Men's Backcast IV Water Short - Quick Dry Sun Protection

In this review of the Columbia Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short the bottom line is simple: these are reliable, no-nonsense swim shorts built for sun, salt and long days outdoors. They suit anglers, beachgoers and anyone who needs quick-drying short swimwear with sun protection. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of OMNI-SHADE sun protection and practical features like a drawcord waist and zippered pocket, which together make these shorts both comfortable on the water and sensible for everyday wear.

Key Features

• OMNI-SHADE: Blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays so you can spend longer in the sun with lasting protection recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
• OMNI-SHIELD: Repels light rain and resists stains to keep the shorts usable in damp, messy or salt-spray conditions.
• Quick dry comfort: The textured poplin 100% nylon construction dries fast after a swim for comfortable wear all day.
• Handy features: A drawcord adjustable stretch waist, interior mesh brief, hand pockets and a zippered security pocket provide practical storage and fit.
• Relaxed fit: Lightweight relaxed styling offers freedom of movement and a casual look suitable for boating or beach activities.

Who It's For

The Backcast IV is aimed at men who spend time on the water - anglers, paddlers and beachgoers who need durable, quick-drying shorts with real sun protection. The relaxed fit and functional pockets make them well suited to active days when mobility and storage matter.

Those seeking a tailored, fashion-forward board short or a short with heavy insulation for cold-weather layering should look elsewhere; this model prioritizes utility, sun protection and rapid drying over a slim or insulated profile.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective sun protection with the Skin Cancer Foundation recommendation for prolonged outdoor use.
• Fast-drying 100% nylon poplin keeps you comfortable after swims and in humid conditions.
• Practical features like drawcord waist and a zippered security pocket keep essentials safe while active.
• Durable construction that customers report holds up well to repeated use.

Cons

• Pocket depth gets mixed feedback, so very bulky items may not be ideal for the hand pockets.
• Relaxed fit may feel too roomy for those preferring a close, athletic cut.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	Backcast IV Water Short
Material	100% nylon textured poplin
Sun protection	OMNI-SHADE blocking UVA and UVB
Water/stain protection	OMNI-SHIELD repellency
Fit	Relaxed 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, value-minded swim short for anyone who spends long hours outdoors. With reliable quick dry performance, sun protection and sensible pockets it performs well for boating, fishing and beach days. Buy it if you want durable, comfortable swimwear that prioritizes protection and utility over a tight athletic fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts provide UPF protection?
Yes, they use OMNI-SHADE technology to block harmful UVA and UVB rays and have the Skin Cancer Foundation recommendation.

Will they dry quickly after swimming?
Yes, the 100% nylon textured poplin is designed for quick dry comfort and fast evaporation after getting wet.

Are there secure pockets for valuables?
There is a zippered security pocket for small valuables and hand pockets, though pocket depth is reported as mixed by some customers.