The fabric, made in Italy, is better than the typical Arena swim trunks. Generally the elasticity of this square cut is great, except the bottom region which seems a little loose/less elastic.
As the bottom of the square cut sits near the top of the thigh, I find it less restrictive on my legs when I swim, which is good. Of course, the (triangular) brief is better in this aspect. In terms of comfort & support, the brief is still superior to the square cut. I already have a brief which I''m very satisfied.
The purpose of getting this square cut is to add a variety (in terms of swimwear type). Also, with a longer side seam compared to the brief, I would choose to wear this square cut in social occasions (where the main purpose is socializing & not exercising) - a more conservative swimsuit is apt as far as my modesty is concerned.
With a side seam of 17cm, this is a low rise square cut. Its shorter side seam means the bottom of the square cut ends higher compared to a typical boxer trunk or a full coverage bottom (of a ladies'' 2-piece swimsuit). I do not expose my butt crack, though the horizontal cutting along the bottom do expose some of my lower butt (which I don''t mind). A female friend pointed out that this actually helps make my butt look shapier (She said comparatively, a longer, full coverage boxer swimwear totally flattens my butt undesirably). This square cut hugs the contours of my hips, caving inwards along the bottom central region, creating the illusion of a perkier butt.