available in various different waist heights. Low-waist shorts: These shorts are bordering on being as short as briefs but are a little longer.

Adding water to pools via the tap or through a hose is included in these restrictions, meaning 'topping up' a pool is also banned. Once the highest level is reached, filling any kind of basin holding more than one cubic metre is banned. Those breaking the ban could face a fine of €1,500, or €3,000 for repeat offenders.

Pools are subject to taxes in France because they can add to a property's value. Homeowners are meant to declare their swimming pool to the tax office within 90 days of its completion.

Athletic shorts can be used for swimming, but they are not the best option. Swimming is a great way to stay active, but athletic shorts can be dangerous if not used correctly. Athletic shorts are not the best option for swimming because they are not made to keep you safe in the water.

Board shorts are longer and droopier at the waist, creating a more casual or sporty look. Swim trunks are a bit boxier with a wider leg, giving a more classic silhouette. If you prefer a modern, sporty look but like the fit of swim trunks, you can always go for a longer inseam on a pair of trunks.