What Is a Volley Short?
When updating a summer wardrobe for beach vacations, poolside lounging, and warm-weather workouts, men frequently encounter volley shorts as an alternative to traditional boardshorts. A volley short is a casual, hybrid style of swim and activewear shorts characterized by a fully elasticized waistband, an external drawstring closure, functional on-seam side pockets, and a shorter, contemporary inseam (typically ranging between five and seven inches). Originally designed for active beach volleyball players who required complete freedom of leg movement, quick-drying comfort, and an adjustable waist that wouldn't slip during deep sand dives, volley shorts have evolved into the quintessential crossover summer short that transitions effortlessly from water sports to boardwalk dining.
Key Differences: Volley Shorts vs Traditional Boardshorts
To appreciate the unique appeal of volley shorts, one must understand how they contrast with traditional surfing boardshorts. Boardshorts were engineered specifically for ocean surfing. To prevent chafing against the surfboard wax when paddling prone, authentic boardshorts feature a rigid, non-elastic waistband fastened by a lace-up tie fly and Velcro gusset, zero side hand pockets (which catch water when surfing), and extended knee-length inseams of nine to eleven inches.
In sharp contrast, volley shorts prioritize casual comfort, versatile storage, and active leg mobility. The 360-degree gathered elastic waistband expands comfortably when sitting or dining, while the shorter above-the-knee cut prevents wet fabric from clinging to kneecaps. Furthermore, volley shorts include deep mesh-lined front pockets and a secure back pocket with a drainage eyelet or zipper, allowing wearers to carry smartphones, keys, and wallets when leaving the beach.
Compare traditional surf boardshorts with modern versatile volley shorts in the apparel table below:
| Apparel Feature | Traditional Surf Boardshort | Modern Hybrid Volley Short | Lifestyle Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waistband Design | Rigid flat waist with lace-up tie fly | 360-degree gathered elastic with drawstring | Comfortable, flexible fit that never pinches when sitting |
| Average Inseam Length | 9 to 11 Inches (At or below the knee) | 5 to 7 Inches (Mid-thigh modern cut) | Enhanced leg mobility and flattering modern silhouette |
| Pocket Configuration | Single small side pocket on thigh | Two front hand pockets + rear zip pocket | Holds phone, keys, and wallet away from water |
| Interior Lining | No liner; worn over compression shorts | Built-in mesh brief or compression boxer | All-in-one support without needing extra underwear |
| Primary Use Case | Competitive surfing and paddleboarding | Beach volleyball, pool lounging, casual street wear | Transitions seamlessly into everyday summer outfits |
The built-in functional pockets and elastic waistband make volley shorts substantially more practical for casual day trips than technical boardshorts.
Fabrics, Liners, and How to Style Volley Shorts
Modern volley shorts are manufactured from advanced technical fabrics engineered for aquatic performance and all-day dry comfort. Premium brands utilize four-way stretch blends of recycled polyester and elastane (spandex) treated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR) hydrophobic coatings. This ensures that when you step out of the pool or ocean, water beads up and rolls off the fabric, drying the shorts completely within ten to fifteen minutes in the sun.
Interior lining design has also undergone a major quality upgrade. While vintage budget trunks featured scratchy polyester mesh briefs that caused skin chafing, contemporary volley shorts incorporate ultra-soft micro-mesh liners or smooth, anti-chafe boxer-brief compression liners with integrated phone pockets. Styling volley shorts is remarkably simple: pair them with a crisp linen button-down shirt and leather boat shoes for outdoor dining, or a simple cotton crewneck tee and canvas sneakers for casual weekend errands.
Examine popular volley short inseam lengths, style aesthetics, and body frame pairings below:
| Inseam Length | Hem Positioning | Aesthetic Style | Recommended Body Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Inch Inseam | Mid-to-upper thigh | Retro athletic, bold modern summer look | Athletic builds and shorter-to-average heights |
| 6-Inch Inseam | Mid-thigh sweet spot | Balanced contemporary casual aesthetic | Universal fit flattering on all heights and builds |
| 7-Inch Inseam | Just above the knee | Traditional conservative activewear | Taller individuals (over 6 ft) wanting modesty |
| Compression-Lined | Snug boxer liner peeking 0.5 in | Performance athletic and gym crossover | Active runners, volleyball players, water skiers |
Selecting a six-inch inseam provides the ideal balance of modern tailoring and comfortable coverage for most body types.
How to Style and Care for Volley Shorts in 4 Steps
Follow these wardrobe and laundry tips to style volley shorts and maintain quick-dry performance.
Select the Right Inseam for Your Proportions
Choose a 5-inch to 6-inch inseam for a modern, athletic look that hits mid-thigh without feeling baggy or restrictive.
Pair with Breathable Casual Tops for Day Wear
Combine solid or subtle-patterned volley shorts with an unbuttoned linen camp collar shirt or tailored crew tee for daytime dining.
Rinse Immediately After Chlorine or Salt Exposure
Rinse shorts thoroughly under cold tap water after swimming to remove pool chlorine and ocean salt that degrade elastic fibers.
Machine Wash Cold and Air Dry Naturally
Wash with mild detergent on gentle cycle and hang dry in the shade to preserve hydrophobic DWR coatings and elastane stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions (9 Questions Answered)
Q1: Can you wear volley shorts as everyday casual shorts?
Yes, because modern volley shorts feature side pockets, stylish tailoring, and matte technical fabrics, they look like stylish casual shorts off the beach.
Q2: Do volley shorts have a built-in liner?
Most volley shorts include an interior lining, either a traditional soft mesh brief or a modern anti-chafe compression boxer brief.
Q3: What is the difference between swim trunks and volley shorts?
Volley shorts are a specific type of swim trunk featuring a gathered elastic waist, external drawstrings, functional pockets, and shorter 5-to-7-inch inseams.
Q4: Why are they called volley shorts?
They were originally designed in California for beach volleyball players who needed elastic waistbands and shorter cuts for diving and jumping in sand.
Q5: Do volley shorts dry quickly?
Yes, crafted from quick-dry polyester and spandex treated with water-repellent coatings, they typically dry completely within 15 minutes of sun exposure.
Q6: Can you cut the mesh liner out of volley shorts?
Yes, many men who prefer wearing their own compression underwear snip out the interior mesh liner with sharp fabric scissors.
Q7: Are 5-inch volley shorts too short?
No, 5-inch inseams are currently the most popular modern trend in men summer fashion, sitting comfortably at the mid-thigh for an athletic look.
Q8: Do volley shorts have pockets that drain water?
Yes, quality volley shorts have mesh-lined front pockets and rear grommet drainage eyelets so water escapes instantly when exiting the pool.
Q9: Can you run or work out in volley shorts?
Yes, their lightweight stretch fabric, elastic waistband, and anti-chafe liners make them excellent crossover shorts for running and gym workouts.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding what is a volley short? provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.