Have you ever owned something that you feel like replaces, like, 90% of your closet? Something you end up grabbing every day, making the rest of your clothing items jealous? Us too.
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I will start with the elephant in the room. Yes, they are £119. Yes, they are 'just' a pair of shorts. But stick with us here.
Anthony and Liam both rocking the Half-tight. Rain? No issue.
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The obvious selling-point here is baked into the name "7-pocket", with a phone pocket and two gel pockets on either leg and a zipped security pocket on the back, there is space for just about any handheld-sized object you desire to have on-hand during your run. The snug fit keeps items from bouncing around, perfect for any size of smart-phone, but our team have also used them to carry: Insulin Pump (cc. Jonty); wallet; apples (small, picked legally from a tree); gloves... you get it. Point is, they're extremely functional, especially for Long Runs, Races and also when venturing to a new place with the need to be prepared.
The gel pockets are designed to fit most gels, with Maurten being the most optimal size, but if you do prefer larger gels like OTE or Precision, it might be a little more of a tight squeeze. No matter, the phone pockets double as extra large holsters for multiple gels too.
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As for the fit, expect a snug compression. I'd compare it to being how I'd expect a shark feels in their prime, sleek, fast, smooth. Supportive, without being restrictive. Freedom to move without being loose or feeling like they're going to fall. The rubberised tabs on the end of the openings keep them from riding up, even when soaked with sweat or rainwater (trust me, I've done whole summers in sweltering NYC weather with no hint of an issue, and a rainy winter in the UK with still no slip - Editor), and - rather than being one continuous band - are separated into two to prevent any pulling on those leg hairs.
Further, the front area is double layered and cut to form an all-in-one system that doesn't call for underwear, making it extra practical by saving on the washing. The front gusset is secure and comfortable, lined with softer lycra fabric to prevent chafe.
The waistband is adjustable thanks to the signature Bandit drawcord, which is LONG. Like really long. Almost too long. But it does lend a nice branding detail, even if it is prone to escaping when being washed.
Aesthetically, there are a few options available to suit most tastes with a Half Tight (around a 9" inseam length) and a newer Quarter Tight that comes in at around 7" on the inseam. The Superbeam material is the OG Bandit Half-tight material. It's glossy sheen has a unique pop to any outfit, even if you do rock the Triple Black look. To switch it up, the Cadence version is almost like corduroy in its appearance. Its matte finish doesn't show sweat patches and gives a softer feel to the compression.
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Great for:
Ultra running, Marathons, travellers, year-round shorts-lovers, style icons, one-pair-of-shorts-to-rule-them-all-seekers
Verdict:
All-in-one option where style meets substance and you'll swiftly forget about the pricetag.
£119
Available in-store and online at runlimited.co/
By Liam Dee
