Boyshort Swimsuit

What Is a Boyshort Swimsuit?

A boyshort swimsuit is a swimsuit with boy-short style bottoms — fitted, shorts-like legs that cover more of the hip and upper thigh than cheeky or Brazilian cuts. The bottom is cut like short shorts, with elastic along each leg.

Boyshort is a property of the bottom, and it travels across garment types: two-piece sets, tankinis, three-piece sets and swim dresses with built-in shorts all count as boyshort swimsuits in this collection.

Boyshort names the bottom; the top and the garment type are separate choices.

Boyshort vs. Boxer vs. Cheeky Bottoms

Short-style bottoms split into two fits, and cheeky is a different axis entirely:

• Boyshort — fitted bottoms with elastic legs, cut like shortened boxer briefs.
• Boxer — looser short-style bottoms with a relaxed leg opening.
• Cheeky — less back coverage with a V-shaped line; a separate axis from leg length.

Coverage words describe different parts: boyshort and boxer describe how much leg and hip the fabric covers, while cheeky, Brazilian and thong describe back coverage. A style can even be a “cheeky boyshort” — short legs with a scooped back.

Leg coverage and back coverage are separate dials on short bottoms.

The Styles in This Collection

Boyshort and boxer bottoms show up across these swimsuits:

• Tankini sets with matching shorts
• Swim dresses and tankini dresses with built-in boy-short lining
• Sporty two-piece sets with sports-bra tops
• Zipper and three-piece sets with boxer shorts
• High-waist printed short sets
• Patchwork sport one-pieces

Prices run from about $22 to $47, and sizes from XS to XL with a few one-size pieces.

Pick the garment first, then the short style.

Wearing and Fit

Short-style bottoms fit through the leg bands: the elastic should sit flat without digging, and the leg length varies between styles — some boyshorts run short and cheeky, others run closer to full shorts. Check each listing’s photos for the actual length.

These are practical swim styles: the fuller leg coverage is why sporty sets, tankinis and swim dresses use them. Sit-test before active days, and match the rise (high-waist or standard) to the top you plan to wear.

Leg bands flat, length checked, rise matched to the top.

How to Choose

Work through four decisions:

• Garment: two-piece set, tankini, swim dress or one-piece
• Short style: fitted boyshort or loose boxer
• Rise: standard, high-waist or sport
• Top: sports bra, halter, tankini top or bandeau

Sizes run XS to XL with some one-size pieces — check each listing’s chart.

Garment first, short style second, top third.