this post was submitted on 03 Feb 2025
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Running

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Bought a few $10 pairs of gym shorts from a big box store, probably an 8" inseam. I wear boxer brief style compression undies when I run, so netting and how they feel on my skin isn't really an issue. They have side pockets that are fine for carrying my key fob, which is the only thing I really need for most runs. On runs they seem completely adequate. What am I missing by not wearing more expensive or nicer shorts purpose made for running? Is it one of those things where if I try something nicer I won't be able to go back?

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[–] fivemmvegemite@aussie.zone 1 points 16 hours ago

You’re not missing much. You can get much, much cheaper versions of 2xu and the like from stores that perform as good or better than 2xu. They last about the same.

Also you can get execllent imitations of most big brands from ali for a fraction of the price (injinji being an example).

[–] sandalbucket@lemmy.world 9 points 2 days ago (1 children)

idk man. I have two pairs of walmart shorts. They were maybe $5 each. I’ve worn them for every race, training session, sauna session, summer jog, winter trails, whatever, for the last year / 1k miles. I have no complaints, idk what nicer shorts could possibly offer.

[–] SnootBoop@lemm.ee 1 points 2 days ago

Exactly. Although I haven't worn mine to the sauna yet...that might be the next test. I put a small one in my backyard so I usually just grab a robe for the walk to it and back and a towel to sit on.

[–] Dungrad@feddit.org 7 points 2 days ago (1 children)

Mostly durability. They do not wear off that much.

[–] SnootBoop@lemm.ee 1 points 2 days ago

What do you recommend and how much are they?

[–] timmytbt@sh.itjust.works 3 points 1 day ago

You’re not missing anything. What you wear under them is far more important.

[–] ExcessShiv@lemmy.dbzer0.com 2 points 1 day ago

Not much I think...I run in the cheapest tights and shorts I can get in my local sporting goods store, that has been fine with no issues for distances up to 30k so far.

[–] Magister@lemmy.world 3 points 2 days ago (1 children)

Nothing. I paid the price for shoes (Saucony), but shorts, t-shirt, socks, come from Marshall / TJ Maxx

[–] SnootBoop@lemm.ee 2 points 2 days ago

That's what I'm thinking. Although I'm fancy about my socks. I've switched to Injinji toe socks and don't ever want to go back, including their hiking ones.

[–] dmtalon@infosec.pub 3 points 2 days ago

I wear 2-in-1 shorts and haven't found any cheap ones I like / fit well. Granted I haven't tried a bunch if them.

I like Nike 2-in-1 (built in spandex) and I like 2xu for the compression version of 2-in-1s

[–] Nomecks@lemmy.ca 2 points 2 days ago (1 children)

If you were really trying to shave seconds the aerodynamic drag of your shorts probably matters over a 42km run.

[–] SnootBoop@lemm.ee 6 points 2 days ago

This is why I run naked, wrapped in cellophane

[–] racketlauncher831@lemmy.ml 1 points 1 day ago

By shorts of you mean underwear, not much except to look out for the material. Cotton ones in long runs will become so wet and make you feel a little uncomfortable, but not a deal breaker. Personally I find the smooth ones with chemicals stuff nicer. (Sorry for not knowing the name.)

The outer layer can have double layers thus putting insulation to keep your thighs warm. This is especially important in winters. If you can find a cheap pair that does this, good. The mid-tier from Decathlon is good enough.