Swim Shorts vs Board Shorts for Women?
Okay, real talk time! We get this question constantly in our DMs and honestly, I was confused about this too before I started working in swimwear marketing. So let's break down the swim shorts vs board shorts mystery once and for all, because trust me—understanding the difference will completely change your beach game.
The Main Difference (It's Simpler Than You Think!)
Here's the deal: women's swim shorts are your actual swimwear—they replace your bikini bottom completely. Board shorts? They're like a cute cover-up that goes over your existing swimsuit. Think of swim shorts as the lead actress and board shorts as the supporting character. Technically you can probably swim in them (just like any short) but you might lose them in the ocean because of their loose fit (uh oh!).
Board shorts are typically longer, looser, and don't have that built-in brief or liner that swim shorts have. They're amazing for layering over a one-piece or bikini when you want extra coverage for activities like beach volleyball or paddleboarding.
Why Women's Swim Shorts Are Having Their Moment
This is where I get so excited talking about our Tangerine Tease collection! True swim shorts for women—like ours—are engineered completely differently than board shorts. Our design team uses this incredible luxury Italian stretch athletic fabric that's basically like wearing the most flattering yoga pants, but for swimming.
The compression element is everything. Instead of loose, baggy fabric that can shift around during activities, our swim shorts actually enhance your natural curves while providing that secure, supported feeling. It's like shapewear that you can swim in—and honestly, the first time I tried them on, I was shocked at how incredible my silhouette looked. (Want to know more about why I'm completely obsessed? Check out my full deep-dive here!)
The Fit That Changes Everything
Form-Fitting vs. Loose-Fitting
Board shorts have that relaxed, surfer-girl vibe with a looser fit around the thighs and often hit around mid-thigh to knee length. They're great if you want that laid-back aesthetic, but they can sometimes feel bulky in the water (and they can get air trapped in them and blow up like a balloon! not my favorite look tbh : / ).
Our swim shorts? They're precision-cut to follow your body's natural lines. The Italian fabric has this amazing four-way stretch that moves with you while maintaining its shape. Think boy shorts meets performance athletic wear—form-fitting but never restrictive.
Staying Power During Activities
Here's something nobody talks about: when you're doing vigorous activities like surfing, diving, or even just playing beach volleyball, loose board shorts can shift, ride up, or even come off completely (been there, not cute).
The snug fit of quality swim shorts means they stay exactly where you want them. Our Tangerine Tease swim shorts use compression technology to create a secure fit that won't budge, no matter how intense your beach day gets. It's honestly liberating knowing you can dive for that volleyball without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
The Aesthetic Difference
Let's be honest—we all want to look amazing in our swimwear. Board shorts can sometimes create a boxy silhouette, especially when wet. They're functional, sure, but they're not always the most flattering option.
High-quality swim shorts like our Tangerine Tease collection are specifically designed to enhance your figure. The compression effect creates smooth lines and actually makes your legs look longer and more toned. It's like the difference between wearing baggy sweatpants and perfectly fitted leggings—same activity, completely different vibe.
When to Choose What
Choose Swim Shorts When:
You want that sleek, athletic look that enhances your figure. You're doing water activities where staying put matters. You prefer the convenience of one piece that does it all. You love that compression feeling that makes you feel supported and confident.
Choose Board Shorts When:
You want to layer over existing swimwear for extra coverage. You prefer a more relaxed, loose fit. You're looking for that classic surfer aesthetic. You want something that transitions easily from beach to boardwalk.
The Swim Shorts Revolution is Here
Working in marketing for Citra and getting to test all our products has shown me that women don't want to choose between looking amazing and feeling comfortable. The Italian stretch athletic fabric our design team uses gives you both—the support and enhancement of great activewear with the freedom and function of swimwear.
It's honestly changed how I think about swimwear completely. When you find swim shorts that fit like they were made for your body, that enhance instead of hide, that stay put during every activity—you realize this is what swimwear should have been all along.
Shop Our Colors
Ready to experience the difference? Our Tangerine Tease swim shorts come in four amazing colors that work for every style and skin tone:
• Navy - Classic and sophisticated, perfect for that nautical vibe
• Orange - Bold and energetic, ideal for making a statement
• White - Clean and timeless, goes with everything
• Turquoise - Fresh and vibrant, perfect for that tropical feeling
The Bottom Line
Board shorts and swim shorts both have their place in your beach wardrobe, but they serve completely different purposes. If you're ready to experience what swim shorts can really do when they're designed with luxury fabrics and precision fit, I honestly can't recommend trying our Tangerine Tease collection enough.
The compression, the silhouette, the way they stay perfectly in place—it's a complete game changer. And once you experience that feeling of total confidence in the water, you'll understand why swim shorts are having such a major moment right now.
Love,
Cassie @ Citra
Frequently Asked Questions
Are swim shorts or board shorts better for swimming?
Swim shorts are better for swimming. They're designed with lighter, quick-dry fabrics, often have built-in liners for support, and create less drag in the water. Board shorts are bulkier and designed more for surfing than lap swimming.
Can I wear swim shorts as regular shorts?
Yes! Swim shorts are perfect as regular shorts. They're made with versatile fabrics that look stylish when dry, come in fashionable colors and patterns, and transition seamlessly from pool to street wear.
Are swim shorts or board shorts more comfortable?
Swim shorts are generally more comfortable for most activities. They're lighter weight, have a softer feel, often include a built-in compression effect, and move with your body better than the stiffer board short material.
Are swim shorts or board shorts more flattering?
Swim shorts tend to be more universally flattering. They offer a closer, more tailored fit that smooths your silhouette, while board shorts can be baggy and add bulk. Swim shorts also come in various lengths to suit different body types.
Should I buy swim shorts or board shorts first?
Choose swim shorts for your first pair. They're more versatile (swimming + casual wear), more comfortable for daily activities, easier to style with different tops, and offer better value since you can wear them in more situations.
