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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

maamgic 2 in 1 Mens Swim Trunks 7 Inch Swim Shorts Swim Suits Board Shorts Black-Black Medium

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,315
Material
Length
Pockets

Most important from
4269 reviews

Material
These trunks are comfortable, lightweight, and dry quickly, making them perfect for swimming and relaxing alike.
Length
The 7-inch length strikes the ideal balance—neither too short nor too long—offering a flattering fit.
Pockets
The zippered side pocket is a standout feature, providing secure storage for essentials during active use.
Fit
True to size with a great fit that stays in place without riding up, even during vigorous activity.

The maamgic 2 in 1 Men's Swim Trunks are a versatile choice for anyone looking for practical and comfortable boardshorts with added support. Made from a polyester-spandex blend, these shorts offer excellent stretch and quick-drying properties, making them lightweight and breathable for water activities or casual wear. The built-in compression liner is a helpful feature that keeps the shorts in place and offers thigh support, which can be especially nice for active swimmers or beach sports enthusiasts.

The 7-inch length is a classic medium fit, suitable for most body types, and the low-rise style provides a modern look without sacrificing comfort. The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring allows for a customizable fit, helping you feel secure whether you're swimming, running, or lounging. On the practical side, two zippered side pockets plus a dedicated phone pocket with drain holes keep your essentials safe and dry, which is a real convenience at the beach or pool.

A minor downside is that the fabric blend, while stretchy, might not offer the same durability as heavier nylon boardshorts for very rough use. Also, the black color is classic but may show salt or sand marks more easily. These trunks are an excellent option for men who want swimwear that performs well in and out of the water, balancing modern features with comfort and style.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,315
Material
Length
Pockets

Most important from
4269 reviews

Material
These trunks are comfortable, lightweight, and dry quickly, making them perfect for swimming and relaxing alike.
Length
The 7-inch length strikes the ideal balance—neither too short nor too long—offering a flattering fit.
Pockets
The zippered side pocket is a standout feature, providing secure storage for essentials during active use.
Fit
True to size with a great fit that stays in place without riding up, even during vigorous activity.
#2

Columbia Mens PFG Backcast IV Quick Dry Swim Shorts, Collegiate Navy, Large x 8

Rating
7.9
Material
Length

Most important from
497 reviews

Material
These shorts offer exceptional comfort and high-quality construction.
Length
Available in multiple lengths, they combine great looks with practical versatility.

The Columbia Mens PFG Backcast IV Quick Dry Swim Shorts are designed with comfort and practicality in mind, making them a strong option for men looking for reliable boardshorts. Made from 100% nylon, these shorts are lightweight and quick-drying, which is perfect for activities around water. The mid-rise, relaxed fit paired with a drawstring adjustable waistband offers a comfortable, secure fit without feeling too tight. Their 8-inch inseam provides a good balance—not too long or short—suitable for casual wear or water sports. The shorts include two seam pockets and a zippered security pocket, allowing you to keep essentials safe without bulk.

A standout feature is the Omni-Shade fabric, which provides excellent sun protection by blocking UVA and UVB rays, an important point if you spend time outdoors. Additionally, the Omni-Shield coating helps repel light rain and resist stains, which adds to durability and ease of care. The interior mesh brief enhances comfort, though some who prefer a tighter or more performance-focused fit might find the relaxed style less ideal.

One minor drawback is that the shorts have medium stretch rather than high stretch, so they won’t offer the same flexibility as some stretchier boardshorts. Also, while the fabric is quick-drying and lightweight, it might feel less soft compared to blends with polyester or spandex. In summary, these shorts suit men seeking versatile, sun-protective swimwear with a comfortable fit and useful pockets, especially for casual beach or boating days. However, if you want a very stretchy or more performance-driven boardshort, you might want to look elsewhere.

Rating
7.9
Material
Length

Most important from
497 reviews

Material
These shorts offer exceptional comfort and high-quality construction.
Length
Available in multiple lengths, they combine great looks with practical versatility.
#3

FT FENTENG Mens Swim Trunks for Men, Hawaii Quick Dry Beach Shorts for Men Swimming Trunks, Vintage Black American Flag Men's Board Shorts Swimwear Bathing Suit with Mesh Lining, Large

Rating
7.9
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
6232 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight, breathable, and dries exceptionally fast, making them perfect for swimming and beach activities.
Fit
The trunks offer a comfortable, slightly loose fit with an adjustable drawstring that feels better than average.
Pockets
The shorts feature convenient pockets that add practical storage without compromising style.

The FT FENTENG Mens Swim Trunks are made from 100% polyester, which makes them lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying—drying in about 5 to 10 minutes. This material is comfortable against the skin and resists wrinkles, so they're easy to care for. They have a relaxed fit and a mid-rise design suitable for most men, with an elastic waistband combined with a drawstring that allows for easy adjustment and a secure fit.

With two side pockets, these shorts provide practical storage for small items. The inclusion of a mesh lining adds comfort and support typical of swim trunks. These boardshorts are styled with a vintage American flag print using vibrant dye-sublimation printing, which keeps the colors lively even after washing. They also offer UPF 50+ sun protection, making them a solid choice for outdoor and water activities like swimming, surfing, or kayaking.

The fabric does not stretch, which could slightly impact movement if very flexible shorts are preferred. The fit is generally relaxed, though checking measurements is advisable since sizing may vary.

Rating
7.9
Material
Fit
Pockets

Most important from
6232 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight, breathable, and dries exceptionally fast, making them perfect for swimming and beach activities.
Fit
The trunks offer a comfortable, slightly loose fit with an adjustable drawstring that feels better than average.
Pockets
The shorts feature convenient pockets that add practical storage without compromising style.

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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