Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $100 (2026)
We ranked options by a value score combining material performance, sun-protection features, quick-dry capability, functional pockets, and user-perceived durability within the under-(price varies) range
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for sun protection: Omni-Shade treatment and athletic design for outdoor workouts and fishing
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best quick-dry pick: lightweight construction and water-ready finish for wet-weather activities
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for sun protection: Omni-Shade treatment and athletic design for outdoor workouts and fishing
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
Best quick-dry pick: lightweight construction and water-ready finish for wet-weather activities
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
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3
Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Best everyday athletic short: balanced nylon blend and mobility-focused cut for varied training
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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4
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun-focused outings: built-in sun protection with a performance-oriented fit
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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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Nylon Short
Best nylon option: durable nylon construction that's suited for swim and shore 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
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6
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
features: combines sun protection and water-ready performance in a versatile athletic cut
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 Water Short
Best all-around men's short: practical feature set and sun protection for mixed outdoor use
Lightweight nylon shorts with sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Customers note quality, comfort, and durable fit for beach activities
- sun protection
- quick-dry fabric
- durable fit
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8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best budget athletic short: affordable, functional design with sun-protection features for active days
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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9
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best versatile performer: sun-protective treatment and athletic styling for training and outdoor play
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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10
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best lightweight option: minimal bulk and water-ready fabric for fast drying during activity
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