How to Choose Board Shorts for Boys
By Shop Kids Clothes & toys | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to pick boys board shorts that fit well, dry fast, and last through summer. Compare styles, features, and find the best for your child.
Quick answer
For most boys, choose board shorts with a drawstring waist, quick-drying fabric, and UV protection. Look for a secure fit that allows movement, and consider recycled materials for eco-friendly options.
Why fit matters more than style
Board shorts that are too tight restrict play; too loose and they slip or chafe. A drawstring waistband helps adjust the fit as your child grows, and inner mesh trunks (if present) add comfort and support. Always check the size chart, as sizes vary by brand.
Fabric and features: quick-dry and UV protection
Quick-drying fabric keeps kids comfortable when they move from water to sandcastle building. UV40+ protection adds a layer of defense during sunny days, but it is not a substitute for sunscreen. Recycled materials like GRS-certified post-consumer polyester are a sustainable choice without sacrificing performance.
Printed vs. striped: what's the difference?
Prints add personality and hide stains well, while stripes offer a classic look that pairs easily with any top. Both styles perform the same, so choose based on your child's preference and your wardrobe needs.
Decision rules for choosing board shorts
- Check the waistband: Choose board shorts with a drawstring waistband for a secure, adjustable fit. Avoid elastic-only waists that may lose stretch. Test the drawstring to ensure it tightens smoothly.
- Look for quick-dry fabric: Quick-drying material is essential for comfort and prevents chafing. Avoid heavy cotton that stays wet. Check the fabric label for quick-dry properties.
- Consider UV protection: UV40+ protection adds defense, but always use sunscreen. This feature is a bonus, not a replacement. Pair with a swim shirt for full coverage.
- Decide on style based on use: Prints hide stains and are playful; stripes are classic and mix easily. Choose based on your child's personality and your preference. Buy two pairs to rotate between beach and pool.
- Check for recycled materials: If sustainability matters, look for GRS-certified recycled fabrics. They perform just as well as virgin materials. Look for eco-certifications on the label.
Board shorts we recommend
- Aiden Printed Board Shorts - Sea creature / Sandy: Lightweight, quick-drying material with a drawstring waistband and UV40+ protection. This makes them ideal for active beach days, ensuring comfort and a secure fit.
Aiden Printed Board Shorts - Sea creature / Sandy - Aiden Seersucker Board Shorts - Y/D stripe Riverside / Creme de la creme: Seersucker fabric in a classic stripe, quick-drying with UV40+ protection. Seersucker adds texture and breathability, perfect for warm weather and stylish versatility.
Aiden Seersucker Board Shorts - Y/D stripe Riverside / Creme de la creme - Duke Striped Board Shorts - Stripe Peppermint / Crisp white: Made from 100% GRS-certified post-consumer recycled fabric with inner mesh trunks and UV40+ protection. Eco-friendly and comfortable, with built-in support for extended play.
Who should choose what
Best for
- Active kids who need durable, quick-drying shorts for beach and pool play.
- Parents wanting eco-friendly options with UV protection.
Not for
- Formal swim occasions where a more tailored swim trunk is preferred.
- Very young toddlers who may need a swim diaper underneath.
