Best Posing Trunks for Men vs Board Shorts for Men Physique

I am debating whether to enter the Bodybuilding or Men Physique category for my show in Birmingham this summer. I have been looking at the best posing trunks for men versus the board shorts and the aesthetic is so different. I have a decent set of legs so I feel like hiding them in shorts might be a waste.

I have looked at trunks from Iron Eagle and board shorts from Hurleys. The trunks really require you to be a lot leaner in the glute area which is a bit intimidating. In London most of the guys at my local gym seem to go for Physique because it is more of a beach look.

What do you all think about the transition? Is it worth switching to Bodybuilding just to show off leg development if your upper body is not as thick? I am leaning toward the trunks but I need to make sure my posing is spot on to justify the switch.

LondonLad, choosing between Bodybuilding and Men's Physique really comes down to your strengths and overall package. With trunks, you're exposing your full leg development, whereas board shorts hide the quads and hamstrings. What are your strong points?

For Men's Physique, it's all about the V-taper and upper body aesthetics. Board shorts are definitely the way to go. Make sure they fit well, just above the knee, and don't look baggy.

@A4tech, that's a brilliant point about showcasing leg development. If LondonLad has killer quads and hams, traditional bodybuilding trunks would be a shame to cover up!

Any recommendations for specific brands for either trunks or board shorts? Quality and fit are key, especially under stage lights.

@GymBroCanada, totally agree on the fit for board shorts. Too long or too wide and they just obscure the hard work on the quads, even if they're hidden. A good tailored fit makes all the difference for that aesthetic look.

I always lean towards classic bodybuilding. Seeing the full physique, legs included, just feels more 'complete' to me. But I get the appeal of Men's Physique for a different kind of aesthetic.

@IronMaiden, for trunks, I've had good luck with MuscleDazzle. They have a great range of colours and cuts, and the fabric is top-notch for stage. Pricey but worth it.

Regardless of which category you pick, make sure you're practicing your posing *a lot*. It doesn't matter how great your physique is if you can't present it properly. Trunks or shorts, good posing is universal.

@FitFanaticUK, I think it's less about 'classic' vs 'aesthetic' and more about the conditioning required for each. Both are incredibly difficult. The judging criteria just highlight different aspects of the physique.

When it comes to board shorts for Physique, does colour matter much? I was thinking a bright colour to stand out, but I've heard dark colours can be more flattering.

@AnimalLifter, seconding MuscleDazzle for trunks! Also, try Fran's Backstage. Their cuts are excellent for enhancing glute and quad tie-ins. Good for the price too.

@ArnoldS, you hit the nail on the head. Conditioning is paramount. A truly conditioned physique shines through, regardless of the outfit.

LondonLad, have you considered getting feedback from a coach? A good coach can look at your current physique and tell you which category you're best suited for. They'll also give you specific posing guidance.

@ShreddedSam, generally, dark, solid colours are best for board shorts. Navy, black, or deep royal blue. They create a cleaner line and keep the focus on your upper body. Bright colours can sometimes distract or even wash you out under bright lights.

I prefer trunks myself. I've worked too hard on my legs to hide them. Plus, the classic bodybuilding poses just feel more powerful and complete when you can see the full muscle development. It's a statement.

Definitely listen to @CoachCelestine. A good coach's eye is invaluable for this decision. They see things you don't.

It also depends on your leg development. If you've got amazing quads and hamstrings, go for classic bodybuilding. If your upper body is truly elite but your legs are lagging, physique might be a better fit to hide that imbalance.

@Dragustav, any specific cut of trunks you recommend for someone with decent glutes and hams? Some cuts seem to flatter better than others.

For budget board shorts, check out some surf brands that have stretch material. Sometimes you can find a good pair that's not specifically 'competition' wear but works perfectly if the fit is right. Just make sure no loud patterns.