Men's Summer Gear Guide

Summertime is here and that means more beach time and more fun in the sun.

Summer means post-work sessions, warmer temps with tepid waters, new swell direction and dormant locals lighting up. 

Wetsuits are dried and retired from their long, hard winter run. Rash guards and boardshorts fill the lineups. The all-day Saturday session returns. In short, it’s hard to beat.

But, a day at the beach or that dreamy summer session is only made good with the right beach and surf gear. Comfortable boardshorts, flexible neoprene, soft surf tees, and all the gear needed to get it there. Luckily, our ultimate summer gear guide is here to make it easy. Explore our best-selling summer products from boardshorts, surf accessories, surf watches, and plenty more - it’s your one-stop-shop for that perfect summer session.

Summer Wetsuits for Men

Men’s wetsuits for summer need to be dialed for warmth without bulk, breathability without compromise, and flexibility without restriction. Unlike winter suits, which are designed to trap heat, summer suits are about keeping you in the water longer - without overheating or wearing out.

How to Choose a Wetsuit for Summer Surf

Here’s a breakdown of what to consider depending on water temp, session length, and your summer surf destination:

Fullsuits - Ideal for places where the water temp ranges between 60–68°F A 2/2mm fullsuit with flatlock stitching will keep you warm on overcast days or during early-morning sessions without sacrificing comfort. If you're in windier areas or surfing in late spring or early fall, a 3/2mm may still be your best bet.

Springsuits - Perfect for tropical climates and mid-summer conditions, springsuits protect against sun and rash while keeping you ultra-mobile. Long-sleeve short-leg options offer more upper body protection if you're logging long sessions or surfing punchy reef breaks.

Rash Guards - For water temps over 75°F (24°C), neoprene might be overkill. Rash guards keep your skin safe from sunburn, reef rash, and wax irritation - without adding weight. They’re a must-pack item for surf travel and perfect for days when you’re mixing surf with snorkeling, swimming, or beach chilling. 

Destination-Specific Tips - When doing dome summer surf travel, knowing your destination is key. Headed to Bali or Costa Rica? Rash guards and spring suits will do. Surfing Santa Cruz or Sydney’s southern beaches? Keep a lightweight fullsuit on hand. Always cross-check your destination’s water temp before zipping up.

Which Wetsuit Accessories Do You Need in Summer?

You might be ditching the 5mm booties and hood, but that doesn’t mean you're surfing accessory-free. Smart summer surfers pack for comfort and conditions:

• Reef Booties: Tropical breaks often mean sharp coral bottoms. A low-profile reef bootie gives you grip and protection without compromising your feel on the board.
• Neoprene Jackets or Vests: Perfect for warm water with cool breezes, or for boat trips between sessions. They’re easy to throw on and pack flat.
• Sun Caps and Ear Protection: Prolonged UV exposure can mess with your ears, eyes, and skin. Surf caps shield your face without interfering with duck dives. And if you’re surfing daily, surfer’s ear plugs are a wise investment.

Men’s Summer Boardshorts

Men’s boardshorts aren’t just about surf style – they’re the foundation of every session. Designed to perform under pressure, dry fast, and move freely, they’re a true hybrid piece that transitions from lineup to lunch without missing a beat. The right pair will make or break your comfort in the water.

Performance Boardshorts

Designed for function first, these are made for surfers who spend hours in the water. Key features include:

• 4-Way Stretch Fabric: Total freedom of movement while paddling and popping up.
• Hydrophobic DWR Coatings: Repels water so your shorts dry fast and stay light.
• Secure Waistbands: Look for drawcords that won’t slip mid-wave and stitchless flys to prevent chafing.
• Zippered or Velcro Pockets: Ideal for stashing wax, fins keys, or a little snack for longer surfs.

Lifestyle Boardshorts

Built for style and versatility, lifestyle shorts prioritize comfort and durability. They’re perfect for beach hangs, barbecues, and everything in between. Many styles are also eco-conscious, made with recycled materials or organic cotton blends.

Length & Fit

Consider your height, board type, and whether you’ll be surfing, lounging, or doing both when buying your boarshorts for summer. Boardshorts typically come in 16" to 21" outseams:

• 16–18": A shorter, retro-inspired look that’s great for mobility and airflow.
• 19–21": Offers more leg coverage and a classic surf fit.

Summer Beachwear for Men

Beyond the lineup, your men’s beachwear needs to be versatile enough for beach days, afternoon beers, and coastal exploring. Comfort, breathability, and UV protection are key when you’re in and out of the sun all day.

Hats - When the sun’s overhead and the sessions run long, having the right hat can save your skin - literally. Surf caps are built for performance, staying secure through windy paddle-outs while helping you keep cool. For something more relaxed and versatile, bucket hats give full-circle coverage, whether you're boat-hopping or lounging on the beach. And once you’re out of the water, nothing beats a classic trucker or snapback to toss on when your hair’s still wet.

Shirts & Tanks - A surfer’s summer wardrobe isn’t complete without a stack of breathable tees and tanks. Graphic tees with bold prints or vintage logo art are the unofficial uniform of the post-session hang. On hotter days, performance tanks come in handy, especially when you need something quick-drying and featherlight to handle the heat. And when the breeze rolls in or the sun dips behind the trees, nothing beats a well-worn, lightweight flannel.

Hoodies & Jackets - Even in the heat of summer, every surfer knows the wind can whip up or the weather can turn on a dime. A soft pullover hoodie is a summer surf trip essential, warm enough for early dawn patrols but casual enough for post-surf burritos or road trip stops. And if there’s even a hint of storm on the radar, having a windbreaker or shell in your kit means you're ready for unexpected rain, coastal winds, or a chilly evening walk down to check the tide.

Shorts & Pants - From summer surf checks at sunrise to taco truck runs after dark, your lower half deserves just as much gear love as your upper. Hybrid shorts are the MVPs of summer, they’re made from water-ready, fast-drying fabrics that handle dips in the ocean and detours through town without missing a beat. When you’re in full chill mode or logging miles in transit, joggers, track pants, and chinos offer unbeatable comfort with just enough style.

Sandals - After peeling off your wetsuit and rinsing the salt from your skin, there’s nothing better than slipping into a pair of comfortable sandals. If you're on your feet all day or trekking to a distant break, arch support flip-flops are a game changer, designed for both durability and foot-friendly cushioning. Slides and waterproof flip flops are ideal for life on the go, perfect for campgrounds, hostels, or lazy mornings when convenience is key.

Men’s Beach & Surf Accessories for Summer

Your sessions are only as good as your prep. These add-ons make your summer surf lifestyle smoother, safer, and more enjoyable - whether you're headed to the local point or an overseas surf mission.

Surf Watches

These days, surf watches are more than just tide timers, they’re digital surf companions. The best ones are preloaded with tide, and swell data for breaks around the world, so you can plan your session without ever checking your phone. Many models now feature GPS tracking to log wave counts, speed, and session length, helping you see exactly how much you're scoring. And because they're built for the salt, sun, and sand, durability is a given.

Beach Towels - A good beach towel might seem basic, but when you're moving between sessions, drying off quickly, or just stretching out on the sand, the right towel makes all the difference. Oversized microfiber towels are lightweight, pack down small, and dry fast. For post-surf comfort or lounging in the back of the van, cotton terry towels bring that plush, cozy feel.

Surf Travel Bags - Traveling to your summer surf session means trusting your gear will make it there in one piece. For everyday missions and short hauls, a simple day bag shields your stick from sun, wax melt, and parking lot dings. And when it comes to carrying the rest of your setup, a solid wet/dry backpack lets you stash your wetsuit, towel, and post-surf clothes without turning everything inside into a salty mess.

Surfboard Care Items - Taking care of your board ensures it takes care of you. Pack surf hardware like backup leashes and fins, because nothing ends a trip faster than losing a crucial part mid-session. A mini ding repair kit is a travel essential, letting you patch small cracks or scrapes without missing a tide window. And don’t overlook a quality board cover - it protects against UV damage and sand scuffs when your board is chilling between sessions.

Men’s Summer Surf Gear FAQ

What wetsuit should men wear for surfing in summer?
For summer surf, most men opt for lightweight 2/2mm fullsuits, shorty springsuits, or even just rash guards - depending on water temperature. In cooler areas (60–68°F), a 2/2mm wetsuit is ideal. In warmer tropical zones (70°F+), rash guards and UV-protective surf tees offer sun protection without the bulk of neoprene.

Are boardshorts good for surfing?
Yes, performance boardshorts are designed for surfing. Look for 4-way stretch fabric, secure waistbands, and quick-dry materials. Surf-specific boardshorts help reduce chafing and allow for better mobility in the water.

What’s the difference between performance and lifestyle boardshorts?
Performance boardshorts are made for active water use and feature technical fabrics, stretch, and hydrophobic coatings. Lifestyle boardshorts prioritize comfort and style, often made from softer materials and designed for beach hangs or casual wear.

What are must-have accessories for summer surfing?
Essential summer surf accessories include surf watches (for tracking tides and sessions), microfiber beach towels, surf travel bags, reef-safe sunscreen, and rash guards with UPF protection. Depending on your break, you might also want reef booties or a surf cap for sun safety.

What is UPF and why is it important in summer surf gear?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It indicates how effectively a fabric blocks harmful UV rays. A UPF rash guard or surf tee protects your skin during long sessions under the sun, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term damage.

What clothes should men wear to the beach in summer?
Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal. Look for moisture-wicking tees, tanks, hybrid shorts, and UPF-rated surf shirts. Throw on a flannel or windbreaker for cooler evenings, and keep a pair of sandals or slides handy for easy movement on sand and rocks.

What is a good surf travel bag for summer trips?
A quality surf travel bag should include a wet/dry backpack for organizing gear and compact storage for your towel, sunscreen, surfboard accessories, and change of clothes. Look for durable, water-resistant materials that can handle travel.

Summer, Surf, and Staying Stoked

Summer’s the heart of surf season. And with the right setup - from men’s wetsuits and boardshorts to sunglasses, surf bags, and more - you’ll stay cool, confident, and wave-ready no matter where the season takes you. With quality materials and craftsmanship, these pieces will last you for many seasons to come.

This season, use this men’s summer gear guide to find all of your favorite new swim, surf, and beach essentials. Don’t forget to check out our women’s summer gear guide and kids’ summer gear guide if you're shopping for the whole crew.