A boardshort is a long, loose-fitting, quick-drying swim short built for surfing and other board sports, typically hitting at or just above the knee.
The question of what is a boardshort comes up most often when someone stares at the swimwear wall, holding a pair of long, baggy shorts next to a pair of lined trunks, with no idea which one actually fits their day on the water. The short version: boardshorts are performance gear born from surfing, and the design choices that make them look distinct are the same choices that make them work differently in the water. Understanding those differences is the difference between a comfortable session and a soggy, chafing one.
Here’s what separates them from regular swim trunks, what they’re actually for, and how to know if a pair belongs in your rotation.
Boardshorts vs. Swim Trunks: What’s The Difference?
Boardshorts and swim trunks are not the same garment, even though both are water-ready. The differences come down to four design choices: length, waist, liner, and intended activity.
Length and cut. Boardshorts are long by design, typically 16 to 20 inches, and they sit just above the knee or at the knee. Swim trunks tend to run shorter. Waist construction. Most boardshorts use a fixed waist with a drawcord or lace closure to hold them in place, while swim trunks more commonly have an elastic waistband. Liner. Boardshorts usually skip the inner mesh lining, which is a standard feature in most swim trunks. Intent. Boardshorts are performance pieces for active water sports; swim trunks are general-purpose swimwear.
That lack of a liner is a feature, not a flaw. For paddling, diving, and board sports, the extra layer of mesh can chafe and hold water. Linerless shorts move with you and dry faster.
What Are Boardshorts Made Of?
Almost every pair of boardshorts on the market is built from polyester or nylon. Both dry quickly and stand up to salt water, sun, and repeated use. Modern performance versions often add four-way stretch fabric so the shorts move with you through a paddle or a turn without binding. Quick-drying materials are the standard for the entire category, not a premium add-on.
One feature to check: pockets. Boardshorts made for actual surfing often skip side hand pockets entirely, or use sealed pockets that keep water and sand out. If you plan to do more lounging than surfing, look for a pair with standard pockets.
What Are Boardshorts For?
Boardshorts were designed for surfing and other board sports, and they earn their keep in active water. The long cut and drawstring waist keep them planted on your hips through a duck dive, a wakeboarding crash, or a long bodysurfing session. They’re equally at home for wake surfing, sailing, spearfishing, swimming laps, and diving. The performance intent is the whole point: the shorts stay put while you work.
That performance focus has a trade-off. Boardshorts are built for water that isn’t prohibitively cold, and they offer no insulation. The linerless design that feels great for high-movement sports also means less support when you’re just lounging in the shallows.
If you are ready to shop for a pair built to take a beating, our roundup of the best durable boardshorts for water sports covers the models that hold up to regular use.
What Should You Look For In A Boardshort?
Match the shorts to the activity. For surfing and board sports, prioritize a fixed waist with a drawcord, a longer cut, and four-way stretch fabric. For casual swimming, a shorter pair with pockets is more practical. And if you are used to the support of a mesh liner, plan to wear a pair of liner shorts underneath, since most boardshorts do not include one.
One more thing worth knowing: “boardshorts” travel under several names depending on where you are. Surf trunks, jams, boardies, and swim shorts all describe the same basic garment. If a pair is long, loose, quick-drying, and made for moving through water, it’s a boardshort.
Boardshorts: Common Questions
Do You Wear Anything Under Boardshorts?
You don’t have to. Most boardshorts are linerless by design, so wearing nothing underneath is the norm and keeps the shorts from getting bulky. If you want the support a liner provides, wear a pair of slim swim briefs or liner shorts underneath; avoid heavy cotton underwear, which soaks up water and stays wet.
Are Boardshorts Good For Swimming?
Yes. Boardshorts work well for swimming and other active water sports because they dry quickly and stay in place during vigorous movement. They are less ideal for casual lounging or very cold water, where their lack of insulation and liner becomes a drawback.
What Is The Difference Between Boardshorts And Swim Trunks?
Boardshorts are longer, typically 16 to 20 inches, with a fixed waist and drawcord, and they usually lack a mesh liner. Swim trunks are generally shorter, use an elastic waistband, and include an inner mesh lining. Boardshorts are performance-focused; swim trunks are general-purpose swimwear.
References & Sources
- Wikipedia. “Boardshorts.” Explains the garment’s design, typical lengths, materials, and intended uses for board sports.
- Merriam-Webster. “Board shorts.” Provides the dictionary definition of the term.
- Cambridge Dictionary. “Board shorts.” Defines boardshorts as swimming shorts for water sports with a long, baggy cut.