Best Men's Athletic Swimwear Under $50 (2026)
We ranked options by value score using materials (sun protection, quick-dry), construction (pockets, closures), brand performance, and price under $50
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Columbia Backcast IV Water Short — Best for sun protection: designed with a protective fabric treatment and durable water-ready construction
- Best Value: Columbia backcast iv water shorts — Best budget pick: pared-down water short with quick-dry fabric and practical outdoor features
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun protection: designed with a protective fabric treatment and durable water-ready construction
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 backcast iv water shorts
Best budget pick: pared-down water short with quick-dry fabric and practical outdoor features
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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3
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for fishing and boating: PFG-focused features prioritize sun protection and mobility on the water
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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4
Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Best all-around athletic short: balanced cut and secure closure for active water and shore use
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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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Shorts
Best for mixed activities: versatile design that performs well for swimming, kayaking, and beach sports
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 PFG Backcast IV Water Short
find: essential water-short features and lightweight quick-dry fabric at an economical score
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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7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for warm climates: breathable construction and sun-protective fabric suited to high-UV days
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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8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for secure fit: reliable waist adjustment and a performance-minded cut for active movement
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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9
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for everyday wear: comfortable fit and easy-care materials that transition from water to town
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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10
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun-focused outings: built with protective fabric technology and practical water-ready details
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