[Competition Judge's Commentary] Top 5 Recommended Brands for Men's Physique Board Shorts!

この記事の執筆者および監修者

執筆者

APF Grand Prix Series 2025 ストリートモデル1位 フィジークモデル クラス20 4位

相川優友

トレーニング歴3年半。これまでにフィットネス大会へ3度出場し、実体験に基づいたボディメイクやトレーニングの知見を培う。現在はその経験を活かし、フィットネスに関する情報発信や監修を行っている。

監修者

フィットネス系ブランド

ALLOUT 公式編集部

フィットネスブランド「ALL OUT」を運営する編集チーム。トレーニングギアの開発やフィットネス業界の知見を活かし、ボディメイクやトレーニングに関する情報を発信している。

Surf shorts (board shorts) that further enhance your sculpted physique on the physique stage.

Are you just casually choosing, thinking, "I guess I'll just buy a popular brand..."? Actually, that's a huge waste!

In physique competitions, the length and design of surf shorts are an extremely important item directly linked to judging results, such as "emphasizing the V-shape" and "overall body balance."

If you choose incorrectly, you might not be able to maximize the appeal of the physique you've worked so hard on. Furthermore, there are many tragic examples of competitors who bought shorts without knowing the regulations of each organization and found out they were "subject to penalty..."

Therefore, this article thoroughly explains the following:

• The importance of physique surf shorts
• Judging insights for winning from IFBB certified international judge Sally Sasaki
• Detailed regulations of the top 5 organizations
• Tips for size and where to buy
• 5 recommended surf shorts brands for physique
• Real problems and solutions backstage

and more.

In the latter half of the article, we also covered real backstage concerns that only experienced competitors know how to deal with, such as "how to request alterations (tailoring) to transform ready-made clothes into winning attire" and "the problem of color transfer from tanning products."

In this article, the "ALL OUT" editorial department introduces recommended products from various manufacturers and popular brands, based on actual athletes' usage examples. Please use this as a reference when making your purchase.

※Prices for other companies' products are based on the time of article creation. Please note that current prices may differ.

Importance of Physique Surf Shorts in Judging

In physique, surf shorts are not just an outfit; they are a "powerful tool to make the physique look better." Here, we will delve into the real reasons why they directly impact the judging results.

Importance of Physique Surf Shorts

In bodybuilding and classic physique, competitors are required to wear posing trunks, so the sculpted physique itself, including muscle bulk and separation, is 100% directly evaluated.

However, men's physique is different. Surf shorts, which athletes can freely choose in design and size, become the only weapon to maximize their strengths on stage.

The length of the chosen surf shorts, the width of the hem, and the cutting around the waist—all of these create an illusion that determines the perfection of the "V-shape (inverted triangle silhouette)," which is most emphasized in physique.

In other words, surf shorts function as a strategic element to control how your proportions are presented to the judges.

Neglecting this strategy can lead to a fatal loss where, no matter how perfectly you sculpt your body through intense dieting, your true abilities may not be recognized by the judges.

3 Common Mistakes

Here are three common and regrettable mistakes beginners often make on stage.

Choosing based on the fit of everyday swimwear

This is the most common mistake. If you choose based on how your everyday swimwear feels, it will definitely look "baggy" on stage. The rule of thumb is to choose a size that is just right to slightly tight, where you can barely wear it by tying the waist, and where there isn't too much fabric around the thighs.

Length is too long, making legs look short

Surf shorts that reach below the knee are fatal in physique. They make your center of gravity appear lower, ruining your hard-earned proportions. The best length is a few centimeters above the knee, subtly revealing the lower part of the quadriceps (teardrop).

Choosing colors without considering skin tone (after tanning)

If you choose a vibrant blue because "you like blue," only your shorts will stand out against your dark tanned skin, drawing the judges' eyes downwards.

【Latest for 2026】Surf Shorts Regulations for Each Major Physique Competition Organization

Here, we will explain the regulations for each major organization that operates men's physique competitions.

Be sure to understand the necessary requirements based on the organization of the competition you plan to enter!

Also, some organizations have officially recommended brands, so please check those as well.

JBBF

• Surf shorts that are too tight to show the shape of the thighs are not allowed (there must be a space of two fingers or more perpendicular to the thigh at the part close to the knee).
• No attached rhinestones or other embellishments.
• Must cover the entire upper leg from above the knee.
• Fabrics or designs with reflective or glossy finishes are undesirable.

Reference: JBBF Official Website

Muscle Gate

It states that "Muscle Gate judging is conducted in accordance with the standards of the JBBF (Japan Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation)," so the content is the same as the JBBF above.

Reference: Muscle Gate Official Website

FWJ

• Must wear commercially available board shorts (surf shorts).
• Board shorts (surf shorts) must be worn at a position where the lower abdomen is clearly visible and be knee-length. A tapered type is ideal, and the color is free.
• The material of the board shorts (surf shorts) must not be stretchy/spandex.
  ※Partial use of spandex material is permitted.

Reference: FWJ Official Website

ZeniX

(*A new organization to watch in 2026. IFBB PRO is involved, requiring world-class staging.)

• Must wear commercially available board shorts (surf shorts).
• Board shorts (surf shorts) must be worn at a position where the lower abdomen is clearly visible and be knee-length. A tapered type is ideal, and the color is free.
• The material of the board shorts (surf shorts) must not be stretchy/spandex.
  ※Partial use of spandex material is permitted.

Reference: ZeniX Official Website

ZeniX Recommended Brand ①: ALL OUT

For ZeniX and FWJ, which require more stringent world standards on stage, the biggest hurdle is the regulation prohibiting all-spandex (stretchy material).

However, choosing a fabric that doesn't stretch at all can make developed legs feel constricted and hinder posing.

ALL OUT's PRO model shorts brilliantly solve this dilemma by strategically placing partially highly elastic fabric, which is permitted by the regulations.

・"Tapered x Below Naval" silhouette that clears regulations: The firm fabric and three-dimensional cutting achieve a perfect taper that doesn't sag at the hips even when worn below the naval.

・Maximizing leg bulk appeal: Designed to secure the range of motion for posing while accentuating the quadriceps cuts. Recommended by IFBB PRO athletes and Sally Sasaki.

For athletes with significant muscle mass who "want to show off 120% of their sculpted leg separation while eliminating the risk of regulation violations," these are truly the ultimate battle attire.

APF

• Swimsuit check at check-in (swimsuits violating rules will be penalized).
• Regulation shorts: Must be commercially available surf shorts / Logos other than ready-made products are not allowed.
• No alterations (waist adjustment is permitted).

Reference: APF Official Website

APF Recommended Brand ①: ALL OUT

The fitness brand ALL OUT, originating from Japan, is currently gaining the most enthusiastic support from physique athletes in Japan.

It completely solves the unique problems faced by Japanese individuals with overseas brands, such as "length being too long when fitting the waist" or "legs looking thin due to excess fabric at the hem," through a wide range of sizes and meticulous three-dimensional cutting.

You can achieve a tapered silhouette that looks great on stage from the moment you buy it, without the need for alterations.

APF Recommended Brand ②: VEATM

Another brand making an overwhelming impression on the APF stage is VEATM, a domestic fitness apparel brand that has gained explosive popularity in recent years.

VEATM's surf shorts are characterized by their minimalist, stylish design and meticulously calculated stretch material that allows for intense posing without any stress.

The silhouette itself is designed to be very tight and beautiful from the start, so there is no excess fabric on stage even with ready-made products.

Winning Judge's Perspective by IFBB Certified International Judge Sally Sasaki

Here, we thoroughly interviewed "Sally Sasaki," an IFBB International Judge, for her winning judging perspective.

What are the latest judging criteria for Men's Physique?

Today, we have IFBB Certified International Judge Sally Sasaki with us. To start, what is the most overlooked point by athletes in the latest Men's Physique judging criteria?

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

There was a time when posing involved twisting almost to the point of appearing like a "T," and legs were hardly considered in judging.
Gradually, the balance of the legs also became necessary, and as judging standards changed, attention to costumes became essential.

So, not only the upper body, but also the balance including the legs is becoming important.

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

Recently, upper and lower body balance has become a proper judging criterion, so shorts that stretch properly towards the knees are becoming mainstream.
To assess whether the legs are well-trained and if there's a good balance between the upper and lower body, they need to be a good fit.

What is "NG styling" from a judge's perspective?

Are there any outfits on stage that you feel are "a missed opportunity"?

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

Recent board shorts have stretch, so if you get the wrong size, they tend to ride up during judging.
From a judge's perspective, it's not just about showing off your legs, so I feel it's a wasted opportunity.

So, trying to appeal with shorter shorts to emphasize the legs actually backfires.

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

From a judging standard perspective, please wear them stretched properly to the knee, maintaining the original designed length.
If they bunch up too much inside and ride up, it doesn't leave a very good impression on the judges. There's no need to show off your legs more than necessary.

Color Strategy to Master Illusion

How should I choose colors and designs to match my body type?

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

For those whose waist is not particularly narrow, a black belt or similar will make it visually appear tighter.
First and foremost, choosing the right belt color is one key point.

What about the balance with leg thickness?

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

For people whose legs are thin compared to their muscle mass, expansive colors that make legs look thicker, like white, are recommended.
Conversely, if your lower body is naturally more developed than your upper body, and you're someone who loves leg day, you're honestly out of balance in a different sense, so I would advise against expansive colors.

Preparation for competition day and what makes the difference in the end

Please give some advice on preparing board shorts for the competition.

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

Consider how many more kilograms you will lose before the stage and choose your shorts accordingly.
Also, if everyone has the same pattern and color, having an extra pair can give you an edge, so I recommend bringing two pairs on competition day.

Finally, please give a message to the athletes who will be on stage.

Yuyu Aikawa

IFBB International Judge
Sally Sasaki

I might contradict everything I just said, but if you say, "I really love this, I want to wear what that pro athlete is wearing," then I think you should wear it.
Because when your motivation is high, your body's response will definitely be good.
If it's a manufacturer that genuinely considers judging criteria, I think it's perfectly fine to wear colors and designs that get you excited.

How to Choose Physique Surf Shorts

In physique, choosing surf shorts is not just a matter of "they're good enough to wear."

Even a physique sculpted to the extreme can look dramatically different depending on the fit and design of the shorts.

Here, we will explain the key points for choosing a size that will absolutely not fail, based on global rules and the latest trends.

【Important】Choose brands recommended by the competition-hosting organization

When choosing surf shorts for physique, it is most reliable to select a brand recommended by the competition organization you will be participating in.

Because different organizations prefer different designs and silhouettes, in actual competitions, there are "brands commonly seen in that organization."

For example, VEATM and ALL OUT are known as brands frequently worn by athletes in APF (Asia Physique Federation) competitions. ALL OUT is recommended by multiple organizations and is a standard choice for stage shorts.

(※New organization ZeniX, a focus for 2026, also recommends ALL OUT)

Thus, since there are mainstream brands for each competition, referring to the recommended brands of the organization you plan to compete in and past winners is key to choosing surf shorts that won't fail.

View details at ALL OUT

Directly Impacts Judging! The golden ratio for length is "5-10cm above the knee"

The "length" of surf shorts is a very strictly judged point in physique competitions.

The official rules of the IFBB PRO (International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness), the most authoritative organization in the world, also clearly state the following:

“They must be just above the knee in length.”
(In judging and finals, the length of the surf shorts must be just above the knee)

Reference: https://www.ifbbpro.com/rules/

Although the rules for length were ambiguous when the category was first established, they are now strictly enforced. This means that both too long and too short can be "subject to penalty."

• Too long: The cut of the lower quadriceps is hidden, making the legs appear shorter overall.
• Too short: The attire appears too casual, diminishing the refined atmosphere characteristic of physique competitions.

The golden ratio that makes the legs appear longest and most muscular is a length that comfortably covers the kneecap (patella) and falls approximately "5cm to 10cm above the knee."

Waist should have a moderate fit

Equally important as length when choosing a size is the fit around the waist.

Looking at how top pros dress now, the mainstream is to wear them close to the navel, with a black-colored drawstring tie around the waist.

This tightens the abdomen, creating a more refined V-shape.

When choosing your waist size, pay attention to the following points:

• Too loose (NG): It will shift during intense posing, negatively affecting the appearance of the lower abs.
• Too tight (NG): Forcibly tying it will put pressure on the abdomen, making your stomach appear to stick out.

If it's an international brand that's difficult to try on in person, thoroughly check other athletes' reviews and size feedback, aiming for a "just-fit to slightly tight" size.

Color and Design Selection Based on Objective Evaluation

Beyond sizing, there are clear "winning criteria" for choosing colors and designs.

Beginners tend to choose "their favorite colors" or "flashy, intricate, or camouflage patterns that stand out," but it's the judges, not you, who are evaluating.

What looks "good" in the mirror can appear completely different under intense stage lighting or from the audience's perspective. Always make your final decision by incorporating "objective third-party perspective."

5 Recommended Physique Surf Shorts Brands

Recommended Physique Surf Shorts Brand ①: ALL OUT

ALL OUT surf shorts feature a design meticulously calculated to maximize the beauty of an athlete's physique on the competition stage.

Currently, there are two models available, selectable according to the athlete's body structure and posing style.

APF Certified/Recommended Model

The first is the "Standard Model," which emphasizes the classic V-shape and creates a traditional silhouette.

It offers a 24-inch model, which is rarely seen in other brands, and can accentuate the "overwhelming inverted triangle silhouette," which is most highly evaluated in physique, to an unparalleled degree.

Design List

Here is a list of ALL OUT APF certified surf shorts designs. There are many diverse designs!

Actual Experience and Reviews

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st place Physique Model Class 20 4th place

Yuyu Aikawa

PRO Specification Model (ZeniX Recommended)

The second is the "High Performance Model," which features cutting that highlights more extreme leanness and quadriceps separation.

Both boast overwhelming stretch and comfort that do not hinder intense posing.

Design List

※Designs are unified with the APF model above.

Actual Experience and Reviews

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st place Physique Model Class 20 4th place

Yuyu Aikawa

When I put on the PRO specification model, I was immediately surprised by the high stretchability of the fabric! There was absolutely no stress even during twists and side poses, which are specific to physique, and being able to concentrate on posing is a huge advantage.

What was particularly impressive was the cutting that beautifully highlights the lines of the quadriceps. Since the leg separation is naturally emphasized, I think it's a very good match for athletes who have thoroughly trained their legs!

Furthermore, as a model supervised by IFBB PRO athletes and international judges, the silhouette and design are perfectly suited for competition.

The colors also stand out well under stage lighting, making it easy to create a strong presence. I would highly recommend this model to athletes with significant muscle mass or those who want to fully showcase the completeness of their leg development!

Athletes Wearing ALL OUT

Farooq Ishimoto (IFBB PRO)
A top pro who competed in the Olympia. ALL OUT is cherished as powerful gear that strongly supports his overwhelming bulk, proportions, and beautiful outlines on stage.

Yuki Kamiyama (IFBB PRO)
A professional physique athlete with world-class perfection. He wears ALL OUT as a symbol proving "overwhelming stage presence" that stands out even amidst strict judging criteria.

Ryohei Okada (IFBB PRO)
Known for his precise separation and stylish posing. He embodies the PRO-spec functionality that perfectly follows intense movements on his own stage.

Tsukaken (Kenta Tsukamoto)
A highly popular and skilled muscle influencer known as "the man with the best chest in Japan." He has deep knowledge of numerous brands and places solid trust in ALL OUT as "the one piece that will never fail" when preparing for competitions.

Takumi Ishikawa (Natural IFBB PRO)
A pro who boasts a naturally sculpted physique trained to the extreme. The excellent cutting is favored for beautifully showcasing meticulous muscle definition without any hindrance.

Recommended Physique Surf Shorts Brand ②: VEATM

VEATM is a brand that has gained explosive popularity in the Japanese fitness scene in recent years.

It incorporates various physique-specific features, such as trendy color block designs and optical illusion gradients that make the waist appear slimmer, throughout its products.

Athletes Wearing VEATM

Ryo Terashima (IFBB PRO)
He wore VEATM surf shorts when he earned his pro card at Olympia Amateur Japan.

Furthermore, he wore VEATM model surf shorts at the FWJ TOKYO PRO in 2024.

Nasu-ke
Popular fitness influencer. Also offers custom models reflecting his particular preferences.

Actual Experience and Reviews

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st place Physique Model Class 20 4th place

Yuyu Aikawa

A highly complete model with a trendy color design and 4-way stretch fabric that does not hinder range of motion during posing. The tight design around the knees naturally shapes the leg line, making it a piece that easily creates a refined physique-like silhouette.

Recommended Physique Surf Shorts Brand ③: FIED

Athletes Wearing FIED

Jo Kamizato
A top-class physique athlete in Japan, known for wearing FIED surf shorts.

Actual Experience and Reviews

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st place Physique Model Class 20 4th place

Yuyu Aikawa

The strong tapered design is a major feature, allowing for simultaneous emphasis of a thin waist and quadriceps volume. The fabric has a moderate stiffness, so the silhouette doesn't easily lose its shape during back poses, making it suitable for athletes who want to clearly showcase their leg development.

Recommended Physique Surf Shorts Brand ④: LYFT

LYFT is an extremely popular brand produced by Edward Kato.

It features stylish designs that blend fitness and lifestyle, with sophisticated graphics that look great not only on stage but also for everyday use at the beach or pool.

Athletes Wearing LYFT

Edward Kato (IFBB PRO)

Founder of LYFT and IFBB PRO Men's Physique athlete. He wears LYFT surf shorts for his own competitions and training.

Actual Experience and Reviews

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st place Physique Model Class 20 4th place

Yuyu Aikawa

Characterized by the heavy-duty fabric typical of board shorts and a sophisticated design. With appropriate stretch and an exquisite length above the knee, it beautifully displays muscle cuts while creating a stylish impression. This model is also highly popular among athletes who prioritize design.

Recommended Physique Surf Shorts Brand ⑤: CHULA WEAR

CHULA WEAR is an extremely popular brand from the USA that is currently sweeping the global physique scene. Its biggest feature is the use of a "stiff, firm fabric" that deliberately limits stretch.

This prevents the fabric from bunching or wrinkling even during intense posing, perfectly maintaining a beautiful V-shape silhouette that flares out from the waist to the hem. These are truly world-standard surf shorts, with overwhelming wear rates even on the Olympia stage.

Athletes Wearing CHULA WEAR

The kings of Olympia, the very top athletes in the world, all use these, giving the brand such overwhelming power that competitors think, "Someday, I want to wear CHULA WEAR on stage."

Ryan Terry (IFBB PRO)
The 2023 Men's Physique Olympia champion. He wore CHULA WEAR as gear to highlight his world-class vacuum pose and artistic abdominal definition, leading him to victory.

Erin Banks (IFBB PRO)
The 2022 Men's Physique Olympia champion. It contributes to creating a perfect silhouette that emphasizes his overwhelming back width and extremely narrow waist.

Other top IFBB PRO athletes, both domestic and international
Not only top pros worldwide, but also a very high percentage of top competitors in Japan's Pro Qualifier (pro card issuing competitions) wear these, establishing its firm position as "surf shorts for winners."

Actual Experience and Reviews

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st place Physique Model Class 20 4th place

Yuyu Aikawa

Characterized by a stiff, firm fabric, its greatest appeal is that the silhouette doesn't lose its shape during posing. The trendy short length design creates a rugged, three-dimensional outline like international pros. It's the ideal pair for athletes who want to strongly showcase their muscle mass and density.

Where to Buy Surf Shorts

【Recommended】Official Brand Websites and Authorized Retailers

The most reliable and ultimately most cost-effective option is to purchase from the official brand websites or authorized retailers (distributors).

• Zero risk of counterfeits: While counterfeits are rampant for popular international physique brands, you're 100% guaranteed genuine products from official sources.
• Access to the latest trends in length and materials: You can reliably choose new products that are advantageous for judging, such as 24/26-inch short lengths suitable for Japanese physiques and the latest stretch materials, all reflecting 2026 trends.

The sense of security and explosion of motivation that comes from wearing new, authentic gear at the moment you step on stage after months of grueling training and dieting is unparalleled.

Our site also provides reliable official purchase routes for each brand, so please check them out.

View details at ALL OUT

View details at VEATM

View details at LYFT

E-commerce sites like Amazon and Rakuten

Amazon and Rakuten, which you're probably used to, offer the advantage of easy purchases. For major surf brands like Hurley, you can choose from a wide range of products.

However, for overseas fitness-specific brands like DARC SPORT and CHULA WEAR, they are often sold as parallel imports, so be aware that there is a risk of "receiving older models from several years ago (with too long a length)" or "getting stuck with malicious counterfeits."

When purchasing from e-commerce sites, always carefully select "shops officially listed by the brand" or "sellers whose reliability is guaranteed by reviews."

Physical stores like Murasaki Sports

If you absolutely want to try them on before buying, visiting a large sports goods store like Murasaki Sports is an option.

Being able to check the fabric quality and how the colors actually look (color rendition under lighting) is a big advantage.

However, there's one fatal drawback for physique competitors: "they rarely stock brands specifically for physique and fitness."

【Caution】Avoid used items from Mercari, etc.

Some people look for used surf shorts on Mercari or Yahoo Auctions, thinking, "The competition might be a one-time thing, so I want to save money." However, from a professional perspective, this is definitely not recommended (NG).

There are three clear reasons why I don't recommend used items for the competition attire, which embodies so much time, effort, and passion for the stage.

High possibility of alterations by previous owner

Top athletes often have their ready-made surf shorts' hem width and waist tailored to their body shape by a specialized alteration shop.

This means that even if the tag says "28 inches," it could actually be tailored to a completely different silhouette, posing a risk that it won't fit your body.

Fabric degradation and stretching

The "crispness and stiffness" that is vital for surf shorts is lost through repeated wear and washing.

Especially stretch materials (spandex, etc.) will stretch out, and the moment they are hit by the intense stage lighting, the fabric's sagging and wrinkles will become noticeable, making you look shabby.

Hundreds of hours of training and extreme dieting. To perform on stage for a few minutes, the culmination of all that effort, and then diminish your silhouette's evaluation by wearing "ill-fitting" or "worn-out used shorts" is truly a waste.

Invisible stains from Pro Tan (tanning product)

Pants worn in competitions often have oil and pigment from tanning products deeply absorbed into the fabric.

【Gain an Edge Over Rivals】Solutions for Real Backstage Concerns

How to request alterations (tailoring) to transform ready-made clothes into winning attire

Overseas brands of surf shorts may not always fit the Japanese body structure perfectly.

A loose waist that makes the V-shape appear less defined, or a hem that flares out too much and hides leg separation, can be fatal.

Winning athletes take their ready-made clothes to clothing alteration shops and have them adjusted millimeter by millimeter to fit their bodies.

Specific Ordering Method

Waist tightening: The basic method is to tighten the seam at the back. Be careful not to tighten at the sides, as this can disrupt the balance of brand logos or side lines.

• Hem tapering (narrowing): To emphasize the thigh flare, order to "take in the hem width by about 1-3 cm" so it fits snugly against the leg. If the hem flares out like a cylinder, the legs will appear thin.
• Length: The golden ratio is "just above the kneecap." Too long makes the legs look short, and too short risks falling outside the classic physique regulations.
• Fitting Precautions: When taking measurements at the store, be sure to wear the underwear you will wear on competition day and have pins placed while striking front and back poses (with the latissimus dorsi flared and waist narrowed).

Estimated Cost

• Waist alterations: approx. 3,000 to 5,000 yen
• Hem width alterations (tapering): approx. 2,000 to 4,000 yen
• Length alterations: approx. 2,000 to 3,000 yen

※The total is typically around 5,000 to 10,000 yen.

Underwear Problem: What is the correct thing to wear underneath?

Beginners often wonder, "Is it okay to wear surf shorts directly (no underwear)?" but wearing them directly is absolutely NOT recommended.

Not only is it a hygiene issue, but an unnatural shape (bulge) can appear during posing, which not only leaves a bad impression on judges but also makes stage photos look terrible.

How to Choose the Right Underwear

• Swim supporter (inner shorts): This is the most popular choice. Choose tight swimming supporters (boxer or V-brief type). They provide firm support, so the silhouette won't sag during intense movements.
• Seamless (no-sew) shorts: If the surf shorts' fabric is thin, underwear seams can be clearly visible from the outside. Seamless types won't show through.
• Color choice: If wearing white or pastel-colored surf shorts, black or brightly colored underwear will show through. The rule of thumb is to choose "beige tones close to your skin color" or "the same color as your surf shorts."

Beware of white shorts! How to prevent color transfer from tanning products (Pro Tan)

While bright surf shorts like white, yellow, and light blue stand out on stage, color transfer from tanning products requires caution.

In physique competitions, tanning products like Pro Tan, Dream Tan, and Jan Tana are often used to emphasize skin shadows.

These can transfer color to shorts due to sweat or friction, and stains are particularly noticeable on light-colored shorts like white.

While there are no specific rules for direct point deductions in judging, it can affect stage appearance and overall neatness.

Key Points to Remember

• Lighter colored surf shorts show color transfer more easily

• Sweat, friction, and insufficient drying are the main causes

• Many athletes manage this with taping + changing just before stage

By being mindful of these points, you can step on stage with your favorite surf shorts looking pristine.

【Competition Judge's Commentary】5 Recommended Physique Surf Shorts Brands and How to Choose Them - Summary

Up to this point, we have discussed the importance of surf shorts in physique competitions, how to choose them, the regulations of major organizations, and the top 5 recommended brands for 2026.

In physique, surf shorts are not merely an outfit; they are strategic gear designed to maximize the V-shape sculpted through intense training and dieting.

【3 Key Points to Avoid Mistakes】

• Strictly adhere to organization regulations: Always confirm that the shorts comply with the rules (length, presence of stretch material, etc.) of the competition you are entering (FWJ, APF, JBBF, ZeniX, etc.).

• Golden ratio sizing: Choose a length of "5-10cm above the knee" and a fit around the waist and thighs that is just right to slightly tight, without being baggy.

• Attention to detail: Do not wear ready-made shorts as they are; if necessary, have them tailored to achieve a perfect silhouette that matches your body structure.

The brands we introduced—"ALL OUT," "VEATM," "FIED," "LYFT," and "CHULA WEAR"—are all top brands that guarantee an overwhelming "stage presence."

The stage is a culmination of hundreds of hours of training and strict dietary restrictions, presented in just a few minutes. We encourage you to find the "best battle attire" that will highlight your physique 120% and pose with confidence! We're cheering for you.