All About Board Shorts

Not just for men, there are cool and comfortable board shorts made for women and children beach lovers as well. Boardshorts or surf shorts are comfortable and practical for surfing, body surfing, water skiing and wakeboarding. Plus, they look great for just hanging out at the beach or cruising down the boardwalk, whether on a bike or in your flip flops.

Children can play in the sand and surf in girl or boy boardshorts. In general, womens boardshorts are a bit shorter and lower cut. But they come in longer styles too. Wear with a bikini or rashguard.

Check out the box below for a selection of girl's board shorts currently available on eBay...

Most boardshorts are made from some form of Polyester Micro fibers, which are quick drying. Short made from these fabrics are also lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Polyester/Spandex blends are becoming increasingly popular, due to comfort, quick drying ability, and their (light) stretch appeal.

Some of the shorts are made with nylons and nylon blends. These are also quick drying and lightweight, but if heavily textured, they have a tendency to be chafing. Baja Nylon is one of the types that don't have this problem.

Neoprene or mesh panels are sometimes used for added stretch function.

Before buying, consider the following, depending on what you plan to do in your boardshorts:

• What is the best length for your purposes? For man board shorts, 21" and 22" are the most common. This goes to just above the knee usually.

  The mid thigh length is starting to get more popular. This includes the 18" to 20" range on most men of average height.

  Board shorts that go below the knee are in the 23" to 24" range. These are worn mainly on land, as they are not so practical in the surf.

• How do they look? Many styles, patterns and lengths are available.
• Are they lined? Mesh linings are comfortable, but add weight and drying time.
• Is there a pocket for your keys, money, cell phone? Most come with a pocket with a drain hole, or a mesh pocket that doesn't hold water. Some have a lanyard attached to secure a key while you are in the water.
• Are the shorts strong enough to withstand your best boating, surfing or other sport maneuvers?
• Are they fastened with Velcro? This can be uncomfortable to some. An alternative type of fly is made with Lycra or Neoprene, but these don't open completely.
• Is there a drawstring? Is the waist adjustable?

To wash boardshorts, use cold water with mild soap on the delicate cycle. Hang to dry.

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