Best Men's Athletic Swimwear Under $100 (2026)
We ranked options under $100 by a value score combining material performance, sun protection, quick-dry features, and overall design utility
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Columbia Backcast IV Water Short — Best for versatile outdoor use: lightweight construction with sun-protection features and an athletic cut for active water days
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for anglers and paddlers: performance-focused design with quick-dry fabric and a comfortable adjustable waistband
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Best for versatile outdoor use: lightweight construction with sun-protection features and an athletic cut for active water days
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
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2
Best Value Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for anglers and paddlers: performance-focused design with quick-dry fabric and a comfortable adjustable waistband
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 Short
Best for daily training: streamlined fit and water-shedding material built for frequent swim and shore workouts
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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4
Columbia backcast iv water shorts
Best for quick transitions: fast-drying fabric and practical fit that works well from water to shore
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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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Shorts
Best for sun-forward outings: integrated sun-protection features paired with athletic mobility and durable fabric
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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6
Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Best for active beachgoers: tailored for movement with quick-dry performance and a secure fit for sports
Lightweight nylon swim shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note good quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying performance
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry comfort
- durable, textured poplin nylon
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7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for repeat performance: durable construction and water-friendly design suited to regular use in varied conditions
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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8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best budget athletic option: pared-down, performance-minded short with quick-dry fabric and a secure waistband
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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9
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun protection focus: built with UPF-style coverage and a comfortable athletic silhouette for long days outside
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
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10
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
pick: combines quick-dry material and sun-protection features in a practical, activity-ready fit
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