Men's PFG Backcast IV Water Short - Quick Dry Sun Shield

In this review of the Mens PFG Backcast IV Water Short, the bottom line is simple: these shorts are built for anyone who spends time on or near water and wants reliable sun protection combined with fast drying performance. The reviewer found the combination of OMNI-SHADE sun protection and quick dry comfort especially valuable for long days boating, fishing, or beachside lounging, and the relaxed fit keeps them comfortable for walking and sitting without feeling restrictive.

Key Features

• OMNI-SHADE: Provides broad UVA and UVB defense with a tight weave that meets the Skin Cancer Foundations recommendation for extended sun exposure protection.
• OMNI-SHIELD: Repels light precipitation and resists stains so the shorts stay wearable and clean while out on the water or during casual outdoor use.
• Quick dry textured poplin: The 100% nylon construction dries rapidly after swimming or splashes, so the garment is comfortable to wear all day.
• Handy storage: A drawcord stretch waist, hand pockets and a zippered security pocket keep essentials secure while you paddle, fish, or walk the shore.
• Interior mesh brief: Built-in brief support eliminates the need for separate liners and improves comfort when wet.

Who It's For

The Backcast IV Water Short is aimed at men who want purposeful swimwear that bridges the gap between swim trunks and everyday shorts; anglers, boaters, and beachgoers will appreciate the sun protection, quick-dry fabric, and secure zip pocket. The relaxed fit makes them a good choice for anyone who prefers mobility and comfort over a tight, athletic cut.

Those seeking compression swimwear, form-fitting boardshorts for high-performance surfing, or shorts made from heavier cotton fabrics for cold-weather use should look elsewhere. This model is optimized for warm-weather water activities rather than cold climates or high-performance competitive swimming.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable sun protection through OMNI-SHADE for long outdoor sessions in direct sun.
• Fast-drying 100% nylon poplin keeps the wearer comfortable after swimming or getting splashed.
• Functional pockets including a zippered security pocket for small valuables when active on the water.
• Comfortable relaxed fit with a drawcord stretch waist for easy on/off and adjustment.

Cons

• Not designed for tight athletic compression or competitive swim performance, which limits use for some water sports.

Specifications

Brand	Columbia
Model	PFG Backcast IV Water Short
Material	100% nylon textured poplin
Key technologies	OMNI-SHADE, OMNI-SHIELD
Fit	Relaxed fit with drawcord adjustable stretch waist
Features	Interior mesh brief, hand pockets, zippered security pocket

Our Verdict

The Columbia Mens PFG Backcast IV Water Short is a practical, value-minded pick for men who spend long days at the beach, on a boat, or fishing and want dependable sun protection plus quick-dry performance. Its relaxed fit, useful pockets, and protective technologies make it a versatile everyday water short that performs well where sun and moisture are a concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts offer UV protection?
Yes. The shorts use OMNI-SHADE technology to block harmful UVA and UVB rays and carry a tight weave recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Are they suitable for swimming?
Yes. The 100% nylon quick-dry poplin and interior mesh brief make them appropriate for swimming and water activities, though they are relaxed-fit rather than performance swimwear.

Can small items be secured?
Yes. There is a zippered security pocket designed to keep small valuables safe while active.