Boardshorts or neoprene shorts: how to choose for your water sports?

When it comes to watersports, choosing the right gear can make all the difference between a great session and a frustrating one. And one of the most common dilemmas for surfers, kiters and watermen is choosing between the boardshort and the neoprene short.

What are the key differences? Which one suits your needs? And how to choose?

Here’s our complete guide to help you decide – including a real-life testimonial.

Two technical options for watersports

Both the boardshort and the neoprene short are well-suited to watersport activities like surfing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, coastal walking or swimming. But their technical features, comfort level, thermal protection, and even style can lead to very different experiences.

The boardshort: the surfer’s icon, light and stylish

Main benefits:

• Lightweight and flexible, offering unmatched freedom.
• No elastic waistband: it won’t stretch or fall, even after a heavy wipeout.
• No inner mesh: no trapped sand or unnecessary friction.
• Quick-drying: perfect for jumping between surf, beach and chill time.
• Practical everyday: with two pockets, ideal for carrying your phone or keys.

Drawbacks:

• Risk of chafing during long sessions (inner thighs, crotch).
• No thermal protection: in colder water, the chill can come fast.

The neoprene short: comfort, support and warmth

No longer the trendiest item, the neoprene short is making a comeback – and at Saint Jacques Wetsuits, we’ve brought it back with technical improvements, comfort and a retro-functional style.

Why choose it:

• Chafe-free: even during long sessions or with a harness.
• Excellent support: everything stays secure so you can focus on riding.
• Thermal insulation: keeps you warm when the water isn’t.
• Saint Jacques innovation: our high-waisted neoprene short, ideal for aquatic walking.

Modular and technical:

This short fits perfectly into our concept of modular neoprene suits: mix and match tops and bottoms depending on the water temperature, your activity… or your body shape.

Learn more about our modular neoprene collection

Maxime’s opinion – a passionate surfer

"I’ve always surfed in boardshorts with the classic motto 'Only a surfer knows the feeling' in mind. But honestly, during my warm-weather trips – the most important ones – I ended up with serious chafing after just a few days.

The kind that ruins a trip – when you can barely walk on the beach in your wet shorts.

Then I discovered neoprene shorts. I wasn’t into the look at first, but I was quickly convinced: way more comfortable and practical.

Also a huge difference in warmth: those early morning sessions in Les Landes make you regret the boardshort real fast.

That said, for lounging at the beach or by the pool, I still go boardshort every time."

— Maxime, surf enthusiast

So, boardshort or neoprene short?

Choose the boardshort if you want:

• Freedom of movement
• Classic surf style
• Beach/pool versatility
• Warm water conditions

View our technical boardshorts

Choose the neoprene short if you want:

• Long-lasting comfort
• Zero irritation
• Thermal protection
• Exceptional support

Discover our neoprene shorts

FAQ – Everything you might wonder

What’s the difference between a boardshort and a neoprene short?
Boardshorts are light and quick to dry, perfect for summer. Neoprene shorts are more technical: they provide warmth, prevent chafing, and offer better support.

Can I surf in neoprene shorts?
Absolutely. They’re even recommended for longer sessions or in colder water.

Do neoprene shorts keep you warm?
Yes. Thanks to the insulating properties of neoprene, they’re great for early morning or mid-season sessions.

And in terms of style?
Boardshorts win for casual beach style, but our updated neoprene shorts bring a strong retro-tech identity.

In summary

The boardshort is your go-to for freedom and style in warm water.
The neoprene short guarantees comfort and support, even when the water gets cooler.

At Saint Jacques Wetsuits, we offer both – so you can match your gear to your conditions, preferences and ride style.

See you in the water!