There’s nothing better than catching a wave on your best surfboard. The thrill that comes with nailing the timing to ensure you get the perfect line is unmatched — and men’s board shorts help you do just that.
Typically unlined to provide more of a streamlined fit, board shorts provide a comfortable and cozy fit for you as you hang out in the water all day long. They have a longer look to them that ditches the growing short swim trunks trend that’s going on right now yet keep fashionable with eclectic patterns and colorways.
That said, the board short of 2022 can not only suit your aquatic-based and fashion needs but your land-based ones too, as the quick-drying material means you can wear them all day long.
No matter what your summertime activity, you’ll want to be sure to snag one of these 10 board shorts to do it in — our picks from brands like Birdwell, Rhone, and others, below.
1. Birdwell Beach Britches Stretch Board Shorts
Birdwell is just one of those classic surfwear brands that feel like it’s been around forever. It’s kind of true; the brand started in 1961 with a pair of nylon britches made for surfing. Over time, that simple pair of shorts has grown, evolved and changed to become the pair of board shorts you see here: fast drying, the perfect length, and comfortable; they’re a fantastic option to have alongside you as you hit the beach all day long.
2. Outerknown Apex Trunks Board Shorts
If there’s anyone that knows what makes a good pair of board shorts, it’s Kelly Slater. The name in surfing, Slater’s brand Outerknown is well known for their super sustainable production process while also making really quality products.
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Take their Apex Trunks, for example, as the two-tone shorts are made from four-way-stretch to move with you, not against you. They even have a smooth inside fly to cut down on abrasion.
Plus, we really love this two-tone colorway that will look just as good on the water as it will at the bar when you’re done catching waves for the day.
3. Amazon Essentials Board Short
If you’re looking to get a pair of board shorts without spending a whole lot, Amazon Essential’s Board Short is for you. This pair makes a great secondary option at a great intersection of quality and price if you already have a good pair. Likewise, they make for a good first pair if you’re not looking to heavily invest right away.
4. Rhone Board Short
While Rhone’s reputation is primarily one of activewear, that’s also inclusive of swimwear. The brand’s 7-inch board short is made with all the same considerations and craft that goes into all of their gear; it’s extremely well made, moves with you and even has a trim design to make sure you glide through the water with ease.
These board shorts are super low-key when it comes to color which is a total blessing for the kind of guy who doesn’t want to stand out too much at the beach. That said, we love this burgundy color way too much.
5. Vuori Cruise Boardshort
Vuori is doing board shorts unlike any other.
Using recycled water bottles, these board shorts are made to help protect our oceans from further harm through litter by keeping extra bottles out of our water sources. Visually speaking, these shorts are scalloped at the legs for a pleasing aesthetic with both mesh pockets and a drawcord tie.
To keep these shorts extra modern, buyers can also expect quick-drying fabrics and an anti-odor experience that will leave you smelling great throughout the day.
6. Lululemon Current State Board Short
For those who want board shorts with a seriously athletic approach to them, Lululemon’s Current State Board Shorts are perfect for letting you get sporty near the water.
The drawstring waist makes for an easy adjustment with a breathability aspect you don’t see in other waistbands. Of course, the fabric is exceptionally water repellent to help your shorts dry quickly. In addition, added features include a hidden pouch with a key loop to keep your keys safe with no seam on the inner thigh to help minimize chafing.
7. Billabong Sundays Pro Board Short
While Billabong offers a few different patterns and colors in this particular model of board short, we were really struck by these fun beach-centric accented navy blue board shorts.
It has some character to it without being totally overwhelming or too loud, which can sometimes happen with other board shorts. Additionally, the shorts will dry quickly and move with your body, thanks to their stretchy construction.
8. Quiksilver SurfSilk Scallop Boardshorts
Quiksilver SurfSilk Scallop Boardshorts should be a go-to for any dude stepping foot into some sand this summer. The overhead oceanic pattern makes a cool statement that’s sure to make you look great when you finally catch that big wave. With a 19-inch outseam, water-repellent and quick-drying coating, and plenty of stretch, nothing will slow you down.
9. RVCA Curren Board Shorts
RVCA’s Curren Board Shorts are the cool, calm and collected pair every kind of guy needs to have in his repertoire. These quick-drying shorts are built with a four-way stretch for easy movement and are comfortable for day-long use and wear. They’ve got side pockets for holding essentials when you’re out of the water, too.
Construction is done using recycled polyester, so these shorts also offer properties that help better our world.
10. Tommy Bahama Baja Mauna Loa Palms Board Shorts
Tommy Bahama might not be the first brand you think of when it comes to board shorts, as the clothier feels more suited for dads. However, looks can be deceiving, and these colorful branchy board shorts from the brand make quite the impression. In addition to quick-drying, the 100% recycled polyester also includes sun protection, which is a fantastic added benefit.
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