A good pair of running shorts has the right combination of length, pockets and liner. For dedicated running, the Salomon Light Shorts offer minimal length with maximum freedom-of-movement.
Salomon Light Shorts Features:
- actiLITE stretch woven fabric
- 9″ inseam
- 2 gel pockets, small rear key/ID pocket
- Wide, non-binding waistband and elastic drawstring
- Reflective accents
- Colors: Black, Grey (tested)
- MSRP: $58
My Experience
The Light Shorts have many things in common with every other pair of running shorts on the market. Those things are easy to see and include a short inseam length and uninhibited movement for all types of running. What I didn’t expect was the comfort of the extra-wide waistband with its stretchy elastic drawstring cord.
Most shorts have a standard stretchy waistband, but not these. The wide waistband consists of about a 1/2″ tall minimally stretchy waistband. And, the nice thing is that the inside of this waistband is 100% actiLITE stretch-woven fabric — just like the rest of the shorts. What that means is they are non-chaffing, non-binding and ultra-comfortable next to your skin. Not once did I feel like the waistband was digging into my hips or sides. The drawstring is also nice and stretchy — all to deliver one of the most comfortable-fitting shorts I’ve worn.
I’ve become accustomed to hauling my iPone on the trail. My heart rate watch is typically just a timepiece, but my performance tracker is always Strava. I have a couple of pairs of shorts that have dedicated phone-friendly pockets. They carry phones well without bonking around. I’d prefer a middle-back pocket for just such a purpose, but instead these shorts include two side mesh pockets and a small back pocket. Attempting to use the side pockets for phone duty were quickly abandoned. These pockets are best suited for a gel packet or two in each, but that’s about it.
The built-in liner plays nicely with my Ex Officio Give-n-Go boxers and keeps the shorts in the proper position. The fabric has resisted the reaches of local scrub oak tress and remains as intact as day one.
The Good:
- Unrestricted movement
- Great for running in hot weather
- Unique waistband is very comfortable
- Stretchy drawstring tightens without over tightening
- Double mesh pockets for gel
The Bad:
- Pockets have limited structure and can’t carry much more than a couple of gels
The Bottom Line
The Light Shorts are fantastically comfortable in all conditions. The unique, wide waistband remains comfortable next-to-skin with no chaffing or rubbing over time. The mesh pockets satisfy the need for storage, but could be designed more optimally for phone storage.
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