Best Boardshorts of 2012

When ushering in a new season, there is always the waiting game for the weather to turn favorable. The excitement of new activities are on the horizon and you just need mother nature to start cooperating. During the anxiety of spring, there isn't much to do except plan for summer fun and acquire appropriate gear for warmer weather. If you spend most of your weekends on water, you understand the importance of quality boardshorts. Having a solid boardshort rotation is key to your summer successes. There are shorts made for every occasion, and you need to be sure all your bases are covered before the temperature starts to rise.

These are five of the Best Boardshorts of 2012. All serve a particular purpose and will ensure that your summer wardrobe is top-notch.

Hurley Phantom Hex Boardshorts

The Hurley Phantom Hex is a fantastic everyday boardshort. Made with 85% polyester / 15% spandex, Hurley's Phantom 4-way stretch and a 21" outseam, these shorts fit well and are extremely comfortable. The boardshorts have a seamless design as well as a zip cargo pocket. Having a zipper pocket is extremely under-rated in the boardshort world. Being able to carry your personal belongings with the security of a zipper is phenomenal! The zip pocket really adds to the everyday functionality of the Phantom Hex. Hurley offers the shorts in three color-ways. I went with the multi, but all of the options look pretty sick.

Billabong Platinum X - R U Serious Boardshorts

The Billabong R U Serious boardshorts look more like a cotton lifestyle short than a swimsuit. The print gives the shorts an everyday-type presentation, but are actually made with Billabong's H2 Repel and Hydrostrech technology. The boardshorts are 100% polyester and have a 22" outseam, which is a slightly longer fit than most boardshorts on the market. They come in a variety of different color-ways but I think the mint, lime and americana are the best options. (All three shown below)

Rip Curl Mirage Tangent Boardshorts

Rip Curl says these shorts are "like wearing nothing", and to be honest they might be on to something. Theses boardshorts are super lightweight and incredibly stretchy. The Mirage is made with Rip Curl's Hydrophobic Fabric, Stichless Seam technology and Illusion Seam Tape. By the use of heat welding and flexible stretch tape, these shorts are absolutely seamless. The construction and functionality of these boardshorts makes Mirage Tangent perfect for surfing, wakeboarding and any other aquatic activity.

Billabong Stars N Stripes Boardshorts

American flag steeze. The Stars N Stripes shorts are all black and whited out! Made with 100% polyester and a 20" outseam, they fit a little shorter than most boardshorts but the style points out-weight any fit issues you may have. These are my go to shorts for all summer holidays and large gatherings, and an obvious choice for America's birthday. If you don't already own a pair of American flag shorts (you should if you call yourself an American), check out Billabong's 2012 black and white edition. 

O'Neill Hangover Boardshorts

The O'Neill Hangover Boardshorts are designed with a beer pong/beer bong style print. They are made with 100% polyester, Velcro fly and have a 21" outseam. They come fully equipped with a limited edishhh O'Neill beer pong ball, so you can be ready for any spontaneous lake or poolside ponging. I suggest pairing the Hangover Boardshorts with a Tuxedo T-Shirt because it says you're formal, but you like to party.