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Columbia Men's Backcast Iii Water Short

  • Based on 9,046 reviews
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Availability: Only 3 left in stock, order soon!
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Arrives Monday, Jan 12
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Color: Cool Grey


Size: Small/8" Inseam


Description

Summer fun shorts, shore-side or deep in the water. The Columbia PFG Men’s Backcast III Quick Drying Water Shorts are easy-fitting with built-in UPF 50, nylon construction, and a built-in mesh brief are perfect for days on the lake, a float on the river, or charging the surf. Advanced technology and functional design make for a great experience. Whether you're out for hours of fishing, swimming or at a pool side BBQ, these amazing shorts will not disappoint. The interior mesh brief offer wet or dry use while the protective exterior features our Omni-SHADE UPF 50 to help block and shield from UVA and UVB sun rays. Durable, comfortable, and versatile, they include two hand pockets, a cargo pocket, and a zippered security back pocket. Wear with the drawcord adjustable waist, or use the built-in belt loops when stepping up the level of casual attire. Columbia offers our men’s water shorts in a wide range of colors and sizes. Extended sizing available. Relaxed Fit. To ensure the size you choose is just right, please refer to our sizing chart. To find your waist measurement, measure around your natural waistline.

Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 4 x 1 inches; 1 Pounds


Item model number ‏ : ‎ Big & tall backcast iii water short


Department ‏ : ‎ mens


Date First Available ‏ : ‎ April 24, 2015


Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Columbia (Sporting Goods)


Best Sellers Rank: #138,308 in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry (See Top 100 in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry) #587 in Men's Athletic Shorts


#587 in Men's Athletic Shorts:


Customer Reviews: 4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 9,046 ratings


Frequently asked questions

If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is: Monday, Jan 12

Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.

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View our full returns policy here.

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Top Amazon Reviews


  • The Ultimate Shorts.
Color: Fossil Size: Medium/6" Inseam
Yes. These are the shorts you've been looking for. That is, if you've been looking for comfortable, hardy, functional, long lasting, easy-to-clean, and classic looking shorts. I can't imagine not owning a pair (or 4 pairs for that matter) of these because they are so useful. They look like a classic pair of khaki shorts (or whatever color you want) but you can do anything in them because they're not going to rip, tear, stain, or become soaked in sweat. In one day, you can go to class, jump in a lake, do yard work, and then go out to eat, ALL IN THE SAME SHORTS. They dry in 5 minutes. Mud, grass stains, wine, blood, toothpaste, etc. All of these wash out and off with the short scrub of a wet towel. I wear these shorts for days before washing them. They stay clean and dry. On top of all of that, they look awesome, come in a variety of colors, and they are in style. They are the most versatile shorts on the market. Fit: I am 6’2” 170 lbs with a 32 waist. I can wear a medium 6” inseam comfortably, but they they can be a little short for my long legs at times. The medium 8” is a little baggy around my thighs though. I have found that the small 8” inseam is the best fit. They’re long enough but not too long (abt 1.5-2” above the knee), and they fit nicely around my waist and thighs. Note: I cut the net out. They’re more comfy that way. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on August 7, 2017 by jc

  • Versatile and well made
Color: Collegiate Navy Size: Medium/8" Inseam
I bought these for a trip to Europe and they were more useful than I expected. I used them for shorts walking around town, as swim trunks when I had a chance to take a dip, and as sleepwear when it was a bit too chilly to go full-on commando. Fabric dries fast and doesn't wrinkle. Worth the price.
Reviewed in the United States on September 15, 2025 by Bill Senger

  • Great for hot days
Color: City Grey Size: Medium/6" Inseam
I was torn between splurging the extra 30+ (!) dollars to upgrade to patagonia baggies, but decided against it and am completely satisfied nontheless. It took a few tries to get the right size, though: I'm 6'2, 205lbs and usually buy a 32 waist but with athletic shorts and the like the often have to size up. I strongly advise against sizing up, the mediums fit perfectly on me and the 6'' inseam is a nice length to get those cooling breezes wafting up into the nether regions. Though they are marketed as "water shorts" which I take to mean a fancy word for "swin suit" I just wear them as normal shorts. I cut out the inner lining and wear them with boxers on hot days, they don't get sweaty or worn out like cotton shorts do and are nice and lightweight without feeling too flimsy. My only complaint is that the pockets are a bit too big in that if I put something too heavy (i.e. phone or keys + headphones case) they get mighty close to peeking out underneath the bottom of the shorts and really have no business being that large to begin with. Zipper pocket on the back means I can keep my wallet back there and have it feel secure, too which is a ncie plus. Do note that these shorts are a little on the baggy side, which actually I prefer because I have quads on the larger side from squats and these allow for plenty of movement. I recently decided to buy a few more pairs based on how much I liked my first and these are almost certainly going to be my go-to summer legwear for quite a while. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2020 by dclark

  • Big & tall friendly! The best summer shorts.
Color: Mint Cay Size: XX-Large/6" Inseam
The media could not be loaded. Hands down the best shorts. Big and tall friendly!
Reviewed in the United States on July 15, 2025 by Courtney

  • Solid Enough But Not Perfect
Color: Collegiate Navy Size: 4X/8" Inseam
It’s a good swimsuit. It has a roomy fit. Solid construction. You’re not gonna wow anyone with how it looks and that’s ok. It looks like a swimsuit. The front pockets are deep, enough to hold my iPhone. The little side pocket is fairly superfluous. And there is a zipper on the back pockets. There are belt loops, solid usable belt loops. I have three problem with this suit. The side pockets don’t stay in, I am constantly tucked them back in. It’s a little stiff after drying, it could be softer. And, the mesh lining crowds on the twig and berries a bit too much, it can be too uncomfortable. I would buy this one again when it’s time for me to replace my current suits. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2025 by Benjamin

  • Ideal for water
Color: Black Size: Small/6" Inseam
The Columbia Men's Backcast III Water Short is perfect for water sports and beach days. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, and offers full mobility. The drawstring waist stays secure, and the mesh lining adds comfort without chafing. Plus, the UPF protection and secure pocket make them practical and functional. Stylish, durable, and ready for anything—definitely a top pick! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on July 11, 2025 by Alec Hunter

  • Great shorts
Color: Violet Sea Size: X-Large/6" Inseam
Got for my boyfriend and it is his favorite pair of shorts!
Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2025 by MARIE BLUE

  • Light and comfy
Color: Sorbet Size: Medium/6" Inseam
Third pair of these shorts, my favorite swim shorts for sure! Run a little small
Reviewed in the United States on August 22, 2025 by sam johnson

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