Which is better for swimming?

The Columbia. It is built as a water short with quick-drying nylon and a drawcord waist. The Hozoely is a lounge knit and will sag and stay wet.

Which is better for lounging at home?

The Hozoely. Its stretch knit and high elastic waist are made for comfort, and it has pockets. The Columbia's lined nylon is stiffer and warmer when dry.

Is the Columbia worth the extra $1.35?

For outdoor or water use, yes. The gap is small and you get UPF fabric, a drawcord and belt loops. For indoor wear, save the money and take the Hozoely.

Do both have pockets?

The Hozoely lists pockets. The Columbia's listed specs do not mention pockets, so check the product page before you buy if pockets matter.

The Columbia's nylon poplin holds up better to sun, chlorine and salt water. The Hozoely's thin white knit is more prone to pilling and staining with heavy wear.

What sizes are shown?

The Columbia is a men's regular fit with an 8-inch inseam. The Hozoely listing shows size S, which it maps to US4, with a 41.73-inch hip.

Columbia PFG Backcast III Water Shorts vs Hozoely Women's High-Waisted Sweat Shorts

These are different garments for different people, not close substitutes. The Columbia PFG Backcast III is a men's water short built for fishing, swimming and hot days, with Omni-Shade UPF protection, an 8-inch inseam and a nylon poplin shell. The Hozoely is a women's high-waisted lounge short in a polyester-elastane knit with pockets, cut for comfort around the house. At $14.34 at Amazon as of November 7, 2026, the Columbia costs about $1.35 more than the Hozoely at $12.99 at Amazon, and it is the better buy for anything wet or outdoors.

Today the Hozoely Women's High-Waisted Sweat Shorts costs $1.35 less at its best price.

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