Best Men's Athletic Swimwear for Poolside Lounging (2026)
We prioritized fit and value by evaluating fabric technology (quick-dry, sun protection), waistband adjustability, pocket function, and typical retail price range
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Columbia backcast iv water shorts — Best for quick dry comfort: lightweight water fabric and easy wear for relaxed poolside use
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for balanced performance: combines quick-dry construction with sun-protection features for lounging
This page reviews men's athletic swimwear suited for relaxed poolside lounging, emphasizing fit, comfort and practical features like quick-dry fabrics and sun protection. Selections were ranked by how well each short balances fit and overall value, using listed features, material performance, and typical price positioning
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Columbia backcast iv water shorts
Best for quick dry comfort: lightweight water fabric and easy wear for relaxed poolside use
Lightweight nylon shorts with OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, comfort, and fast-drying feel with a durable fit
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry comfort
- durable, comfortable fit
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2
Best Value Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for balanced performance: combines quick-dry construction with sun-protection features for lounging
Columbia men's water shorts with OMNI-SHADE and OMNI-SHIELD for sun protection, rain resistance, and quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying performance
- sun protection
- stain and rain resistance
- quick-dry nylon blend
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3
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Shorts
Best for everyday poolside wear: reliable quick-dry fabric and a comfortable, adjustable fit
Columbia water shorts with sun and stain protection, quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying performance
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- OMNI-SHIELD stain and rain resistance
- 100% nylon textured poplin, quick-dry
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4
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best budget-oriented option: simple water-ready design with quick-dry performance for casual lounging
Water shorts with Omni-Shade sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying wearability
- omni-shade sun protection
- quick-dry fabric
- durable comfortable fit
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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best straightforward pick: functional water short design focused on comfort and easy drying
Lightweight nylon swim shorts with OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying wear
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry nylon texture
- comfortable fit
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6
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best feature-forward choice: designed with sun protection and water-friendly details for extended outdoor use
Men's quick-dry swim shorts with sun protection and stain resistance. Customers cite quality, comfort, and durable fit
- sun protection with Skin Cancer Foundation seal
- light precipitation and stain resistance
- textured poplin 100% nylon for quick-dry
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7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun protection emphasis: includes Omni-Shade-style coverage paired with water-ready fabric
Columbia water shorts with OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick-dry fabric. Features durable texture and pockets; praised for fit, comfort, and fast-drying performance
- sun protection
- quick-dry fabric
- durable fit
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8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best versatile short: combines quick-dry fabric and practical pocket options for poolside relaxation
Lightweight nylon swim shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast drying
- sun protection with Skin Cancer Foundation seal
- quick-dry textured poplin nylon
- stain and rain resistance features