Best Men's Athletic Shorts for Beach Activities (2026)
We selected shorts by evaluating material performance (quick-dry, nylon/polyester), sun-protection features, fit options, pocket/drainage design, and overall value
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for sun protection: built for beach use with integrated sun-blocking tech and quick-dry performance
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for sensitive skin: hypoallergenic construction paired with quick-dry fabric for active beach days
Top Picks
-
1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for sun protection: built for beach use with integrated sun-blocking tech and quick-dry performance
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
-
2
Best Value Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sensitive skin: hypoallergenic construction paired with quick-dry fabric for active beach days
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
-
3
Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Best balanced fit: combines athletic mobility and sun protection in a beach-ready quick-dry design
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
-
4
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
fit: tailored men's cut with sun-protection features suited for active beach use
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
-
5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Nylon Short
Best lightweight option: nylon build that dries fast and minimizes drag in water activities
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
-
6
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for protection-focused beachgoers: emphasizes sun-blocking tech with water-ready materials
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
-
7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best budget pick for activity: affordable entry with athletic fit and sun-protection features
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
-
8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best all-around performer: combines athletic styling, sun protection, and quick-dry fabric for beach use
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
-
9
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best minimal option: pared-down water-short design with essential sun protection and quick-dry fabric
Columbia men's athletic shorts with sun protection and quick-dry nylon texture. Durable, comfortable fit with fast drying; customers note great quality and fit. Pocket depth receives mixed feedback
- UV protection
- quick-dry comfort
- Omni-Shield stains and rain resistance