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

In this review of the Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short the bottom line is simple: these are a dependable pair of swim shorts for anyone who spends long days on the water and wants low-maintenance performance. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of quick dry comfort and reliable sun protection, which lets users move from wet activities to shore without soggy fabric or the worry of harmful rays. The relaxed fit and practical pockets make them an easy daily choice for casual boating, beach days, or lakeside summer wear.

Key Features

• OMNI-SHADE UV protection: Provides a tight-weave fabric that blocks UVA and UVB rays so you can stay in the sun with added defense against long-term skin damage.
• OMNI-SHIELD treatment: Repels light rain and resists common stains so the shorts stay cleaner and require less care after outings.
• Quick dry nylon: The textured poplin 100% nylon dries fast for comfortable wear shortly after swimming or getting wet.
• Handy storage: Includes deep hand pockets and a zippered security pocket to keep essentials secure while on the move.
• Adjustable fit: A drawcord stretch waist and interior mesh brief offer a relaxed, customizable fit for daylong comfort.

Who It's For

These shorts are aimed at active men who spend time on boats, at the beach, or around water and want a low-fuss pair that dries quickly and provides sun protection. The relaxed cut and quick-dry fabric are ideal for anglers, boaters, or anyone who transitions between swimming and casual shore activities.

People who prefer a very tailored, fashion-forward swim short or who need a cargo-heavy design with multiple side pockets may want to look elsewhere; the Backcast IV emphasizes comfort, wearability, and essential storage rather than heavy-duty cargo capacity.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable, quick-drying 100% nylon fabric that improves comfort after water exposure.
• Effective sun protection from OMNI-SHADE that reduces UV exposure during long outdoor days.
• Practical features like a drawcord waist, interior mesh brief, and zippered pocket for secure small-item storage.
• Relaxed fit that many customers report as comfortable and not tight in the legs.

Cons

• Front pocket depth received mixed feedback and some users noted a lack of a side cargo pocket compared with other trunks.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Fabric	Textured poplin, 100% nylon
Sun protection	OMNI-SHADE UVA/UVB protection
Water/stain resistance	OMNI-SHIELD treatment
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 solid, practical choice for anyone who needs comfortable, quick-drying swim shorts with reliable sun protection. It delivers good value for those who prioritize wearability and low-maintenance performance on the water, though shoppers wanting extensive cargo storage may prefer a different trunk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts dry quickly after swimming?
Yes; the textured poplin 100% nylon is designed to dry fast so you can be comfortable shortly after getting out of the water.

Do they provide sun protection?
Yes; the OMNI-SHADE treatment blocks UVA and UVB rays for added protection during extended sun exposure.

Are there secure pockets for valuables?
There is a zippered security pocket suitable for small valuables, though the shorts do not have a large side cargo pocket.