O'NEILL Men's 21 in Solid Boardshorts - Quick Dry Comfort 171

Our review finds the O'NEILL Men's 21 in Solid Boardshorts are best for men who want a durable, comfortable swim short that performs from surf to poolside. In this review we focus on the fit, fabric performance and practical details: the 21 in outseam gives a below-the-knee length that many buyers praise, while the Hyperfreak stretch fabric and Hyperdry finish make these shorts feel mobile and dry quickly after use. The construction balances everyday comfort with useful features like a zip pocket and reinforced fly, making them a solid choice for active water days.

Key Features

• 21 in outseam: The below-the-knee length provides coverage without restricting movement for paddling or beach games.
• Hyperfreak stretch: The stretch fabric moves with the body in all directions, helping maintain comfort during dynamic activities.
• Hyperdry technology: A DWR quick-dry finish reduces wet cling and speeds transition from water to land.
• Anti-rash Hyperthread: Smooth internal seams and fabric choices reduce irritation for long sessions in the water or on a board.
• Secure storage: A side zip pocket and a Velcro patch pocket offer safe spots for small essentials while active.
• Practical fly and closure: Velcro fly with a spandex gusset and drawstring keeps the fit adjustable and secure.

Who It's For

These boardshorts are aimed at men who want a classic boardshort length with modern fabric technology. Surfers, paddleboarders and swimmers who value a quick-drying short with stretch will appreciate the combination of Hyperfreak mobility and Hyperdry finish. The heavier coverage and durable polyester make them a good everyday swim short rather than a minimalist race brief.

Men who prefer a very short inseam or a fashion-forward, tight swim brief should look elsewhere, and those wanting a purely casual lounge short with heavy cotton should consider different materials. Also, buyers sensitive to visible branding may want to note the noticeable brand patch and stripe styling.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable below-the-knee fit that many customers report fits true to size.
• Quick-dry Hyperdry treatment reduces wet time after swimming.
• Stretch fabric and gusseted fly support active movement without binding.
• Multiple pockets including a zip pocket add practical on-board storage.

Cons

• Some users report limited stretch compared with expectations for a hyper-stretch fabric.
• The visible brand patch and stripe may be larger than some buyers prefer.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The O'NEILL 21 in Solid Boardshorts are a practical pick for active men who want a reliable, quick-drying boardshort with useful storage and a comfortable below-the-knee fit. They deliver good value through durable construction and sensible features, and are particularly well suited to surfers and swimmers who need mobility and fast drying between sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts run true to size?
Most customers report the fit is true to size and the model example wears a size 32, so use your usual waist size.

How fast do they dry?
The Hyperdry DWR treatment and polyester fabric dry noticeably faster than cotton, making them practical for repeated water use.

Are there pockets for keys or a phone?
Yes, there is a side zip pocket for secure storage and a Velcro patch pocket for additional items.