What do you wear under board shorts? Board shorts are a popular choice for both men and women when it comes to beachwear and water activities. While board shorts are designed to be worn without any additional layers, some individuals may prefer to wear something underneath for comfort, support, or modesty. In this article, we will explore different options for what to wear under board shorts, including swimwear, undergarments, and compression shorts. We will also provide considerations for comfort, practicality, and personal preference. Let’s dive into the world of board shorts and the various options for layering underneath.
Swimwear Options:
When it comes to board shorts with pockets, many individuals choose to wear swimwear underneath for comfort and convenience. Let’s explore some swimwear options to consider:
- Swim Trunks: Swim trunks are a popular choice for men to wear underneath board shorts. They provide additional support and coverage, ensuring comfort and preventing any potential chafing or irritation. Swim trunks typically feature an elastic waistband and a mesh lining, similar to that of board shorts.
- Bikini Bottoms: Women often opt for bikini bottoms underneath board shorts. Bikini bottoms offer a comfortable and secure fit while providing coverage. They come in different styles, such as briefs, boy shorts, or hipster bottoms, allowing individuals to choose what suits their personal preference and style.
- Swim Briefs: Swim briefs, also known as speedos, are a form-fitting swimwear option. They provide excellent support and coverage, making them a popular choice for competitive swimmers. Some individuals prefer swim briefs for their streamlined and secure fit when worn under board shorts.
Undergarment Options:
If you prefer to wear undergarments under your board shorts, consider the following options:
- Boxer Briefs: Boxer briefs offer a comfortable and supportive fit for men. They provide coverage and minimize friction, making them suitable for wearing under board shorts. Look for boxer briefs made of moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric to ensure comfort during water activities.
- Boyshorts or Briefs: Women may choose to wear boyshorts or briefs as undergarments under board shorts. These options offer comfort, coverage, and prevent chafing. Opt for seamless or moisture-wicking fabrics to ensure a smooth and comfortable fit.
Compression Shorts:
Compression shorts are another option to consider when wearing board shorts. These tight-fitting shorts provide support, stability, and muscle compression during physical activities. Compression shorts can minimize muscle fatigue and offer added coverage and protection when worn under board shorts. They are particularly popular among athletes and individuals engaging in high-impact water activities.
Considerations for Choosing Undergarments:
Comfort:
The most important consideration when choosing what to wear under board shorts is comfort. Select undergarments or swimwear options that provide a comfortable fit, freedom of movement, and minimal irritation. Consider the fabric’s breathability, moisture-wicking abilities, and whether it dries quickly to ensure comfort during water activities.
Support:
Depending on your personal preference, body type, and level of physical activity, you may require additional support when wearing sports shorts. Choose undergarments or swimwear options that offer adequate support for your specific needs.
Modesty:
Some individuals prefer to wear undergarments or swimwear underneath board shorts for modesty reasons. If modesty is a concern, select options that provide the desired coverage and ensure you feel comfortable and confident.
Layering:
Consider the thickness and fit of your undergarments or swimwear when layering under board shorts. Bulky or ill-fitting layers can cause discomfort, restrict movement, or create a lumpy appearance.
Personal Preference:
Ultimately, what you wear underneath your board shorts is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different options to find what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
How to clean board shorts
Board shorts are a popular choice for beachwear and water sports due to their comfort and durability. Proper cleaning and maintenance of board shorts are essential to extend their lifespan and keep them looking great. Whether your board shorts are covered in sand, saltwater, sunscreen, or other stains, cleaning them correctly will help remove dirt and odors while preserving their quality.
General Care Tips:
Before diving into the specific cleaning methods, consider the following general care tips for board shorts:
- Rinse After Use: Rinse your board shorts with fresh water as soon as possible after wearing them, especially if they come into contact with saltwater, chlorine, or sunscreen. Rinsing helps remove any residue and prevent damage caused by these substances.
- Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Extended exposure to direct sunlight can cause board shorts to fade or deteriorate. Whenever possible, avoid leaving your board shorts in direct sunlight for long periods.
- Hand Wash When Possible: Although some board shorts are safe for machine washing, hand washing is generally recommended to minimize damage to delicate fabrics and secure any embellishments or drawstrings. If machine washing, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Air Dry: After washing, air drying is the best method to preserve the quality and shape of your board shorts. Avoid using a dryer as excessive heat can shrink or damage the fabric.
Cleaning Different Types of Stains:
Depending on the nature of the stain, you may need to use specific cleaning methods for effective stain removal. Let’s explore different types of stains and how to clean them:
- Sand and Dirt: Shake off or brush off any excess sand or dirt from the board shorts. Then, rinse them with fresh water to remove any remaining particles. If needed, hand wash with mild soap and water, gently rubbing the stained areas. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
- Saltwater or Chlorine: Rinse the board shorts with fresh water immediately after exposure to saltwater or chlorine. Hand wash or machine wash with a mild detergent following the fabric care label instructions. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
- Sunscreen or Oils: Spot treat the stained areas with a small amount of liquid dish soap or a mild detergent. Gently rub the fabric together to work the soap in, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat if necessary. Hand wash or machine wash with a mild detergent, following the fabric care label instructions. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
Conclusion:
Board shorts are designed to be worn on their own, but some individuals may prefer to wear undergarments or swimwear for added support, coverage, comfort, or modesty. Whether you choose swim trunks, bikini bottoms, swim briefs, boxer briefs, boyshorts, briefs, compression shorts, or go commando is a personal choice that should prioritize comfort and personal preference. Consider factors such as comfort, support, modesty, layering, and personal style when deciding what to wear under board shorts. Above all, choose what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to enjoy your time in the water.
