Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best board shorts can be worn over bikini bottoms, one-piece swimsuits, or swimming trunks and are designed to provide the right leg coverage while surfing or enjoying other water activities. Moreover, these tried-and-tested shorts offer comfort and protection.
If you love to stay active in or around water, then board shorts are a must-have as they provide an extra layer of protection. This post lists some best-selling women’s board shorts that make comfy and fashionable beach essentials for summer. Keep scrolling to take your pick.
Top Picks
11 Best Women’s Board Shorts For Swimming And Surfing In 2024
1. Best Quick Drying: Kanu Surf Women’s Marina UPF 50+ Active Swim Board Shorts
The board shorts for women by Kanu are designed using a unique UPF 50+ quick dry microfiber material. This pair of surfing apparel, known for its quality craftsmanship, is made of 100% polyester and offers optimal coverage for beach and pool activities. It is available in a wide range of sizes to suit different body types.
Pros
- Convenient cargo pocket
- Quick-drying board shorts
- Convenient drawstring closure and elastic back
- Machine-washable
- Lightweight
- Breathable fabric
Cons
- No built-in inner liners
"I'm delighted with the material and durability of these shorts. Their fast-drying fabric is a plus, and the uniquely designed pockets hold up well during water activities. However, there was slight inconsistency with sizing, but going a size up offered me the desired comfort."
2. Best Breathable: Kanu Surf Women’s Marina Solid Stretch Board Shorts
Here’s another time-tested, comfy, and durable pair of board shorts that feature the Kanu comfort tech quick dry UPF 50+ stretch microfiber. Made with 88% polyester and 12% spandex, the women’s board shorts for water sports make comfortable wear for surfing, hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities.
Pros
- Drawstring waist closure
- Cargo pocket design
- Breathable and lightweight
- Machine-washable
- Available in different prints and designs
Cons
- No built-in inner liners
"These shorts stay in place without slipping or riding up. I feel comfortable even after wearing them continuously for prolonged hours. They pair well with tankini tops and give a flattering fit across different body types. I'm also pleased with the material and design."
3. Best High-Waist: Tournesol Women’s High Waist Swim Shorts
If you are looking for high waist board shorts with tummy control, your search ends here. These versatile board shorts are made of elastic and breathable premium polyamide and spandex and are available in multiple vibrant colors to match swim, yoga, tankini, and bikini tops. The women’s performance board shorts are ideal for wear during gym workouts, biking, swimming, hiking, and when performing various other physical activities.
Pros
- Built-in briefs
- Highly elastic
- Quick-drying material
- Drawstring closure
- Slit-leg design
- Soft and skin-friendly
- UV protection
Cons
- May not be true to size
"These swim bottoms are a great option, striking the right balance between function and style. Be it in the pool or at the beach, they are comfortable and offer the right fit. I'm also pleased with its coverage."
Quick tip4. Best Meshed: ALove Women’s High Waist Swim Shorts
Choose this pair of tried- and-trusted board shorts from ALove if you often take part in swimming, running, surfing, and other water sports. These comfortable board shorts are made of 82% nylon and 18% spandex and offer UPF 50+ sun protection and a four-way stretch. Pair these trendy board shorts with your favorite bikini, tankini, and swimwear tops for a comfortable and stylish look.
Pros
- Elastic closure and waistband
- Hollow out design creates a chic look
- Quick-drying and lightweight
- Chlorine-resistant fabric
- Meshed design
Cons
- No crotch liner
"I love that these shorts offer additional coverage when swimming without the need to adjust them. Though the mesh sides enhance the overall look of the shorts, I wish they were a little more robust for long-lasting use."
5. Best With Four-Way Stretch: Roxy Women’s Whole Hearted Board Shorts
Image: Roxy Make your beach outings more fashionable with these high-quality swimsuit bottoms for women. These board shorts for beach activities are made using a four-way stretch fabric that combines 90% polyester and 10% elastane. The drawcord lycra knit wide waistband doesn’t dig in the skin and makes the shorts extremely convenient for water as well as other sports.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Convenient pull-on closure
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Knit belt foldover waistband with drawcord
- Lightweight and soft fabric
Cons
- No built-in liner
"These shorts offer the right balance of comfort and style. They are soft, durable, and comfortable. I also use them for casual wear. The adjustable drawstring ensures the shorts fit me properly, which is a plus."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 3,035 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
6. Best For Big Thighs: For G And PL Women Summer Floral Beach Board Shorts
These women’s board shorts with classic tropical floral prints make lovely beachwear. Available in different sizes, these are comfortable women’s board shorts for big thighs. The board shorts with pockets are made of 100% polyester and flaunt the signature scallop hem for a perfect beach look.
Pros
- Functional front pockets
- Easy pull-on closure
- Board shorts with adjustable waistband
- Quick-drying material
Cons
- Material may be thin
"The quick-drying material of these shorts made me choose this option for all my outdoor activities. They offer me a nice fit, and I love that they are not revealing. I even wear them at home for lounging."
Point to consider7. Best With Cargo Pockets: Maui Rippers Women’s Swim Board Shorts
Image: Maui Rippers Made with 90% polyester and 10% spandex, these are among the best women’s swim shorts that also make cool casual wear. The tried-and-tested board shorts for lounging by Maui Rippers come in a wide range of sizes and offer good stretch, making them ideal wear for different athletic activities. They are designed using quick-dry technology and are available in different eye-catching hues.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Drawstring closure
- Cargo side pocket with a key string
- Ideal for women of all sizes
- Four-way stretch fabric
Cons
- May be loose on the thighs
"Whether it is for swimming or other outdoor adventures, these board shorts serve me well. While its stretchability is satisfactory, the drawstring was a slight letdown."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 2,100 positive reviews on Amazon.
8. Best With Reinforced stitching: Ekouaer Women’s High Waist Board Shorts
Image: Ekouaer This pair of board shorts for women by Ekouaer is made using a blend of breathable and elastic polyester and spandex. Available in multiple vibrant colors, these board shorts for summer make ideal bottom wear to pair with bikinis, swim tops, and tankini tops. The high-waist design offers tummy control and accentuates your curves. They are crafted after factoring in quality assurance and are the perfect choice for hiking, running, swimming, yoga, and various other outdoor activities.
Pros
- Elastic, lightweight, and breathable fabric
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Adjustable drawstring closure
- Quick–drying
- Reinforced stitching
Cons
- May be see-through
"These swim shorts pair well with my tops and end just above the knees, per my liking. Their stretchable fabric offers full coverage and stays in place without slipping. However, I would have preferred a higher waistband."
9. Best Elastic: Baleaf Women’s Board Shorts With Built-In Liner
The Baleaf women’s board shorts are quick-drying, elastic, and breathable, making them extremely comfortable to wear in and around water. They are made using 100% polyester fabric with UPF 50+ that has been tested to offer good protection from harmful sun rays. The shorts have a high-rise design with a five-inch inseam that makes them suitable for wear during workouts, running, surfing, and swimming.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Offers tummy control
- Velcro closure along with adjustable drawstring
- Cargo pocket
- Built-in mesh brief
- Four-way stretch
- Chlorine-resistant design
Cons
- May run small
"I like that these shorts are adaptable for outdoor and pool activities. Though they tend to cling when wet, they are attractive and modest. Also, their in-built pockets help keep my essentials safe."
10. Best Low-Rise: O’Neill South Pacific Women’s Stretch Board Shorts
Image: Oneill This pair of women’s board shorts is a product of the collaboration between iSnorkel and O’Neill. The water-tested shorts are made using hyperfreak stretch fabric that allows 190% vertical stretch and 180% horizontal stretch and designed for wear in and around water. These board shorts for outdoor adventures are available in a wide range of sizes to fit women of different shapes and sizes.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Durable water-resistant (DWR) coating
- Side pocket with Velcro closure
- Low-rise style
- Non-stretchable waistband
Cons
- Large leg openings
Do remember11. Best With Built-In Brief: Nike Women’s Solid Element Swim Board Shorts
Make your beach and pool outings more comfortable and stylish with these board shorts that are made with quality craftsmanship and designed using 100% polyester fabric. The stretchable shorts allow a wide range of movements and have a fine finish. These board shorts are smart and convenient for various outdoor activities.
Pros
- Built-in brief
- Machine-washable
- High coverage
- Quick-drying fabric
- Stretchable waistband
- Elastic closure
- Lightweight board shorts
Cons
- Size may run small
"I find these swim shorts comfortable for workouts. Their snug yet flattering fit worked well even after I gained weight. Although they don't dry quickly after swimming, I like them as they offer ample coverage and ease of maintenance."
How To Choose The Right Women’s Board Shorts?
Keep the following factors in mind when choosing a pair of women’s board shorts.
- Size: Sizes vary from one brand to another. Therefore, it is recommended to always measure your thighs and waist before buying board shorts to pick the right fit. Also, read the reviews online to learn if you should buy one size up or down.
- Length: Board shorts that are too short can feel a little uncomfortable, and the ones that are too long may completely ruin the purpose and your style. Ensure you pick a pair of shorts that is of the right length for you.
- Fabric: Board shorts are designed using different materials such as nylon, cotton, and polyester. Of all the materials, polyester makes one of the best picks as it is comfortable, soft, and waterproof.
- Design and cuts: Depending upon your choice, you can choose from solid colors or printed patterns. You can also select a cut that complements your body.
Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda, a model and beauty and fashion expert, says, “Board shorts for women offer a delightful fusion of comfort and style and are perfect for conquering the waves or embracing outdoor adventures. With their quick-drying fabric, versatile designs, and various lengths, these fashion-forward pieces allow you to express your style while enjoying the freedom to move. So, dive into a world of possibilities, mix and match with confidence, and let your board shorts become the ultimate symbol of your adventurous spirit.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I wear anything under board shorts?
Board shorts that come with mesh lining don’t require you to wear underwear. However, if you are not comfortable with the lining, or if your board shorts don’t have one, you can wear regular bikini bottoms.
2. Why are board shorts long?
Board shorts are designed for surfing and are available in both short and long lengths. Longer board shorts provide sun protection and provide more coverage, making them suitable for active water sports. Shorter board shorts are ideal for swimming.
3. What is the difference between swim shorts and board shorts?
The key difference between swim shorts and board shorts is length. Board shorts are designed to be longer than swim shorts to provide more leg coverage.
4. How tight should board shorts fit?
Board shorts should offer a snug fit above the waist and should be comfortable enough to move your legs.
5. How should I keep my board shorts from falling down?
Choose the right fit and a design that comes with drawstrings, along with an elastic waist. This allows you to tie and secure the shorts as needed.
6. How should I get surf wax out of boardshorts?
You can rub the wax with a few drops of coconut oil and rinse it off with water. You can then hand wash or machine wash your shorts as you regularly do.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Our product writer, Poulami Nag, is a fashion, haircare, and skincare enthusiast who conducts extensive research on products based on user and expert fashion reviews and specifications to recommend the best ones. She has compiled this list of the best women’s board shorts based on the products’ durability, quality, and comfort. This post also contains a well-researched buying guide to help you make an informed choice.
The Bottom Line
Board shorts are essential fashion apparel for women who visit the beach frequently. They are ergonomically designed to help you feel comfortable even in scorching heat. These stylish board shorts are usually made of polyester, spandex, and nylon for comfort and stretchability. When choosing a pair of shorts, ensure it is machine-washable, quick-drying, resistant to shrinkage, and of the right size and fit. Choosing a pair of shorts with UPF sun protection and a built-in liner is a bonus. Further, you may choose ones with solid colors or cool prints. Our top picks on this list include the Tournesol Women’s High Waist Swim Shorts with built-in briefs, the ALove Women’s High Waist Swim Shorts with stylish mesh design, and the For G And PL Women Summer Floral Beach Board Shorts with functional pockets and scallop hem.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Wearing Board Shorts?
Board shorts are a popular type of swimwear, originally designed for surfers. They have become a common choice for beachgoers, owing to their versatility and practicality. We present an infographic with key points about why investing in a pair of high-quality and durable board shorts is a good idea.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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