With anti-rash seams and threads, chafing is non-existent, and functional zip pockets keeps your keys from escaping. For half the price of Birdwell’s, too, you’re getting a lot for your money. If the design itself was a bit more subdued, we would’ve labeled these hybrid shorts and their value proposition would have gone up even further. At just fifty bucks, the nitpicking is irrelevant.
Best Upgrade Board Shorts: Outerknown APEX Evolution Trunks
When a pair of board shorts has the input of world-famous surfer Kelly Slater, we expect them to be great. And that’s exactly what Outerknown’s APEX Evolution Trunks are. From the materials to the construction to the paneling, every detail was considered for surfboard antics in mind. That means a gusseted crotch and pitched seams for a better fit, welded seams and a waistband that doesn’t bunch for comfort, and NetPlus fabric which recycles used fishing nets into nylon. But you don’t have to even know how to surf to get into these. Scoop up a pair as your regular swim shorts and you’ll be more than prepared lounging poolside.
Best Board Shorts for Menswear Nerds: Buck Mason Japanese Oxford Board Shorts
Seeing as we are a site that focuses on menswear and not surfing, we can’t profess to know as much as other, more pointed publications on watersports. So for the menswear brethren looking to tap into the more fashion-y elements of surf apparel, we’d point you to Buck Mason whose ‘60s-inspired surf shorts are about as classic as it gets. They come in a trio of subdued colorways that eschew modern palettes, feature a pared-back design without sport-y paneling, and come in a super lightweight, high-quality Japanese oxford nylon material that feels incredible. And, with a handsome six-inch inseam, they fit like a dream.
Best Board Shorts for Minimalists: Bather Technical Surf Trunks
Bather
Technical Surf Shorts
Our biggest pet peeve with board shorts is their general inability to translate to a stylish pair of shorts in everyday fits. So when we found these surf shorts from our favorite swim trunks maker, Bather, we were like, “Duh!” The Canadian-made surf trunks feature a very minimal design, without logos, wild prints, or technical panels, but have the bare necessities that make them a true pair of board shorts. They’re made of recycled polyester and elastane, feature a single rear pocket with shapely darts and their telltale quality that we love so much.
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What to Look for in a Great Pair of Board Shorts
Fabric: Function is imperative for board shorts and it all starts with the fabric. It should be durable, lightweight, quick-drying, and even a little stretchy. Great board shorts are often made from a densely woven nylon or polyester, imbued with some kind of elastane.
Construction: Board shorts should be built to withstand a good thrashing at sea. Ideally, that means double or triple-needle stitching to keep seams from failing. For even more advanced construction, welded seams cut down on bulk while providing a smoother feel. Though you might not be paddling out with a pocket full of loose change and sandwich cards, any pockets should come with mesh or eyelets to allow water to drain easily.
Fit: Surf shorts should give you enough flexibility to carve and whip through the waves without restriction. So, ideally, they should have a relaxed silhouette or classic straight fit at the slimmest. You won’t find many baggy options out there since you want your board shorts to actually stay on your body.
How We Test and Review Products
Style is subjective, we know—that’s the fun of it. But we’re serious about helping our audience get dressed. Whether it’s the best white sneakers, the flyest affordable suits, or the need-to-know menswear drops of the week, GQ Recommends’ perspective is built on years of hands-on experience, an insider awareness of what’s in and what’s next, and a mission to find the best version of everything out there, at every price point.
