Board shorts and swim trunks can both work for beach days, pool plans, and warm-weather travel. The better choice is less about a strict rule and more about how you want the shorts to look, how much coverage you prefer, and whether you plan to wear them only near the water or as part of a casual outfit.
Here is the simple way to think about it.
The quick difference
Board shorts usually lean more casual and surf-inspired. They often look closer to everyday shorts, which makes them easier to wear with a T-shirt, cap, or light jacket after you leave the beach.
Swim trunks usually feel more swim-focused. They are often the cleaner choice for pool days, hotel trips, or packing one pair of swimwear that does the job without much styling.
Do not assume every pair has the same fabric, lining, inseam, stretch, or drying speed. Those details should come from the product page or supplier information, not from the category name alone.
Choose board shorts if you want more casual wear
Board shorts are a good starting point if you want swimwear that can also pass as casual summer shorts. They make sense for beach walks, boardwalk lunches, vacation photos, and days when you do not want your outfit to look too pool-only.
Start with the BG Board Shorts collection. Two examples to compare are Men's Board Shorts - Striped - Black and Men's Board Shorts - Striped - Blue.
Board shorts may be the better pick if:
- You like a longer or more covered look.
- You want shorts that can be styled with a tee or hat.
- You prefer a print or color that feels like part of an outfit.
- You want something for beach-to-street plans, not just swimming.
Skip board shorts if you want the shortest, simplest pool look or if the product page does not give enough sizing detail for your fit preference.
Choose swim trunks if you want a simpler swimwear choice
Swim trunks are the safer choice when the main job is swimming, hotel pool time, or packing light. They usually look more direct and less styled, which can be exactly what you want for a pool day.
Browse BG's Swimwear and Shorts collection. One product to review is Men's 22-Inch Quick-Dry Swim Trunks with Mesh Liner. If a specific feature matters to you, check the current product page details before buying.
Swim trunks may be the better pick if:
- You want swimwear first, outfit second.
- You prefer a classic poolside look.
- You are shopping for a simple travel pair.
- You want to compare liner, waistband, and pocket details on the product page.
Skip swim trunks if you want a short that reads more like casual daywear.
What to check before buying
Before adding either style to your cart, check four things:
- Size options: Numeric waist sizes and alpha sizes do not always fit the same way.
- Product photos: Look at length, rise, print scale, and how the waistband appears.
- Product details: Do not assume fabric, lining, stretch, care, or drying speed.
- Return terms: If you are unsure, read the policy before ordering.
BG offers free U.S. shipping on orders $50+. Eligible items may be returned within 30 days, while final sale items and gift cards are not returnable. You can review shipping details here: Shipping Policy.
How to style them
If the shorts have a bold print, keep the top simple. A plain tee, tank, or light layer keeps the outfit from looking busy. If the shorts are solid or subtle, a cap can add shape without much effort. Browse BG Hats if you want an easy add-on for a beach or travel outfit.
FAQ
Are board shorts only for surfing?
No. Many shoppers wear board shorts for beach days, vacation, poolside plans, and casual summer outfits. Just check the product details before assuming how they perform in water.
Are swim trunks better for the pool?
Often, yes. Swim trunks usually feel more direct for pool use. The right choice still depends on fit, length, lining, and how you plan to wear them.
Can I wear board shorts with a T-shirt?
Yes. That is one of the easiest ways to make board shorts work away from the water. If the shorts have a strong print, choose a simpler top.