Balboa Shorts PDF Sewing Pattern B-M
Skill Level: Intermediate
“Going in one more round when you don’t think you can. That’s what makes all the difference in your life.” – Rocky Balboa
Your search for the perfect shorts pattern has ended. These comfortable, functional and stylish shorts are perfect for all your needs.
They have three waistband options (2" elastic, 3" elastic, or 4' elastic) and three pocket options (open zipper, double welt, or double welt with zipper). They also have two length options and optional built in briefs.
You will need:
1 yard stretch woven for sizes B - H
1 1/2 yard stretch woven for sizes I - M
1/2 yard knit fabric for the optional briefs
2", 3", or 4" wide elastic for the waistband
Need fabric? Get it here
Need elastic? Get it here
Want to see a video on the Welt Pockets? Click here
Quite pleased with the design of this product. The sizing was generous (size G is for waist 32-34 and hips 41-43), but the piece for the shorts waistband was close to 48 inches - so designed for about 40% gathering along the waistline of the shorts. I made my shorts with zero stretch water resistant fabric, and took 2 inches out of the back pattern piece and I still have more than sufficient room to wear them comfortably.
The briefs liner piece is a perfect complement to the outer shorts, if you plan to wear theses for activities like paddle boarding, swimming, running or lifting weights. With that said, I'd use elastic with a draw string, or at least add a channel & interior grommets or buttonholes for a drawstring if planning to wear for high energy activities.
Another good to know hint is that the directions for waistband assembly create a lot of extra puffiness along the waist seam. See the circled area in my picture.
My final thought on these - it would have been nice to have a clean-finish waist option like the contour waist from the Moxi shorts or the interior waistband of the Solana board shorts.
My friend is 5’10” and I didn’t have to change anything with the rise or length. I made a size G with a size H waistband. I made the shorter rise. They fit her the way she likes all of her workout shorts to fit. I also used the 3” waistband. She’s happy! I wasn’t sure whether or not to attach the pocket to the side when “finishing the edge” on the front piece. I did with one pocket and not the other and realized that when you don’t it makes the pocket seem like you have a whole because that extra top piece on the welt pocket comes loose and your hand might go into the hole between the top piece and the pocket. I also wasn’t sure when “finishing the edge” if that also meant taking off 3/8 seam allowance or not. I’ve been sewing for a year and a half and as you can tell I’m still not that savvy.
I'm a devoted Moxi fan! However, these shorts are just amazing! Pretty easy to make (follow the GS YouTube video for the binding or ask us for help in the GS FaceBook group). These shorts are SO comfy! I've also crossfit and olympic weightlifting tested them and they get an A++++++ score!
I have tested more patterns than I can count for Greenstyle Creations, but these would have to rank up there as my favourite to date.
Super duper comfy, and so well constructed that they look like they should take forever to make, when in reality they are a quick sew. The Balboa shorts will be a summer staple for my daughter and I this year.
Quick make, super well drafted pattern, bought some fabrics to make more!
These shorts are soo good! The waistband has to be my favorite ever. They are the most comfortable and I'll be making them for everyday of summer! ;)
I am well on my way to making an entire drawerful of these shorts! The Balboas are so versatile and fit me well. I like the longer length with 4” elastic and pockets for casual and beach wear. They are great for running in the shorter length with 3” elastic and the built in briefs.