Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Quick Dry Comfort rays

In this review the Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short is judged as a solid choice for men who want a dependable swim and warm-weather short with real sun protection. The biggest reason to buy is its combination of OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick-dry nylon, which together make these shorts useful for days on the water where sun exposure, splashes, and quick transitions between wet and dry matter most.

Key Features

• OMNI-SHADE: Provides lasting UVA and UVB protection so you can spend extended time outdoors with lower risk of sunburn.
• OMNI-SHIELD: Repels light rain and resists stains to keep the shorts looking cleaner longer during active use.
• Quick Dry Comfort: The textured poplin 100% nylon fabric dries fast for comfortable wear after swimming or sweat-heavy activities.
• Handy Features: A drawcord adjustable stretch waist, interior mesh brief, hand pockets and a zippered security pocket add practical on-body storage and fit options.
• Relaxed Fit: The lightweight relaxed cut offers room through the legs for comfort on boats, beaches, or casual outings.

Who It's For

The Backcast IV is aimed at men who spend time on the water or in strong sun and want a short that balances protection and comfort; anglers, boaters, and beachgoers will particularly appreciate the UV protection and quick-dry performance. Its relaxed fit and practical pockets suit active days when movement and drying speed matter.

Those wanting a tailored, fashion-focused short or heavier fabric for cool weather should look elsewhere; this model is optimized for warm, wet, and sunny conditions rather than formal wear or insulation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective sun protection with the Skin Cancer Foundation-recommended OMNI-SHADE treatment.
• Dries quickly thanks to the 100% nylon poplin fabrication, improving comfort after water use.
• Practical pockets and a zippered security pocket add useful storage for small items.
• Relaxed fit provides comfortable leg room without feeling restrictive.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed feelings about pocket depth, so larger items may not be perfectly secured in all pockets.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Fabric	100% nylon textured poplin
Sun protection	OMNI-SHADE (UVA/UVB blocking)
Stain / water resistance	OMNI-SHIELD
Fit	Relaxed fit with drawcord adjustable stretch waist
Features	Interior mesh brief, hand pockets, zippered security pocket

Our Verdict

The Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short is a practical, well-made option for men who spend time outdoors in sun and water; its combination of sun protection, quick-drying nylon, and useful pockets makes it good value for active summer use. Buy it if you need durable, comfortable swim shorts that perform on the beach or boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts protect from the sun?
Yes, they use OMNI-SHADE technology to block harmful UVA and UVB rays for extended outdoor use.

Will they dry quickly after swimming?
Yes, the 100% nylon textured poplin is designed for quick dry comfort so they dry far faster than cotton options.

Are the pockets secure for small items?
They include an interior mesh brief, hand pockets and a zippered security pocket, though pocket depth has received mixed feedback from some users.