Top 5 Trail-to-Water Boardshorts Reviewed
In this review, we’ll dive into five of our favorite multipurpose boardshorts for men: the KETL Mountain Apparel Alpine Dip, Patagonia Hydropeak, Sendero Point Bar, Roark Chiller, and Howler Bros Deep Set.
When it comes to outdoor adventures in wet and warm environments, having a pair of boardshorts that can do it all makes the journey much more enjoyable. The right boardshorts aren’t just for surfing – they double as hiking shorts, swim trunks, and casual wear, all while keeping you comfortable and prepared for anything. These versatile shorts are built to handle hiking dusty trails, splashing through rivers, paddling on a SUP, and kicking back at camp. Each one brings a unique blend of features like quick-drying fabrics, stretchy comfort, practical pocket designs, and trail-to-water style. Let’s explore what makes each of these boardshorts stand out for the adventurous soul and see where they excel and where they have room to improve.
The Verdict
Best for Multi-Sport Versatility – KETL Alpine Dip Boardshorts: A true hybrid short that seamlessly transitions from mountain hikes to alpine lake plunges, with a stretchy build and functional pockets
Best Sustainable Performance – Patagonia Hydropeak Boardshorts: High-performance surf shorts made with 86% recycled materials and four-way stretch, offering a contoured fit and quick-dry comfort for active pursuits
Best Comfort & Support – Sendero Point Bar Boardshorts: Features a modern built-in liner for all-day comfort and support, plus quick-dry fabric – perfect for long days tubing rivers or beach lounging without chafing
Best Travel-Friendly Style – Roark Chiller Boardshorts: A casual-meets-technical trunk made from an eco-friendly hemp/recycled blend for odor resistance and durability, with ample pockets for travel convenience
Best Elastic-Waist All-Rounder – Howler Bros Deep Set Boardshorts: Retro-volley inspired shorts with a comfy elastic waistband and 7" inseam that excel at both beach games and surf sessions, built with robust stitching for rough use
Now, let’s break down each of these boardshorts in detail, covering their specs, on-trail and in-water performance, versatility, and our personal experiences putting them to the test.
Best for Multi-Sport Versatility:
KETL Mountain Apparel Alpine Dip Boardshorts ($64.95)
The Nitty Gritty:
Inseam & Fit: 7" inseam for a modern above-knee fit that balances freedom of movement with decent coverage. The cut is athletic without being restrictive, and a drawstring closure with a button at the waist ensures they stay put during activity.
Fabric & Stretch: Made from a high-performance blend of 86% polyester and 14% spandex (128 gsm), these shorts are super stretchy, lightweight, and breathable. The four-way stretch fabric moves with you on scrambles and beach runs, and a quick-dry finish means they don’t stay soaked after a swim.
Pockets & Features: Designed as hybrid adventure shorts, the Alpine Dip packs in mesh-lined front pockets for your hands or small items, plus a zippered rear pocket to secure essentials like keys or cards. A handy key loop on the waistband gives extra security for your car key when you dive in. Despite all these features, they weigh just ~174 g in a size M, so they never feel bulky.
+ What We Like:
True Hybrid Versatility: The Alpine Dip shorts seamlessly transition from trail to water. I’ve worn them on a strenuous hike and then jumped straight into an alpine lake – they performed admirably in both scenarios. On the trail, the stretchy, lightweight fabric felt as comfortable as dedicated hiking shorts, and after a swim, they dried in a flash so I could continue my hike without chafing. Few shorts have ever felt so at home in such a range of activities.
Comfort & Mobility: The fabric is impressively soft and flexible. Whether I was high-stepping over rocks or on the beach stretching, the shorts moved with me without any pinching or tight spots. Even the interior seams are smooth, so I experienced no irritation after a full day of wear. The fit is true to size (for reference, I’m about 5'10", 175 lbs and the size L fits comfortably with the drawstring snugged). The button + drawstring combo at the waist gives a secure fit with a touch of adjustability.
Functional Pockets: Unlike many surf-style boardshorts, the KETL Alpine Dip includes usable pockets that make them practical for daily wear. I loved having two front pockets for quick stashing of a pocket knife and trail snacks when hiking. They’re mesh-lined, so they drain water quickly and don’t balloon out in the lake. The zippered back pocket is clutch for keeping a wallet or keys safe; I used the integrated key loop to tether my car key, which gave me peace of mind while swimming hard.
- What We Don’t Like:
Limited Coverage: With a 7" inseam, these shorts hit lower to mid-thigh, which is great for mobility and modern style, but some traditionalists might prefer a longer boardshort for knee coverage or sun protection. If you’re used to knee-length trunks, the shorter cut of the Alpine Dip may take some getting used to (on the flip side, we found it perfect for athletic endeavors).
On multi-day camping trips, the KETL Alpine Dip became my go-to short because of how adaptable they are. One weekend, I wore them to paddle a kayak in the morning, hike all afternoon, and even to a casual dinner at a lakeside café in the evening. The style is simple and solid-colored (mine are a deep maroon color) with a subtle logo, so they don’t scream “swim trunks” if you wear them around town. After days of use, they didn’t develop any funky odors, and a quick rinse in the river and overnight hang-dry had them fresh enough to wear again. The durable water repellent finish helped light rain roll off during a drizzly hike, and even after scraping against a few rocks, the fabric showed no snags or scars. For anyone who wants one pair of shorts that can handle morning surf, an afternoon hike, and everything in between, KETL absolutely delivers that capability.
Overall, the Alpine Dip Boardshorts stand out as an exceptionally well-rounded piece of gear. They excel as trail shorts thanks to the stretch and pockets, and they’re completely at home in the water due to the quick-dry, lightweight fabric. Aside from wishing they came in a longer option for those who want it, we found little to fault. KETL’s attention to versatility and comfort (not to mention their promise of lifetime free repairs, which speaks to the build quality) makes these boardshorts a top pick for any adventure where you might get wet, break a sweat, or both.
Best Sustainable Performance:
Patagonia Men’s Hydropeak Boardshorts ($75)
The Nitty Gritty:
Fabric & Sustainability: Patagonia’s Hydropeak boardshorts are made of 86% recycled polyester and 14% spandex in a lightweight plain-weave that comes in at about 4.8 oz/yd². Despite the featherweight feel, the fabric is tough and has excellent four-way stretch for unrestricted motion. It’s also coated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish that’s PFC/PFAS-free, aligning with Patagonia’s eco-friendly ethos. You can expect these trunks to shed water quickly and not cling or chafe.
Design & Fit: These shorts have an athletic performance fit with a contoured, non-elastic waistband that lies flat and stays put during dynamic movements. They come in multiple lengths, notably an 18" outseam (~7-8" inseam) and a longer 21" outseam for those who prefer more coverage. The cut is relatively slim to reduce drag in the water, and smooth, chafe-free seams (some seams are bonded or flatlock) prevent irritation during activities like surfing. A textured drawcord at the front helps keep the tie knot secure, even in pounding surf.
Pockets & Features: The standard Hydropeak boardshorts have a minimalist pocket setup: a single hip pocket (right-rear) with a flap or zipper, which includes drainage holes and an internal key loop for security. This keeps the shorts streamlined for water sports. Patagonia also offers a “Side Shore” Hydropeak variant that adds two side seam pockets with mesh bags (plus the rear pocket), explicitly designed to be worn both in and out of the surf. Either way, all pockets are low-profile and won’t billow. The shorts are Fair Trade Certified sewn, reflecting Patagonia’s commitment to ethical manufacturing. Weight is around 170 g (6 oz) for the 18" version, keeping them ultra-packable.
+ What We Like:
Lightweight Comfort: The Hydropeaks feel almost invisible on – they’re that light and quick-drying. During a recent paddleboarding outing, these shorts never once felt waterlogged; the DWR-treated fabric literally repels water, so you don’t get that heavy, saggy feeling even after an accidental dunk. On a hot day hiking a coastal trail, the material’s breathability and lightness were equally appreciated; they never got swampy, and a brief rest in the sun had them dry out completely within minutes after a quick ocean dip.
Stretch & Performance: True to Patagonia’s surf roots, these shorts shine in high-mobility activities. The four-way stretch is excellent – while surfing, we could squat, twist, and pop up on the board without any resistance from the shorts. The contoured waistband and secure drawstring kept them from sliding, even when getting thrashed by waves. We also took them cliff jumping, and the lack of inseam or crotch binding meant 100% focus on the jump, 0% on the shorts. They simply move with you. For swimmers and surfers, the Hydropeaks offer a superb range of motion and zero chafe.
Eco and Quality: We love that these are made from mostly recycled materials without sacrificing performance. Patagonia’s quality is evident – after a season of use, the Hydropeaks show virtually no signs of wear. The stitching and even the glued seams are holding up great, and the fabric has proven resistant to abrasion (sharp rocks and board wax haven’t fazed it). The design is timeless and comes in a variety of colors/patterns, from subtle solids to wild prints, appealing to both the trail minimalist and the beach stylist. Knowing they’re Fair Trade sewn and bluesign® approved is icing on the cake, letting you adventure with a (slightly) lower footprint.
- What We Don’t Like:
Limited Storage Off-Water: With the standard Hydropeak design, you get just one back pocket. This is fine in the water (where less is more), but on land it means you won’t have front hand pockets to casually slip your hands or to store extras. The Side Shore variant solves this with side pockets, so we’d recommend that version for true hybrid use – but it comes at a slightly higher price and wasn’t the version we initially tested. If you stick with the minimalist pocket setup, be ready to carry essentials in a daypack or use that single pocket wisely.
Slim Fit for Muscular Thighs: The athletic cut, while great for reducing drag, can feel a bit snug on land for those with larger thighs or glutes. One of our testers with a weightlifter build found the shorts tight when doing steep uphill hiking, especially the longer 21" outseam model, which has a bit more surface area to bind. Sizing up one step solved the issue, but then the waist was a tad loose. If you have a stocky build, consider trying them on or opt for the shorter length, which naturally offers a bit more mobility.
Price Point: Patagonia gear is premium, and at around $75-$85, the Hydropeak Boardshorts are not cheap. You do get top-notch materials and ethical production for that cost, but budget-conscious adventurers might find more affordable hybrid shorts, albeit with compromises in fabric quality or sustainability. That said, our Patagonia shorts have lasted multiple seasons, so in the long run, they justify the investment.
Despite a couple of caveats, the Patagonia Hydropeak Boardshorts deliver phenomenal performance for both water sports and light land activities. I took them on a surf-and-turf road trip down California’s coast – I could surf in the morning, rinse off and hike to a waterfall in the afternoon, and even use them as casual shorts at a seaside brewery afterward. Styled with a t-shirt, they look like regular shorts (especially the neutral-colored pair I have), so you don’t feel out of place grabbing lunch in town. I particularly appreciated the rear pocket’s key loop; it kept my rental car key safe through many surf sessions. Another high mark was how fast these trunks dry – by the time I packed up my surfboard and got to the trailhead, the shorts were dry enough that I didn’t hesitate to throw on a backpack (no dreaded wet backprint on my pack).
For adventurers who prioritize low weight, high mobility, and sustainability – and who maybe plan their days around catching waves and peaks – the Hydropeak is a stellar choice. Just decide if you need the extra pockets of the Side Shore version for your use case. In our experience, if your adventures skew more toward water and you carry a hip pack or backpack on hikes, the standard Hydropeak shorts will serve you brilliantly, combining Patagonia’s surf innovation with trail-ready practicality.
Best Support:
Sendero Provisions Co. Point Bar Boardshorts ($69)
The Nitty Gritty:
Fabric & Feel: The Point Bar Boardshorts use a unique blend of 80% polyester, 12% cotton, and 8% spandex. This gives the fabric a soft, almost canvas-like handfeel thanks to the cotton, while still retaining good stretch and quick-dry performance from the poly/spandex. The material is light and water-wicking, designed to dry fast so you stay comfy out of the water. Despite the touch of cotton, we found they dry nearly as quickly as fully synthetic shorts – the trade-off is a slightly more natural, cozy texture.
Integrated Liner: One standout feature is the “modern” interior liner. Instead of the old-school mesh brief found in many swim trunks, Sendero opted for a smooth, supportive inner liner (think along the lines of a compression boxer-brief). This liner is built into the shorts and provides excellent support and anti-chafe protection. It makes these truly grab-and-go – you don’t need separate underwear.
Fit & Features: With a 6.5" inseam, these are on the shorter side, offering a retro look and plenty of leg freedom. The waist features a full elastic waistband with a natural cotton drawstring for closure, giving a secure yet forgiving fit (perfect for big camp meals or active motion). Classic Sendero branding adds a fun touch – for instance, a small patch reading “para el agua” (“for the water”) reminds you what these were made for. As for pockets, the Point Bars keep it simple: they have a rear flap pocket with a drainage grommet (and likely a key loop inside, though not explicitly stated) for small items. The design borrows from vintage volley shorts, even featuring a small V-notch at the side hem for extra mobility (and style).
What We Like:
All-Day Comfort: These shorts shine in the comfort department. The combination of a soft fabric and the interior liner means zero friction in all the sensitive areas. On a full day of wear – from a morning swim to an afternoon of beach volleyball to an evening BBQ – the Point Bars never caused the slightest irritation. The liner offers gentle support similar to athletic briefs, which we found particularly awesome for running and watersports. On a trail run to a waterfall, the liner kept everything in place, and we had no need to adjust or readjust as sometimes happens with free-hanging boardshorts. It’s clear Sendero put thought into eliminating the dreaded “mesh net chafe” problem.
Active Fit for Play: With their short inseam and elastic waist, the Point Bars almost feel like athletic gym shorts, which is to say: fantastic for high-movement fun. We played a few impromptu games of beach soccer and frisbee in these, and never felt restricted. The little hem notches give your legs room for big strides. Also, the retro-cool style drew compliments – mine has a desert landscape print (cacti and cowboys), and the vibe was a hit at a river float trip. These definitely have a bit more personality than plain utilitarian boardshorts, which we appreciate when traveling with friends or at a music festival by the water. They’re functional and fun.
What We Don’t Like:
Minimal Pocket Storage: In terms of carrying capacity, these shorts are sparse. The lack of side pockets is noticeable when you wear them casually – there’s nowhere to casually rest your hands or to stow a phone up front. The single back pocket can hold a wallet or keys, but if you’re truly using these on a hike or around town, you’ll miss having more pockets. We found ourselves holding our phone in our hand or using a small sling pack when exploring in these. It’s a fair trade-off for a cleaner design and better water flow, but worth noting if pocket space is a priority.
Slightly Warmer Liner: While the interior liner can be a plus for most activities, it can add a bit of warmth. On an extremely hot and humid hike, one tester noticed that having a double layer (liner + outer short) felt warmer than a single-layer short might. The breathability is decent, but physics is physics – two layers trap more heat than one. If your main use is purely in-water or you run very hot, you might prefer a liner-less design. That said, when wet, the liner didn’t hinder drying at all, and it never got swampy; this is more of a minor consideration during dry land use in high heat.
Not the quickest drying shorts: These shorts are very comfortable and water sports friendly. However, for those who are spending the day in and out of the water and prefer a quick drying short, the spandex liner in these shorts is a downfall, unfortunately. The spandex liner stays wet the longest out of all of the shorts in this review. During our dunk test, all of the shorts were dry within 30 minutes on a mid-70-degree day. However, the liners on the shorts took nearly an hour and a half to fully dry.
The Sendero Point Bar Boardshorts quickly became a favorite for any adventure where comfort was king. I wore them on a lazy tubing trip down a river – essentially a full day sitting in an inner tube, occasionally paddling or splashing. Normally, a mesh liner would irritate in that scenario, but these felt like I was wearing athletic shorts with built-in compression shorts: super comfortable. Later, I bushwhacked a bit to explore a creekside trail (yes, in the same shorts), and while I did get a couple of scratches due to the short length, I was pleased that even trudging through underbrush, the fabric held up without snags. The elastic waistband proved its worth when I took a cliff jump; the shorts stayed secure, and I didn’t have to grab at them mid-air. Also worth noting is the quality of construction – triple stitching on the waistband and sturdy seams gave me confidence that these will last.
Sendero designed the Point Bars with laid-back water time in mind (they literally list “relaxing on the río” as priority ), and they nailed that use case. But they also didn’t neglect versatility – by making them supportive, they work nicely for day hikes, workouts, or travel. You might want more pockets or a longer cut for certain activities, but as a go-to short for swimming and being in the water for the majority of the day, is hard to beat.
Best Travel-Friendly Style:
Roark Chiller Boardshorts (17″ Outseam) ($69)
The Nitty Gritty:
Materials & Sustainability: Roark’s Chiller boardshorts are built with an eco-conscious fabric blend. They feature approximately 48–49% Repreve® recycled polyester, ~35–36% regular polyester, 8–9% hemp, and 7–8% elastane (the exact percentages vary slightly by source but hover around those values). This blended textile achieves a great balance: the recycled poly reduces waste, the hemp adds durability and natural odor resistance, and the elastane gives it the needed stretch. The fabric is a four-way stretch that’s been treated with a DWR finish for quick-dry performance. In hand, the material has a slightly more textured feel (thanks to the hemp) compared to slick all-polyester shorts, but it’s still lightweight and comfortable against the skin.
Cut & Design: The Chiller series we tested comes in a 17″ outseam (about a 7″ inseam), hitting above the knee. The styling is a bit more casual/urban – Roark markets these as “casual performance trunk[s]” that blend into everyday life. They have a fully encased drawstring waistband that you can cinch for a perfect fit. Note: The waistband itself is not fully elastic like a gym shirt, but the drawcord combined with the fabric’s stretch provides adjustability. We’d describe the fit as modern and slightly tailored (not baggy), with side seam taping detail that gives a nod to vintage boardshort durability.
Pockets & Features: One of the most travel-friendly aspects of the Chiller is the pocket configuration. Unlike minimalist surf shorts, these have two side hand pockets (built into the seams, with mesh pocket bags for drainage) and a back patch pocket with Velcro flap. This essentially makes them function like regular walkshorts when you’re off the beach – you can carry your phone, wallet, etc., easily. Despite the added pockets, Roark kept performance in mind: the side pockets are low-profile, and the back pocket has a grommet to drain water. All seams are triple-stitched flat-felled for toughness, meaning you can trust them on scrambles or long surf sessions without fear of splitting seams. Overall, these shorts weigh a bit more than ultralight competition (owing to the hemp and pockets), but they’re still very reasonable and pack down small for travel.
+ What We Like:
Versatile Style: The Chiller truly lives up to its name – it’s a boardshort you can chill in anywhere. I wore these shorts while traveling through Central America and found I could walk into a café or museum in the morning, then head straight to the beach in the afternoon without needing an outfit change. The design doesn’t immediately read as swimwear; the heathered texture from the hemp and the clean finishing (no loud logos, subtle print) made them pass for normal shorts. This is a big win for travelers packing light – one short for multiple contexts.
Pockets for Days: Coming from other boardshorts, having real hand pockets was a revelation. On a jungle hike to a waterfall, I stashed a folding knife and some snacks in the side pockets, and they held securely (the pocket bags are deep enough that nothing fell out, even when clambering over rocks). Later, in town, I loved being able to casually use the pockets for my hands and phone. It’s a small thing, but it made these shorts feel as practical as any everyday shorts I own. The back pocket’s Velcro is strong; it kept my wallet safe through a rowdy boat ride and some body surfing. Just remember to empty the pockets before diving in – they will hold stuff since they’re designed to!
Durability & Comfort Blend: The addition of hemp in the fabric seems to pay off. These shorts feel robust – after sliding down some rocky riverbanks and even doing a bit of impromptu bouldering in them, there were no tears or significant scuffs. The flat-felled seams are a nice touch; running your hand over them, you don’t feel raised ridges, yet you can tell they’re reinforced. Despite this sturdiness, the Chillers are comfortable. The 4-way stretch is certainly present, allowing full range during a surf session and long strides when hiking. I also suspect the hemp helps with odor control; after a couple of days of wear (swimming in between), they didn’t develop the funky smell that pure poly shorts often do. For multi-day use on a trip, that’s a big plus – less laundry needed.
Quick-Dry and Water Performance: With the DWR coating and mostly poly makeup, these shorts dry quickly for their weight. When fully drenched, they aren’t quite as fast-drying as the ultra-thin Hydropeaks, for example, but they still beat typical cotton-blend casual shorts by a mile. I never felt uncomfortable wearing them while damp; they shed water well. In the surf, they performed admirably: no issues with drag, and the drawstring waist kept them secure (though I did tie a double knot for bigger waves, given there’s no elastic). No chafing to report either – the inner fabric is smooth enough, and perhaps the seams being flat-felled helps minimize any friction.
- What We Don’t Like:
Slight Water Absorption: The flip side of the hemp blend is that these shorts retain just a bit more moisture than a pure synthetic boardshort. After a swim, I noticed the waistband and pocket areas (where there are multiple layers of fabric) held water slightly longer. It’s not deal-breaking – they still dry quickly overall (especially with the DWR) – but if you jump from water to sitting in a car seat, you might feel a little dampness for a bit longer than you would with a thinner short. A 10-minute sunbake or hanging them while you change solves it, but it’s worth noting if maximum quick-dry is what you need.
Fit Adjustability: The waistband is not elastic (beyond the fabric’s natural stretch), so your fit is mainly controlled by the drawstring. This wasn’t a problem for us – in fact, it makes them look more like regular shorts – but it does mean you should get the right numerical size. If you’re in between sizes, you might find one size a tad loose when not cinched and the next size a tad tight. I measured true to a 33" waist; the size 33 fit me perfectly once tied. Just know these aren’t as forgiving in the waist as an all-elastic short if you fluctuate in weight. On the bright side, the fixed waistband with drawcord means no elastic to potentially wear out over time, and the shorts won’t stretch out of shape.
All in all, the Roark Chiller Boardshorts impressed us as an excellent crossover short, equally suited for adventure and leisure. During a surf trip to Tahoe, I often chose the Chillers for days when I knew I’d be exploring the trails around the lake in the morning before hitting the beach in the afternoon. They never looked out of place, and I was thankful for the pockets when navigating through South Lake’s town (kept my hands on my phone and wallet). When it came time to swim, they performed reliably, so I never felt the need to change into dedicated swim trunks. One evening, I even paired them with a button-up shirt for a restaurant dinner; nobody was the wiser that my “shorts” were also my boardshorts from earlier in the day.
The Roark Chiller strikes a fantastic equilibrium between technical functionality and everyday wearability. For travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who value multi-use gear, these shorts are easy to recommend. They pack light, dry fast, have useful pockets, and come with Roark’s trademark style (often with prints inspired by travel and nature). Just be ready – you might end up wearing these nearly every day on a trip, they’re that practical and comfortable!
Best Elastic-Waist All-Rounder
Howler Bros Deep Set Boardshorts ($69)
The Nitty Gritty:
Volley-Inspired Design: The Deep Set Boardshorts borrow from classic volley short style, meaning they have a full elastic waistband with an external drawcord and a slightly shorter length than traditional surf trunks. In fact, they feature a 17" outseam and ~7" inseam (size 33), hitting mid-thigh. This design is all about comfort and ease of movement, whether you’re diving for a frisbee or hanging ten on a longboard. The elastic waist makes them extremely easy to pull on and off – great for quick changes and forgiving if you indulge in some beach BBQ.
Fabric & Construction: Howler Brothers uses an 80% Repreve® recycled polyester, 12% cotton, 8% spandex blend for these shorts, very similar in composition to the Sendero shorts (likely a trend for that soft-yet-functional feel). The addition of cotton gives the fabric a nice handfeel and retro look, while spandex provides 2-way (to a degree, 4-way) stretch. The Deep Sets are unlined (no built-in liner), sticking to a traditional boardshort interior. For durability, Howler built these with triple-needle stitching on critical seams and a V-notch at the hem for range of motion. The overall construction feels robust – these are meant to handle sand, sun, and fun for many seasons.
Pockets & Features: True to their volley short heritage, the Deep Sets come with front pockets (two slash pockets) that are mesh-lined for drainage. This is a huge plus for versatility, as you can carry items or just enjoy a place for your hands. Additionally, there’s a back pocket with a buttoned flap (or Velcro in some models) and a drainage grommet. The back pocket also sports a classic Howler Bros patch for style points. Small details like a drawstring with a leather or faux-leather knot and the scalloped leg vents give these shorts a throwback vibe. They are not as ultra-light as, say, the Patagonia’s – the added features and heavier stitching add a little weight, but they’re still plenty light for any water activity and extremely comfortable to wear for long periods.
+ What We Like:
Ultimate Comfort & Fit: The elastic waistband on the Deep Set is a winner for comfort. No matter if we were lounging in a hammock or sprinting down the beach, the waist moved with us and never dug in. For those who hate the rigid feel of traditional boardshort waistbands, these are a dream – they feel as comfy as athletic shorts or pajama shorts, yet they look much more stylish. The drawcord lets you secure them before a swim; I found that a simple double knot was enough to keep them snug through a rough bodysurfing session. Another perk: when you’re in and out of the water all day, an elastic waist doesn’t require constant retieing – a quick tug and they’re back in place. In terms of sizing, the flexibility means if you’re between sizes, you have some grace.
Everyday Practicality: Howler Bros clearly wanted these to be as much an everyday short as a swim short. The front pockets are a huge convenience. I wore these on a morning jog to the beach; I was able to stow my phone in the pocket (the elastic waist actually helped keep it from bouncing out) and some cash, then went for a swim without worrying since the pockets drained easily. Later, I threw on a t-shirt and wore the same shorts to grab lunch – the pockets and casual style fit right in. They truly have shorts you can live in all summer, and energy. The triple stitching gives confidence if you wear them for active stuff – at one point, I used them as a makeshift climbing short, and even with a harness around the waist, they held up with no seam stress.
Quick-Drying & Water-Ready: Despite the slightly beefier build, the Deep Sets still dry quickly. After surfing, I noticed the interior and pockets drained well, and within about 20 minutes of sun, the shorts were mostly dry to the touch (except maybe the waistband, which holds a bit more water). The fabric’s cotton content doesn’t seem to hinder drying much; likely, the high polyester percentage and DWR finish carry the load here. Importantly, they don’t cling or cause rash when wet. We also liked the hem V-notch design – when kicking while swimming or doing lifeguard-style runs into the water, that little extra give at the leg opening helps prevent the shorts from catching on your thighs. It’s a small design detail that adds to the freedom of movement.
Retro Aesthetics: A subjective point, but we dig the style. Howler Bros is known for fun patterns and Western-inspired flair. The Deep Set shorts come in a range of eye-catching prints (ours were a cool “Ocean Motion” wavy pattern in teal). That, combined with the shorter cut and elastic waist, delivered a vintage 70s surfer vibe that got us compliments. If you’re tired of boardshorts that all look the same, Howler brings uniqueness. And yet, if patterns aren’t your thing, they also make solid colors – the design still looks great in a simple navy or olive, giving you versatile shorts that pair with any top.
- What We Don’t Like:
Less Secure in Big Surf: With any elastic waist shorts, if you’re tackling truly heavy surf or cliff jumping, there’s a slightly higher risk of the shorts being yanked down compared to fixed-waist boardshorts. The Deep Set’s drawstring does a good job, but in testing we did feel a bit of downward tug when diving under large waves. They never actually came off (and the plus side is the elastic hugs your hips), but for extremely vigorous water action, some may prefer a traditional tie system. Think of these as more “leisure/adventure swim” shorts than competition surf trunks.
Potential for Stretch Over Time: We haven’t experienced this yet, but historically, elastic waistbands can lose tension after years of use (especially with exposure to sun, salt, and chlorine). The build quality here is high, so it’s just a speculative con. Rinsing them after use and not baking them in direct sunlight to dry will prolong the life. With the triple-needle stitching, the only thing that might eventually wear is the elastic itself. Given Howler’s reputation, we suspect these will last a long time, but it’s something to monitor if you practically live in them.
The Howler Bros Deep Set Boardshorts quickly became my default “throw on and do anything” shorts this summer. The ease of the elastic waist cannot be overstated – for instance, I found myself using these as a changing short at times, pulling them on after a dive in the lake when I didn’t want to wrestle with buttons or zippers. During a beach camping trip, I wore the Deep Sets from dawn to dusk: woke up and went for a sunrise swim in them, then cooked breakfast over the campfire (the pockets held my pocket knife and lighter with no problem), then went on a coastal hike. They got a little muddy on the hike, so I just waded into the ocean and rinsed them off. By the time I packed up camp, they were dry and clean enough to wear on the drive home. That kind of one-short-does-it-all utility is where the Deep Set shines.
They also excel in sportiness. We played a few rounds of beach volleyball, and the shorts never restricted high jumps or quick lateral movements – it really felt like I was wearing athletic workout shorts, except I could dive into the water to cool off afterwards without needing to change. The combination of fun style and comfort makes them a joy to wear. If you’re an active person who spends a lot of time around water – be it surfing, paddling, fishing, or just beach bumming – the Howler Deep Set is a short that can keep up with everything while keeping you comfortable. Plus, the brand’s attention to detail (like that Western-infused aesthetic and quality materials) means you’ll look good doing it.
*Subjective
During the soaking test, we soaked the shorts all at once in a bucket of water for the same amount of time. The shorts were then hung up and monitored every 5 minutes for progress. The test took place on a 70-degree sunny day.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing the right boardshorts for multipurpose adventures comes down to balancing comfort, functionality, and personal style. All five of these options excel in both water and on land, but each brings its own flavor to the mix. The KETL Alpine Dip is the epitome of a do-it-all adventure short. Patagonia’s Hydropeak offers technical prowess with eco-friendly creds, Sendero’s Point Bar prioritizes comfort with its liner and laid-back vibe, Roark’s Chiller merges travel-savvy features with sustainable fabric, and Howler’s Deep Set delivers all-day wearability with a fun-loving twist.
For hiking, swimming, surfing, paddling, or just kicking back by the campfire after a day in the water, any of these boardshorts will serve you well. It’s clear that outdoor gear companies are recognizing the need for versatile apparel, and the result is that we no longer have to pack separate swim trunks and hiking shorts – one good pair of these hybrid boardshorts can handle it all. Here’s to never having to sit out an impromptu dip or a trailside waterfall again because you wore the “wrong” shorts. With the options above, you’ll always be ready for the next adventure, whether it’s high in the mountains or down by the shore.
