Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just heading to the beach for the weekend, the right pair of boardshorts can make all the difference. After years of crafting beach lifestyle clothing from Huntington Beach, CA, we've put together the definitive guide to finding your perfect pair.
1. Length: Finding Your Fit
Boardshort length comes down to personal style and function. Here's the breakdown:
- 16-18 inch (below the knee): Classic surf look. Maximum coverage and a relaxed, lifestyle feel. Great for casual wear beyond the water.
- 18-21 inch (at the knee): The most versatile length. Works in and out of the water, from the lineup to the lunch spot.
- 21+ inch: Full coverage, popular with longboarders and guys who want a clean, tailored look.
Our men's boardshorts are available in multiple lengths so you can find exactly what works for your style.
2. Fabric: Performance vs. Comfort
The fabric determines how your boardshorts perform in the water and feel on land.
- Polyester blends (85-100%): Quick-dry, lightweight, and built for surf performance. Less stretch but more durable against sand and saltwater.
- Polyester/Elastane (85/15): The sweet spot. Four-way stretch gives you full range of motion in the water while maintaining shape. This is what we use in our Invictus series.
- Microfiber: Ultra-soft, dries fast, and feels great against the skin. Perfect for all-day wear.
3. Waistband: How It Should Fit
A good boardshort should stay put in the surf without being uncomfortable on land. Look for:
- Velcro + drawstring: The gold standard combo - secure in the water, easy to adjust on the beach.
- Elastic waistband: Maximum comfort for casual wear and light water activity.
- Flat front with button: A cleaner, more lifestyle-oriented look for guys who wear their shorts beyond the beach.
4. Pockets: More Than You Think
Don't overlook pockets. A zippered side pocket keeps your car key secure while you're in the water. Mesh-lined side pockets drain quickly so you're not carrying extra water weight. Our boardshorts include both as standard.
5. Print vs. Solid: What's Right for You?
There's no wrong answer - but here's how to think about it:
- Bold prints: Tropical patterns, florals, and graphic prints define the beach lifestyle aesthetic. They photograph well and stand out in the lineup.
- Solids and subtle patterns: More versatile. Easy to pair with any top and appropriate for more settings.
At Pena Life, we do both - from the Invictus Gold Rush bold print to classic solid-colored Volley shorts.
The Bottom Line
The best boardshort is the one you forget you're wearing. Prioritize quick-dry fabric, a secure waistband, and a length that works for how you actually live. Browse our full men's boardshort collection - all orders ship free with free returns.
Live Freestyle. - Pena Life, Huntington Beach, CA