Columbia Men's Backcast III Water Short - Quick Drying Swim Trunk

In this review of the Columbia Men's Backcast III Water Short the bottom line is simple: these are reliable, no-nonsense water shorts for guys who want fast drying, sun protection and sensible pocketing without fuss. The shorts feel like they were made for active days on a boat, at the lake, or by the pool-built-in Omni-Shade UPF 50 protects from sun while the quick drying nylon and interior mesh brief let you move between water and land without discomfort.

Key Features

• Omni-Shade UPF 50: Provides strong protection from UVA and UVB rays so long days outside are safer for exposed skin.
• Quick drying nylon: The fabric sheds water and dries fast, reducing chafing and staying comfortable after swims.
• Interior mesh brief: Built-in support allows wet or dry use without the need for separate liners or swim trunks.
• Elastic drawcord waist: Adjustable waist gives a secure fit for energetic activity and easy on/off after a swim.
• Multiple pockets: Two hand pockets, a cargo pocket and a zippered security back pocket keep essentials like keys and wallet secure while active.

Who It's For

The Backcast III is aimed at men who spend hours outdoors near water-fishermen, boaters, and casual swimmers who want a dependable short that handles both wet and dry activities. The combination of quick drying fabric and a mesh brief makes it convenient for switching between a swim and a barbecue or a short hike.

Those who need dressier swimwear or a technical boardshort with extended leg length and advanced surf features should look elsewhere; these are practical water shorts with a focus on comfort, protection and everyday durability rather than fashion-forward styling.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, true-to-size fit that customers report matches the size chart well.
• Fast drying fabric and mesh brief reduce wet discomfort after swimming.
• Secure zippered back pocket is large enough for a wallet or keys and praised by users.
• UPF 50 protection adds a useful layer of sun safety on long days outdoors.

Cons

• Not a high-performance surf short; users seeking specialized boardshort features may find it basic.
• Design is utilitarian, so those wanting a fashion-first look may prefer other options.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Columbia Backcast III is a practical, well-made water short that delivers on comfort, sun protection and quick drying performance. It is a smart buy for outdoorsmen and casual water users who prioritize functionality and secure pockets over fashion trends, offering clear value for everyday summer use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts good for swimming?
Yes; the interior mesh brief and quick drying nylon make them suitable for swimming and wet use.

Do they offer sun protection?
Yes; the shorts feature Omni-Shade UPF 50 to help block UVA and UVB rays during long outdoor days.

Can I store valuables safely?
The zippered security back pocket is designed to hold a wallet or keys securely while active.