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10 Best Men's Boardshorts 2025 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

Volcom Men's Lawton Boardshort 18 Black 38

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,402
Fit

Most important from
12 reviews

Fit
The shorts fit perfectly, providing a comfortable and flattering fit.

The Volcom Men's 18" Boardshorts offer a comfortable and practical option for beach and water activities. Made from a stretch fabric blend of 94% polyester and 6% elastane, they provide good flexibility and mobility, which is great for swimming or surfing. The 18-inch length is a classic, casual fit that works well for most body types and offers decent coverage without feeling too long or restrictive.

The adjustable drawstring waistband ensures a secure fit, allowing you to customize it easily for comfort both in and out of the water. These shorts also include useful pockets: a side hand pocket and a back flap pocket, ideal for keeping small items like keys or cards handy, although they might not be waterproof, so caution is needed with valuables. The fabric is quick-drying, helping you stay comfortable after getting out of the water.

Their lightweight material and easy-care machine washable fabric make them suitable for everyday wear beyond just swimming. For those seeking versatile, easy-fitting boardshorts with reliable stretch and practical pockets, these are a solid choice, especially for casual beachgoers or surfers looking for comfort without extra bulk.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,402
Fit

Most important from
12 reviews

Fit
The shorts fit perfectly, providing a comfortable and flattering fit.
#2

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

Rating
8.2
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
10247 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
8.2
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
10247 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.
#3

SURF CUZ Men's Vintage Cruzer Stretch Boardshort Chino Shorts(Yellow-Geometry,34)

Rating
8.2
Fit
Pockets
Material

Most important from
848 reviews

Fit
These shorts offer a comfortable fit with a stylish design that really stands out.
Pockets
The pockets are a great feature, providing practical storage without compromising the look.
Material
These shorts are not see-through, maintaining privacy even when wet.
Waistband
Despite the advertised stretch, the waistband relies solely on the drawstring and velcro, limiting adjustability.

The SURF CUZ Men's Vintage Cruzer Stretch Boardshorts in Yellow-Geometry offer a comfortable and stylish option for a variety of outdoor activities like swimming, surfing, beach volleyball, and running. Made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, these shorts provide a good balance of durability, stretch, and breathability. The material mix helps you move freely without feeling too tight, although the waistband itself is not stretchy and relies on a drawstring and velcro closure to secure the fit. This means you’ll want to be sure to pick the right size, as the waistband won’t adjust beyond the drawstring’s tightness.

The shorts feature two side slit pockets and a back pocket, which is convenient for carrying small items, but there’s no mesh lining inside, which some might miss for quick drying or extra comfort. The length and fit lean toward a classic boardshort style, making them versatile for sport or casual wear. One thing to note is that the patterns vary with each item, so the design you get might be unique.

These shorts are machine washable, making care easy. If you want boardshorts that combine vintage style with functional stretch and decent pocket options, these could be a good fit, especially if you’re active on the beach or in the water. Just remember to check the sizing carefully since the waistband doesn’t stretch.

Rating
8.2
Fit
Pockets
Material

Most important from
848 reviews

Fit
These shorts offer a comfortable fit with a stylish design that really stands out.
Pockets
The pockets are a great feature, providing practical storage without compromising the look.
Material
These shorts are not see-through, maintaining privacy even when wet.
Waistband
Despite the advertised stretch, the waistband relies solely on the drawstring and velcro, limiting adjustability.

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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