Skip the buttons on surf trunks.

Get a pair with a lace-up fly and no exposed metal. Buttons and snaps scratch your board and chafe your skin. That’s not where you want extra friction.

Board shorts with a drawstring waist and a tie-front fly are the standard for a reason. They move with you, dry fast, and don’t pop open when you take a wave on the lip. Look for a small zip pocket on the back or thigh—just enough for a key or a wax comb. Nothing bulky.

Length is personal, but knee-length or slightly longer (18–22 inch inseam) gives you room to paddle without the leg hem riding up. Avoid super short or super baggy. You’re surfing, not at a pool party.

Your wetsuit will also thank you for ditching the metal.