Best Men's Shorts for Outdoor Hiking (2026)
We ranked shorts by fit, fabric performance (quick-dry, sun protection), durability, and overall value for hiking use
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for sun protection: built with sun-protective fabric and durable construction suited to long, sunny hikes
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best quick-dry value: lightweight, quick-drying fabric and practical features that suit wet-weather hiking
This roundup covers men's hiking shorts chosen for outdoor use with emphasis on fit and value, focusing on durable fabrics, sun protection, and quick-dry performance. Picks were evaluated by comparing construction, material features, and price-to-feature balance across current market options
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun protection: built with sun-protective fabric and durable construction suited to long, sunny hikes
Columbia PFG Backcast IV water shorts with OMNI-SHADE and OMNI-SHIELD protection. Quick-dry, textured nylon with sun protection and stain resistance. Customers note good quality, comfort, and durable fit
- UV protection
- quick-dry fabric
- stain-repellent and water-repellent
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2
Best Value Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best quick-dry value: lightweight, quick-drying fabric and practical features that suit wet-weather hiking
Technical nylon shorts with sun protection and quick-dry performance. Customers note good quality, comfort, and durable wear with a great fit and fast-drying fabric
- UV protection with Skin Cancer FoundationSeal
- quick-dry nylon fabric
- durable and comfortable fit
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3
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best versatile water short: water-ready fabric and hiking-friendly fit for mixed trail and water use
Lightweight nylon shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, comfort, and durability with a good fit
- UV protection with Skin Cancer Foundation seal
- quick-dry comfort from textured poplin nylon
- stain-repellent and water-repellent properties