Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $50 (2026)
We ranked shorts under $50 by a value score combining fabric tech, sun protection, fit versatility, drying speed, and retailer price consistency
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for sun protection: offers UPF-targeted coverage and lightweight, water-ready fabric for active days outdoors
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Nylon Short — Best for quick drying: nylon construction that sheds water and dries rapidly after swims or sweats
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for sun protection: offers UPF-targeted coverage and lightweight, 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 PFG Backcast IV Nylon Short
Best for quick drying: nylon construction that sheds water and dries rapidly after swims or sweats
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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3
Columbia Backcast IV Water Short
Best for versatile use: lightweight, breathable fabric and a cut suited for both water and land activities
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
option: pared-down, functional design that focuses on water performance and sun coverage
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
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5
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for sun-focused outings: engineered with sun-protection features and a breezy, athletic fit
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 training: responsive fabric and a fit designed to move with running and cross-training
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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7
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for multipurpose wear: balanced features for casual wear, water use, and light workouts
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 for lightweight comfort: airy fabric and minimal bulk that stay comfortable during long activities
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 straightforward performance: simple, effective water-ready design that focuses on function
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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10
Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Best for skin-sensitive wearers: hypoallergenic materials with quick-dry performance 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