Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $200 (2026)
We ranked products by a value score combining material performance, sun-protection and water features, functional design, and price under $200
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for anglers: lightweight water-ready build with sun-protection and quick-dry performance for long days outdoors
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for general outdoor use: versatile water shorts offering sun protection and fast drying for varied activities
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for anglers: lightweight water-ready build with sun-protection and quick-dry performance for long 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 PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for general outdoor use: versatile water shorts offering sun protection and fast drying for varied activities
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-focused adventurers: simple, water-ready shorts with sun-protection features and dependable 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 sun protection priority: built-in shade technology and a water-friendly design for extended outdoor sessions
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 multi-sport use: durable fabric, water-ready construction, and sun-protection suitable for mixed activities
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 quick-dry needs: nylon blend and water-specific details that speed drying after swims or sweat-heavy workouts
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-to-land transitions: nylon short designed for swimming with practical features for on-shore use
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 everyday outdoor wear: balanced features—sun protection, water readiness, and comfortable fit for daily 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
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9
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for active days: engineered for movement with sun-protection and water-friendly materials for prolonged activity
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 allergy-sensitive skin: hypoallergenic construction with sun-protection and quick-dry performance for comfort
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