Mark Wright and Spencer Matthews lead the thigh-high men's shorts trend inspired by Paul Mescal

Whilst women’s swimwear trends tend to dominate our summer social media, there’s another trend that’s been quietly creeping up – and it’s not the only thing on the up. The hemlines of men’s swim shorts seem to be on the rise, with thigh-high men’s shorts set to be this summer’s go-to style for men everywhere.

Inspired no doubt by Paul Mescal’s viral off-duty outfits, more men than ever have been opting for shorter shorts, with a recent survey shared by high street fave Marks and Spencer revealing that 66% of men say they liked the “short shorts” trend. Leading the way with the look is Mark Wright and Spencer Matthews, who both opted for a pair of M&S’ Quick Dry Plain Swim Shorts in a recent campaign.

READ MORE: Louise Thompson's 'incredibly comfortable’ Ugg mules are perfect for flying in

READ MORE: Stanley just dropped new Quencher cups that nail summer’s trending print

The new swim shorts are Marks & Spencer ’s shortest ever swim shorts for men, although you can opt for short, medium and long versions too to get just the right length. The Quick Dry Plain Swim Shorts are also available in sizes XS to 3XL in all three lengths, making it easy to get the exact fit you want.

In their campaign, Spencer opted for the bayleaf colourway, whilst Mark chose the shade brick. However there are plenty of other colourways to choose from – 12, to be exact – and at £15 each there’s no reason you can’t pick up a couple of different colours to see you right through your holiday.

You can also pick up plenty of other colours with Nike’s Core Swim Shorts, which are currently discounted at Sports Direct. Usually £29.99, they’re now £25, and are also included in the two for £38 offer, meaning you can get two pairs for the equivalent of £19 each.

ASOS also has a great selection of men’s swim shorts, including plenty of thigh-high styles from brands like Calvin Klein and Paul Smith. There’s also plenty of colours, prints and patterns

The M&S Quick Dry Plain Swim Shorts come with Sun Smart UPF50+ protection to protect sensitive skin from UV rays, and have a quick-drying fabric which means no more sitting around in soaking trunks for hours on end or having to put damp ones back on the next day. They also have useful side pockets, a velcro back pocket and a drawstring waist for an adjustable fit. They’re also fully lined, to keep you secure and comfortable.

Although they’re new on the M&S website, the Quick Dry Plain Swim Shorts have already racked up an impressive 4.7 star rating. One wrote: “Worn daily for a week in Lanzarote. Great fit, fast drying. Happy days.”

Another agreed: “Just what required for my husband. Comfortable, quick drying and at a good price.”

In fact the only real negative review stated: “These swim shorts remind me of the 1960s when nylon was all the rage. I bought them for my disabled son but will be sending them back as I prefer something of slightly better quality for him.”

Others loved them, however, writing: “These swim shorts are a good fit at a great price. May buy another colour now.”

And adding: “Very nice shorts, fit well. Look and feel good. Great value for money.”