What Makes Great Board Shorts?

It’s time to move on from the speedos, wetsuits, and volleyball-shorts to a superior form of swim and surfwear. Enter the board shorts, a piece of clothing designed to serve those who like to ride the waves. But what sets apart great board shorts from a sub-standard one?

Let’s dive into the four aspects to look for in board shorts.

Material

Boardshorts are made of nylon or polyester since both are quick-drying and light-weight materials, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. Nylon dries faster than polyester but costs a little more. So it’s the ideal choice for the professional surfer. Polyester adds to the element of elasticity and thus is more comfortable to wear. Some board shorts even have a bit of an Elastane-blend to suit the more casual beach-goer. Pro-tip: Don’t pick cotton board shorts ever. It’ll weigh you down. Good board shorts are light-weight, stretchy, and water-repellent.

Movement 

Don’t pick board shorts solely based on its looks. Always choose performance and durability over what looks good. Good board shorts pass the 4-way stretch with flying colours. A 2-way stretch goes either in the horizontal or vertical direction. But a 4-way stretch moves in all directions. Next, pick seamless over stitched shorts. Or if not, go for board shorts with a thin seam to prevent friction and chaffing of your thighs or genital area.  And finally, look for a waistband with a neoprene front closure rather one made of Velcro for ease of movement.

Fit & finish

A good board short is neither too tight, nor too loose. It fits you right. You don’t want your board shorts to slip off or leave you breathless while you bend the waves. A good fly-system and closure design also add to the fit. Look for one with a fine seam and light finish. The construction and placement of pockets also contribute to the fit-quotient of the board shorts. A pocket with a drain hole or zipper is better than an open one. Side/ front pockets are better than back ones. Pick or better customize board shorts that let you carry your essentials like your fin keys, wax combs, etc. with ease.

Length

Board shorts are constructed to be longer than other swimwear. This is to prevent surfers from chaffing or hurting their skin due to the layered wax on the surfboard, which is added to provide additional stability. That, by default, rules out short board shorts. However, longer board shorts while being protective can also restrict swift movement and lead to ‘knee drag’. The ideal length for board shorts is somewhere between short and long.

The perfect pair of board shorts is the one that fits and suits you to the T. And, what’s better than you getting to decide? Now, you customize board shorts according to your preferences.

With Dunstan board shorts, you get to pick your own style, design, size, fabric and every other detail. Make your own Dunstan board shorts now!