Boardshorts

Boardshorts, have evolved over the last fifty years and separated themselves from the simpler swim trunks category that they originated from. In the beginning, change happened organically - individual solutions born out of the need to address environmental requirements and inadequacies in a garment that was increasingly used specifically for the activity of surfing. Although they are now considered a popular form of general beachwear, much of today's mass consumer acceptance is based on competing brands marketing themselves as being authentic due to their historical roots within the surfing lifestyle and their product's technical authority. Originally known as Surf Trunks, later as Jams, and occasionally in British English as swim shorts, boardshorts are a style of men's and, more recently, women's

The name "boardshorts" is based on their use in aquatic sports that use a board, such as surfing. They are also sometimes called "boardies" in slang, especially in Australia, and "baggies" in South Africa.

Boardshorts are especially popular in North America and spread beyond surfing especially as the skater punk fashion trend got underway. They are also typically worn in men's beach volleyball. They are less popular in other parts of the world, where other suit styles are preferred.

Boardshorts are designed to be quick-drying, and are generally made from strong and smooth polyester or nylon material. They are durable and hold up to wear from contact with a surfboard, yet are comfortable and light-weight. They are well-adapted to use in various active watersports.

Boardshorts do not have an elastic waist like many swim shorts do; instead they have a more rigid waistband which opens at the front, often with a velcro fly. The waistband is also held together at the front with a lace-up tie. This double fail-safe system is in order to ensure that the shorts cannot be pulled off the body by the force of the wave when a surfer is tumbled under water during a wipeout. Another common feature of authentic surfing boardshort design is a very small pocket sealed with velcro and vented with a grommet. This is designed to be a secure place to carry a car key, house key, or hotel key card while in the water. Boardshorts traditionally have no lining, unlike traditional swim shorts.

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