Board Shorts vs Swim Trunks: What Is the Difference?

Published: 2026-02-04

Buyers use "boardshorts," "board shorts," "swim trunks," "swim shorts," "beach shorts" and "volley shorts" almost interchangeably — but there are real construction differences that matter when you are designing a product line. Here is what actually separates them, and why it matters for manufacturing.

The Short Answer

Boardshorts are technical, water-sports shorts — usually longer, with a fitted (often non-elastic) waistband and secure closure, made for surfing and high-impact use. Swim trunks are more casual, usually shorter, with an elastic waistband with drawstring, made for general swimming and beachwear. Both are quick-dry; the difference is in the design intent.

Boardshorts: Technical Water Sports

• Length — typically at or just above the knee (18–22 inch outseam for men).
• Waistband — often fixed or fitted, with a lace-up drawstring that does not loosen in waves.
• Fabric — 4-way stretch, high abrasion resistance, fast-dry, sometimes with a welded or glued seam.
• Features — secure pocket with drainage, rust-proof eyelets, sometimes a 2-in-1 compression liner.

Swim Trunks: Casual Beach & Pool

• Length — shorter, mid-thigh (usually 14–17 inch outseam).
• Waistband — elastic waist with adjustable drawstring for comfort.
• Fabric — quick-dry polyester or nylon, often plain weave; stretch is optional.
• Features — mesh liner or none, side pockets, bold all-over prints are very common.

Where the Terms Overlap

In many markets the words are used loosely: "swim trunks" sometimes means any boardshort, and "board shorts" is used for casual elastic-waist shorts. "Volley shorts" usually means swim trunks with an elastic waist and full mesh liner. "Beach shorts" and "swim shorts" are broad casual terms. For branding, what matters is that your product title, labels and packaging use the term your target customer actually searches for.

Why This Matters for Manufacturing

Because the construction is different, a boardshort and a swim trunk are not the same production run. If you are building a range, tell your factory which silhouette each style is: waistband type, length, liner, closure and fabric all change the sampling and the cost. A good OEM factory can produce both, and can help you position each style for the right market.

Which Should You Make?

If you are selling to surf and active customers, lead with boardshorts. If you are selling casual beachwear or a family range, lead with swim trunks and add bold prints. Many brands sell both — boardshorts as the technical hero product, swim trunks as the volume, impulse-purchase item.

Frequently Asked Questions