Patagonia Stretch Hydropeak Gerry Lopez ($79)
At 4.7 ounces, these minimalist shorts offer an ultralight option for the surfing vagabond. A durable water-repellent coating expedites the drying process, while the formfitting waistband keeps sand out during beach-break pound-downs.
Vuori Sonic Seamless ($94)
These seven-inch-inseam boardies are unobtrusive when hunting barrels, running sprints, or walking around town. Laser-cut ventilation holes on the inner thigh keep things cool during beach workouts, seamless construction reduces chafing, and the flat drawstring lays comfortably against your stomach when you’re paddling out.
Saxx Cannonball 2N1 ($75)
These lightweight trunks guard against skin-on-skin friction in critical areas for all-day comfort. Credit goes to the breathable mesh liner and a hammock-shaped pouch that keeps the boys in place. The 2N1 comes in stylish prints and has two deep front pockets for stashing cervezas or your phone.
O’Neill Hyperfreak Hydro ($100)
The best boardshorts are the ones you forget you’re wearing. The Hyperfreak Hydro ditches the drawstring in favor of a Velcro closure, has welded inseams and laser-cut hems, and is made from a stretchy poly-elastane blend for unrestricted movement during runs and steep takeoffs.
Howler Brothers Buchannon ($59)
Hard-wearing beach britches with a retro vibe, the Buchanan delivers multi-activity comfort, with tough polyester-spandex construction that doesn’t cling to your legs. There’s no need to change out of them once the cantina calls. We dig the two deep front pockets and the one in back for carrying post-surf burritos.
Outerknown Woolaroo ($125)
Made from 100 percent wool, the Woolaroo goes easy on the environment. The vintage feel grows with each paddle, surf, and lounge session, thanks to naturally breathable merino that gets softer the more you wear it. Plus, they just look classy.