Let’s be honest for a second. There is nothing—absolutely nothing—worse than the sensation of wet, saggy fabric clinging to your thighs like a sad, damp napkin.
It’s currently freezing where I am, but my brain is already checking out of reality and booking flights to somewhere with a humidity index of 90%, which brings me to the absolute nightmare that is shopping for swimwear. If you run or train like I do, you know the struggle. You want coverage, but you don't want to look like you're wearing your dad’s oversized gym trunks from 1995. You want performance, but you don't want to feel like a stuffed sausage in a wetsuit. I’ve spent the last decade tearing through gear, throwing out "high-performance" shorts that rubbed my inner thighs raw after one hour on a paddleboard. So, when I say I’m picky about finding the best womens swim shorts, understand that I am not looking for "cute."
I am looking for survival.
Here is the thing about the surf clothing industry: it lies. It tells you that you can surf, swim, and run in board shorts that have zero stretch. Lies. All of it.
That’s why I need to talk to you about the gear I’ve actually been using lately because it’s the only thing that hasn't made me want to scream mid-paddle. We are talking about Baleaf’s lineup of women's board shorts—specifically the ones designed for humans who actually move their bodies rather than just lying on a towel looking ornamental.
The "Wet Diaper" Effect Is Gone
I took a pair of these board shorts for women down to the coast for a test run. The humidity was offensive. The kind of air that feels like you’re breathing soup. Usually, this is where swimwear fails. It gets heavy. It sags. But these didn't.
The fabric is absurdly light. Like, suspiciously light.
I was expecting that gross, sticky feeling when you get out of the water and wait for your gear to dry, but because of the quick-dry tech (which actually works, unlike 90% of the tags that claim it does), I was bone dry before I even finished loading the kayak back onto the rack. The flatlock seams are a blessing—honestly. If you have ever had a raised seam grind against your skin while covered in salt water for three hours, you know it feels like sandpaper. These have none of that. It’s smooth. It’s quiet.
Let’s Talk About the Waistband (and Snacks)
The biggest design flaw in the history of ladies swim shorts is the waistband. Low-rise board shorts should be illegal. I said what I said. When I’m scrambling up onto a surfboard or diving for a volleyball, I do not want to be worrying about mooning the entire beach.
These shorts have a high-rise waistband that stays put. It sits flat. No digging, no rolling down.
And pockets.
Why is it so hard for brands to give women pockets? I don’t know. But these board shorts for women have side pockets deep enough to actually hold things. I shoved my phone in one and a locker key in the other, and while I wouldn't recommend swimming laps with your iPhone, having a place to put my stuff while walking from the car to the sand is a basic human right that Baleaf actually respects.
Styling This Without Looking Like a Tourist
Look, I’m not a fashion editor. I wear running shoes to grocery stores. But functionality has an aesthetic.
- For the serious water day: Pair the women's surfer board shorts with a tight, long-sleeve rash guard. You’re there to work, not to tan. The UPF 50+ in the shorts matches the vibe.
- For the "I might get in the pool" day: A structured bikini top works perfectly. The shorts give you enough coverage (thanks to the modest inseam) that you don't feel exposed walking to the beach bar.
- For the trail-to-creek run: Throw on a sports bra and a loose tank. These pass as running shorts easily.
The "Don't Ruin Your Gear" Rant
Listen to me closely because I have ruined hundreds of dollars of gear by being lazy. Do not throw your boardshorts women (or any swimwear) into the dryer. Just don't.
The heat kills the elasticity. It turns that nice, stretchy waistband into a crunchy, lifeless loop of sadness. Rinse the salt or chlorine out immediately. Cold water. Hang dry in the shade. That’s it. It takes two minutes. If you treat them right, these shorts will outlast your desire to be in the sun.
The Bottom Line
I don't use words like "perfection" lightly because usually, something sucks. But if you are tired of the chafing, the sagging, and the lack of pockets, these are the best board shorts women can buy right now without taking out a second mortgage. They handle the sweat, the salt, and the movement without getting in your way.
That’s all I ask of my gear: Shut up and let me workout. These deliver.
Q&A
Are these actually squat-proof?
Yes. The material is dense enough that you won't show the world your business when you bend over to pick up your towel.
Do they have that annoying mesh liner?
Depends on the specific model in the collection, but most womens surf board shorts are designed to be worn over a bikini bottom or have a built-in brief that doesn't feel like a cheese grater. Check the specific product details before buying.
Size up or down?
True to size. The waistband is adjustable (drawstring for the win), so if you're between sizes, you can cinch it. Don't go too big or they'll drag when wet.
Can I run in them?
100%. They are basically running shorts that are allowed to get wet. No chafing between the thighs.
Is the UPF 50+ real?
Yes. I burned my shoulders but my thighs were pristine. Wear sunscreen on the rest of your body, obviously.
