Designing family board shorts is about more than just matching colors—it’s about creating memories. If you’re building a brand that speaks to families, nailing this product can win hearts and repeat customers.
Matching family sets are trending hard, but success is in the details: soft, quick-dry fabrics, safe waistbands for kids, grown-up-approved fits, and playful touches that bring smiles. Design smart, and you’re not just selling shorts—you’re selling beach-day happiness.
Let’s break down exactly how to get it right.
Why Matching Family Board Shorts Are So Popular (And How to Get Yours Right)
Matching sets are more than cute—they’re a statement. I’ve seen firsthand how they connect families and create Instagrammable moments. That’s a win for your brand.
Matching family board shorts are popular because they celebrate togetherness and turn beach trips into photo-worthy memories. But to get it right, balance is key—make them fun for kids, stylish for adults, and practical for everyone. Use unifying prints with subtle variation in cut or detail to cater to all ages.
This guide from Printful talks more about matching family styles.
Also, this article from Oberlo explains the emotional appeal behind the trend.
How to Create Cohesion Without Making Everyone Look Identical
Here’s the trick: shared patterns, but different silhouettes. Maybe mom’s shorts are high-waisted, dad’s are mid-thigh, and kids’ have an elastic waistband and playful side pocket. A small pineapple print can be bold on the kids and more understated on the grown-ups. That’s how you win everyone over.
Best Fabrics for Family Board Shorts: Soft, Quick-Dry, and Built to Last
Nothing ruins a beach day like itchy, soggy shorts. I’ve learned to never compromise on fabric—especially with kids involved.
The best fabric for family board shorts is soft, quick-drying, and durable. Look for polyester blends with four-way stretch for comfort and ease of movement. Water-repellent coatings and UV protection also boost family-friendliness. And don’t forget inner lining—mesh or smooth liners keep things comfy, especially for the little ones.
Check out this overview of swimwear fabric options
And this breakdown from Contrado for more on durability and comfort.
Fabric Choices That Keep Everyone Happy
Parents want quality and safety. Kids want comfort and fun. Fabrics like microfiber polyester check all the boxes. It dries quickly, feels buttery soft, and holds up against sand, sun, and toddler antics. For added peace of mind, opt for OEKO-TEX® certified fabrics to ensure they’re safe for sensitive skin.
| Fabric Type | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Microfiber Polyester | Quick-dry & soft | Great for all ages |
| Recycled Polyester | Eco-friendly | Appeals to eco-conscious families |
| Nylon-Spandex Blend | Extra stretch | Good for active play |
| Cotton-Poly Blend | Natural feel | Dries slower but super soft |
Waistband Matters: Kid-Safe, Parent-Approved Designs for Family Shorts
The waistband is often overlooked—but it can make or break the experience. I’ve heard more than one parent curse a drawstring in the middle of a diaper change.
Choose waistbands that prioritize safety, comfort, and adjustability. For kids, full elastic waistbands with inner mesh lining are ideal. Adults prefer a mix—flat front with drawstring or half-elastic back. Avoid metal parts or sharp edges that might irritate small skin or cause discomfort.
Here’s a practical guide from SwimOutlet
And a breakdown on child-safe clothing elements from CPSIA
Different Ages, Different Needs—One Seamless Look
For toddlers and younger kids, elastic-only is your safest bet. Add a decorative fake drawstring if you want style without function. For older kids, use elastic with an adjustable inner drawcord. Adults usually like a little structure, so a hybrid waistband works best—just make sure the aesthetic aligns across the whole family.
Perfect Fit for Every Age: Inseam Length & Cut Guide for Family Shorts
Finding the right fit across age groups is like playing Tetris—but when done right, it’s magic. I’ve tested dozens of styles to land on what actually works for families.
The key to a good fit is proportion. Toddlers need roomy cuts and shorter inseams for diapers. Older kids benefit from longer inseams for coverage. Adults prefer 5″–7″ inseams for mobility and style. Keep cuts consistent in feel, but adapt length and rise to each body type.
Check out this men’s shorts length guide from Bonobos
And a kid’s fit guide from Primary
Fit by Age Group—What Works Best
| Age Group | Inseam | Cut Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toddlers (1–4 yrs) | 2.5–3″ | Loose | Room for diapers |
| Kids (5–10 yrs) | 3.5–5″ | Relaxed | Modest coverage for play |
| Teens | 5–7″ | Straight | Grown-up look |
| Adults | 5–7″ | Athletic or slim | Style + function |
A consistent leg opening, light stretch, and optional mesh lining help unify the experience, no matter the age.
Features That Sell: Functional Details Parents Love, Fun Touches for Kids
Want to stand out? Focus on the little things. I’ve seen parents fall in love with a product just because of one clever detail.
The best-selling family shorts have useful features for parents and playful elements for kids. Think: pockets with drainage holes, UPF protection, loop tags for sunglasses, or secret zip pockets for keys. For kids? Add things like animal patch embroidery, hidden sea-creature prints inside, or color-change fabrics.
Read this on why utility sells from Entrepreneur
And this fun list of kid-friendly design trends
Design Is in the Details
Parents buy with their heads and hearts. Give them peace of mind with functional features like secure pockets, reinforced stitching, and sand-proof mesh lining. For the kids, make it fun—let the shorts “hide” a treasure map under the flap or turn bright yellow in the sun. Features like these get people talking—and buying.
Boost Sales with Matching Tops and Rash Guards for the Whole Family
When I first offered matching rash guards with our family shorts sets, I didn’t expect the response to be so enthusiastic. Turns out, it’s a no-brainer.
Add matching tops and rash guards to turn a simple short into a complete outfit. Parents love the sun protection and coordinated look. Kids love feeling like part of the team. Go for breathable, UPF-rated fabric and make sure colors match or complement your shorts collection.
Read about the benefits of rash guards from SwimOutlet
And this article on upselling with bundles from Shopify
From One Item to a Whole Look
Offer bundle pricing—buy one set, get 10% off the top. Add prints that cross over: stripes on shorts, solid color on rash guard with a chest logo. Throw in a matching beach bag or bucket hat to round out the look. Not only does this increase AOV, but it also makes families feel fully styled, from sandcastle to snack time.
Make It Gift-Worthy: Packaging Tips That Enhance the Family Experience
Unboxing matters. Especially with family sets. I’ve seen the difference a thoughtful wrap makes—it turns a purchase into a moment.
Good packaging elevates the product experience and makes family board shorts a perfect gift. Use soft tissue, reusable bags, or even custom boxes that show off the set. Include a playful note or checklist: “Sunblock? ✔️ Shades? ✔️ Matching shorts? ✔️” People remember how you made them feel.
Here’s a breakdown of packaging ideas from Lumi
And Mailchimp’s guide on creating unboxing experiences
Packaging Ideas That Build Loyalty
- Reusable mesh beach pouches
- Printed paper wrap with summer doodles
- A tag with “Made for memory-making”
- Fold in a simple thank-you card from “The Beach Crew”
Thoughtful packaging builds brand love—and makes your family sets easy to gift during holidays, birthdays, or baby showers.
Conclusion
Designing family board shorts is about more than just matching prints—it’s about creating shared moments. Get the details right, and you’ll have customers coming back for every beach trip.
Need help creating your own line of custom family board shorts?
Let’s talk at airswimwear.com—I’d love to help bring your vision to life.
