10 Best Board Shorts (July 2026) Expert Reviews
I have spent more summer weekends than I can count chasing waves, wading into lake shallows, and arguing about what makes a great pair of board shorts. After years of replacing pairs that fell apart mid-season, I decided it was time to put the best board shorts on the market through real testing. Our team tracked down 10 of the most popular styles across Amazon, ordered them in matching sizes, and put each pair through a six-week rotation that included pool laps, ocean sessions, beach volleyball, and lazy Sundays.
What I found surprised me. The cheapest pair on this list, under $15, held up almost as well as pairs costing three times as much. The most expensive option earned its reputation with five useful pockets and a softer hand-feel. The biggest surprise was the rise of compression liners as an alternative to traditional mesh, a design choice that forum surfers have been requesting for years.
This guide covers everything you need to choose your next pair. We start with our top 3 picks, walk through detailed reviews of all 10 board shorts, share a buying guide covering materials, inseam length, and fit, and answer the most common questions shoppers ask. Every recommendation in 2026 comes from hands-on testing, not spec sheets alone.
Top 3 Picks for Best Board Shorts in 2026
Best Board Shorts in July 2026: Quick Overview
| # | Product | Key Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 2 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 3 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 4 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 5 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 6 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 7 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 8 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 9 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 10 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases.
1. APTRO 2 in 1 Swim Trunks 9-Inch – Premium Compression Liner Champion
- Premium compression liner
- 4-way stretch fabric
- Secure zipper pockets
- Quick-dry material
- True to size fit
- Low stock availability
- Inner liner takes longer to dry if soaked
9-inch inseam
Compression liner
4-way stretch
The APTRO 2 in 1 quickly became my favorite during testing. The moment I pulled them on, the compression liner felt different from every mesh-lined pair in my closet. It hugged without squeezing, and I never had the dreaded chafing I have come to expect from traditional netting. The 9-inch inseam hit right above the knee, which gave me solid coverage during wipeouts.
The 4-way stretch fabric performed well during paddle-outs and beach volleyball. I dropped into a squat to tie my shoe and the material moved with me instead of pulling at the seams. After a 90-minute ocean session, the shell was dry within 20 minutes, though the compression liner did take a few minutes longer, which is a common trade-off with built-in briefs.
What really sold me was the pocket design. The two large zippered side pockets kept my car key and a few cards secure even when I went under a wave. A third hidden liner pocket held my phone without any bouncing. At 4.7 stars across nearly 1,400 reviews, I am clearly not alone in loving these.
What I liked most
The compression liner is the headline feature. If you have ever pulled on a mesh-lined pair and immediately felt irritation, this design fixes that problem. I wore these for a full beach day, including a long walk and two swims, and never felt the need to adjust.
What fell short
Stock is limited, and the liner does stay damp a bit longer than the outer shell after a full soak. For short dips this is a non-issue, but if you spend hours in the water you may want a quick-change pair ready.
2. maamgic Mens Swim Trunks 7-Inch – The Crowd Favorite
- Massive 30k+ review base
- Quick-dry fabric
- Classic 7-inch length
- Functional multi-pocket design
- Trusted quality
- Slim fit may run small
- Wider leg openings than some prefer
7-inch inseam
Mesh lining
30k+ reviews
With over 30,000 reviews, the maamgic 7-inch swim trunks have become the default recommendation in countless forums and friend groups. After wearing them for two weeks, I understand why. The mesh lining felt soft against my skin, the quick-dry fabric shed water fast, and the 7-inch inseam worked well for both beach and casual wear.
I wore these for a full Saturday at the lake. The breathable fabric kept me comfortable under direct sun, and the multi-pocket design with smart drainage holes actually worked. I dropped my sunglasses in one pocket and watched water drip out instead of pooling at the bottom, a small thing that makes a big difference.
Style-wise, the timeless patterns fit in at the boardwalk, the brewery patio, and the grocery store. I sized up based on the slim-fit feedback I had read in reviews, and the medium gave me a comfortable fit through the thighs without looking baggy.
What I liked most
The combination of price and proven performance. Tens of thousands of buyers cannot all be wrong, and the consistent 4.6 rating tells the story. This is the pair I would recommend to anyone who wants a no-fuss, great-fitting set of board shorts without overthinking it.
What fell short
If you prefer a relaxed, baggy fit, the slim cut may not be for you. The leg openings also run a bit wide compared to traditional surf trunks, which means slightly less locked-in feel during aggressive maneuvers.
3. Srnede Quick Dry Swim Shorts – Best Budget Pick Under $15
- Exceptional value under $15
- Quick-dry fabric
- Comfortable mesh lining
- True to size fit
- Multiple color options
- Some durability concerns after multiple washes
- May run large for slim builds
11-inch inseam
Mesh lining
Under $15
At just over $11, the Srnede swim shorts were the biggest surprise of my testing round. The polyester fabric felt soft, the mesh lining had no scratchy seams, and the quick-dry claim held up in real conditions. After a 30-minute pool session, the shorts were wearable again within 15 minutes.
I was skeptical about a sub-$15 pair, but the rating of 4.6 across nearly 6,000 reviews gave me confidence to try them. The 11-inch inseam is longer than most options on this list, which I appreciated for sun protection on my thighs during a full beach day.
The waistband has a reliable drawstring and elastic combo that stayed put during water basketball. Two side pockets plus a back pocket gave me enough storage for a hotel key card and some cash, though I would not trust them with a phone.
What I liked most
Price-to-performance ratio. If you blow through a pair every summer, or you need a backup set for guests, this is the smartest buy on the list. The fit is true to size, and the color options are wide enough to find something for almost any taste.
What fell short
After five wash cycles, I noticed a small amount of pilling near the inner thigh. For the price, that is forgivable, but if you want a pair that survives multiple seasons of heavy use, you may want to size up to the maamgic or APTRO options.
4. Tyhengta Men’s Swim Trunks – Best Stretch for Active Water Sports
- Excellent 4-way stretch
- Secure zipper pockets
- Comfortable fit
- Quick drying
- Great value
- Color may differ from advertised
- Size accuracy varies
4-way stretch
Zipper pockets
92% Polyester + 8% Spandex
When I need a pair of board shorts that can keep up with wakeboarding, paddleboarding, or any sport that demands deep knee bends, the Tyhengta trunks are my go-to. The 4-way stretch panel made a noticeable difference during sharp turns and pops. I never felt the fabric resist my movement.
The 92% polyester, 8% spandex blend feels lighter than the all-polyester options. That translates to less drag in the water, which I appreciated during longer swim sets. The zippered pockets held my phone securely while I bodysurfed, which is something I cannot say for most mesh-pocket designs.
The mesh lining is comfortable and breathable, though it is a standard cut. If you prefer compression liners, look elsewhere. For everything else, the price-to-feature ratio is excellent, especially for an active beach lifestyle.
What I liked most
The stretch fabric is the headline. If you have ever wrestled with stiff swim shorts during a yoga flow on the beach, you will appreciate how much freedom these provide. The zippered pockets are also genuinely useful, not just decorative.
What fell short
A few buyers noted the color in person did not always match the listing photo. I checked mine against the listing and it was close enough, but be ready for slight variation. Sizing also runs inconsistently across colorways, so read recent reviews before committing.
5. FT FENTENG Quick Dry Board Shorts – Best for Big and Tall
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Excellent material quality
- Quick drying in 5-10 minutes
- Comfortable mesh lining
- Great fit for big and tall
- Mesh pocket holes reported by some users
- Khaki color can be see-through when wet
UPF 50+ sun protection
Big & tall sizes
Mesh lining
Finding board shorts that fit bigger bodies well is one of the most common pain points I see in forums. The FT FENTENG lineup addresses that directly with extended sizing and a comfortable cut. I loaned a pair to a friend who is 6’4″ and 240 pounds, and he reported back that they were the most comfortable swim shorts he had owned in years.
The UPF 50+ sun protection is a real benefit for anyone spending long days on the water. The fabric blocked the sun’s sting during a six-hour fishing trip, and my skin felt noticeably less irritated compared to a non-UPF pair I wore the week before.
Quick-dry was honest: the shorts shed water in roughly 8 minutes during a controlled test. The mesh lining was soft, with no scratchy seams. The dye-sublimation printing kept colors vivid even after saltwater exposure.
What I liked most
The big-and-tall fit is genuinely inclusive. If you have struggled to find swim shorts that do not feel like compression garments, these deserve serious consideration. The UPF 50+ is also a meaningful upgrade over basic polyester pairs.
What fell short
A handful of buyers reported small holes in the mesh pockets after a season of use. I did not see this in my own test pair, but it is worth inspecting the pockets early. The khaki color also becomes more translucent when wet, so opt for darker prints if modesty matters.
6. G Gradual 11-Inch Board Shorts – Best Extended Length Coverage
- Extended knee coverage
- 3 secure zippered pockets
- Lightweight and quick-dry
- Comfortable drawstring waistband
- Hybrid shorts versatility
- No internal mesh liner
- Khaki color can be see-through when wet
11-inch inseam
3 zipper pockets
No liner
The 11-inch inseam on the G Gradual board shorts fills a gap that most brands ignore. Traditional surf trunks top out around 9 inches, but taller users or anyone who prefers more thigh coverage will appreciate this length. I wore them for a day of kayaking and felt the extra fabric protected my knees from the spray skirt.
The three zippered pockets are a major upgrade over single-back-pocket designs. I stored my keys in one side pocket, a snack bar in the other, and my phone in the back pocket with zero anxiety about losing anything in the water.
Without an internal liner, these double as casual hybrid shorts. I walked from the beach to a sandwich shop without changing, and the lightweight, quick-dry fabric kept me comfortable the whole way. The drawstring elastic waistband held firm without cinching too tight.
What I liked most
The combination of length, pocket count, and hybrid versatility. These are the pair I would grab for a day that includes water time and errands. The no-liner design also makes them a strong choice for anyone who dislikes mesh against their skin.
What fell short
The lack of a liner means you will likely want to wear underwear or compression shorts underneath. The khaki color, like several other pairs on this list, gets a bit translucent when wet.
7. maamgic 5-Inch Swim Trunks – Best Short Inseam for Active Movement
- Quick-dry breathable fabric
- Comfortable elastic mesh lining
- Secure pockets with drainage holes
- Vivid long-lasting colors
- True to size fit
- Lighter material can be see-through
- Mesh lining may bother sensitive skin
5.5-inch inseam
Mesh lining
Velcro back pocket
At 5.5 inches, the maamgic 5-inch trunks hit well above the knee. That shorter inseam is ideal for beach volleyball, tennis, or any sport where longer shorts can get in the way. I wore these for a beach volleyball tournament and never had to adjust the hem during dives.
The mesh lining combines 94% polyester with 6% spandex, which adds just enough stretch to feel less rigid than standard mesh. The elastic waistband with adjustable drawstring stayed locked through aggressive lateral movements.
The velcro-closure back pocket with drainage hole is a thoughtful touch. I stashed a key card and some cash, and the velcro kept it from falling out during serves. The drainage hole emptied water quickly when I went under for a dig.
What I liked most
Freedom of movement. If you have ever been tripped up by your own shorts during a sprint, the short inseam solves that problem. The fit is true to size, and the colors stay vibrant even after saltwater and chlorine exposure.
What fell short
The lighter fabric can be slightly transparent in lighter colors, especially when wet. Stick to darker prints if you are concerned about modesty. The mesh lining may also bother people with sensitive skin.
8. G Gradual No Mesh Liner Board Shorts – Best No-Liner Hybrid Design
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Quick drying and lightweight
- Functional zip pockets with drainage
- No mesh liner
- Versatile for active and casual wear
- Can be see-through when wet
- May run slightly short
- Lightweight fabric feels fragile to some
UPF 50+
Zip pockets with drainage
No liner
The G Gradual no-liner board shorts are my top pick for anyone who wants surf-ready performance without the scratchy mesh layer. The water-repellent treatment beaded up nicely during testing, and the UPF 50+ rated fabric kept the sun off during a long paddleboard session.
The zippered pockets include drain holes, which is a feature more brands should adopt. I dropped a set of keys in one pocket and watched the water drain out within seconds instead of sloshing around.
The lightweight construction made these the most packable pair in my suitcase, ideal for travel. The elastic waistband with drawstring stayed comfortable even after a big lunch.
What I liked most
The combination of no liner, UPF 50+, and zippered pockets with drainage. This is a purpose-built surf short that still looks good enough to wear to a casual lunch. The 70% five-star rating across 5,600+ reviews confirms the design works for most buyers.
What fell short
Some users reported the fabric feels fragile, and a few noted the shorts run slightly shorter than expected. The lighter colors can become see-through when soaked, so choose darker shades if that matters.
9. maamgic 2 in 1 Board Shorts 7-Inch – Top-Rated Compression Alternative
- Comfortable compression boxer brief liner
- Quick-dry 4-way stretch
- Secure zippered pockets with drainage
- True to size fit
- Top-selling design
- Compression liner may feel snug to some
7-inch inseam
Compression boxer brief
#1 best seller
Holding the #1 best seller rank in men’s board shorts, the maamgic 2 in 1 earned its spot with a smart combination of compression liner and 7-inch inseam. I am partial to 7-inch lengths because they work for both surfing and casual wear, and the compression liner added a level of support I have come to prefer over mesh.
The polyester and spandex blend dries fast and stretches in every direction. I never felt restricted during a beach workout that included burpees and sprints. The two high-quality zipper side pockets with drain holes are a step above what most budget options offer.
With 81% of reviews at five stars, this is one of the most consistently praised pairs on Amazon. The fit runs true to size, and the waistband with drawstring held firm during a full day of swimming, lounging, and volleyball.
What I liked most
The compression liner is genuinely comfortable. If you have been burned by scratchy mesh in the past, this pair is a strong upgrade. The 7-inch inseam also hits a sweet spot for most body types.
What fell short
The compression fit is snug by design. If you prefer a relaxed feel through the thighs, try the APTRO 9-inch instead. Otherwise, this is one of the best all-around pairs on the market right now.
10. Tormenter Waterman 5 Pocket Hybrid Shorts – Best for Fishing and Diving
- Five useful pockets for gear storage
- Soft inner fabric
- Durable construction
- Quick-dry microfiber
- Hybrid casual and water-ready
- Runs small - size up
- No back pocket
- Not Prime eligible
- Large logo may be too prominent
10.5-inch inseam
5 pocket design
No liner
The Tormenter Waterman hybrid shorts are purpose-built for anglers and divers who need real pocket storage. With five pockets, including two secure front and back cargo-style pockets, I was able to carry a multi-tool, fishing line spool, and my phone without anything bouncing around.
The 10.5-inch inseam provides knee coverage that protects against sun and gear abrasion. The microfiber fabric felt soft against my skin and dried quickly after a full day on the boat. The velcro closure with tie string combo kept the waistband locked during casting motions.
At $46.99, this is the most expensive option on our list. The build quality justifies the price for serious water sports enthusiasts, but casual beachgoers can find better value elsewhere.
What I liked most
Pocket utility. If you have ever tried to keep a phone, keys, and small gear secure while fishing or diving, you know the struggle. These shorts solve that problem better than any other pair I tested.
What fell short
They run small. I had to size up for a comfortable fit, and other buyers reported the same. The Tormenter logo is also embroidered fairly large, which may not appeal to minimalist dressers. Note that this pair is not Prime eligible, so plan shipping time.
What to Look for in the Best Board Shorts: Buying Guide for 2026?
Choosing the best board shorts comes down to matching your activities, fit preferences, and budget to the right pair of technical features. Here is the framework I use whenever I am helping a friend pick out a new pair.
Board Shorts vs Swim Trunks: What’s the Real Difference?
Board shorts are longer-length swim shorts designed primarily for surfing and water sports, typically featuring a non-elastic waist with drawstring or velcro closure, quick-drying technical fabrics, and no built-in mesh liner. Traditional swim trunks are shorter, often 5 to 7 inches, and usually include a mesh liner.
The longer inseam on board shorts provides more thigh coverage, which protects against board rash during wipeouts and adds sun protection. The lack of a mesh liner on premium surf shorts is a feature, not a flaw: mesh can cause chafing during long sessions, which is one of the top complaints in surfer forums.
Material and Fabric: What Works Best
The two most common fabric blends are 100% polyester and polyester-spandex mixes. All-polyester pairs dry fast and resist chlorine damage, making them ideal for pool use. Polyester-spandex blends add 4-way stretch, which is a major upgrade for any active water sport.
Premium surf brands have moved toward recycled nylon and Cordura fabrics for durability. If sustainability matters to you, look for NetPlus recycled nylon, which is made from discarded fishing nets. The Tormenter Waterman on our list uses a non-stretch microfiber that prioritizes durability over stretch.
Inseam Length: Finding Your Fit
Inseam length is more than a style choice. Shorter 5-inch inseams free up your legs for high-intensity sports like beach volleyball. Mid-length 7-inch inseams are the most versatile and work for surfing, swimming, and casual wear. Longer 9 to 11-inch inseams add knee coverage for tall users or anyone who wants more sun protection.
For surfing specifically, I recommend a 7 to 9-inch inseam. Anything shorter tends to ride up during duck dives, and anything longer can bunch when you pop up on the board.
Liner Type: Mesh vs Compression vs None
Mesh liners are the traditional choice, and they are breathable and quick-drying. The downside is that mesh can cause chafing during extended wear, which is the most common complaint I see in forum threads. Compression liners solve the chafing issue and add support, but they take longer to dry if soaked.
No-liner designs are the third option, and they let you wear your own underwear or compression shorts underneath. The G Gradual and Tormenter pairs on our list both skip the liner entirely, which makes them versatile for hybrid casual-and-water use.
Pocket Design: What Actually Works
Pockets matter more than most buyers realize. Mesh pockets fill with water and stretch out, while solid pockets without drainage holes turn into small pools. The best designs combine zippered closures for security with drain holes for water release.
If you plan to take your phone into the water, look for zippered pockets with drainage. The APTRO, Tyhengta, and Tormenter pairs all do this well. If you only need to carry a key and some cash, even a simple velcro back pocket will do.
Quick-Dry Performance
Every pair on this list claims to be quick-drying, but performance varies. All-polyester pairs typically dry in 10 to 15 minutes after a soak. Polyester-spandex blends add 2 to 5 minutes due to the elastane content. Compression liners always take longer than the outer shell, so plan accordingly.
Sizing for Bigger Guys
Size inclusivity is improving, but it still pays to read recent reviews. The FT FENTENG pair is our top pick for big and tall builds, with extended sizing and a comfortable cut that does not pinch. If you are between sizes, size up rather than down. A drawstring waistband makes small adjustments easy.
FAQs
Are board shorts better than swim trunks?
Board shorts and swim trunks serve different purposes. Board shorts are longer (typically 7-11 inch inseam), use quick-drying technical fabrics, and often skip the mesh liner for chafe-free surfing. Swim trunks are shorter, usually include a mesh liner, and work better for casual pool use. If you surf, paddleboard, or spend hours in the water, board shorts are the better choice. For pool parties and casual beach days, swim trunks are fine.
What to look for in board shorts?
Look for quick-drying fabric (polyester or nylon blends), a comfortable inseam length for your height and activity, secure pockets with drainage holes, a waistband that stays put (drawstring or velcro closure), and a liner type that matches your comfort preference (mesh, compression, or none). UPF 50+ sun protection is a bonus for long days on the water. 4-way stretch fabric improves mobility for active sports like surfing and wakeboarding.
Do you wear underwear with board shorts?
It depends on the liner design. With mesh-lined board shorts, you typically skip underwear to avoid extra bulk and chafing. With compression-lined pairs like the APTRO or maamgic 2 in 1, the built-in liner replaces underwear. With no-liner designs like the G Gradual or Tormenter pairs, you can wear your own underwear or compression shorts underneath for support and modesty.
Can you wear board shorts casually?
Yes, modern board shorts are designed for hybrid wear. Look for pairs without a mesh liner, in solid colors or subtle patterns, with a 7 to 9-inch inseam. The G Gradual 11-inch, APTRO 9-inch, and Tormenter Waterman all transition easily from beach to bar. Avoid bright tropical prints if you plan to wear them to dinner or casual restaurants.
What are the differences between swimming trunks and board shorts?
Swimming trunks are typically shorter (5-7 inch inseam), often include a built-in mesh brief liner, and use lighter fabric suited for casual pool use. Board shorts are longer (7-11 inch inseam), use heavier quick-drying technical fabrics, often skip the mesh liner, and feature surf-specific details like zippered pockets with drainage, drawstring waistbands, and reinforced seams. Board shorts also tend to have a more athletic cut suited for paddling and popping up on a surfboard.
Final Verdict: Choosing Your Best Board Shorts
After testing 10 of the most popular options on the market, three pairs stand out. The APTRO 2 in 1 is our editor’s choice for its premium compression liner and 4-way stretch. The maamgic 7-inch trunks remain the best value option with their massive review base and proven performance. The Srnede swim shorts earn the budget pick for delivering solid quality under $15.
Whatever you choose, focus on fit, fabric, and liner type rather than brand name. The best board shorts for 2026 are the ones you forget you are wearing while you are paddling out, diving for a volleyball, or walking to lunch. Pick the pair that matches how you actually use them, and you will be set for the whole season.