Equipment selection guide
Swim Trunks & Board Shorts Selection Guide
Criteria for choosing the right swim trunks or board shorts for pool, beach, or surf: fabric, liner, inseam length, and intended use.
Define the use first: recreational pool swimming, beach, surfing, or water-to-land casual wear. For frequent chlorinated-pool use, polyester labeled for chlorine resistance may last better; surfing puts more emphasis on stretch, a secure fixed waist, and low-chafe seams. A mesh or compression liner can add support; whether a lineless design needs a separate swim underlayer depends on the garment and activity. Do not confuse inseam and outseam measurements: a 5–7 inch inseam is a shorter, freer cut, while the 20-inch figure on surf board shorts usually refers to the outer seam from waist to hem. Longer loose fabric can create more drag during lap swimming. Check pocket drainage, whether the waist stays secure when wet, seam comfort, and the brand’s size chart.
01
What should you look for?
- Fabric: stated chlorine resistance for frequent pools; stretch and chafe control for surf
- Liner: mesh, compression, or lineless construction suited to support and activity
- Length: distinguish inseam from outseam when choosing movement and coverage
- Waist closure: elastic/drawstring or fixed surf waist that stays secure when wet
- Pockets and seams: drainage, secure closure, and low chafing
02
Who is it for?
- Recreational pool and beach use
- Surfing and paddling in stretchy board shorts with a secure waist
- Quick-drying hybrid shorts for water-to-land use
- People balancing coverage, movement, and liner support
03
When should you avoid it?
- Choosing long, loose board shorts that add drag for lap swimming
- Assuming fabric without a chlorine-resistance claim suits heavy pool use
- Mistaking a 20-inch outseam for a 20-inch inseam
- Ignoring a waist that loosens when wet or seams that chafe
Motion Arc Fit does not sell products. Guides explain selection criteria instead of ranking brands; prices and availability on external links may change.