Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Quick Dry Protection

In this review of the Columbia PFG Backcast IV Water Short, the bottom line is simple: these are durable, sun-protective water shorts designed for anglers and anyone who spends long days on the water. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick-dry nylon construction, which keeps you comfortable and protected from sun and spray without feeling heavy when wet. The relaxed fit and practical pocket layout make them a sensible choice for beach, boat, and casual water activities.

Key Features

• OMNI-SHADE: Provides consistent protection from UVA and UVB rays so you can stay longer outdoors with reduced sunburn risk.
• OMNI-SHIELD: Repels light rain and resists stains so the shorts maintain a clean appearance and shed brief showers.
• Quick dry comfort: Textured poplin 100% nylon fabric dries fast after swims or splashes, improving comfort and wearability.
• Handy features: Drawcord adjustable stretch waist, interior mesh brief, hand pockets, and a zippered security pocket keep essentials secure and comfortable.
• Relaxed fit: Lightweight relaxed cut gives freedom of movement, making these suitable for casting, paddling, or beach downtime.

Who It's For

The PFG Backcast IV is aimed at anglers, boaters, and beachgoers who need functional water shorts that handle sun, spray, and light rain. If you spend hours in direct sun or move between water and shore, the sun-blocking and quick-dry features are particularly valuable.

These shorts are less suited to someone wanting a fashion-forward street short or a tight athletic compression fit; the relaxed cut and utilitarian pocket layout prioritize comfort and function over a tapered silhouette.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable UV protection that meets Skin Cancer Foundation recommendations for lasting sun defense.
• Fast-drying 100% nylon poplin that improves comfort after water exposure.
• Practical storage with hand pockets and a zippered security pocket for small items.
• Comfortable relaxed fit with an adjustable drawcord waist for on-the-water movement.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed feelings about pocket depth, so very large items may not be ideal.
• Not intended as a fashion-forward city short; the look is focused on function.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Material	100% nylon textured poplin
Sun Protection	OMNI-SHADE (UVA and UVB blocking)
Water & Stain Resistance	OMNI-SHIELD treatment
Fit	Relaxed fit with drawcord adjustable stretch waist
Features	Interior mesh brief, hand pockets, zippered security pocket
Inseam Options	Available in 6 in and 8 in inseams

Our Verdict

For anyone who wants a practical, durable water short with strong sun protection and quick-drying performance, the PFG Backcast IV is a solid value. It excels for on-the-water use thanks to OMNI-SHADE and OMNI-SHIELD plus useful pockets, and the relaxed fit keeps it comfortable for long days outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts dry quickly after swimming?
Yes. The textured 100% nylon poplin fabric is designed to dry fast and improve comfort after water exposure.

Are they true to size and comfortable for long wear?
The relaxed fit with a drawcord adjustable waist provides a comfortable fit for extended wear; customers report a good overall fit that is not too tight in the legs.

Do the pockets hold essentials securely?
Hand pockets and a zippered security pocket offer practical storage, though pocket depth received mixed feedback from some customers.