The Wake Edit’s Guide to Board Shorts for Men
The Best Styles for the Jet Ski, Beach, and Beyond
We know that we’ve talked a lot about on-and-off-the-water fashion for her—what should she wear to the beach, which bikinis are best, what swimsuits she can actually wakeboard or jet ski in. Well, now we’re here to give the men the style spotlight, and we’re going to start with the basics: board shorts.
The best board shorts for men are all about function, fit, and fashion. The former is pretty straightforward; you will naturally want something waterproof, quick-drying, and flexible. Finding the right fit and fashion comes down to personal preference. You may prefer a style that’s baggy or tighter, bold and printed or more neutral. We don’t judge either way.
Thus, with that in mind, the 10 best board shorts for men await. From Vuori’s sporty pair to Orlebar Brown elevated pick, there’s a style for every type of man out there.
Best for Performance: Vuori Cruise Board Shorts, $78
Vuori, overall, makes one of the best board shorts on the market. The California lifestyle brand produces a style that has 4-way stretch and quick-drying properties with mesh pockets for quick drainage and two side pockets. The best part? It’s made from recycled materials.
Most Elevated: Orlebar Brown Bulldog Board Shorts, $445
If you want a board short that’s perfect for lounging on a yacht, Orlebar Brown delivers luxury in the forefront of its design. Perfectly printed, these tailored boar shorts bring sophistication to the beach.
Best Minimalist: James Perse Ripstop Board Shorts, $350
Composed of a stretch ripstop nylon, these are as practical as they are chic. A drawstring elastic waistband adds comfort, ample pockets with velcro closure provide sound storage, and simple neutral hues keep it timeless.
Most Versatile: Marine Layer Stretch Board Shorts, Now $44
These shorts were designed to go from the surf break to the beach bar, and they’re also quick-drying, able to hold their own against salt and chlorine, soft, stretchy, and have an extra mesh panel for extra security.
Best for Watersports: O’Neill Hyperfreak Tech Hawaii Board Shorts, $68
Need a new pair to wear surfing or for a day out wakeboarding? O’Neill has you covered. The no-inseam design brings premium comfort, Hyperdry technology dries immediately, and a performance cut allows you to move with ease.
Best for an Italian Vacation: OAS Waver Swim Shorts, $110
Something about these shorts are just calling us to the Amalfi Coast. Maybe it’s the summery blue-and-white striped pattern or the lightweight composition. Either way, we want to wear these at a beautiful beach with a Limoncello spritz in hand.
Most Durable: Patagonia Hydrolock Stitched Board Shorts, $99
For a full day out on the ski, Patagonia’s board shorts are going to keep you riding all day long. Tried and tested by experts at the beloved outdoor apparel and gear purveyor, this high-performance pair has all of the design details we could ask for. Think: a contoured waistband with an innovative locking system to keep the shorts in place, forward set seams that prevent chafing, a self-draining patch pocket, key loop, and an intentionally-textured drawcord that won’t come easily undone.
Most Options: Birdwell 310 Board Shorts, $125
The first Birdwell shorts were born back in 1961 when a surf mom sewed the first pairs for her sons, and the brand has been producing high-quality board shorts ever since. With over 50 years of field testing done by lifeguards and surfers, Birdwell has perfected their design. Case in point: these board shorts.
Best Printed: Derek Rose Swim Trunks, $355
For a bolder look, Derek Rose caters towards those with a printed preference. The exterior features geometric, hand-drawn stylized foliage and a pin-lock zip back pocket, while the interior boasts a seamless inner mesh lining that adds comfort.
