Men's Super Backcast II Water Short - UPF 50 Quick Dry Fit

In this review of the Men's Super Backcast II Water Short the bottom line is simple: these are practical, no-nonsense water shorts for anyone who wants reliable sun protection and quick-dry comfort. Designed for days on the boat, at the beach, or out on the water, the short's standout attribute is its combination of OMNI-SHADE UPF 50 coverage and QUICK DRY COMFORT from textured poplin nylon, which gives a lightweight feel without sacrificing durability. Our review finds them especially useful for active water sports where sun protection and fast drying are priorities.

Key Features

• UPF 50 OMNI-SHADE: Provides high-level protection from UVA and UVB rays so you can spend extended time outdoors with reduced sunburn risk.
• OMNI-SHIELD fabric: Repels light rain and resists stains to keep the shorts looking cleaner longer during variable conditions.
• Quick-dry nylon poplin: The 100% nylon construction dries rapidly after getting wet for all-day comfort and less chill after leaving the water.
• Adjustable stretch waist: A drawcord-equipped elastic waist offers an easy, customizable fit without a bulky buckle or rigid waistband.
• Practical pockets: Front hand pockets plus a zippered security pocket give convenient storage for small items while on the move.

Who It's For

The Super Backcast II is aimed at men who spend time in and around water-boaters, paddleboarders, and beachgoers who want a relaxed fit and dependable sun protection. The lightweight fabric and quick-dry properties also make these shorts a good pick for travel or hot-weather casual wear where fuss-free maintenance matters.

Those looking for a very tailored or technical performance swim brief should look elsewhere, as these are relaxed-fit water shorts with an interior mesh brief and design focused on comfort rather than compression or race-style swim performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High UPF 50 protection that carries the Skin Cancer Foundation endorsement, useful for long sun exposure.
• Quick-drying 100% nylon poplin balances light weight with durability for repeated water use.
• OMNI-SHIELD resists stains and sheds light rain, reducing maintenance after outings.
• Handy storage and adjustable waist add everyday practicality on and off the water.

Cons

• Sizing receives mixed feedback and some customers find the fit runs larger than expected, so trying on or checking size guidance is recommended.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Fabric	100% nylon textured poplin
Sun Protection	OMNI-SHADE UPF 50 (Skin Cancer Foundation recommended)
Water/Stain Resistance	OMNI-SHIELD light rain and stain repellency
Fit	Relaxed fit with drawcord adjustable stretch waist
Features	Interior mesh brief, hand pockets, zippered security pocket

Our Verdict

The Columbia Men's Super Backcast II is a strong value for anyone wanting dependable sun protection and quick-dry performance in a relaxed water short. It combines practical features and durable nylon construction, making it a sensible choice for casual water activities and travel, provided you double-check sizing before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts good for prolonged sun exposure?
Yes, they use OMNI-SHADE UPF 50 fabric which blocks UVA and UVB rays and carries a Skin Cancer Foundation recommendation.

Do they dry quickly after swimming?
The 100% nylon textured poplin is designed for quick drying so they dry much faster than cotton shorts after getting wet.

Is the fit true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed; some report they run big, so consult size guidance or try them on if possible.