Best Board Shorts
Board shorts are a popular type of swimwear designed primarily for surfing, beach activities, and water sports. They are typically made from quick-drying materials and feature a loose fit, allowing for freedom of movement. Board shorts come in various lengths, styles, and colors, often adorned with bold patterns and graphics.
Advertisement
Originally developed for surfers in the 1960s, board shorts have since evolved into a versatile fashion staple for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Unlike traditional swim trunks, board shorts usually reach the knee or just above, offering extra coverage and comfort. They often come with a drawstring or Velcro closure, ensuring a secure fit during active water activities. The fabric used in board shorts is typically lightweight and durable, often incorporating technologies that resist saltwater, chlorine, and UV rays. Many designs include pockets for convenience, making them perfect for casual wear beyond the beach. Today, board shorts are embraced not only for their practicality but also as a fashionable choice, reflecting personal style and trends.
QuiksilverView AllQuiksilver - Surf and snowboard apparel brand for adventure seekers.
BillabongView AllBillabong - Surf-inspired apparel and accessories for active lifestyles.
O'NeillView AllO'Neill - O'Neill: Innovative surf and lifestyle apparel brand.
HurleyView AllHurley - Surf-inspired apparel and accessories brand for active lifestyles.
RIP CURLView AllRIP CURL - Surfwear brand known for quality and adventure lifestyle.
VansView AllVans - Casual footwear brand known for skate and street style.
PatagoniaView AllPatagonia - Sustainable outdoor apparel focused on environmental activism.
VolcomView AllVolcom - Youthful, bold, lifestyle brand for action sports enthusiasts.
RoxyView AllRoxy - Roxy: vibrant women's surf and active lifestyle brand.
NikeView AllNike - Innovative sportswear brand, empowering athletes globally. Just Do It.
Best Board Shorts
1.
Quiksilver
Quiksilver is a globally recognized brand specializing in outdoor apparel and accessories, primarily for surfing, skateboarding, and snowboarding enthusiasts. Founded in 1969 in Australia, it has become synonymous with the surf lifestyle, offering a wide range of products, including swimsuits, boardshorts, t-shirts, and outerwear. Quiksilver is known for its innovative designs, vibrant colors, and commitment to quality, appealing to both thrill-seekers and casual beachgoers alike. The brand has also expanded into eco-friendly initiatives, promoting sustainability in its manufacturing processes.
Pros
stylish designs- high-quality materials
- strong brand heritage
- great for surfing
- wide product range.
Cons
higher price point- inconsistent sizing
- limited availability in some regions
- environmental concerns
- may not suit all tastes.
2.
Billabong
Billabong is a renowned Australian lifestyle brand founded in 1973, specializing in surf, skate, and snow apparel and accessories. Known for its vibrant designs and connection to the action sports community, Billabong embodies a laid-back, adventurous spirit. The brand caters to enthusiasts of surfing and outdoor activities, offering a wide range of products from swimwear and boardshorts to outerwear and casual clothing. With a strong commitment to quality and sustainability, Billabong continues to inspire a global audience of adventure seekers and beach lovers.
Pros
- Quality materials
- Strong brand heritage
- Stylish designs
- Good for water sports
- Wide range of products
-
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited availability in some regions
- Sizes may vary
- Not eco-friendly
- Can be trendy but not timeless.
3.
O'Neill
O'Neill is a renowned American brand founded in 1952 by Jack O'Neill, initially recognized for its innovative surfwear and wetsuits. Pioneering the surf culture, the brand combines performance with style, catering to surfers, snowboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts. O'Neill is celebrated for its cutting-edge technology, ensuring comfort and durability in extreme conditions. Over the decades, it has expanded its product range to include swimwear, casual clothing, and accessories, embodying a lifestyle that embraces adventure, freedom, and the coastal spirit.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Innovative designs
- Strong brand reputation
- Wide range of products
- Good for water sports.
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited availability in some regions
- Styles may not suit all tastes
- Can be bulky for casual wear
- Not as eco-friendly as competitors.
4.
Hurley
Hurley is a lifestyle and apparel brand founded in 1999, known for its strong connection to surfing, skateboarding, and beach culture. Originally started by Bob Hurley, the brand emphasizes innovation and quality in its products, which include swimwear, boardshorts, casual wear, and accessories. Hurley is recognized for its vibrant designs and commitment to sustainability, often collaborating with athletes and artists to inspire creativity and a love for the ocean. The brand embodies a youthful, active lifestyle, appealing to adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros
- Stylish designs
- Quality materials
- Strong brand community
- Versatile for various sports
- Eco-friendly initiatives
-
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited availability in some regions
- Sizes may run small
- Fashion-focused over performance
- Not all products are durable.
5.
RIP CURL
Rip Curl is a renowned Australian surf brand established in 1969, celebrated for its high-quality surfwear, wetsuits, and accessories. Known for its commitment to the surfing lifestyle, the brand embodies adventure and freedom, catering to surfers and beach enthusiasts worldwide. Rip Curl is also recognized for its innovative technologies and sustainable practices, ensuring performance in the water while minimizing environmental impact. With a strong presence in the surf community, Rip Curl sponsors top athletes and events, reinforcing its legacy as a leader in the surf industry.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- stylish designs
- wide range of products
- strong brand reputation
- good for surfing enthusiasts.
Cons
- Higher price point
- limited availability in some regions
- not always environmentally friendly
- sizing can be inconsistent
- may not appeal to all styles.
6.
Vans
Vans is an iconic American footwear and apparel brand, founded in 1966 in Anaheim, California. Initially popular among skateboarders and surfers, Vans is renowned for its distinctive canvas shoes featuring signature rubber soles and classic designs, such as the Old Skool and Slip-On models. Emphasizing self-expression and creativity, the brand has expanded beyond footwear to include clothing and accessories that resonate with youth culture. Vans is also known for its sponsorship of extreme sports and cultural events, solidifying its status as a lifestyle brand.
Pros
- Stylish designs
- Comfortable fit
- Durable quality
- Versatile for various activities
- Strong brand reputation
Cons
- Limited arch support
- Can be pricey
- Not suitable for wet conditions
- May run small
- Requires break-in period
7.
Patagonia
Patagonia is an American outdoor clothing brand founded in 1973 by Yvon Chouinard. Renowned for its commitment to environmental sustainability, the company produces high-quality, durable apparel designed for outdoor activities like climbing, skiing, and hiking. Patagonia is a pioneer in ethical manufacturing practices, promoting fair labor conditions and using recycled materials. The brand is also known for its activism, supporting various environmental causes and encouraging customers to repair and recycle their products, embodying its motto: "We're in business to save our home planet."
Pros
- high-quality products
- commitment to sustainability
- ethical manufacturing practices
- strong brand community
- excellent customer service.
Cons
- higher price point
- limited product availability
- niche market appeal
- potential for brand elitism
- competition with cheaper alternatives.
8.
Volcom
Volcom is a dynamic lifestyle brand founded in 1991, blending the worlds of skateboarding, surfing, and snowboarding. Known for its innovative designs and commitment to creative expression, Volcom offers a wide range of apparel, accessories, and footwear that resonate with action sports enthusiasts. The brand champions a free-spirited, youthful ethos, often reflected in its bold graphics and sustainable practices. With a strong community presence and sponsorship of athletes, Volcom continues to inspire a culture of adventure and individuality.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- unique designs
- strong brand community
- eco-friendly initiatives
- versatile for various sports.
Cons
- Higher price point
- limited availability in some regions
- inconsistent sizing
- not all styles appeal to everyone
- occasional quality control issues.
9.
Roxy
Roxy is a vibrant lifestyle brand that embodies the spirit of adventure and the coastal lifestyle, primarily catering to young women. Launched in 1990 as the female counterpart to Quiksilver, Roxy specializes in surf, skate, and snow apparel, along with accessories and footwear. Known for its bold designs and colorful prints, the brand promotes an active, outdoor lifestyle, empowering women to embrace their passions. Roxy also emphasizes sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices into its production processes, making it a favorite among environmentally conscious consumers.
Pros
- Stylish designs
- High-quality materials
- Strong brand reputation
- Focus on women's sports
- Eco-friendly initiatives
-
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited size range
- Not always durable
- Targeted demographic
- Seasonal availability.
10.
Nike
Nike is a globally recognized sportswear brand known for its innovative athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment. Founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports, it was rebranded as Nike, inspired by the Greek goddess of victory. The iconic Swoosh logo symbolizes speed and movement, while the brand's "Just Do It" slogan encourages a proactive lifestyle. Nike is synonymous with high performance and style, collaborating with top athletes and designers to create products that enhance athletic performance and inspire individuals to push their limits.
Pros
- Innovative technology
- Strong brand recognition
- Wide product range
- Endorsements from top athletes
- Commitment to sustainability.
Cons
- High price point
- Labor practices controversies
- Limited sizing options
- Environmental impact of production
- Fast fashion concerns.