I wear something like this
http://www.tyr.com/shop/neon-splice-jammer-p-350-c-1_2_3.html

It is like a trishort w/out the pad, or a long speedo.
I went to a sporting goods store and got them on clearance for $10 a pair.

I use Tyr jammers too, rotating between 2 pair for an average of 2-3 pool swims per week. They will last about a year if you take very good care of them. Tyr also makes a non-lycra version that supposedly holds up longer--I tried it and the seams discolored quickly and then the swimsuit spinner-thingy at the gym tore a hole in it (I don't ever use that machine anymore).

I found that the Speedo jammers lasted longer than the Nike jammers. The Nike ones turned from blue to an awful looking purple within weeks and started coming apart within 2 months. Those are the only two brands I can find in my area.

I'd recommend simply looking for a swim shop in your area if one's available. They usually carry any type of swim short you need.

I haven't tried swim-specific shorts myself. Used to swim in my tri shorts (a pair I found uncomfortable on the bike). Nowdays I pretty much just swim in my board shorts and consider it extra drag.

I got my 4 pair on sale. When I get out of the pool I wear them in the shower and hand wash them and give them a good rinsing, roll them up in a towel to get out the excess moisture and hang them up when I get home.
I rotate them every day and they have held out for about 2 years and are still in good shape.

I swear by the tyr durafast polyester suits --jammers and briefs. They are inexpensive and hold up great. After each swim, I rinse the suit out with cool water and either use the spinning thing at the gym or hand it up and let it air dry. I rotate between 4-5 suits during the week. sportsbasement.com has had the lowest price that I have seen for the tyr suits.

Just my 2 cents.

Another vote for Tyr polyester jammer. 9 months old. No wear, no chlorine effects.