Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $100 (2026)
We selected items by a value score that weighed material performance (quick-dry, nylon/poly), sun-protection features, functional details (pockets, fit), and price under $100
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for versatile water use: lightweight, quick-drying short with sun-protection and water-ready features
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for sun-focused outings: built-in sun-protection and quick-dry fabric designed for hours outdoors
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for versatile water use: lightweight, quick-drying short with sun-protection and water-ready features
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 for sun-focused outings: built-in sun-protection and quick-dry fabric designed for hours outdoors
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
Best for budget-conscious buyers seeking sun-protection and reliable quick-dry performance
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
Best for everyday active wear with sun protection and a lightweight, water-friendly construction
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
Best for water-based activities needing fast-draining fabric and sun-protection details
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
Best for mixed water and land use thanks to quick-dry nylon and sun-protection treatment
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
Best for swim-forward use: nylon build and drain-friendly design optimized for 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
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8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for active days on the water and shore with quick-dry fabric and sun-protection features
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
Best for general outdoor activity with sun protection and breathable quick-dry construction
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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10
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sensitive skin needs with hypoallergenic fabric options plus quick-dry and sun-protection
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