What Is the Difference Between Board Shorts and Swim Trunks?

What is the difference between board shorts and swim trunks? Think of it this way. Swim trunks are made for relaxed beach days and long afternoons by the pool that turn into sunset drinks. Board shorts, on the other hand, are purpose-built for action, from surfing to high-adrenaline water sports.

Both are made for the water, but they do things a little differently.

Firstly, board shorts are typically longer than swim trunks. They also feature a fixed waistband, often secured by velcro and a drawstring, whereas swim trunks have an elasticated waistband drawstring for ease and comfort.

You’ll also find swim trunks come with a breathable mesh lining, designed to keep you comfortable and help stop fabric clinging to your legs after a dip. Board shorts skip the lining to keep them streamlined and performance-ready.

What Are Board Shorts?

Board shorts are a style of men’s swimwear created for surfing, diving and other high-energy water sports. Originally developed in the late 1940s by Japanese-Hawaiian tailor Minouri Nii on Oahu, they’re designed to perform in the ocean, prioritising movement, durability and a secure fit.

Unlike swim trunks, board shorts are built with more technical features that help them stay in place and reduce friction during activity. Board shorts generally feature a longer outer seam as well. Longer shorts make for more protection for the thighs and knees while surfing and taking part in high-energy watersports.

What Are Swim Trunks?

Swim trunks, swimming trunks or swim shorts, are your holiday essential. Designed for casual days in the water, swim trunks prioritise comfort, ease and everyday use. They’re the go-to choice for relaxed beach days and poolside days.

Created with versatility and style in mind, swim trunks are crafted from lightweight, quick-drying materials that feel soft against the skin. They also tend to include practical comfort details such as side and back pockets and an adjustable drawstring waist. The breathable mesh lining also makes swim trunks great for all-day wear, taking you from beach to bar without a second thought.

In short, swim trunks balance practicality with a more relaxed, lifestyle-led approach to swimwear.

Love Brand Swim Trunks

At Love Brand, our swim trunks are designed for beach days and island exploring. Our colours take inspiration from coastal holidays, with shades of coconut and deep sea blues. Every print tells a story too, inspired by wildlife and our ongoing mission to protect it. You can read more about our print stories here.

Sustainability is woven into every pair. Each pair of our Staniel swimming trunks is made from recycled materials, saving on average 15 plastic bottles from landfill. We also use sublimation printing, a more eco-friendly option than traditional dying, using less water and generating minimal waste.

So if you're ready for your next escape, in need of the perfect pair of swimming trunks, look no further. Shop our mens designer swim trunks, and we’ll see you on the beach.