Best Men's Athletic Shorts for Beach Activities (2026)
We selected items based on fit, value, quick-dry fabric, and sun-protection features relevant to beach activities
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Great for sun protection: built for beach use with OMNI-SHADE and quick-dry construction
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Solid all-around beach short offering sun protection and a water-friendly design for active use
This roundup identifies men's athletic shorts suited for beach activities, emphasizing quick-dry fabrics, sun protection, and fit for active coastal use. Selections were ranked by fit and value using product features like nylon construction, sun-shielding technologies, and user-focused design choices
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Great for sun protection: built for beach use with OMNI-SHADE and quick-dry construction
Columbia PFG Backcast IV water shorts for sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, fit, and fast drying with deep front pockets as a plus
- sun protection
- quick-dry comfort
- durable materials
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2
Best Value Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Solid all-around beach short offering sun protection and a water-friendly design for active use
Columbia backcast IV water shorts with OMNI-SHADE and OMNI-SHIELD protections. Quick-dry comfort from textured 100% nylon; features deep front pockets. Customer note: great quality, comfortable fit, and fast-drying
- sun protection
- quick-dry fabric
- stain and rain resistance
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3
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Reliable value pick that pairs sun-protective treatment with lightweight, quick-dry fabric
Lightweight nylon shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, fit, and durability with fast drying
- sun protection
- quick-dry nylon
- durable comfort
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4
Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Good budget option combining a beach-ready cut with sun-shielding fabric for long days outside
Lightweight nylon shorts with sun-protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, fit, and durability with fast-drying performance
- sun protection seal of recommendation
- quick-dry fabric
- water-repellent and stain-resistant
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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Designed for coastal activity with water-ready materials and features focused on comfort and mobility
Lightweight nylon shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers praise quality, fit, and durability with fast-drying features
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry nylon fabric
- durable, comfortable fit
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6
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Versatile beach short that prioritizes sun protection and fast-drying performance for active wearers
Columbia men's shorts designed for sun protection and quick-dry comfort. UV-blocking fabric and stain-repellent shields with fast-drying nylon material. Customers note quality, comfort, and durable fit with good drying time
- sun protection with Skin Cancer Foundation Seal
- quick-dry nylon material
- stain-repellent and water-repellent features
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7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Nylon Short
Nylon-based option built to dry quickly and withstand repeated water use during beach sports
Lightweight nylon shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, fit, and durability with a great overall feel
- sun protection with UV blocking
- quick-dry textured poplin nylon
- durable, comfortable fit
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8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Balanced choice offering a comfortable fit and sun-blocking fabric suitable for extended beach days
Columbia men’s athletic shorts with sun-protective OMNI-SHADE and quick-dry nylon fabric. Customers note quality, comfort, and durability with a great fit; fast-drying for beach activities
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry nylon
- durable, comfortable fit
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9
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Practical beach short featuring quick-dry material and hypoallergenic details for sensitive skin
Columbia water shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, fit, and durability with fast drying
- OMNI-SHADE sun protection
- quick-dry fabric
- durable comfort