Best Men's Athletic Shorts (2026 Guide)
We selected items with the highest average ratings and substantial review volume, emphasizing repeat features like quick-dry fabrics, sun protection, and versatile athletic fit
The Verdict
- Best Overall: PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men — Best for water activity: lightweight, quick-dry construction with sun-protective fabric for active days outdoors
- Best Value: Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short — Best for hot climates: breathable, quick-dry build with sun-blocking technology to keep you cooler in full sun
This roundup covers top-rated men's athletic shorts chosen for consistent reviewer satisfaction and high review volume across multiple listings. Selections prioritize recurring features like quick-dry fabrics, sun protection, and versatile designs useful for running, water sports, and everyday training
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Men
Best for water activity: lightweight, quick-dry construction with sun-protective 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 Water Short
Best for hot climates: breathable, quick-dry build with sun-blocking technology to keep you cooler in full sun
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 all-around athletic short: low-bulk design and sun protection suited for running, training, and water use
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 protection: tailored athletic fit with integrated sun-shield fabric for extended outdoor use
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 durability: nylon construction that stands up to regular water use while remaining lightweight
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 multi-sport use: combines quick-dry performance and sun-protective fabric for varied activities
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 for active men: sporty cut and sun-protective finish that transition well from water to land 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 budget athletic short: streamlined design with sun protection and quick-dry fabric at a lower price point
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 for training: athletic fit with moisture-managing fabric and sun-blocking properties for long workouts
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 entry-level option: simple, lightweight water short design that offers quick-dry performance and sun protection
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