Shop men's board shorts for surf, beach, and water sports. Board shorts run a longer 17-inch to 22-inch inseam with a lace-up fly and durable quick-dry fabric. SwimOutlet carries men's board shorts and boardshorts in 4-way stretch and fixed-waist fits across sizes 28 to 44.
Board shorts are the longest cut of men's swimwear, built for surfing, paddling, and beach days. They run a 17-inch to 22-inch inseam, longer than swim trunks, with a flatter waistband, a lace-up or Velcro fly, and stiffer, more durable fabric that stands up to board wax and sand. Most have no interior mesh liner, so many surfers wear them over a compression short or swim brief.
Length and Coverage
Board short length is measured by inseam. A 17 to 18 inch inseam hits above the knee for more range of motion; a 19 to 21 inch inseam reaches the knee, the classic surf length; 21-plus inches sits at or below the knee for full coverage. Shorter inseams suit smaller frames and active swimming, while longer inseams suit surf and casual beach wear.
Fabric and Stretch
Recycled polyester and 4-way stretch blends are the standard. A 4-way stretch fabric moves with you for paddling and duck-diving, while a fixed-weave fabric is stiffer and more abrasion-resistant. Both dry quickly out of the water. Brands like Billabong, Quiksilver, and Hurley build their board short lines around stretch-recycled fabric.
Fly, Pockets, and Closure
A lace-up fly with a Velcro or snap closure keeps the shorts secure through waves. A back zip or cargo pocket holds keys and wax, and a drain or mesh pocket lets water clear fast.
Fit and Sizing
Board shorts run by waist measurement, typically 28 to 44, with a flatter no-elastic waistband. For a shorter cut with a built-in liner, see men's swim trunks. To pair with sun protection for surf, see men's rash guards. For the full range, see men's swimwear.
