Best Men's Athletic Shorts for Camping (2026)
We prioritized fit, outdoor-specific features (sun protection, quick-dry fabric, secure pockets), and value across available men's athletic shorts for camping
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for shade and sunwork: Omni-Shade sun protection plus water-ready fabric for active days outdoors
- Best Value: Columbia Backcast IV Water Short — Best for all-day wear: lightweight, water-friendly construction with sun-protection details for versatile outdoor use
This roundup identifies men's athletic shorts suited for camping, emphasizing quick-dry fabrics, sun protection, and practical fit features. Selections were ranked by how well each short balances fit, functional features (like sun-blocking and water-friendly fabrics), and overall value for outdoor use
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for shade and sunwork: Omni-Shade sun protection plus water-ready fabric for active days outdoors
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 Backcast IV Water Short
Best for all-day wear: lightweight, water-friendly construction with sun-protection details for versatile outdoor use
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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3
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun protection: built-in sun-blocking fabric and a mobile cut suited to hiking and water activities
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 PFG Backcast IV Nylon Short
Best for lightweight durability: nylon build offers quick drying and abrasion resistance for campsite tasks
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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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for mixed use: water-ready fabric with sun protection and a fit that moves well on trails and water
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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6
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for active comfort: designed for mobility with sun-aware fabric and features tuned to outdoor 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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7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best budget-minded option: retains core water-ready and sun-protection features in a lower-price entry
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