Everything You Should Know Before Buying Women's Board Shorts

Women's board shorts mix function and style for water activities. They offer more coverage than regular swimwear. When buying, look at the material first. Quick-dry fabrics with UPF protection work best. Consider the length too. They range from 2-11 inches. Think about the fit as well. You can choose relaxed or fitted styles. Your activity matters in your choice. Surfing needs different features than casual beach wear. The perfect pair should match what you do. It should fit your body shape well. It should give enough coverage and feel comfortable. The design should reflect your personal style too.

Introduction: The Perfect Blend of Style and Functionality

Summer is here and beach days are calling your name. Having the right swimwear can make all the difference. You don't want to spend the day fixing uncomfortable clothes. Women's board shorts have changed a lot over the years. They started as surfwear but now they're stylish options for many water activities. They work great for catching waves or playing beach volleyball. They're even good for just relaxing by the water. The right pair gives you comfort, protection, and confidence.

There are so many choices in the market today. They come in different lengths, materials, fits, and styles. How do you pick the perfect pair for your needs? This guide will help you make a smart choice. You'll learn what to look for in board shorts. We'll cover everything you need to know before buying.

What Are Women's Board Shorts?

Ladies board shorts are longer swimwear that offer more coverage than bikini bottoms. They were first made for surfers but now work for many beach activities. Women's board shorts are known for comfort, quick-drying fabric, and practical features.

The Evolution from Men's Surf Wear to Women's Beach Essential

Board shorts were first made for male surfers in the 1950s and 60s. They have changed a lot since then. Ladies board shorts came out when designers saw a need. Women wanted more coverage than bikini bottoms could offer. They also wanted better freedom to move. Women's board shorts have a more curved fit than men's. They're made to suit women's bodies better. They still keep all the practical features that made them popular.

Key Differences Between Board Shorts and Regular Swim Bottoms

Board shorts are not like normal swim bottoms. They're longer and have a looser fit. They're also made to last longer. Bikini bottoms are small and simple. Board shorts give you more coverage. They protect against chafing and sun damage. They can also prevent scrapes if you're on a surfboard. Most have a good waistband system. This might be a drawstring, elastic, or buttons. They dry quickly and sometimes have mesh linings.

Benefits of Choosing Board Shorts

Women's board shorts offer many advantages over regular swimwear. They give you more coverage and protection. Ladies board shorts also work well for many different activities.

Enhanced Comfort During Activities

Ladies board shorts let you move freely. This is their main appeal. You can paddle through waves without feeling stuck. You can reach for a volleyball with ease. You can hike on beach trails without problems. Women's board shorts won't limit how you move. They're light and well-designed. They won't ride up or bunch when you're active.

Increased Sun Protection

Skin cancer rates are going up around the world. The extra coverage from board shorts helps protect you. It's not just about being modest. Many good board shorts have UPF ratings. This means they block harmful UV rays. You'll need less sunscreen on covered areas. Your risk of sunburn goes down where you're covered.

Versatility Beyond the Beach

Most swimwear only works in the water. Good board shorts work well on land too. You can wear them with a rashguard for morning surfing. Then put on a tank top for lunch at a beach cafe. You won't need to change clothes. They dry fast and look nice. You can wear them in many casual places. They're not just for water sports.

Essential Features to Consider

When buying women's board shorts, pay attention to key features. Material, length, and waistband style will affect how ladies board shorts feel. These features also impact how the shorts perform in water.

Material Matters

The best board shorts use fabrics that dry quickly. Materials like polyester and nylon work well. Blends with some spandex are ideal. They resist water and dry fast. This helps if you go between water and land all day.

Look for board shorts with some stretch in them. A good range is 5-15% elastane or spandex. This lets the fabric move with your body. You won't feel restricted when you're active. Shorts without stretch can feel tight. They might wear out faster too.

Light and breathable fabrics prevent overheating. This matters in hot weather. But very light materials might become see-through when wet. Good board shorts are light but not too thin. They stay opaque even when they're soaked.

Length Options

Short board shorts are 2-4 inches long. They hit high on the thigh. They look sporty and fashionable. They're great for sunbathing and volleyball. They're good when you need to move a lot. But they give less sun protection. Surfers get less protection from board rash too.

Medium board shorts are 5-7 inches long. They hit at mid-thigh. They balance coverage and freedom to move. They work for most water activities. This includes casual swimming and some surfing. This length flatters many body types.

Long board shorts are 8-11 inches long. They reach just above or at the knee. They're great for surfing. They prevent rash on inner thighs. They're good for activities where you need sun protection. People who want modest swimwear like them too. The downside is slightly less freedom to move.

Waistband Styles and Fit

Board shorts usually have fixed elastic waists or drawstrings. Fixed waistbands look smooth and feel comfy. But you can't adjust them much. Drawstrings let you tighten or loosen as needed. Some premium shorts have both elastic and drawstrings. This gives you the best of both options.

The "rise" means where shorts sit on your waist. Low-rise sits below your natural waistline. It looks young and trendy. It might be less secure for active water sports. Mid-rise hits at or just below your navel. It's balanced and comfy for most activities. High-rise goes above your navel. It gives maximum coverage. It has a retro look that's popular again.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Body Type

Your body shape affects which women's board shorts will look best on you. Pick a style of ladies board shorts that works with your natural shape. The right fit will feel good and boost your confidence.

If you have wider hips and thighs, some styles work better. Look for board shorts with a wider waistband. Styles with side details create a balanced look. A mid-thigh length often looks most flattering.

If you have a straight or athletic build, try adding some curves. Board shorts with side ties or ruching can help. Printed patterns add interest too. Shorter lengths show off toned legs well. Adjustable waistbands ensure a good fit on narrow hips.

Full-figured women should look for good stretch content. Aim for 10-15% elastane. Wider waistbands stay in place better. A slightly longer length balances your proportions. Solid side panels with center details create a slimming effect.

Shorter women should avoid very long board shorts. They can overwhelm your frame. Choose shorter styles between 2-5 inches. This creates the look of longer legs. Vertical patterns or side stripes help too. Low-rise options often work well on petite frames.

Special Considerations for Different Activities

The best women's board shorts depend on how you'll use them. Surfing needs sturdy, longer ladies board shorts with good stretch. Swimming laps works better with shorter, streamlined styles.

Serious surfers need special board shorts. Look for longer lengths of 7+ inches. This prevents inner thigh chafing. Get reinforced seams that handle salt water well. Four-way stretch material helps when paddling. Minimal decorations prevent pressure points on the board. Secure pockets hold surf wax or small items.

For swimming laps or water aerobics, go shorter. Lengths of 2-5 inches reduce drag in the water. Fully-lined options won't become see-through when wet. Consider built-in briefs for added support. Look for chlorine-resistant fabrics for pool use.

For casual beach days, focus more on style. Look for trendy prints and decorative details. Consider softer, comfier fabrics over technical ones. Choose styles with useful pockets for small items. Pick colors that match with several tops for more options.

Style Elements and Trends

Ladies board shorts now come in many colors and patterns. Current women's board shorts styles range from bright tropical prints to solid earth tones. The best style is the one that makes you feel confident.

Classic colors like black and navy are always in style. But now women's board shorts come in many colors. Recent trends include earth tones like terracotta and sage green. Bright tropical colors like turquoise and coral are popular too. Even soft pastels are common now. Color-blocking and ombré effects add visual interest.

Patterns range from Hawaiian prints to modern geometric designs. Patterns express your personal style. They add visual texture to your beach outfit. Floral prints never go out of style. Abstract patterns work for those who want subtle designs. Consider your existing swimwear when choosing patterns. Make sure your new shorts match with your tops.

Small design details can make a big difference. Scalloped hems add a feminine touch. Side slits improve how you can move. Contrast stitching looks interesting and often shows better quality. Functional pockets with water drainage keep things secure without getting waterlogged.

Caring for Your Investment

Good board shorts can last several seasons with proper care. Taking time to care for them will save you money. Simple steps will keep them looking new longer.

To make your board shorts last longer, rinse them right away. Do this after they touch salt water or chlorine. Wash them in cold water with mild soap. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Consider hand washing high-performance styles. Turn them inside-out before washing to protect colors.

Between uses, don't wring or twist your shorts. This can damage elastic parts. Let them air dry completely before storing them. This prevents mildew growth. Keep them away from direct sunlight. This prevents color fading. Don't hang them by the waistband. This can stretch the elastic over time.

Where to Shop for Quality Women's Board Shorts

You can find board shorts in many stores and online shops. Surf shops offer specialized options with technical features. Big retailers have more affordable choices in many sizes.

Surf brands like Roxy, Billabong, and Rip Curl offer great features. Their designs are authentic because they work with pro female surfers. Athletic brands like Nike and Under Armour have good options too. They use innovative fabrics and offer inclusive sizing. Each type of store has benefits depending on your needs.

More brands now make eco-friendly board shorts. They use recycled materials, often plastics from oceans. Companies like Patagonia, Outerknown, and Seea lead this trend. They use sustainable manufacturing and materials. These are great options if you care about the environment.

Price Points and What They Deliver

Board shorts come in a wide range of prices. More expensive doesn't always mean better. Know what you're paying for at each price level.

Basic board shorts cost between $15-30. They usually have simple polyester construction. They have standard waistbands and fewer special features. They work for occasional use. But they may fade faster and offer less stretch. They provide minimal UV protection compared to pricier options.

Mid-range options cost $30-60. This price range gives the best value for most users. It balances quality construction with reasonable pricing. Expect better stitching and moderate UPF protection. These shorts have some stretch in the fabric. They typically last several seasons with proper care.

Premium options cost $60-100 or more. High-end board shorts have advanced features. These include four-way stretch fabrics and superior UPF protection. They have ergonomic seam placement and special features for water activities. The initial cost is higher. But they last longer and perform better. This makes them worth it for frequent users.

Conclusion: Making the Perfect Choice

Finding ideal women's board shorts means balancing practicality and style. Think about your main activities and body shape. Consider your specific needs too. This helps narrow down your options. Remember that quality board shorts are an investment. They enhance your comfort and protection during water activities.

There's a perfect pair out there for everyone. You might be a serious surfer needing performance features. You could be a beach volleyball player wanting mobility and style. Or you might just want comfortable coverage. Take time to try different styles and lengths. Find what makes you feel confident and comfortable at the beach.