Best Men's Athletic Swimwear Under $100 (2026)

We ranked options by a composite value score combining customer ratings, feature set (quick-dry, sun protection, water-specific details), and retail price under $100

This roundup highlights men's athletic swimwear priced under $100, emphasizing durable, quick-dry designs and sun-protective features suited for active water use. Selections were ranked by a value score that balances customer ratings, technical features (like quick-dry and sun protection), and retail price to surface high-performance options at accessible price points

Top Picks

  1. 1
    Columbia Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia • ★ 3.9/5 • Budget

    Water short for men with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying wear

    • sun protection and stain resistance
    • quick-dry texture nylon
    • comfortable fit with durable build
    Check current price on Amazon →
  2. 2
    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia • ★ 3.9/5 • Budget

    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
    Buy at Amazon →
  3. 3
    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia • ★ 3.9/5 • Budget

    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
    Check current price on Amazon →
  4. 4
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    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Shorts

    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Shorts

    Columbia • ★ 3.9/5 • Budget

    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
    Check current price on Amazon →
  6. 6
  7. 7
    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia • ★ 3.9/5 • Budget

    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
    Check current price on Amazon →
  8. 8
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  10. 10
    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short

    Columbia • ★ 3.9/5 • Budget

    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
    Check current price on Amazon →

Buying Guide

Fabric & quick-dry performance

Look for lightweight synthetic blends and labeled quick-dry fabrics to reduce chafing and speed up turnaround time between swims and land activities

Sun protection

Consider pieces with built-in UPF or branded sun protection treatments to safeguard skin during extended outdoor use

Water-specific features

Seek water shorts with mesh lining, drainage, and secure closures to prevent waterlogging and improve mobility in active situations

Durability & finish

Check for abrasion-resistant coatings or stain/water repellents (e.g., Omni-Shield–style treatments) that help maintain fabric finish after repeated exposure to sun, sand, and chlorine

Fit & range of motion

Prioritize athletic cuts with an articulated or shorter inseam and flexible waist systems for comfortable movement during paddling, running, or beach sports