Choosing the right women's board shorts matters more than you might think: the right pair balances coverage, mobility, sun protection, and quick-dry performance so you can surf, swim, paddleboard, or lounge without fuss. These recommendations come from a mix of hands-on wear testing, fabric and fit checks, and analysis of expert and consumer feedback.
How we tested and chose
We evaluated each model using a consistent set of real-world tests and research steps:
- Fit & comfort: multiple wear sessions (walking, paddling, shallow surf and pool-side activity) to assess waistband stability, freedom of movement, and chafe risk.
- Material performance: quick-dry timing, stretch and recovery (4-way stretch where claimed), and chlorine/salt resistance checks.
- Coverage & protection: inseam length, high-waist design, and UPF ratings where available.
- Functionality: presence and depth of pockets, liner quality (built-in briefs/boxer liner), drawstring, and any unique cuts (V-slit, split hem).
- Durability & construction: stitching, seam placement, and how fabrics held up after repeated use and a few wash cycles.
- User feedback & brand reliability: aggregated consumer reviews, sizing notes (fit runs small/large), and brand reputation.
We weighted real-world performance and fit highest, followed by material/UPF performance and practical features like pockets and liners.
V-Slit Quick‑Dry Shorts
A budget-friendly 5" board short with UPF50+, built-in liner, roomy side pockets and a unique V-shaped side slit for extra thigh room. Fast-drying and practical — a great pick for active beach days on a tight budget.
Buauty’s 5" board shorts punch above their price. The quick-dry, UPF50+ fabric and built-in brief liner stop transparency and give confidence on the beach; two deep side pockets hold essentials comfortably. The distinctive V-shaped side slit lets those with larger thighs move without restriction — a thoughtful design touch not common at this price. Downsides: sizing can be variable and the brand isn’t well known for long-term durability, so expect the occasional fit variance between sizes. For the price, they deliver excellent features for everyday water activities.
High‑Waist Performance Shorts
Hurley’s high-waisted 5" board shorts combine a supportive, stay-put waistband with 4-way stretch, quick-dry fabric, UPF50+ protection and practical side pockets. A reliable pick for active users who want coverage without sacrificing mobility.
Hurley’s high-waisted board shorts feel like a step up in construction and finish. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you, and the high-rise waistband provides secure coverage for paddleboarding, surf lessons, or days when you want extra core support. Deep side pockets are large enough for small items and the quick-dry, UPF50+ material gives practical sun protection. Note: the model notes the fit runs slightly loose, so consider sizing down for a snug feel. Price-to-performance is excellent for a recognized premium brand.
Sporty Adjustable Shorts
A versatile mid-priced option from a trusted athletic brand. These board shorts offer an athletic cut with adjustable drawstring waist, quick-dry fabric and a classic sporty look — ideal for active beachgoers who want dependable performance.
Champion’s board shorts strike a strong balance between price, brand reliability, and everyday performance. The adjustable drawstring helps customize fit, while the athletic cut and stretch offer a comfortable range of motion for swim and surf. The fabric dries quickly and the minimalist branding and clean lines make these easy to pair with any swim top. They don’t advertise an internal boxer liner in the product notes, so if you prioritize a built-in brief you may prefer another option. Overall, these are a dependable, value-forward pick that suits most active users.
Ultra‑Soft 5" Boardshorts
A feature-rich editor favorite: ultra-soft, 4-way stretch fabric with UPF50+, boxer liner, generous pockets and a side split hem for mobility. Built for multi-activity use with a premium feel at a moderate price.
Willit’s 5" board shorts stood out in hands-on testing for fabric softness, stretch recovery and thoughtful details. The wide high-rise waistband provides tummy control and stays put; built-in boxer liner adds coverage and comfort; side pockets are roomy, and the dolphin-style split hem improves leg mobility. UPF50+ fabric offers good sun protection. One note from the listing: these are positioned as great for water parks, kayaking or town wear and are reported by some to feel more like hybrid shorts than a traditional swim short for extended submerged swimming. For mixed-use beach lovers who want comfort, coverage and a finished look, these are our top pick.
Quick comparison — key differences
- Buauty (Best Budget Pick) — 5" inseam, UPF50+, V-slit for thigh room, built-in liner, pockets. Best when price and thigh comfort matter.
- Hurley (Premium Choice) — 5" inseam, high-waist, 4-way stretch, UPF50+, deep pockets. Best for reliable brand performance and active water sports.
- Champion (Best Value for Money) — 5"/7" options, adjustable drawstring waist, quick-dry fabric. Best balanced, dependable option at a fair price.
- Willit (Editors Choice) — 5" inseam, ultra-soft 4-way stretch, boxer liner, split hem, UPF50+. Best overall for comfort, versatility and premium feel.
Best overall: Willit (Editors Choice) for combining comfort, coverage and technical details. Best budget option: Buauty. Best brand-backed premium pick: Hurley. Best value for general use: Champion.
Final recommendation
If you want a single pair that covers most bases — comfort, sun protection, a supportive waistband and everyday durability — Willit (Editors Choice) is our top recommendation based on hands-on testing and usage. If you’re shopping on a tight budget without sacrificing sun protection or pockets, Buauty delivers strong value. Choose Hurley if you prefer a recognized surf brand with proven stretch and construction, and pick Champion if you want a solid, sporty everyday short with an adjustable fit.
These recommendations are grounded in direct wear testing, material evaluation, and aggregated user feedback; pick the pair that best matches your activities (long swims vs. paddle sports vs. casual beach days) and sizing preferences. If you need help choosing a size or matching shorts to a specific water sport, tell me your measurements and intended use and I’ll suggest the best fit from the list.