When summer hits, it’s boardshort season. Whether you’re heading to the beach, going for a surf, or just chilling poolside — one common question always comes up:
Should I choose board shorts that are waterproof, or ones that are breathable?
After 15 years in the boardshort manufacturing industry, here’s the truth:
Board shorts are made to get wet — not stay dry.
So instead of chasing “waterproof,” you should be looking for comfort, breathability, and quick-drying features. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Waterproof vs. Breathable – What’s the Difference?
- Waterproof fabric keeps water out. It often has a coating (like DWR) that makes water bead up and roll off.
- Breathable fabric allows heat and sweat to escape, keeping you cooler and more comfortable during activities.
Simple comparison:
- Waterproof = raincoat.
- Breathable = athletic wear.
Board Shorts Are Designed to Get Wet
This is the most important point:
You’re wearing board shorts in the water — so they will get wet.
The real question isn’t how well they resist water, but how quickly they dry, and how comfortable they feel when wet and dry.
That’s why in the boardshort industry, the focus is always on:
- Fast-drying
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Stretchable
The Problem with Fully Waterproof Shorts
Fully waterproof fabrics may sound high-tech, but they’re not ideal for beachwear:
- They’re often stiff and less flexible
- They don’t allow sweat to escape, making you feel hot and sticky
- They don’t move well with your body
- The waterproof coating can wear off after a few washes or saltwater exposure
Unless you’re in icy conditions or layering under a wetsuit, full waterproofing is a downside, not a benefit.
Why Breathability (and Quick-Drying) Matters More
Breathable, fast-drying fabrics keep you:
- Cool during beach sports
- Dry faster after a swim
- Comfortable all day long
This is especially important when you’re switching between land and water — surfing one moment, grabbing tacos the next. Nobody wants soggy, clingy shorts.
Our Recommended Fabric Blend
At Airswimwear, we’ve tested countless fabric combinations. Here’s what works best:
| Fabric Component | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 90–95% Polyester (or Recycled Polyester) | Lightweight, quick-drying, durable |
| 5–10% Spandex (Elastane) | Stretch and flexibility |
| DWR Coating | Light water resistance, helps water bead off |
This combo gives you:
- 4-way stretch
- Fast dry (10–15 minutes in sun)
- Breathable comfort
- Durability in sun, salt, and sand
Behind the Scenes: How We Test Our Fabric
Before we launch any fabric at Airswimwear, we run it through serious testing:
- Dry time tests (how fast does it dry?)
- Stretch and rebound (does it hold shape?)
- Abrasion resistance (will it pill or wear?)
- Saltwater + UV exposure (will it fade or weaken?)
We know what works — not just in a showroom, but on real beaches, with real use.
How to Tell If Board Shorts Use the Right Fabric
Here are a few quick ways to check:
- Feel the fabric: It should be light, soft, and cool to the touch
- Stretch it: Look for 4-way stretch
- Check the label: Look for a blend of polyester and spandex
- Test the dry time: After getting soaked, it should dry in 10–15 minutes under the sun
Final Verdict: Breathable Is Better
If you want board shorts that actually perform, focus on:
- Breathability
- Quick-drying
- Comfort
- Flexibility
Waterproofing sounds great on paper — but in reality, it often leads to stiff, sweaty, and uncomfortable shorts.
Quick FAQ Recap
Q: Do I need waterproof board shorts?
A: No. Board shorts are meant to get wet. Look for quick-dry and breathable materials instead.
Q: What’s the best fabric blend?
A: Polyester + Spandex with a water-repellent (DWR) finish.
Q: How can I tell if a pair of board shorts is good quality?
A: Feel for lightness, check for stretch, and see how quickly it dries after soaking.
Need help choosing the right fabric for your brand or private label board shorts? At Airswimwear, we’ve helped brands worldwide build collections that perform as good as they look. Get in touch — we’re happy to share what works.
