Best Men's Shorts for Outdoor Hiking (2026)
We ranked options by fit, functional features (quick-dry, sun protection, pockets), material durability, and overall value across price tiers
The Verdict
- Best Overall: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for sun protection: lightweight design with UPF-focused fabric and trail-ready mobility
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best quick-dry option: nylon blend that sheds moisture and dries fast for multi-day outings
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun protection: lightweight design with UPF-focused fabric and trail-ready mobility
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 option: nylon blend that sheds moisture and dries fast for multi-day outings
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 balanced choice: combines fast-drying materials with practical pocket placement for hikes
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
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4
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for versatile trail use: durable construction and adjustable fit for varied outdoor activities
Columbia men's shorts with OMNI-SHADE sun protection and OMNI-SHIELD weather resistance. Quick-dry comfort from 100% nylon; suitable for beach and outdoor activities. Customers note quality, fit, and fast-drying performance
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- OMNI-SHIELD stain/rain resistance
- quick-dry nylon material
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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
for activity: functional features and packable weight that suit day hikes and water crossings
Lightweight nylon shorts with OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Durable fabric, comfortable fit, and fast-drying performance noted by customers. One insight mentions deep front pockets
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry fabric
- durable comfortable fit