10 Best Board Shorts in 2023

From one of the most trusted brands, the 73 Pro Billabong Board Shorts are a statement to the company’s commitment to surfing. Their 4-way stretch material will give you the room you need for your maneuvers and tricks with ease. They dry very quickly. Just hang them under the sun, and you’re good to go again in no time.

You can trust that the durable build won’t rip the seams. There’s also a side pocket with a key loop. These Billabong board shorts keep a secure fit with their tie and fly, with a couple of Velcro tabs (which might be annoying for some).

Billabong’s Pro board shorts are the perfect combination of classic look and comfortable performance.

RVCA board shorts are the most popular on the market in the USA and internationally. With their 4-way stretch fabric, made from a combination of recycled polyester and elastane, they are super comfortable whether you’re surfing or just want to look good on the beach.

The waistband is secure with a combination of Velcro at the front and four grommets with a tie. And if you need to carry your hotel key, there’s a right pocket with a flap.

It’s worth noting the sizing tends to run small, so you might need to size up. There’s no elastic in the waistband, so you won’t have any leeway if you get the wrong size. These RVCA board shorts also sit low on the hips, which some might not prefer.

These O’Neill board shorts are the ideal partner for watersport lovers who like a sleek cut with less drag. With a streamlined cut and length, the O’Neill Hyperfreak removes that billowy problem whenever you surf, kitesurf, windsurf, or parasail.

Your range of movement is also unrestricted with their 4-way stretch fabric, a blend of elastane and polyester. There’s a roomy zippered side pocket for convenience out of the water.

Now, the drawstring of these O’Neill board shorts is stretchy, taking away some snugness when you adjust the waist. There are also complaints that the sizes run either small or too big, but most are satisfied with the fit.

Lightweight and quick-drying, the O’Neill Hyperfreak Men’s Board Shorts are a comfortable go-to when you want significantly less drag while you’re in the water.

If you only need some board shorts for a weekend getaway, this pair from KAILUA might be perfect for you. On the affordable end, they are polyester with a mesh lining. The fabric has UPF 50+ for additional sun protection. And the catchy designs are also hard to miss.

You’ll like the elasticized waistband with a drawstring if you’re not fond of low-rise board shorts. Not only does the drawstring help them keep a tight fit, but it can be cinched in any position, high or low, on your waist. KAILUA Men’s Board Shorts come in sizes Small to 5xXLarge.

A couple of front pockets and 1 back pocket with a Velcro flap are also handy. The front pockets don’t have a secure closure so take care to remove anything before heading into the water. Their quality is also not that durable so expect them to deal with light seasonal use only.

The One and Only Hurley Board Shorts fit with a soft and comfortable recycled fabric. Their simple look with subtle branding makes them a nice choice for swimming or lounging by the pool.

These board shorts have Hurley’s dependable brand quality, and they are a big seller. But it is worth noting that many people complain about the thinness of the material and how it can leave your package on display, especially if you choose lighter colors.

The fabric does not stretch, so you may feel a little less able to maneuver during activity. There are also a lot of complaints about inconsistency in sizing. It seems the waist runs large, but they are straight-legged and not stretchy, so can then be quite tight around the butt and crotch. As with many board shorts, there is no inner lining.

These are classic board shorts without elastic at the waist. There’s a tie looping through grommets to keep them up. Need to carry small essentials? There’s a right side cargo pocket.

Enjoy all the fun while helping nature with these Patagonia board shorts for women made using 100% recycled nylon. The Wavefarer has a 5″ inseam and a zipped back pocket with a key fob to keep your car key safe even when you’re in harsh water conditions.

They come with versatile designs that can easily blend in with various scenarios. Wear them at the beach, while hiking, or even exploring city squares. These Patagonia board shorts are versatile must-haves.

Keep them secured around your waist with the corrosion-resistant drawstring and grommets. The Wavefarer’s high-quality build can handle abuse with their robustness. The crotch is also gusseted to aid in mobility.

However, they can be a bit restricting since the material is not stretchy, so sizing up might be needed to give you some room for movement. The zipped back pocket of Wavefarer is also too small to fit in your phone but that might not be a priority for watersport shorts.

Roxy to Dye board shorts are classic, functional beachwear. They dry quickly, and the stretchy fabric allows for a wide range of motion while surfing or doing other water activities.

They are true to size though can be a bit snug. Keep in mind that a bit of tightness is ok since the fabric of to Dye sags once it gets wet. These Roxy board shorts also lack any pockets, so if you like carrying small items while you’re by the beach, this is something you need to consider.

One of Amazon’s best sellers, BALEAF Women’s Board Shorts are a budget-friendly option with a nice fitting length of a 5″ inseam. They have a wide waistband that actually helps with tummy control for a more flattering look. This swimwear fabric also has UPF50+ to give you extra protection from sunburns.

These women’s board shorts are very lightweight and dry quickly. The simple look also allows versatility whether you use it for swimming, hiking, or just as regular shorts. Keep your phone and keys in the side pockets when you are out of the water. But be mindful all the time since they don’t have a zipper or Velcro flap.

There’s some stretchiness to allow movement during light water activities, but it’s not enough to give you full mobility for surfing. Besides, there’s no drawstring for additional security while you’re against waves. The classic cut of the BALEAF Women’s Board Shorts might also turn off some, and the legs can be too tight for those with big thighs.

With a hidden drawstring for a snug waistband, you can make the most out of your kitesurfing and swimming escapades without worries while wearing the Land’s End Women’s Board Shorts. You can move freely with the stretchy fabric that also keeps off harmful rays with UPF50+. They won’t ride up while you’re in the water, and the flattering cut suits all body types. Plus, there’s an integrated panty.

Use them for your beach time, walking the boardwalk, or exploring downtown in the tropical paradise you’re visiting. It’s a bit of a bummer that the fabric is noisy. The side pockets are also not that safe for use during water activity without any fasteners or closures. But if you’re only walking around, they can keep your small items within reach.

Whether for whitewater rafting, kayaking, or swimming, G Gradual Women’s Board Shorts will keep you comfortable throughout your vacay. The relaxed cut offers a flattering fit and doesn’t ride up while walking. Their casual look makes them a lightweight and quick-dry option from rainforest to the beach, complete with UPF50+ protection against harmful rays.

We appreciate the hybrid combo of partial elastic on the sides of the waistband and the grommets and tie at the front. Most board shorts only have one or the other. It allows some allowance, a great bonus for those whose weight keeps fluctuating.

These women’s board shorts from G Gradual have a side pocket with a key loop, so your hotel key stays safe and easy to access. You can also secure other tiny essentials with the Velcro flap, keeping them safe.

The built-in mesh panty gets the job done but could use some improvements to make them comfier. Choosing a size is also confusing, with some customers complaining they’re too big or small.