How to Choose the Perfect Board Shorts for Bodyboarding
Selecting the right board shorts for bodyboarding can be a daunting task, whether you’re browsing the web or visiting surf shops. With countless options available, finding the ideal pair that combines comfort and performance is key to enjoying your time in the water.
Bodyboarding in Costa Rica - Have the right kit!
Our lead instructors, Rob Barber and Matt ‘Mave’ Davies spend each January and February in central America delivering our Costa Rica and El Salvador bodyboarding trips. These Bodyboard-Holidays run back-to-back over three weeks so they spend all day in their surfing shorts and they need to be comfortable and functional. While on location in Costa Rica, shooting this instructional video, Rob commented “Many of the surfing shorts on the market seem to be over designed, I prefer a simple pair of shorts made by the bodyboarding brand Reflex. I wash them out every day in fresh water and they have lasted for nearly 5 years, that’s a lot of trips!”
Bodyboarding Shorts Summary
- Shorts that sit above the knee are preferred, they don’t restrict movement and reduce drag.
- Minimal pockets are preferred as pockets can get full of water and pull your shorts down!
- An entry system that includes string or very strong velcro in order to keep them on after a heavy wipe out.
- Quick drying material is best as it holds less water.
- It’s a good idea to wear lycra shorts under your board shorts in order to minimise rub.
Bodyboarding Advice from the experts
Rob Barber and Matt ‘Mave’ Davies, offer advice based on decades of experience travelling the globe chasing waves and delivering our epic bodyboard escapes. They recommend opting for shorts that sit above the knee to help prevent rashes and discomfort, allowing for greater freedom of movement while riding. Additionally, board shorts with minimal or no pockets are ideal for reducing drag in the water, and ensuring you don’t lose them!
When searching for the right board shorts, consider key features such as what material they are made of, the fit, and length. Look for lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that provide flexibility and durability in varying water conditions.
If you’d like to join Bodyboard-Holidays in Costa Rica, where they will share a wealth of tips and advice from Rob Barber and his team. From improving your technique to planning your next bodyboarding adventure, our team cater for bodyboard enthusiasts of all levels.
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For those interested in joining our international bodyboard holidays or coaching weekends led by experts like Rob and Matt, visit bodyboard-holidays.com for more information.
