When it comes to apparel for running — either short-distance sprints or long-distance marathons — I'd argue picking the right shorts is crucial. Think about it: they have to be both comfortable and functional around a pretty crucial area of the body for optimal movement.
I know what I need in a pair of shorts. That's to be comfortable (nobody wants chafing) as well as have pockets for my gloves, gels, or keys for the times when I don't want to pull on one of the best running belts.
But I'm not above trying something new, which is why I went out for a short distance run in the $89 New Balance RC Ultra Light Split Short 3".
I'm currently training for a marathon, which means a lot of running with plenty of different distances, locations and speeds. And I can comfortably say with absolute certainty that five miles in these shorts was enough to tell me I wouldn't go anywhere near them for marathon attire.
At just three inches in length with a split, these shorts are revealing, bordering on indecent. I'm 5'10", and neither I nor the onlookers I passed were quite prepared for the amount of flesh on display.
If you're Chris Hemsworth and running down a sunny promenade on the Californian coastline in June, then exposing thighs is practically mandated. Not so much for a 5'10" writer pounding pavement on a 48°F overcast day in March. If you're wary of revealing too much while you're at the gym or on the track, these shorts are not for you.
Secondly, let's talk about the pockets. Or rather, the lack thereof. There's no small zippered compartment at the back but instead two small "drop in" pockets just behind your hips. I found these were perfect for a single key that would slot in and stay secure without moving around, but not big enough for much else. There's no way you're going to get a phone or any energy gels stashed into there.
In any competitive race, there's going to be aid stations, and serious runners will have one of the best running watches keeping tabs on their progress. So they may not need an excess of pockets, but that's not me.
I think the average everyday runner is going to want to carry their phone or a few other items with them. That means you'll likely need a running vest or belt to go with these shorts if you plan on wearing them.
What they are suitable for
The huge benefit to having such small and light shorts is that they take up very little space in your gym bag.
So, these aren't the shorts for me when it comes to long-distance running, but that doesn't mean I'm discounting them completely. They are — as the name suggests — incredibly light. If you're looking to hit a PR by shedding weight, then I'm not sure you can do better than these shorts.
There's a thick waistband that was snug throughout my run, and the stretch fabric gives you huge freedom of movement. Nothing rubbed or rode up during the run, which is also crucially important.
On (warm and sunny) days when I want to go for a speed session and carry minimal equipment with me, these shorts seem perfect.
The huge benefit of having such small and light shorts is that they take up very little space in your gym bag. If you're a regular office commuter but hit the gym or yoga studio during lunch break, these are a perfect choice.
The only real stumbling block here is the $89 price, which is a lot to swallow for so little material. I'm also interested to see how they hold up over time with repeated washes.
But for now, I'll settle for saying the New Balance RC Ultra Light Split Short is best suited to gym work or a quick 5K run where you're really trying to break a speed record. Anything longer or more labored, and I think most people will want something more substantial. Of course, if you disagree, then let me know in the comments!
