Summer days spent lounging on the beach and splashing in the waves are a favorite pastime for many. But if you’re trying to decide what to wear into the water, it’s important to ask yourself one key question – can you swim in board shorts? Board shorts have become increasingly popular as a poolside go-to, but how will they hold up when put to the test of actually swimming? Read on for an answer that may just surprise you!
Quick Answer
Yes, you can swim in board shorts.
Can You Swim In Board Shorts?
Board shorts are a type of swimwear made from quick-drying polyester or nylon and have become increasingly popular over the years. Although they are primarily used for surfing, many people choose to wear board shorts while swimming in various recreational activities. But can you actually swim in them?
In order to answer this question, there are several factors you should consider. Firstly, unlike traditional bathing suits which were designed for performance and comfort in the water, board shorts were originally designed as beachwear by surfers who wore them to stay comfortable during long hours out on the waves without having their clothes get wet. Because of this design purpose, it is important to recognize that board shorts do not offer any buoyancy or specialized support like a wetsuit would provide – so if your primary goal is aquatic performance then these might not be your best bet.
Secondly, when it comes down to functionality and practicality, some may argue that since there is no ‘right’ way of wearing them – due to lack of structure – technically you can but whether or not it will be beneficial for you depends entirely on how well they fit and what kind of materials they consist of; meaning that if the fit isn’t snug enough (to keep fabric from dragging) or doesn’t cover all necessary areas sufficiently then it may cause more discomfort than help during vigorous swimming motions such as freestyle strokes where drag reduction plays an essential role in getting good speed with minimal effort expenditure.
On top of this consideration too should be taken into account about how warm the water is; although thicker fabrics tend retain heat better than thinner ones – again depending on material quality– thin boardshorts still aren’t ideal choices if temperatures drop below 20c since regular use may cause hypothermia unless accompanied with appropriate thermal protection layers underneath… so if your plan includes intensive activity over prolonged periods at cold waters then again these probably won’t suit your needs either!
Advantages of Wearing Board Shorts while Swimming
Board shorts offer a range of advantages over traditional swim trunks and other types of fashionable beachwear. For starters, they’re designed to be worn in the water, which makes them perfect for swimming. Board shorts are also incredibly comfortable; their loose fit allows freedom of movement while still providing coverage when needed. Additionally, board shorts have been made from lightweight fabrics that dry quickly after being submerged in water, making them ideal for both pool-based activities and ocean-based ones.
Furthermore, many board short designs feature pockets so you can store small items like keys or cash when taking a dip. These pockets often come with fastenings such as buttons or Velcro to ensure your belongings stay secure no matter how active you get in the water. What’s more is that these shorts come with specially designed waistbands featuring drawstrings or elasticated bands so you can adjust the tightness depending on what type of activity you’re doing and how much support it requires.
Perhaps one of the greatest perks about wearing board shorts is the variety available – there are styles to suit everyone’s taste! Whether your preference lies towards solids or prints, muted tones or neon hues –you’ll find something to suit every look at any budget! Not only do they come in an array of colors but materials too: ranging from quick-drying polyester blends to cotton twill fabrications (which boasts higher levels durability).
Disadvantages of Wearing Board Shorts while Swimming
Board shorts are a popular choice for beachwear, but they are not always ideal for swimming. These shorts can be heavy and restrictive in the water, which can make them uncomfortable to wear while attempting harder activities like swimming laps or diving. They also have less flexibility than swimsuits made with spandex or other materials designed specifically for aquatic exercise. Additionally, board shorts lack the secure fit of swimsuits that hug the body’s curves and provide more coverage against strong currents or waves.
The weight of board shorts is one major disadvantage when it comes to swimming in them. Due to their loose cut and traditional fabric construction, these garments often absorb considerable amounts of water quickly – adding several pounds onto an individual’s weight in moments if they’re submerged long enough. This makes it difficult to maneuver freely through water while wearing them; leading many swimmers to opt for lighter clothing instead so as not to be hindered by excess bulkiness during activity-based exercise sessions .
Moreover, board short styles typically feature large pockets on both sides that may inadvertently fill up with sand or small ocean debris if left open – further weighing down individuals already encumbered by their heavy fabric construction . Furthermore , due to their thick material design , board shorts don’t typically offer much support either; providing limited protection from sea life such as jellyfish stings and sharp rocks underneath rough waters . For this reason , those looking into recreational and leisurely activities may want consider lighter options like rash guards for extra comfortability underwater or sportier alternatives such as wetsuits should they wish take part in extended dives located deeper within bodies of saltwater .
Potential Health Risks Associated with Wearing Board Shorts for Swimming
Board shorts are a popular choice of swimwear for both men and women alike. While they may provide more coverage than other types of swimsuits, it is important to be aware that there are some potential health risks associated with wearing board shorts for swimming.
The first potential health risk comes from the material used in making board shorts. Many board shorts are made with synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester which can trap heat and moisture close to the skin. This could lead to an increased risk of developing rashes, irritation, or fungal infections if the area isn’t kept clean and dry after swimming. Additionally, chlorine from pools can cause fading or discoloration over time as well as weakening the fabric fibers leading them to become brittle and wear out faster than normal fabrics would.
Another potential health concern when wearing board shorts is chafing due to their tight fit around the legs. If not properly cared for by applying lubricant on any areas prone to rubbing together, this could lead to uncomfortable skin irritations caused by friction between clothing layers or between skin and clothing layers during movement in water activities like surfing or diving. Additionally, depending on where you go swimming (such as rivers) there may be debris in the water that can get tangled up into your clothing which may cause additional discomfort without proper protection being taken beforehand through things like rash guards beneath board shorts when going into these areas specifically known for containing sticks/stones/debris).
Finally, a third concern related to wearing boardshorts while swimming has been linked back directly towards sun exposure due its loose-fitting style exposing more skin than tighter fitting swimwear such as racing suits might do so effectively blocking UV rays from hitting your body directly but instead allowing them through thin material fabric along with reflective properties coming off of wet surfaces further intensifying possible damage done by those same rays onto unprotected areas still present even below surface level ones too.. To counteract this issue either protective sunscreen should always be applied before entering water activities if longer durations spent exposed under sunlight planed else alternatively opting away entirely from boardshorts towards something providing full coverage against external elements shall prove much better overall .