Best Men's Athletic Swimwear for Poolside Lounging (2026)
We evaluated options by fit, fabric technology (quick-dry and sun protection), pocket and waistband design, and overall value
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — pick: dependable fit and quick-dry fabric designed for comfortable poolside wear
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for sun protection: features sun-safe fabric and a relaxed fit for lounging by the pool
This page ranks men's athletic swimwear best suited for relaxed poolside lounging, prioritizing fit, quick-dry performance, sun protection, and overall value. Selections were based on fabric features, cut and fit for casual wear, and value across the current market offerings
Top Picks
-
1
Best Overall Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
pick: dependable fit and quick-dry fabric designed for comfortable poolside wear
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
-
2
Best Value Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun protection: features sun-safe fabric and a relaxed fit for lounging by the pool
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
-
3
Columbia backcast iv water shorts
Best for quick-dry needs: lightweight weave and fast-drying finish ideal for repeated dips
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
-
4
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Shorts
Best balanced option: combines a comfortable athletic cut with practical pocket and waistband details
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
-
5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best everyday lounge short: steady fit and fabric that prioritizes comfort between swims
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
-
6
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best budget-friendly choice: pared-back features with the core quick-dry and fit elements for poolside use
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
-
7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun-focused days: built with sun-protection fabric and an easygoing fit for long lounging sessions
Columbia water shorts with OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying performance
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry comfort
- durable, comfortable fit
-
8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best versatile short: solid fit and sun-protection features that transition well from pool to casual wear
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