PFAS Free Board Shorts: Safe Surf and Beach Wear

Forever chemicals, the nickname for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have turned up in places most families never expected. Board shorts and swim trunks can be a surprising source of exposure because many are treated with water-repellent coatings that contain PFAS. Small daily choices add up over time, and this guide covers what to look for, which products tend to carry the highest risk, and the easiest swaps you can make right now.

For more on PFAS-free living, see our guide to PFAS free toothbrushes and PFAS distillation. Shopping for the whole family’s beach kit? See our guide to PFAS in swimwear and bathing suits.

The health case for avoiding PFAS in board shorts

Scientific literature consistently identifies PFAS as a class of chemicals of concern. A 2023 review in eBioMedicine summarized evidence linking PFAS exposure to thyroid disruption, immune system changes, and developmental concerns in children. When it comes to surf wear, avoiding products with PFAS coatings or treatments is a straightforward way to reduce your family’s body burden, especially since board shorts sit against your skin in warm, wet conditions where absorption is higher.

How to identify PFAS-free board shorts

Reading labels isn’t always enough. Manufacturers aren’t required to disclose PFAS use on consumer products in most U.S. states. Here is what to look for:

• Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100, bluesign, and GOTS certification all prohibit PFAS in certified products.
• Avoid key terms: “Water-resistant,” “stain-resistant,” “wrinkle-free,” or “quick-dry” on swimwear often signal DWR or PFAS-based treatments.
• Contact brands directly: Ask whether their products use fluorinated treatments or coatings. Reputable brands will answer clearly.
• Check the PFAS Free Life Database for tested, verified products across hundreds of categories.

Safe board shorts and surf wear recommendations

When switching away from PFAS-containing board shorts, look for:

• Untreated natural fibers like organic cotton or hemp blends, which dry reasonably fast without chemical treatments
• OEKO-TEX certified swimwear that has been tested and confirmed free from harmful chemicals including PFAS
• Brands with published chemical policies like Patagonia, Cotopaxi, and prAna, which openly disclose their commitments
• Merino wool base layers for water activities where warmth matters, since wool is naturally moisture-wicking without coatings

One trusted option to consider: Hurley Men’s Phantom 4-Way Stretch Boardshort, a quick-dry swim trunk with 200+ bought last month and a 4.6-star rating. Hurley’s Phantom Eco line uses recycled materials without PFAS-based water treatments.

Tips to reduce your PFAS exposure from swimwear

Beyond the products themselves, daily habits matter:

• Wash new board shorts before first use to reduce surface chemical loads from manufacturing
• Rinse swimwear after every ocean session to minimize prolonged skin contact with any residual treatments
• Choose food-grade materials for anything that contacts food or skin directly
• Filter your drinking water with a reverse osmosis system, which is the most effective household option for PFAS removal

For a broader reduction strategy, check out our guide to top PFAS free water filters and the comprehensive PFAS Free Life Database.

Frequently asked questions

Are PFAS-free board shorts effective?

Yes. Untreated fabrics, organic cotton blends, and hemp swimwear perform well for surfing and beach activities without any PFAS coatings. For water resistance, fluorine-free DWR treatments have become widely available and work well for everyday conditions. Many families find these alternatives hold up just as well once they make the switch.

What health risks are linked to PFAS in swimwear?

PFAS exposure from consumer products has been associated with elevated cholesterol, immune system disruption, hormone interference, and in some cases increased cancer risk. Children and pregnant women are considered especially vulnerable. The good news is that reducing exposure through product swaps can lower your body burden over time, as PFAS do eventually clear from the body when exposure stops.

Do all board shorts contain PFAS?

No. However, many board shorts that are marketed as water-resistant, stain-resistant, or quick-dry have historically used PFAS-based treatments. The safest approach is to look for third-party certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or to contact the manufacturer directly to ask about their chemical policy.