The New Balance Fast Flight 2-in-1 7-inch shorts are ideal for running any distance. They also function exceptionally well in the gym.
New Balance has been around for well over 100 years. In the world of running shoes and apparel, it’s a name that’s become synonymous with quality materials, smart design, comfort and durability. It shouldn’t come as a surprise then, that these New Balance Fast Flight 2-in-1 7-Inch Shorts are certainly among the best men’s gym shorts that you can buy today. Read on to see why I believe that to be the case.
Men’s Fitness verdict
These shorts offer good compression while still ensuring that they have a nonrestrictive fit. However, they’ve now been discontinued by New Balance.- Very breathable
- Useful pockets
- Great for running and gym sessions
- Not the lightest-feeling shorts around
How we test gym shorts
To see how these shorts performed, MF tester Stephen Adams put them through a range of varied workouts, from runs and cardio classes to lifting sessions and hikes. He assessed them for comfort, fit, and sweat-wicking capabilities. He put them through multiple wash cycles to test durability and general wear.
New Balance Fast Flight 2-in-1 short performance and design features
After trying on the New Balance Fast Flight 2-in-1 shorts for an outdoor run and gym workout, I was impressed with their lightweight feel. The 2-in-1 design uses an inner spandex short that provides good compression. The top layer, meanwhile, is thin and light with a woven design that provides a good amount of air flow.
Overall, the material of the New Balance Fast Flight 2-in-1 7-inch shorts feels soft and high quality. They feature useful pockets, too, including a hidden inner drop pocket. And I found they were a perfect length, resting a couple of inches above the knee.
The fast-drying technology ensures the shorts doesn’t absorb moisture and get heavier during exercise. Another feature I like is the split side hem, which allows less restriction around the thigh when running. The waistband includes a drawstring fastening that stored on the inside of the shorts, providing a more streamlined look and feel.
What other shorts should I consider?
The New Balance Fast Flight 2-in-1 7-inch shorts are a great choice for running both short and longer distances in comfort. While the fit and flexibility makes them ideal for the gym, too. Furthermore, New Balance’s updated product range only hammers home that point.
However, there are other top picks that you could choose from if you don’t fancy rocking New Balance. For example, my favorite 7-inch gym shorts – the Lululemon License To Train Lined 7-inch shorts – also have inner compression lining and plenty of pockets, but in my opinion are more comfortable. Speaking of which, the comfiest 7-inch short I’ve tried so far is the Vuori Kore model.
The Fabletics The One 7-inch short is comfortable enough too, but when it comes to versatility, it has all the others beat. You can wear these at the pub, in a gym, or even in a swimming pool – they can handle pretty much any circumstance you throw at them.
7-inch shorts are on the longer end of the fitness gear spectrum, mind you. So, if you find them too inhibiting, perhaps try out some of the best 3-inch shorts or 5-inch shorts instead.
Words: Stephen Adams
| Materials | Poly-woven shell, spandex inner |
| Colors | Black, Blue |
| Sizes | XXS to 5XL |
| Features | NB Dry fast-drying technology; hand pockets; inner drop-in pocket |
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