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

In this review of the Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short the bottom line is simple: these are for anyone who spends serious time on or near the water and wants lightweight, durable shorts that handle sun and spray. The single biggest reason to buy is the combined sun protection and fast-drying fabric, which makes them comfortable for long beach days, boating, or fishing without constantly changing clothes. The review reflects real use: a relaxed fit, functional pockets, and fabrics built to resist stains and block UVA/UVB rays.

Key Features

• OMNI-SHADE UV protection: Tight weave construction blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays so you can stay longer outdoors with added skin protection.
• OMNI-SHIELD water repellency: Fabric repels light precipitation and resists stains so splashes bead up and spots wash out more easily.
• Quick dry comfort: Textured poplin 100% nylon dries fast after swims or sweat, reducing chafing and discomfort during active days.
• Handy storage: Hand pockets and a zippered security pocket keep essentials secure and within reach while on the move.
• Adjustable fit: Drawcord adjustable stretch waist and interior mesh brief deliver a comfortable, secure fit without being tight in the legs.

Who It's For

The Backcast IV is ideal for anglers, boaters, and beachgoers who need sun protection, quick-drying performance, and a relaxed fit for all-day wear. The shorts suit anyone who prefers a casual, roomy leg cut and wants a pair they can wear on the boat, at the shoreline, or for watersports without feeling restricted.

Those who want a tailored or athletic compression swim short, or who need heavyweight insulation or thermal layers, should look elsewhere. If deep cargo storage or heavy-duty waterproofing are must-haves, a purpose-built technical short would be a better choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable sun protection with a weave that carries the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation.
• Fast-drying 100% nylon poplin that improves comfort after swims and cuts dry time substantially.
• Practical pockets including a zippered security pocket for small valuables while on the water.
• Relaxed fit that reviewers praised for comfort and ease of movement, not too tight in the legs.

Cons

• Pocket depth received mixed feedback from some users, so deep-pocket expectations should be checked for specific needs.
• Light precipitation resistance is useful but not a substitute for fully waterproof outerwear in heavy rain.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short is a practical, good-value choice for anyone who needs reliable sun protection and quick-drying performance for water activities. Its durable nylon fabric, comfortable relaxed fit, and useful pockets make it a versatile everyday swim short for beach and boat use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts block sun effectively?
Yes; the OMNI-SHADE tight weave construction provides UVA and UVB protection and meets the Skin Cancer Foundation's recommendation.

Will they dry quickly after swimming?
The textured poplin 100% nylon fabric is designed to dry fast, so they dry significantly quicker than cotton shorts.

Are pockets secure for valuables?
There is a zippered security pocket for small items, plus hand pockets; note that pocket depth has mixed feedback among users.