When I used to think of GORE, my first thoughts don’t always go to their running collection. Instead, I would think about their GORE-TEX stuff and commitment to waterproof and windproof gear that we need as outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen in the Pacific NW. But over the past few year, GORE started sending us some stuff from their running collection and we have been pretty impressed ever since. Read on for a review of a cool new pair of Gore shorts.
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Looks:
The new Ultimate 2in1 Shorts are a relatively simple, yet sleek, looking pair of running shorts. There are two color options, and both are pretty classic in there stylings. The compression shorts underneath fit longer than the outside short, something that doesn’t matter to me, but may not be a look you prefer. I probably could’ve done without the multiple Gore logos on the front and the back, but overall that probably doesn’t matter.
Fit:
The fit of these shorts are actually quite nice, which is an absolute must given the price point of these. The waist elastic and tie keeps things in place and the outer is pretty light and holds up to moisture well
My main issue with most substandard two-in-one shorts is a lack of compression and tightness that inevitably leads to rubbing and chafing. I have not yet experienced any issues with this pair on that front. Pulling them on for the first time was surprisingly difficult – which is actually a good thing. The compression shorts fit like standard skin-tight leggings and require some effort, albeit minor, to get into due to this tightness. While l that may sound like a negative, it’s actually great because these have stayed tight against my body probably more so than most any other kind.
Function:
The multipurpose function of the shorts is really where you are getting the bang for your buck. I don’t know about you, but if I am running any significant distance, I am packing a waist pack, handheld water bottle, and/or some other pack. There is just that need for storage on those longer runs in order to stay safe, stable, and healthy along the way. What Gore is aiming to do with these shorts is to reduce your accessories (and weight) by increasing capacity within the apparel you are already wearing. Sure, we may need hydration still, but there is plenty that these shorts can overcome:
- Put your phone in the left leg compression pocket. I don’t love the feel of any leg phone pocket, but these seem to do an admirable job on that front.
- Stash any small valuables In the zipped diagonal pocket on the right leg of the compression leg.
- Use the hip key ring for your car starter
- Tuck any number of items in 1 of 5 pockets that adorn the waist band. It’s kind of a “duh“ moment to embed a waist pack into the shorts instead of needing two separate apparel items.
- If you are needing to make a plan about the weather, as most PNWers do, toss a packable lightweight jacket in the larger pouch on the back.
Overall, there is a lot of solid options in these shorts and I don’t miss anything about my old lap pack at all when wearing these.
For Consideration:
These are pricy shorts – there is no way to sugarcoat it. At $160, its a large investment and one you have to take seriously. We have been wearing in our regular rotation over the past month or so and believe they are well made and will hold up to the wear and tear. It’s duality also may keep other costs down (basic waist packs and smaller storage items), as well as potentially a PR by cutting out extra accessories. We think that these are a really good option, but one that you have to consider in your own budget.
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Products & Price:
- Ultimate 2in1 Shorts | $160
- Main Fabric: 86% Polyester, 14% Elastane
- Inner Pants: 71% Polyamide, 29% Elastane
- 5.6 ounces
Thank you to Gore for providing us with test shorts. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
