Picture this: the sun is shining, the waves are calling, and you’re ready to hit the water. But wait! What are you wearing on your legs? The perfect pair of boardshorts can make or break your beach day. They need to be comfy for swimming, tough enough for surfing, and stylish enough to wear even after you’ve dried off. It sounds easy, but choosing the right boardshorts can actually be a bit tricky. There are so many brands out there, each promising the best fit, the coolest designs, and the strongest materials. How do you know which ones will actually deliver?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide is here to help you navigate the exciting world of boardshort brands. We’ll break down what makes a great pair and highlight some of the top names you should know. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel confident picking out boardshorts that will keep you looking good and feeling great, no matter what your water adventure brings. Let’s dive in and find your perfect match!
Our Top 5 Boardshort Brands Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Boardshort Brands Detailed Reviews
1. COCO BRANDS Scooby-Doo Men’s Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready for some mystery-solving fun in the sun with the COCO BRANDS Scooby-Doo Men’s Swim Trunks! These black and white checkerboard shorts are officially licensed, so you know you’re getting the real deal. They’re perfect for any Scooby-Doo fan who loves to hit the beach or the pool.
What We Like:
- Officially licensed Scooby-Doo design is super cool and unique.
- Made from soft polyester, these shorts feel great.
- The mesh lining keeps you cool and comfortable.
- An elastic waistband with a drawstring means they fit just right.
- Side pockets are handy for carrying small items.
- The 8-inch inseam offers good coverage.
- They’re perfect for swimming, surfing, or just hanging out.
- Easy to wash and take care of.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size medium might not fit everyone perfectly; checking a size chart is a good idea.
- While durable, very rough play might test the seams over time.
These swim trunks are a fantastic way to show off your love for Scooby-Doo while staying comfortable and stylish. Grab a pair and have a “Zoinks!”-worthy time!
2. Lucky Brand Men’s Adventure Short
Rating: 9.4/10
The Lucky Brand Men’s Adventure Short is designed for comfort and versatility. Its blend of materials makes it a great choice for a variety of activities. You can wear these shorts for a hike, a casual day out, or even lounging at home. The drawcord waist ensures a good fit for everyone.
What We Like:
- The fabric blend feels good against your skin. It’s a mix of polyester, cotton, and elastane.
- The drawcord waist offers adjustable comfort. You can easily tighten or loosen it.
- These shorts are easy to care for. Just toss them in the washing machine.
- They offer a good range of motion. You can move freely without feeling restricted.
- The material is lightweight, making them ideal for warmer weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- The fabric might be a little thin for rugged outdoor adventures.
- The color options could be more varied.
- The pockets could be a bit deeper for carrying more items.
Overall, the Lucky Brand Men’s Adventure Short is a solid option for comfortable, everyday wear. They offer good value for their price point.
3. Amazon Brand – 28 Palms Men’s 7″ Inseam Tropical Print Cotton Nylon Swim Board Short
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready for your next beach trip with the Amazon Brand – 28 Palms Men’s 7″ Inseam Tropical Print Cotton Nylon Swim Board Short. These shorts are designed for comfort and style. They feature a cool tropical print in black and blue midnight, perfect for any vacation. The 7-inch inseam hits at a good length for swimming and lounging. The quick-dry fabric means you won’t stay wet for long after you get out of the water. Plus, they have plenty of pockets to hold your essentials.
What We Like:
- The quick-dry cotton nylon fabric keeps you comfortable all day.
- The tropical print looks great and is perfect for vacation vibes.
- The half-elastic waistband with a drawstring offers a snug and adjustable fit.
- There are two on-seam side pockets and a velcro back pocket, giving you space for your keys or wallet.
- The contrast stitching adds a stylish detail.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the print is nice, some might prefer a wider variety of solid color options.
- The velcro on the back pocket could potentially wear out over time with frequent use.
These swim shorts are a solid choice for anyone hitting the beach or pool. They offer a good mix of comfort, style, and practicality for your summer adventures.
4. Mystic Brand Boardshorts 2025 – Teal 240211 36″ (XL)
Rating: 8.9/10
Dive into summer fun with the Mystic Brand Boardshorts 2025 in a cool Teal color. These shorts are designed for comfort and style, whether you’re hitting the beach, the pool, or just hanging out. The size 36″ (XL) ensures a great fit for many. They offer freedom of movement with their 2-way stretch fabric, making them ideal for any water adventure or casual day out.
What We Like:
- The 2-way stretch fabric moves with you, offering great comfort for all your activities.
- A handy patch pocket with a keycord on the right back leg keeps your essentials secure.
- The blend of 51% Cotton, 43% Polyester, and 6% Elastane feels soft and durable.
- The Mystic label on the left front leg adds a touch of brand style.
- The 19-inch outseam provides a classic boardshort look.
- The regular boardshort closure is easy to use and keeps everything in place.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cotton blend is comfortable, some might prefer a quicker-drying material for intense water sports.
- The keycord in the pocket is a nice touch, but a zipper pocket would offer even more security for valuables.
These Mystic Brand Boardshorts are a solid choice for anyone seeking comfortable and stylish swimwear. They blend casual comfort with practical features for a great summer experience.
5. Hot Swimsuits Quick Drying Mens Beach Shorts Candy Brand Printed Boardshort Color 5 M
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready for summer fun with the Hot Swimsuits Quick Drying Mens Beach Shorts! These cool boardshorts are designed for comfort and style. They are made for men and are perfect for the beach or just hanging out. The casual style and fun candy brand print make them a standout choice. Plus, they dry super fast, so you won’t be stuck in wet shorts for long.
What We Like:
- Super quick drying material keeps you comfortable.
- The fun candy brand print adds a pop of color and personality.
- Made from polyester, they are lightweight and durable for all your adventures.
- The mid-waist fit is comfortable for everyone.
- These shorts are great for casual wear, swimming, and beach activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- More color options could be offered.
- The sizing might run a little small for some, so check the chart.
These boardshorts are a fantastic option for any guy looking for comfortable and stylish beachwear. They deliver on both fun looks and practical features.
The Ultimate Boardshort Buying Guide
Finding the perfect boardshorts can make your beach days and water adventures way more fun. We’re here to help you pick the best pair. Let’s dive in!
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for boardshorts, keep these important features in mind:
- Length: Boardshorts come in different lengths. Shorter ones are good for swimming and sports. Longer ones offer more coverage. Think about what you’ll be doing most.
- Fit: You want shorts that fit well. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. A comfortable fit lets you move freely.
- Pockets: Some boardshorts have pockets. A back pocket is common. Some even have side pockets. Make sure they have a secure closure like a velcro flap. This stops things from falling out.
- Waistband: The waistband keeps your shorts up. Look for a drawstring. This lets you adjust the fit. Some have a fixed waistband, which is also fine if it fits well.
- Fly: Most boardshorts have a fly. It’s usually a velcro closure. This helps keep them secure.
2. Important Materials
The material of your boardshorts matters a lot for comfort and how they perform.
- Polyester: This is a very common material. It dries quickly. It’s also strong and lasts a long time. Many boardshorts are made from 100% polyester.
- Nylon: Nylon is another good choice. It’s also quick-drying. It feels smooth and is tough.
- Spandex (Lycra/Elastane): This is often mixed with polyester or nylon. It adds stretch. Stretch is great for movement. It makes boardshorts more comfortable when you’re active. Look for a blend with at least 2% spandex for good flexibility.
- Recycled Materials: Many brands now use recycled plastic bottles to make their boardshorts. This is good for the planet. These shorts work just as well as ones made from new materials.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make boardshorts better or not so great.
- Seams: Good boardshorts have strong seams. They are often triple-stitched. This means they won’t rip easily, even with a lot of wear and tear. Poorly stitched seams can fall apart quickly.
- Dyeing: High-quality dyes make colors last. They resist fading from the sun and salt water. Cheap dyes can fade fast.
- Water Repellency: Some boardshorts have a special coating. This makes water bead up and roll off. This helps them dry even faster.
- Durable Drawstring: A strong, flat drawstring is better than a thin, round one. It stays tied better. It also feels more comfortable.
- Mesh Liner: Some boardshorts have a built-in mesh liner. This can add support. However, some people find them uncomfortable. You can often cut them out if you don’t like them.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your boardshorts affects what you need.
- Surfing: If you surf, you need boardshorts that stay put. They should be stretchy for paddling. They need to be durable enough for the ocean.
- Swimming and Lounging: For swimming or just hanging out by the pool, comfort is key. Quick-drying materials are a big plus. You might want a more relaxed fit.
- Beach Sports: Playing volleyball or frisbee on the beach requires shorts that let you move. They should be tough and not ride up.
- Everyday Wear: Many people wear boardshorts as casual shorts in the summer. They are comfortable and practical.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boardshorts
Q: What is the best material for boardshorts?
A: The best material often depends on what you need. Polyester and nylon are great for quick drying and durability. Adding spandex makes them stretchy and more comfortable for movement.
Q: How long should boardshorts be?
A: Boardshort length varies. Shorter shorts are usually 17-19 inches. Longer ones can be 20-23 inches. Choose a length that feels good and works for your activities.
Q: Do I need a mesh liner in my boardshorts?
A: A mesh liner can offer support. However, some people find them uncomfortable. You can usually cut them out if you don’t like them.
Q: How do I make sure my boardshorts fit well?
A: Try them on! They should feel snug around your waist but not tight. You should be able to move your legs easily without them pulling or feeling too loose.
Q: What does “quick-drying” mean for boardshorts?
A: Quick-drying means the fabric lets water escape easily. This helps the shorts dry fast after you get out of the water. Polyester and nylon are usually good at this.
Q: Are boardshorts good for running?
A: Some boardshorts with good stretch can work for light running. However, they are designed for water activities. Running shorts are usually a better choice for serious runners.
Q: How do I care for my boardshorts?
A: Wash them in cold water with mild detergent. Hang them to dry. Avoid using fabric softener. This helps keep the fabric strong and the colors bright.
Q: Can I wear boardshorts for casual wear?
A: Absolutely! Boardshorts are very popular for casual summer wear. They are comfortable and look great at the beach or around town.
Q: What is a “four-way stretch” fabric?
A: Four-way stretch means the fabric can stretch in all directions: up, down, left, and right. This gives you the most freedom of movement.
Q: Where can I buy good quality boardshorts?
A: You can find good boardshorts at surf shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. Many brands offer excellent quality.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
William has over three years of experience in building gazebos. He started AskGazebo.com to assist his clients.