Board shorts are not just for surfing anymore. They started as the swimming trunks of choice for surfers, but now virtually anyone involved in an active lifestyle has embraced them. Surfers, skaters, windsurfers, and kayakers have fallen in love with these lightweight, durable, comfortable, and fast drying trunks. Even those who simply want to look like they just came from the beach are buying these shorts, and many people who live in warmer climates opt to wear them as everyday attire.
The board short style evolved from the more traditional style of swimming trunks, but they are not gathered or elasticized at the waistband. Modern versions are more like a combination of swimming trunks and walking shorts. Board shorts are unlined, have a flat, trim line, and close with Velcro, laces and eyelets. Many brands use reinforced stitching to cut down on splitting seams during strenuous physical activities, and also add a small pocket that closes with Velcro for carrying keys or cash.
These shorts are popular with men, women and children, and many of the most popular clothing companies now produce them, inclusing L.L.Bean, Billabong, Hurley, Quicksilver, and Ocean Pacific, among others.
Board shorts are available in a wide range of colors, styles, and fabrics, although the majority are made of nylon for its durability and drip dry quality. They come in a variety of lengths — from short to knee-length. Many feature a contrasting side panel; these panels are often prints that complement the solid color of the main body of the shorts. Hawaiian prints are popular in board shorts, sometimes appearing only on the contrasting panel, and other times, over the entire article of clothing.
If you are going on vacation, this style of shorts are ideal because they take very little space in your luggage, while providing you with casual beachwear options. Whether you plan to challenge the waves, or simply walk along the shore, you will be right in style while wearing your board shorts this summer.