It’s hot as hell outside. It’s next to unbearable in the office even with the air-conditioning on full blast. Turn off your notifications. Disable your e-mail or set an out-of-office response. Pack up the family and the essentials to head out for a last minute, end of season vacation in the fun and sun—just don’t forget your board shorts.
Under Armour Reblek Boardshort
Cards on the table, we didn’t pick the Under Armour Reblek Boardshort for the 2-way stretch fabric construction with an 87/13 mix of polyester and elastane. We also didn’t pick them because of the reliable brand name, the water-resistant fabrics, the secure side pocket or the secure Fly-Tie system that keeps your goods under lock. We picked the Under Armour Reblek Boardshort for the bright red, white and blue striped colorway that they’re available in, but all those technical details don’t hurt when it comes to selling a great pair of surf shorts from a well-known brand. $39
Billabong All Day X Boardshorts
Billabong is a name you’ve likely heard of, or even owned, because they’re a billion dollar international surf company with a number of other brands, like RVCA and Von Zipper, in their portfolio. That kind of reach with those resources leads to great products… like the Billabong All Day X Boardshorts. They’re made with Billabong’s own PX3 4-way stretch fabric which gives them a tight weave and consistent stretch while still snapping back to shape quickly. They feel great whether they’re wet, dry or in action, but the thing we like the most about these board shorts is the unique, single right leg pocket placement. Unlike other options with the single pocket on the right cheek, these are still comfortable when you’re driving your favorite vintage SUV or sitting on an Adirondack chair. $45
O’Neill Loaded Hybrid Shorts
As a brand, O’Neill is as integral to surf culture as Eames is to Danish design. Started more than half a century ago and credited with the invention of the wetsuit, O’Neill has continued to innovate in the world of surf gear for as long as they’ve been around. The O’Neill Loaded Hybrid Shorts are made with a comfortable and water-resistant blend of polyester and elastane that will stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at you on your summer vacation. Since they’re available with belt loops, pockets and close to thirty different colors, you don’t have to worry about changing before dinner on the beach. $50
RVCA VA Boardshorts
With a Surf Team more than twenty people deep it should come as no surprise that RVCA knows how to make a great pair of board shorts. The RVCA VA Boardshorts, pictured here in the Tawny Port colorway that features black accents, are a great pair of simple shorts built using a blend of polyster and elastane dobby with a zipper and drawstring closure at the fly. The slim profile means there are no traditional side pockets, but these shorts do have a pocket on the back right with a flap, zipper and hook & loop tape closure. $55
Hurley Phantom JJF 3 Maps Elite Boardshorts
Hurley is an international surf apparel and accessories corporation currently owned by everyone’s favorite sneaker manufacturer, Nike. What makes the Hurley Phantom JJF 3 Elite Boardshorts so special? 86% polyester and 14% Spandex construction. John John Florence—that’s where the JJF comes from—sign off on the pattern and built quality. The 20″ length board shorts give you the freedom, comfort and mobility you’ll need for any watersports while still being built for long term wear with a dry-welded waistband, locked-in EZ fly closure and a front zip pocket for secure storage. $65
Rip Curl Mirage MF Eclipse Boardshorts
Part of the “Big Three” in the surf industry, Rip Curl built this particular pair of board shorts in conjunction with three time World Surf League Champion Mick Fanning to set the standard as the “ultimate board short” in the field. With its twenty-inch outseam, welded side seam, welded waistband, welded hip zipper pocket and advanced hydrophobic stretch fabric the Rip Curl Mirage MF Eclipse Boardshorts combine functionality, durability and comfort in a wearable package that looks like a setting sun. $70
Mack Weldon Board Short
Mack Weldon makes one of the most technically advanced men’s swimsuits on the market in the Mack Weldon Board Short. The appropriately sized boardshorts–their small/medium/large/XL/XXL sizes have less variance than traditional off the rack styles—are built with a 96/4 combination of polyester and spandex, along with a 9″ inseam with a modern fit, to give you a quick-drying pair of shorts that can comfortably be worn from surf to shore while still protecting your valuables and cradling the important bits. $98
