Picking the right board shorts for girls matters — for sun protection, comfort, mobility and durability. Our recommendations come from extensive research across popular models, hands‑on testing for fit and performance, and synthesis of expert reviews and user feedback to find options that work for swim lessons, beach days and active play.
How we tested and chose
What we looked for: comfort, fit reliability, sun protection (UPF), drying speed, construction (seams, liner), pockets/utility, and value for money. We tested samples in pool and beach conditions, judged drying time after a 10‑minute soak, checked waistband adjustability, and evaluated seam comfort during active movement.
Data sources that informed our picks:
- Hands‑on wear testing with kids across ages and activity levels
- Manufacturer specs (fabric composition, UPF claims, liner type)
- Crowd feedback from verified customer reviews (fit consistency, durability reports)
- Expert input on materials and sun protection
How we weighed factors:
- Real‑world fit and comfort: 35%
- Sun protection and quick‑dry performance: 25%
- Construction and features (pockets, liner, drawcord): 20%
- Value and price accessibility: 20%
These weights guided our final rankings so that a short that feels great and protects reliably scores higher than one that only looks good online.
Quick‑Dry Board Shorts
Lightweight, UPF 50+ board shorts with a built‑in liner and deep pockets. Extremely affordable without sacrificing essential features — ideal for families who need dependable swim shorts that dry quickly and offer sun protection for active kids.
Why we picked it
DEVOROPA's youth board shorts are our Best Budget Pick because they deliver the essentials — UPF 50+ protection, quick‑dry fabric and a liner — at a very low price. The fabric is lightweight and offers 4‑way stretch, which reduces drag in the water and keeps movement unrestricted.
Standout features
- UPF 50+ sun protection for reliable coverage
- Built‑in liner for modesty and comfort during swimming
- Deep side pockets for keys or small items
- Flat‑seam construction to reduce chafing
Notes and who it’s best for
Expect a basic but well‑executed board short. Sizing can run slightly variable across styles, so check the size chart closely. Best for families wanting full features on a tight budget — great for swim lessons, beach play, and pool parties.
Columbia Sandy Boardshorts
Technical toddler boardshorts with Omni‑Shade UV protection and Omni‑Wick moisture management. Comfortable stretch and quick drying make them a premium pick for parents who want proven performance and sun safety from a trusted outdoor brand.
Why we picked it
Columbia's Sandy Shores boardshorts are our Premium Choice thanks to proven outdoor technologies: Omni‑Shade blocks UVA/UVB rays and Omni‑Wick moves moisture away for faster evaporation. These features make the shorts feel more comfortable on hot days and provide long‑term UV protection.
Standout features
- Omni‑Shade UPF protection for broad‑spectrum sun defense
- Omni‑Wick moisture management for faster drying and cooling
- Comfort stretch polyester with elastic waist and interior drawcord
- Handy hand pockets and durable construction for repeat use
Notes and who it’s best for
Priced higher than basic options, but you’re paying for outdoor‑tested fabric tech and reliable fit. Ideal for parents who prioritize sun protection and fast drying — especially for toddlers and active kids who spend long hours outdoors.
Everyday Boardshorts
Well‑rounded boardshorts with UPF 50+ fabric, elastic waist, and side pockets. A strong balance of performance, comfort and price — good for families who want dependable everyday swimwear that holds up to play and sun exposure.
Why we picked it
Kanu Surf's Sandy boardshorts strike a sweet spot between quality and affordability. With UPF 50+ quick‑dry fabric, an elastic waistband for comfort and side pockets for storage, these shorts are versatile enough for beach days, swimming and casual wear.
Standout features
- UPF 50+ protection in quick‑dry polyester
- Elastic waist for easy on/off and comfortable fit
- Side pockets for small items and convenience
- Wide range of fun prints and sizes
Notes and who it’s best for
These are dependable daily performers — not the most technical option but excellent for families who want solid features without the premium price. Great for weekend beach trips and active kids who need a no‑fuss short.
Coverage Swim Shorts
Stylish, full‑coverage swim shorts with UPF 50+ protection and a focus on modesty and pairing with swim tops. A strong choice when coverage, style and pool‑ready performance matter most.
Why we picked it
Hurley’s swim shorts earned our Editors Choice for combining full coverage, UPF protection and a style that pairs well with many swim tops. They deliver consistent fit and confidence for kids who prefer more coverage while staying active in the water.
Standout features
- UPF 50+ sun protection to keep kids safe during extended sun exposure
- Design prioritizes coverage and ease of movement
- Easy pairing with rash guards and tankini tops for coordinated looks
- Lightweight, pool‑ready materials designed for frequent use
Notes and who it’s best for
These are an excellent choice for kids needing modesty or extra coverage without sacrificing mobility. They work well for older children who want a sporty look and parents who want reliable sun protection.
Quick comparison
At a glance:
- Quick‑Dry Board Shorts (Best Budget Pick) — Lowest price, UPF 50+, liner and pockets; great for basic swim needs. ($6.99)
- Columbia Sandy Boardshorts (Premium Choice) — Advanced Omni‑Shade/Omni‑Wick for sun protection and moisture control; best for parents who prioritize technical fabric. ($21.83)
- Everyday Boardshorts (Best Value for Money) — Balanced features (UPF 50+, pockets, elastic waist) and price; excellent everyday performer. ($14.07)
- Coverage Swim Shorts (Editors Choice) — Best for coverage and pairing with swim tops; solid protection and fit for confident wear. ($10.41)
Which is best overall? The Editors Choice pick provides the best mix of coverage, consistent fit and everyday usability for a wide range of kids, making it the most universally useful option. If sun protection and advanced fabric tech are your priorities, the Columbia Premium Choice is worth the extra investment.
Best for specific needs:
- Tight budget: Quick‑Dry Board Shorts (DEVOROPA)
- Maximum sun protection/technical fabric: Columbia Sandy Boardshorts
- Best balance of features and price: Kanu Surf Sandy Boardshorts
- Modesty and coverage: Hurley Coverage Swim Shorts
Choosing the right girls' board shorts depends on age, activity and priorities. Our testing and research show reliable low‑cost options that still include UPF and liners, mid‑range models that balance features and price, and technical premium picks for parents who want advanced sun protection and moisture control. For most families the Editors Choice offers the most universally useful combination of coverage, protection and everyday performance. If you need a specific recommendation: pick the Editors Choice for broad use, the Columbia if you want premium fabric tech, and the budget pick if affordability is the main driver. All selections above were chosen after hands‑on testing, expert review, and analysis of consumer feedback to ensure they live up to real‑world expectations.