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10 Best Men's Boardshorts 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

O'NEILL Santa Cruz Printed Boardshorts Black Camo 34

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Material
Fit

Most important from
2054 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight yet durable, maintaining comfort and flexibility during both ocean and pool use.
Fit
The fit is true to size, providing a comfortable and secure feel that suits taller men well, hitting just above the knee.

The O'NEILL Santa Cruz Printed Boardshorts in Black Camo offer a comfortable, below-the-knee fit with a 21-inch outseam, making them suitable for most men looking for good coverage and freedom of movement. Made from 100% polyester with Hyperfreak Stretch fabric, these shorts are designed to move with you in all directions, which is great for active water sports or casual wear. The Hyperdry technology ensures quick drying, so you won’t stay wet and uncomfortable after getting out of the water.

Additionally, the Anti-Rash Hyperthread technology helps prevent chafing, adding to your comfort during extended use. The waistband features a zipper closure, providing a secure fit. For storage, there’s a side zip pocket handy for small items like keys or cards. The seams appear well-made for durability.

These boardshorts are a solid choice for men looking for dependable, comfortable swimwear that dries fast and allows good movement, especially if you value fabric technology and a sleek design.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Material
Fit

Most important from
2054 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight yet durable, maintaining comfort and flexibility during both ocean and pool use.
Fit
The fit is true to size, providing a comfortable and secure feel that suits taller men well, hitting just above the knee.
#2

Volcom Men's Lido Solid Mod 20 Black 34

Rating
9.7
Material
Fit
Waistband

Most important from
604 reviews

Material
High-quality fabric ensures quick drying and a true-to-size fit that feels great both in and out of the water.
Fit
These swim trunks offer a superior fit and higher quality compared to other popular brands, with a sturdier waistband and better key loop.
Waistband
These swim trunks offer a superior fit and higher quality compared to other popular brands, with a sturdier waistband and better key loop.

The Volcom Men's Lido Solid Mod 20 boardshort is designed with performance in mind, using a 4-way stretch fabric made of 94% polyester and 6% elastane. This blend offers a good balance of durability, quick drying, and freedom of movement—important if you're surfing, swimming, or just relaxing at the beach. The drawstring waistband with Cinch Fly technology ensures a secure and adjustable fit without extra bulk, which adds comfort and convenience.

At about 20 inches in length, these boardshorts hit a mid-thigh to knee length that’s versatile for many activities. They also include a side flap pocket with drainage and a secure closure, perfect for keeping small items safe without trapping water inside. The water-repellent finish helps the shorts dry quickly and stay lightweight after leaving the water.

These boardshorts are a great choice for men looking for comfortable, flexible shorts that perform well in the water and look good on land, especially if you value quick drying and a secure fit without fuss.

Rating
9.7
Material
Fit
Waistband

Most important from
604 reviews

Material
High-quality fabric ensures quick drying and a true-to-size fit that feels great both in and out of the water.
Fit
These swim trunks offer a superior fit and higher quality compared to other popular brands, with a sturdier waistband and better key loop.
Waistband
These swim trunks offer a superior fit and higher quality compared to other popular brands, with a sturdier waistband and better key loop.
#3

Hurley Men's One and Only 22 Inch Boardshort, Cyan/Hurley, 28

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
10264 reviews

Material
The material is soft and provides a great feel.
Fit
These boardshorts offer a perfect fit and are true to size.
Pockets
Side pockets are a nice addition, adding functionality.

The Hurley Men's One and Only 22 Inch Boardshort in cyan offers a reliable option for beachgoers and surfers. Made from 100% polyester, these boardshorts are durable and quick-drying, making them a practical choice for water activities. The length is 22 inches, which typically falls just above the knee, providing ample coverage without restricting movement.

The fit is designed to be comfortable, with a fixed waistband and a drawstring to ensure a secure hold, even during vigorous activities. The patented EZ fly closure is a standout feature, offering convenience and security. The boardshorts also come with a logoed cargo pocket, adding functionality for carrying small items.

However, while the material and design are strong points, some users might find the fixed waistband less flexible compared to elastic alternatives. Additionally, with only one cargo pocket, storage options are somewhat limited. These boardshorts are machine washable, which simplifies care and maintenance. Ideal for those who prioritize durability and a secure fit, the Hurley Men's One and Only boardshorts might not be the best option for those who prefer more pockets or a more adjustable waistband.

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
10264 reviews

Material
The material is soft and provides a great feel.
Fit
These boardshorts offer a perfect fit and are true to size.
Pockets
Side pockets are a nice addition, adding functionality.

Buying Guide for the Best Men's Boardshorts

Choosing the right boardshorts can make a big difference in your comfort and performance while surfing, swimming, or just hanging out at the beach. Boardshorts are designed to be lightweight, quick-drying, and durable, but there are several key specs to consider to ensure you get the best fit and functionality for your needs.
MaterialThe material of boardshorts is crucial because it affects comfort, durability, and drying time. Common materials include polyester, nylon, and spandex blends. Polyester is durable and quick-drying, nylon is lightweight and strong, and spandex adds stretch for better mobility. If you need boardshorts for active water sports, look for a blend with spandex for flexibility. For casual wear, polyester or nylon will suffice.
LengthBoardshorts come in various lengths, typically measured in inches from the waistband to the hem. Common lengths are 16-22 inches. Shorter lengths (16-18 inches) offer more freedom of movement and are ideal for active sports. Mid-length (18-20 inches) provides a balance of coverage and mobility, suitable for general beach activities. Longer lengths (20-22 inches) offer more coverage and are often preferred for casual wear or sun protection.
FitThe fit of boardshorts can range from loose to snug. A loose fit provides more comfort and airflow, making it ideal for casual wear and lounging. A snug fit, often with a bit of stretch, is better for active sports as it stays in place and reduces drag in the water. Consider your primary activity when choosing the fit; for surfing or swimming, a snug fit is preferable, while for beach volleyball or relaxing, a looser fit might be more comfortable.
WaistbandBoardshorts typically feature different types of waistbands, such as fixed, elastic, or drawstring. A fixed waistband offers a secure fit and is often found in performance-oriented shorts. Elastic waistbands provide comfort and flexibility, making them suitable for casual wear. Drawstring waistbands allow for adjustable fit, which is useful for various activities. Choose a waistband type based on your comfort preference and activity level.
PocketsPockets can be a handy feature in boardshorts, especially if you need to carry small items like keys or money. Some boardshorts have no pockets for a streamlined design, while others have one or more pockets with secure closures like zippers or Velcro. If you plan to use your boardshorts for activities where you need to carry items, look for ones with secure pockets. For pure water sports, pockets may not be necessary.
SeamsThe construction of seams in boardshorts affects comfort and durability. Flatlock seams are smooth and reduce chafing, making them ideal for active sports. Welded seams are bonded rather than stitched, providing a sleek look and reducing bulk. Traditional stitched seams are durable but may cause chafing during prolonged activities. If you plan to be active, look for flatlock or welded seams for maximum comfort.

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