Men don’t have many options when it comes to swimwear. From relaxing at the pool or the beach to catching waves, men’s swimwear tends to stay the same. Most men will use board shorts as their swimwear of choice.
Board shorts come in a variety of styles and have many different color and pattern options available. They are comfortable and can be easily used from the water to out on the town. However, quality board shorts can be hard to find. There are a lot of cheap designs that won’t last.
Our guide is designed to help you find the best boardshorts that you’ll be comfortable using day after day. Below we have some important features, as well as a list of the ten best surf shorts.
OUR TOP PICK
Nonwe Men’s Sportwear Quick Dry
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Attractive
- Adjustable
- Comfortable
Materials: Polyester and Spandex
EDITORS CHOICE
Kanu Surf Barrabuda
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Quick dry
- UPF 50+ rating
- Cargo pockets
Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inches
Weight: 1 pound
BEST VALUE
Unitop Men’s Beach
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Breathable
- Mesh lining
- Elastic waistband
Material: Polyester
Nonwe Men’s Beachwear
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Quick drying
- Lightweight
- Two pockets
Material: Polyester
Hurley One and Only 2.0
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Super suede fabric
- Secure fit
- Back pocket
Product Dimensions: 13 x 8 x 2 inches
Weight: 14.1 ounces
O’Neill Men’s Catalina Avalon
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Ultra-suede fabric
- Drawstring closure
- Machine wash
Weight: 1 pound
Alki’i Men’s
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Three pockets
- Drawstring waist
- Net lined
Weight: 8 ounces
Hurley Men’s One and Only
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Classic design
- EX fly closure
- 21-inch inseam
Product Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 1 inch
Weight: 5.6 ounces
US Apparel Men’s American Flag
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Microfiber
- Drawstring closure
- Machine wash
Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.5 inches
Hurley Men’s Phantom P30 One and Only
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Flexible
- Reflective details
- Reduced bulk
Product Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 1 inch
Weight: 6.4 ounces
How To Choose Board Shorts – Buying Guide
Out of all the swim trunks available for men, board shorts tend to stand out as the most popular choice because they have evolved to be durable, functional, and stylish. Yet with all the options available, you are faced with an overwhelming choice.
Here are some features that will help you determine what makes a pair of quality board shorts. These tips will help make the buying process effortless, so that you can get back out on the water faster.
Material
There are lots of different materials used to make board shorts, so it will depend on the specific brand or design. The most common materials used are cotton, suede, polyester, and nylon. The material used will affect the price, weight, functionality, and drying time of your board shorts.
Typical stretch board shorts are made of polyester or nylon. These fabrics are lightweight, affordable, and fast drying. However, professional surfers may choose surf shorts made out of suede. On the other hand, cotton is a breathable and comfortable fabric. Cotton would do best for casual walks on the beach.
Stretch
Stretch board shorts are the best option because they allow for less restricted movement. Most board short brands offer either a 2-way or 4-way stretch. Surf shorts will likely be 4-way stretch because they have no restrictions on the user’s mobility. 2-way board shorts will have a little less room for movement but are still great for beginners.
Use
Top rated men’s board shorts are very versatile pieces of swimwear. You can use board shorts for a relaxing day at the pool, a walk on the beach, or for more vigorous activities like surfing and wake boarding.
While board shorts can be used for any water activity, it is still important that you consider how you will use your pair. Some men want board shorts only for the style, but others need durable swimwear for intense water sport activities.
The good news is that with all the cool boardshorts on the market, you shouldn’t have to struggle to find a functional pair.
Comfort
Comfort is important for boardshorts. It would be frustrating to buy a pair, only to have them rub or cut in too deep. Comfort can also be found in the material. A soft material will be the most comfortable to ensure there is no skin irritation.
The best men’s board shorts will have a durable but comfortable design. The board shorts should be made with soft materials and have a 2-way or 4-way stretch to reduce any restrictions in movement.
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Fit
Comfortable board shorts will also have a proper fit. A good fit will ensure that your cool board shorts aren’t too tight or to big. Your board shorts should rest comfortably around your waist without falling off.
Many surf shorts also have a drawstring adjustment. This can ensure that you have the perfect fit for your boardshorts and that they won’t fall off during any activities. Other board shorts that are meant for more casual settings may have just a zipper and button closure but can still be used for a quick dip in the pool or ocean.
If you are shopping online, you should check board short reviews to help you determine the fit of the specific style of shorts. Other users may comment on how close the sizing of the short is to real life and may give suggestions on how to find the proper fit.
Style
There are lots of different styles of cool men’s board shorts. You can find bright colors and fun patterns in a variety of designs. There are also hybrid board shorts that offer versatile fashion. Hybrid board shorts can be used in any setting. They can be surfing board shorts or even just to run errands around town. Hybrid boardshorts are popular because you can easily go from the pool to the bar without having to change.
FAQs
Q: What are board shorts?
Board shorts are a type of men’s swimwear that can be used for a variety of activities. They are versatile enough to be used for extreme adventures or a day walking around town. They are the most common type of men’s swimwear that you will see because they are comfortable and functional.
Q: What are the differences between board shorts and regular shorts?
The biggest difference between board shorts and regular shorts is in the waist. Most regular swim shorts will have an elastic waist, but board shorts do not. Especially with board shorts for surfing, the design will have a more rigid structure that opens with a Velcro fly. A drawstring will secure the waist and make the size adjustable to a degree.
The other biggest difference is that board shorts do not have a lining. Most regular shorts will have a lining, but for comfort with different activities, forgo this feature. They are also designed to be comfortable for use without underwear to reduce any chaffing or skin irritation.
Q: How to clean and maintain my board shorts?
You can extend the life of your board shorts by cleaning and maintaining them. Some tips to ensure your board shorts are long-lasting are to not put pointy objects in the pockets, rinse your shorts after each use with fresh water, hand wash your board shorts, and allow them to fully dry before they are stored.
By following those tips, you can help ensure that your boardshorts are always ready for the next adventure. If you need specific cleaning instructions, check the label or brand information for your shorts. There should be care instructions provided with your purchase.
Globo Surf Overview
Top rated men’s board shorts will always be a popular choice in men’s swimwear. Board shorts offer great style, versatility, durability, and function. With the best men’s board shorts, you will be able to jump from the pool to the ocean. The best boardshorts are also a great gift for surfers and boaters.
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