Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Sun Blocking Comfort

Our review of the Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short finds it best suited for anglers, beachgoers, and anyone who spends extended time on the water and needs reliable sun protection and fast drying performance. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of OMNI-SHADE UV protection with a lightweight, quick-dry nylon construction, which keeps skin safe and garments comfortable after repeated swims or light rain. Fit and durability are consistently praised, making these a dependable everyday water short rather than a technical performance-only item.

Key Features

• Sun protection: OMNI-SHADE blocks both UVA and UVB rays so you can spend longer in the sun with reduced risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
• Water and stain resistance: OMNI-SHIELD sheds light precipitation and resists stains, helping the shorts dry faster and look better after use on boats or beaches.
• Quick dry fabric: The textured poplin 100% nylon dries quickly after swims, making the shorts comfortable for back-to-back activities.
• Functional waistband: A drawcord adjustable stretch waist offers a secure, flexible fit that adapts to movement on the water or when wading.
• Useful pockets: Hand pockets plus a zippered security pocket provide practical storage for small items while staying active.
• Relaxed fit: The lightweight, relaxed cut keeps movement unrestricted and avoids tightness in the legs for most wearers.

Who It's For

These shorts are ideal for men who spend time boating, fishing, or at the beach and want sun-blocking, quick-dry shorts that handle occasional rain, splashes, and long days outdoors. Anglers will appreciate the relaxed fit, interior mesh brief, and zippered pocket for small essentials.

Those seeking highly technical boardshorts with built-in performance stretch for surf maneuvers or a tailored urban short may want to look elsewhere, as these are designed primarily for comfort, sun protection, and general water use rather than competitive water sports.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent UV protection with OMNI-SHADE for long sun exposure.
• Fast-drying 100% nylon fabric keeps you comfortable after swimming.
• Durable construction and reliable fit praised by customers for everyday wear.
• Handy features like a drawcord waist and zippered security pocket add practicality.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed feelings about pocket depth, so bulky items may not sit perfectly.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	PFG Backcast IV
Material	Textured poplin 100% nylon
Key technologies	OMNI-SHADE UV protection; OMNI-SHIELD water and stain resistance
Fit	Relaxed fit with drawcord adjustable stretch waist
Pockets	Hand pockets, zippered security pocket, interior mesh brief
Inseam options	Available in 6 and 8 in inseams

Our Verdict

The Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short is a practical, value-oriented choice for men who need dependable sun protection and quick-dry performance on the water. It pairs durable, comfortable construction with useful features like a zippered pocket and adjustable waist, making it a smart pick for casual anglers and beach users who want a low-maintenance short that performs day after day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts provide UV protection?
Yes, they use OMNI-SHADE to block UVA and UVB rays and carry the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation.

Will they dry quickly after swimming?
Yes, the textured poplin 100% nylon is designed to dry quickly for comfortable wear after water exposure.

Are there secure pockets for small items?
Yes, they include a zippered security pocket plus hand pockets and an interior mesh brief for storage.