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10 Best Women's Board Shorts 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

Roxy Women's Board Shorts - Quick Dry Bathing Suit Shorts, 2" Inseam - Swimsuit Bottoms for Women (XS-XXL), True Black, Large

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,135
Material
Fit

Most important from
2137 reviews

Material
Despite not having an elastic waist, the material has a bit of stretch and they fit well for athletic builds.
Fit
These shorts are super cute for summer and boating, though they fit very low-waisted.

The Roxy Women's Board Shorts are made from a blend of 92% polyester and 8% elastane, providing a quick-dry fabric that ensures comfort and convenience during beach outings and water activities. With a 2-inch inseam, these shorts offer a stylish, flattering fit that is both functional and versatile. They are lightweight and designed for ease of movement, making them ideal for swimming, surfing, or casual relaxation by the water.

The pull-on closure adds to the simplicity of wearing these shorts. One of the standout features is the UPF-rated material, offering excellent UV protection to shield your skin from harmful sun rays. However, the lack of pockets could be a drawback for those who prefer carrying small items. These shorts are durable enough to withstand active use, though their longevity can be affected by frequent exposure to chlorine and saltwater.

They are machine washable, making them easy to care for. These board shorts are a great choice for women looking for stylish, comfortable, and functional swimwear that offers good sun protection and is suitable for various water activities.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,135
Material
Fit

Most important from
2137 reviews

Material
Despite not having an elastic waist, the material has a bit of stretch and they fit well for athletic builds.
Fit
These shorts are super cute for summer and boating, though they fit very low-waisted.
#2

Maui Rippers Women’s 4-Way Stretch 5” Swim Shorts Boardshorts (14, Black)

Rating
9.4
Material
Length
Fit

Most important from
1758 reviews

Material
Lightweight material and well-made shorts that look good and feel comfortable.
Length
Ideal length, not too short but not frumpy, hitting just below the belly button.
Fit
Fit true to size with just enough stretch, making them comfortable for various activities.

The Maui Rippers Women’s 4-Way Stretch 5” Swim Shorts Boardshorts are an appealing option for those looking for versatile and comfortable swimwear. The material is a blend of 92% Polyester and 8% Spandex, providing a soft, stretchy feel that allows for greater flexibility and better performance during activities like surfing or yoga.

The 5-inch length offers modest coverage, making them a suitable cover-up for swimwear or casual wear. The shorts come with a drawstring closure, and some versions have a spandex waistband for added comfort. They are easy to care for, being machine washable and quick-drying, which adds to their convenience. Various colors and patterns make them a stylish choice, suitable for different tastes.

One drawback is the lack of specified UPF protection, which could be a concern for those looking for extra sun protection. Additionally, the absence of pockets might be inconvenient for users who prefer carrying small items. These boardshorts are suitable for women seeking a blend of style, comfort, and practicality for both lounging and active pursuits.

Rating
9.4
Material
Length
Fit

Most important from
1758 reviews

Material
Lightweight material and well-made shorts that look good and feel comfortable.
Length
Ideal length, not too short but not frumpy, hitting just below the belly button.
Fit
Fit true to size with just enough stretch, making them comfortable for various activities.
#3

Hurley 3" Swim Board Shorts for Women, Swim Shorts Women, Swimming Shorts for Women, Summer Shorts with Pockets Black

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit

Most important from
521 reviews

Material
Comfortable fabric enhances the overall wearing experience, making them easy to move in.
Fit
The shorts fit perfectly and offer a flattering silhouette ideal for summer activities.

Hurley's 3" Swim Board Shorts for Women offer a flattering, snug fit that many active beachgoers will appreciate, though sizing up is recommended if you prefer a looser feel. Made from 100% polyester, the fabric is quick-drying, making these shorts practical for swimming and other water activities. Their short 3-inch length provides freedom of movement and a modern look, great for both active use like beach volleyball and relaxed beachside lounging.

The pull-on waistband adds convenience, and these shorts also include pockets, which is a useful feature for carrying small items securely while on the go. These shorts blend performance with a casual, stylish appearance, making them a solid choice for women looking for functional swimwear that transitions well from active to leisure beachwear.

Rating
9.1
Material
Fit

Most important from
521 reviews

Material
Comfortable fabric enhances the overall wearing experience, making them easy to move in.
Fit
The shorts fit perfectly and offer a flattering silhouette ideal for summer activities.

Buying Guide for the Best Women's Board Shorts

When it comes to picking the right women's board shorts, it's important to consider a few key factors to ensure you get the best fit and functionality for your needs. Board shorts are designed for water activities and beachwear, so comfort, durability, and style are essential. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing the perfect pair of women's board shorts.
MaterialThe material of board shorts is crucial because it affects comfort, durability, and drying time. Most board shorts are made from polyester or a blend of polyester and spandex. Polyester is durable, lightweight, and quick-drying, making it ideal for water activities. Spandex adds stretch, providing better mobility and comfort. If you plan to be active in the water, look for a blend with spandex for added flexibility. For lounging, pure polyester might be sufficient.
LengthThe length of board shorts can vary, typically ranging from mid-thigh to just above the knee. Shorter lengths (around 5-7 inches inseam) offer more freedom of movement and are great for activities like surfing or paddleboarding. Longer lengths (8-11 inches inseam) provide more coverage and can be more comfortable for lounging or casual wear. Consider your activity level and personal comfort when choosing the length.
FitFit is important for both comfort and functionality. Board shorts come in various fits, including regular, slim, and relaxed. A regular fit offers a balance between comfort and mobility, making it suitable for most activities. A slim fit is more form-fitting and can be more flattering, but may restrict movement slightly. A relaxed fit provides maximum comfort and is ideal for casual wear or less active days. Choose a fit that matches your activity level and personal style.
WaistbandThe waistband of board shorts can affect comfort and security. Options include fixed waistbands with a button or zip closure, elastic waistbands, and drawstring waistbands. Fixed waistbands provide a secure fit and a more polished look, but may be less adjustable. Elastic waistbands offer comfort and flexibility, making them easy to put on and take off. Drawstring waistbands provide the best adjustability and security, especially for active water sports. Consider your preference for adjustability and comfort when choosing the waistband type.
PocketsPockets can add functionality to your board shorts. Some board shorts come with side pockets, back pockets, or even zippered pockets. Side pockets are convenient for casual wear, while back pockets can be useful for small items. Zippered pockets provide extra security for valuables like keys or money. If you plan to carry items with you, look for board shorts with secure pockets. If you prefer a streamlined look, you might opt for fewer or no pockets.
UPF ProtectionUPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) protection is a feature that helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Board shorts with UPF protection are especially important if you spend a lot of time in the sun. UPF ratings typically range from 15 to 50+, with higher numbers offering more protection. If you are concerned about sun exposure, look for board shorts with a higher UPF rating to ensure better protection for your skin.

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