When it comes to summer, not all shorts are created equal. While regular swim trunks are fine for a quick dip, a great pair of mens board shorts is an essential piece of performance gear for anyone who loves spending time in and on the water.
Originally designed for surfers, board shorts are built to withstand waves, sun, and sand while offering maximum comfort and mobility. But what really separates them from a standard pair of swim trunks?
Board Shorts vs. Swim Trunks: What's the Difference?
Many men use the terms interchangeably, but they are designed for different purposes. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right gear for your needs.
Feature |
Board Shorts |
Traditional Swim Trunks |
Waistband |
Fixed, non-elastic with a tie-front |
Elastic waistband with a simple drawstring |
Fit |
Looser, longer fit for mobility |
Shorter, often with an inner mesh lining |
Primary Use |
Active water sports (surfing, wakeboarding) |
Casual swimming, lounging, recreation |
Material |
Durable, high-performance technical fabric |
Typically simple nylon or polyester |
Now that you know why you need true board shorts for an active day, here are the four key factors to look for to find the perfect pair.
Factor 1: It All Starts with the Fit
The most critical feature of a board short is its secure, performance-oriented fit.
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The Waistband: True board shorts have a non-elastic, fixed waistband that closes with a tie-front lace system. This isn't just for looks—it’s designed to ensure your shorts stay securely in place, even when you’re hit by a wave.
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The Fly: Look for a comfortable, streamlined fly design (often a simple neoprene or fabric flap with Velcro) that won't bulge or chafe.
At JAMS World, our board shorts are engineered with a secure tie-front closure and a smooth fly, providing a reliable and comfortable fit that stays put through any activity.
Factor 2: Finding Your Perfect Length (The Outseam)
Board short length is a matter of both personal style and function. The length is measured by the "outseam"—the distance from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the hem on the outside of the leg.
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Short (17-18 inch outseam): Hits mid-thigh. This length offers the most freedom of movement and has a modern, athletic look.
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Medium (19-20 inch outseam): The classic choice. It typically hits just above the knee and is the sweet spot for most men, balancing mobility with coverage.
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Long (21+ inch outseam): An old-school surf style that falls at or below the knee, offering more sun protection.
Our JAMS World board shorts feature a versatile 19-inch outseam, hitting that perfect midpoint for style, comfort, and performance.
Factor 3: Fabric is Function
The material of your board shorts determines how they perform and how long they last. The best board shorts for men are defined by their fabric.
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Quick-Drying: Nobody likes sitting around in soggy shorts. High-quality board shorts are made from synthetic materials that shed water and dry rapidly.
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Durability: The fabric needs to be tough enough to handle sun, saltwater, and abrasion from sand or a surfboard.
Our mens board swim shorts are crafted from a high-performance, 100% polyester microfiber. This advanced fabric is both incredibly durable and exceptionally quick-drying, so you can go from the ocean to the boardwalk cafe without feeling waterlogged.
Factor 4: Design That Makes a Statement
Once you've nailed the technical features, it's time to think about style. Your board shorts are an opportunity to express your personality.
This is where JAMS World truly stands apart. Why blend in when you can wear art? Each pair of our board shorts features a limited-edition, custom print derived from original, hand-painted artwork. These vibrant, colorful designs are a world away from generic, mass-produced shorts, allowing you to showcase your individual style.
Make Them Last: How to Care For Your Board Shorts
A purchase from JAMS World is an investment in quality. A little care goes a long way in preserving the color and fabric integrity of your shorts for years to come.
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Rinse After Every Use: This is the most important step! Rinse your shorts with fresh, cool water immediately after use to remove salt, chlorine, and sand.
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Wash with Care: Turn your shorts inside out and machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
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Hang to Dry: Always hang your board shorts to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Never put them in a machine dryer, as the high heat can damage the fabric and fade the vibrant prints.
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Avoid Bleach: Bleach will ruin the color and weaken the material.
The perfect pair of board shorts doesn't force you to choose between performance and style—it delivers both.
Ready to find a pair that performs as good as it looks?