How Do Color Changing Swim Trunks Work: Science Behind the Magic

So, this is the final answer for ”how to wear two swim trunks at the same time”:

You can’t. But you CAN look like you’re wearing two swim trunks simultaneously with a pair of color-changing swim trunks!

These ingenious garments use special materials and dyes that change color when they come into contact with water or experience a temperature change.

But how do color-changing swim trunks work, exactly? Read on to find out the science behind the magic!


When Did the Color Changing Swim Trunks Become a Trend?

The early 2010s were a wild time. Sequinned mini backpacks cropped tops, and jelly sandals were all the rage. But perhaps the most notable trend of that era was color-changing swimwear.

Whether it was a bikini, one-piece, or even swim trunks, these garments used thermochromic pigments to change color when exposed to sunlight or heat.

While the exact origin of this trend is unclear, it was likely inspired by heat-sensitive coffee mugs and mood rings.

Designers were experimenting with new materials and dyes that could change color when they got wet.

Regardless of its origins, the trend quickly caught on, with celebrities and fashion bloggers alike sporting color-changing swimwear.

Unfortunately, the fad didn’t last long; by 2012, it was already on its way out. However, in recent years, there’s been a resurgence in the popularity of this quirky trend.


How Do Color-Changing Swim Trunks Work?

As we mentioned before, color-changing swim trunks use thermochromic pigments to change color.

These pigments are made by a Japanese company named Matsui, and they’re used in various products, from mood rings to heat-sensitive mugs.

You may hear about Hypercolor shirts, which were all the rage in the early 1990s. These shirts used thermochromic pigments to change color when they came into contact with body heat.

Similarly, color-changing swim trunks use these same pigments to change color when they get wet.

And a swimwear brand named  SEA’SONS was one of the first companies to experiment with this technology in their garments.

There are two types of color-changing triggers: water and temperature.

Temperature Sensitive

The first type is temperature-sensitive swim trunks. These garments use thermochromic pigments that change color when they get into cold water or are exposed to sunlight.

This means that the color change won’t stay stable; it will keep changing as the temperature changes, whether you go into the pool or enjoy the sunlight.

Water Sensitive

Unlike temperature-sensitive swim trunks, water-sensitive swim trunks will only change color when they get wet.

Muted patterns on the garments become more vibrant when they come into contact with water.

The trunks will return to their original color as soon as the water evaporates. Hence this type of swimwear is ideal for those who don’t want their clothes to keep changing color.


Will the Color-Changing Effect Fade Over time?

The short answer is yes; the color-changing effect will eventually fade over time. However, how quickly this happens depends on how often you use and wash the garment.

If you only wear your swim trunks a few times a year, the color-changing effect will last much longer than if you wear them every day.

Washing the garment will also affect how long the color-changing effect lasts.

It’s best to hand wash color-changing swim trunks in cold water to preserve the thermochromic pigments. But if you must machine wash them, use a gentle cycle and hang them to dry.

With proper care, your color-changing swim trunks should last for several seasons.


Are Color-Changing Swim Trunks Safe?

Yes, color-changing swim trunks are safe to wear. The thermochromic pigments used in the garments are non-toxic and won’t cause any skin irritation.

So whether you’re looking for a unique fashion statement or just want a conversation starter, color-changing swim trunks are a fun and safe option.


How to Take Care of Color Changing Swim Trunks?

As we mentioned, hand-washing color-changing swim trunks in cold water is best. But if you must machine wash them, use a gentle cycle and hang them to dry.

Besides, like normal swimwear, do not put color-changing swim trunks in the dryer as it will damage the fabric and pigments. Instead, let them air dry.

With proper care, your color-changing swim trunks should last for several seasons.

Conclusion

So there you have it! That’s how color-changing swim trunks work. Basically, it’s all thanks to thermochromic pigments.

Do you own a pair of color-changing swim trunks? How do you like them? Let us know!

And if you’re looking for more interesting articles on fashion and style, be sure to check out our blog!