The right shorts make a significant difference to comfort on the water. Kayaking involves sustained sitting, repetitive paddling movements, and inevitable splashing, which means the wrong fabric choice leads to chafing, slow drying times, and discomfort on longer sessions.
The key features to look for are quick-drying fabric, a comfortable fit that allows full leg movement, and pockets that stay secure when wet. We’ve reviewed 6 of the best kayaking shorts across a range of styles and budgets. All our picks are also unisex for all paddlers.
1. Speedo Essential Watershort – Best Overall
The Speedo Essential Watershort is the best all-round choice for kayaking. Speedo is one of the most recognised water sports brands available and the Essential Watershort reflects their understanding of comfort and performance on the water.
The quick-dry fabric dries rapidly after splashing or a capsize, and the comfortable fit allows full leg movement during the paddling stroke. Available in multiple colours with a simple drawstring waist, it is a practical and affordable option for recreational paddlers who want a reliable water short from a trusted brand. Priced at around AUD$37 (USD$24).
What We Liked
- Trusted water sports brand
- Quick-dry fabric
- Comfortable fit for paddling
- Available in multiple colours
What We Didn’t Like
- Limited pocket options compared to cargo alternatives
2. Amazon Essentials 9″ Quick-Dry Swim Trunk – Best Budget
The Amazon Essentials 9″ Quick-Dry Swim Trunk is the most affordable option on this list and one of the most widely reviewed swim shorts available on Amazon. At around AUD$25 (USD$16), it is the best value entry point for recreational paddlers who want a reliable quick-dry short without spending a lot.
The 9-inch inseam provides good thigh coverage for extended sitting, and the quick-dry fabric handles splashing and wet conditions well. A simple elastic waistband with drawstring provides a comfortable fit across a range of body types.
What We Liked
- Most affordable option
- Widely available with fast delivery
- 9-inch inseam for good coverage
- Quick-dry fabric
- Simple comfortable fit
What We Didn’t Like
- Basic styling with limited features
- No zippered pockets
3. Bassdash 8″ Fishing Water Shorts UPF 50+ – Best for Fishing
The Bassdash 8″ Fishing Water Shorts are the best option for kayak anglers. Designed specifically for fishing and water activities, they feature UPF 50+ sun protection, water-resistant quick-dry fabric, and multiple zippered pockets for storing small gear securely on the water.
The 8-inch inseam provides good coverage when seated, and the lightweight nylon construction handles both sun exposure and water contact well. A practical choice for anyone spending long hours on the water in warm conditions. Priced at around AUD$44 (USD$29).
What We Liked
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Water-resistant quick-dry fabric
- Multiple zippered pockets
- Designed for water activities
- Good inseam length for seated paddling
What We Didn’t Like
- More functional than stylish
4. SILKWORLD Swim Trunks with Compression Liner – Best for Long Paddles
The SILKWORLD Swim Trunks with Compression Liner are the best choice for paddlers who spend extended time on the water. The built-in compression liner provides support and reduces chafing on longer sessions, which makes a noticeable difference over several hours of paddling.
The quick-dry outer shell handles splashing well, and the zipper pockets keep valuables secure. At around AUD$88 (USD$57), they are the most expensive option on this list, but the compression liner makes them significantly more comfortable than standard swim shorts for all-day paddling.
What We Liked
- Built-in compression liner reduces chafing
- Zipper pockets for secure storage
- Quick-dry outer fabric
- Best for long sessions on the water
- Durable construction
What We Didn’t Like
- Higher price point
- Compression liner can feel warm in very hot conditions
5. Hugut Lightweight Hiking Cargo Shorts – Best Cargo Option
The Hugut Lightweight Hiking Cargo Shorts are the best cargo option on this list. Multiple zippered pockets provide excellent storage for small items including a phone, keys, sunscreen, and snacks, making them a practical choice for paddlers who want to keep gear accessible on deck without using a dry bag for everything.
The quick-dry fabric handles water contact well, and the lightweight construction keeps them comfortable in warm conditions. Available in multiple colours and priced at around AUD$51 (USD$33).
What We Liked
- Multiple zippered pockets
- Quick-dry lightweight fabric
- Good storage for small items
- Available in multiple colours
- Comfortable fit for paddling
What We Didn’t Like
- Slightly bulkier than streamlined swim shorts
- Best suited to casual recreational paddling
6. WILLIT 5″ Athletic Running Shorts – Best Lightweight
The WILLIT 5″ Athletic Running Shorts are the best lightweight option on this list. The 5-inch inseam and streamlined design minimise fabric bulk, which suits paddlers who prefer a minimal, athletic fit on the water. The quick-dry fabric is highly breathable and dries faster than longer alternatives.
A zippered side pocket keeps a phone or keys secure, and the high-waisted design provides a comfortable fit without the need for adjustment during paddling. Priced at around AUD$44 (USD$29).
What We Liked
- Lightweight minimal design
- Quick-dry breathable fabric
- Zippered side pocket
- Good for warm weather paddling
What We Didn’t Like
- Shorter inseam suits some paddlers better than others
- Less coverage than longer options
What To Look For in Kayaking Shorts
Fabric
Nylon and polyester are the best materials for kayaking shorts. Both dry quickly, resist water absorption, and handle repeated wet and dry cycles without degrading. Avoid cotton entirely — it absorbs water, dries slowly, and provides no insulation when wet, which increases the risk of cold-related discomfort in cooler conditions.
A blend containing at least 5 percent spandex or elastane adds stretch that improves comfort and range of motion during the paddling stroke.
Inseam length
Inseam length affects both coverage and mobility. Shorter inseams of 5 to 7 inches (13 to 18cm) provide maximum freedom of movement and suit warm conditions. Longer inseams of 9 to 11 inches (23 to 28cm) provide more thigh coverage and better sun protection for extended paddling sessions. Most recreational paddlers find an inseam of 7 to 9 inches (18 to 23cm) the most practical compromise.
Pockets
Zippered pockets keep valuables secure when wet. If you plan to carry a phone, keys, or sunscreen on your person while paddling, look for at least one zippered pocket. Standard open pockets are not reliable on the water as contents can fall out during capsizing or when leaning over the side of the kayak.
Sun protection
A UPF 50+ rating blocks over 98% of UV radiation. For paddlers who spend long hours on the water in sunny conditions, UV-rated shorts provide meaningful protection for the thighs and legs. Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin not covered by the shorts.
Compression liner
Shorts with a built-in compression liner reduce chafing on longer paddles and provide additional support. Worth considering for paddlers who spend three or more hours on the water at a time.
Budget
Quality kayaking shorts are available from AUD$25 to AUD$90 (USD$16 to USD$58). Budget options in the AUD$25 to AUD$45 range provide adequate quick-dry performance for most recreational paddlers. Premium options above AUD$60 typically add compression liners, more pockets, or more durable construction.
Final Thoughts
For most recreational kayakers, the Speedo Essential Watershort or Amazon Essentials Quick-Dry Trunk provide the best combination of comfort, quick-dry performance, and value. For kayak anglers, the Bassdash Fishing Shorts offer the most purpose-built features. For long paddling sessions, the SILKWORLD Compression Liner Shorts are worth the higher price.
For more on kayaking gear, read our guides on best kayaking shoes and best life jackets for kayak fishing.