Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $50 (2026)
We ranked options under $50 by value score using material, sun-protection features, mobility design and practical pocket/closure details
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for sun protection: lightweight, water-ready short with a dedicated sun-protection finish and outdoor-focused features
- Best Value: Columbia Backcast IV Water Short — for casual water use: quick-dry construction and simple utility designed for active days near water
This roundup highlights men's athletic shorts under $50 selected for practical sport use, sun protection, quick-dry fabrics and overall value. Picks were chosen by compiling product specs, material features, sun-protection technology and a value score to favor durable, versatile options for outdoor and training use
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for sun protection: lightweight, water-ready short with a dedicated sun-protection finish and outdoor-focused 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 Backcast IV Water Short
for casual water use: quick-dry construction and simple utility designed for active days near water
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 all-around outdoor wear: combines sun-protection treatment with a performance fabric 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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4
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best balanced performer: practical sun protection and athletic fit that suit training and outdoor recreation
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 for nylon durability: heavier nylon build that stands up to repeated wear and wet conditions
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
Best for active comfort: ergonomic cut and quick-drying fabric engineered for movement and 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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7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for water-ready versatility: designed to handle wet environments while offering breathable performance fabric
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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8
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun-focused outings: consistent sun-protection treatment paired with a performance-oriented design
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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9
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for everyday athletic use: a reliable athletic cut with sun-protection and low-maintenance fabric
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 low-maintenance pick: quick-dry, hypoallergenic fabric with sun-protection and easy-care properties
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