Last updated: 17-Aug-18
By James Eacott
Performance, comfort and freedom. Three things you’re guaranteed to experience with these fantastic shorts from Asics.
Features
- Quick drying fabric
- Sweat-wicking material
- Zippered back pocket
- Anti-odour brief
- 5-inch inseam
- Reflective elements
- UK RRP £29.
Pros: What’s to like about the Asics Woven 5” Running Shorts
5-inch shorts, are in my opinion, ideal for running. For most men – between 5’8” and 6’2” – they cut a couple of inches above the knee, providing more coverage than the bib shorts of the 1980’s, but still short enough to allow total range of motion without hindrance. The length of these shorts is perfect, and you barely notice you’re wearing them. 7” shorts become more like board shorts and a nuisance to run in.
What you’ll notice first about the shorts is the feel. They’re soft, lightweight and yet feel very durable. They’re not that horrible nylon-y scrunchy material that crunches with every step you take. The wide elastic waist is comfortable and, accompanied with a draw chord, makes for a secure, comfortable fit.
The shorts are packed with functional features. The pocket at the back is standard on minimalist running shorts these days, and this is a decent size. It’s not large enough to house my phone (an admittedly large Samsung Galaxy), but it’s plenty for a key and a couple of gels.
The mesh panels down both sides keep ventilation to the max and the Motion Dry Technology lets your skin breathe when your body temperature ramps up, keeping you dry.
In my opinion, the brief-style insert doesn’t really add anything, due to the fact I always wear a pair of lycra undershorts anyway, but they don’t hinder or detract from the product in any way.
There shorts are very well built. Despite the super-thin, lightweight material, they’re durable too. There’s no signs of wear, splitting seams or tears and they feel strong, and the reflective logo is a nice touch for running at night.
Cons: What’s not to like about the Asics Seamless Long Sleeve
If I were to have any gripe, it’d be that I’d like a slightly larger pocket. I believe most of us these days run with a phone – either for safety or Strava – and having a pocket that is an inch or two larger would let me take it on my runs.
Conclusion
Simply, they’re a great pair of running shorts. Lightweight, quality design and construction, durable and aesthetically pleasing.
| Score | |
| Design | 10/10 |
| Features | 9/10 |
| Performance | 10/10 |
| Value | 9/10 |
| Total | 9.5/10 |
Other running shorts you may want to consider:
Salomon trail runner shorts
Inov-8 AT/C 5” trail shorts
Have you used the Asics Woven 5” Men’s Running Shorts? Don’t agree with this review? What’s your opinion? Add your own comment to this review and share your experience and passion for running with others.
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All images James Eacott except when stated.
