What to look for in the perfect boardshort? When it comes to men’s board shorts, not all are created equal. Whether you’re surfing, swimming, training, running trails, or responding to real-world rescues, your boardshorts need to perform as hard as you do. Too many boardshorts on the market look good but fall apart after a single season—causing chafing, restricting movement, or slipping off at the worst possible time.
At Watermen, we set out to build the best boardshorts for men—premium, durable, and trusted by professionals who rely on their gear every day. If you’re searching for short board shorts, mens short surf shorts, or durable board shorts options, here’s exactly what you should look for—and why Watermen delivers the best men’s boardshorts available.
The Problem With Most Men’s Boardshorts
Many guys board shorts today simply aren’t built for real use. Waistbands loosen in the water, poor construction causes chafing and limits range of motion, cheap materials break down after one season, metal components rust or fail, and pockets don’t support real gear. From casual beach days to high-intensity surf sessions, most male board shorts aren’t designed to handle it all.
What Features Matter in the Best Men’s Boardshorts?
When choosing board shorts for guys, durability, comfort, and function should come first. Here’s the checklist Watermen uses when designing the most durable men’s boardshorts on the market.
1. Fabric: Performance That Lasts
The foundation of any best men’s boardshort is fabric. Look for durable or 4-way stretch materials depending on your activity, 1uick-drying fabrics to prevent chafing, water-repellent and moisture-wicking performance, and chlorine proof for pool use.
2. Style & Fit: Built for Movement
Whether you prefer mens board shorts, mens black swim shorts, or mens hybrid shorts, the fit should never restrict movement. Key style factors: Inseam length that supports full range of motion, athletic fit without excess bulk, and minimal seams in high-friction areas. This is especially important for surf shorts men rely on for long sessions in the water.
3. Construction: Overbuilt Where It Counts
The best durable board shorts are engineered, not just styled. Look for reinforced seams and double stitching, velcro-less fly for comfort and longevity, no metal hardware that can corrode, and built to perform, not just look good.
4. Drawcord Through the Waistband
A non-negotiable feature for performance men’s boardshorts. A drawcord threaded through the waistband ensures: secure fit in all conditions, no slipping during surf, swims, or rescues, and confidence whether in waves or on land
5. Functional Pockets That Make Sense
Real boardshorts for guys need real storage. Ideal pocket features include: space for radio, surf wax, CPR mask, or keys, key loops for security, and embroidered drainage eyelets (no metal to rust).
Watermen: Making the Most Durable Men’s Boardshorts
Watermen boardshorts are designed differently. Trusted by elite lifeguards around the world, Watermen builds premium boardshorts that last year after year. These aren’t just the best board shorts for men in the water—they’re made for every environment. From land to sea, Watermen boardshorts perform everywhere. Once you own a pair, they won’t just be your go-to men’s board shorts—they’ll become your favorite shorts for every activity.
Watermen Boardshort Fabrics
Sea Stretch™ Boardshort Fabric
92% Recycled Polyester / 8% Elastane
- Engineered 4-way stretch
- Quick drying
- Moisture wicking & water repellent
- Chlorine proof
- Built for movement and comfort
Perfect for those looking for best boardshorts, mens short surf shorts, or swim shorts with liner-style comfort (without restriction).
Sea Canvas™ Boardshort Fabric
100% Recycled Nylon Sea Canvas
- Durable canvas feel that softens in water
- Dries fast from ocean to mountains
- Chlorine resistant
- Water repellent
- Ideal for rugged, everyday use
This is the go-to fabric for those who demand maximum durability from their men’s boardshorts.
Top-Selling Durable Watermen Boardshorts
Mainstay Sea Stretch™ Boardshort 6”
Our #1 short board shorts option: slightly shorter inseam, maximum mobility, large functional pockets, holds CPR mask, radio, and gear. Perfect for lifeguards, surfers, and anyone wanting high-performance mens board shorts.
Mainstay Sea Stretch™ Boardshort 8”
Our pinnacle performance boardshort: mid-thigh length for all-day comfort, ideal balance of coverage and mobility, and built for serious use in surf and water. One of the best men’s boardshorts available today.
Designed With Purpose, Built to Perform
What to look for in the perfect boardshort? Every Watermen boardshort—whether fixed waist, plus size board shorts, or classic performance fit—is engineered with intent. From inseam length to pocket placement, from seam construction to waistband security, nothing is accidental.
All Watermen boardshorts feature, drawcord through waistband, purpose-built construction, premium recycled materials, and performance-driven design.
If you’re looking for the best board shorts for men, built to last longer than a season and perform beyond the beach, Watermen delivers.
Shop All Watermen Boardshorts
Upgrade to the most durable, trusted, and performance-driven men’s boardshorts on the market.
Watermen — From land to sea. Built for everything.
Watermen Customer Service
Here at Watermen, we take pride in our recurring business and customers. Our customer support is available Monday through Friday from 9-4pm PST. If you are a new or repeat customer, give us a ring if you would like to go through the 2024 with a sales representative. You can discuss all of our Lifeguard Swimwear and Apparel in depth. We are more than happy to provide a quote for any bulk or wholesale inquiries.
Watermen Lifeguard Apparel & Equipment
www.watermenbrand.com
1-800-414-3181