Marathon Gear Question – Running Shorts

by Bill Wallace on February 10, 2010

Hello all! Just a quick question about gear for the marathon.

I bought a new pair of running shorts and top the other day just to round out the wardrobe you understand (and look good when I run, yes I can be that shallow! :) )

But as I was in the store I saw those standard running shorts that professional runners wear. The really short ones with the mesh inside. I can fully appreciate a professional runner wearing these. However the FBH and I think that, for me, they aren’t necessary.

(the FBH just said: “Too much flesh dear!”)

Now I have seen on a website somewhere that while they may look a little over the top, there is nothing “over the top” about chafing, which these shorts tend to prevent or at least minimise! So it’s a good idea to get a pair.

I am just an amateur runner. Should I get a pair?

For those who have run just one marathon or two, did you invest in a pair of these or did the usual “boardies” work just as well?

Tagged as: , , ,

  • http://www.andrewisgettingfit.com AndrewENZ

    I use the wicking boardies with a mesh as normal shorts would be hell with the chafing over a long distance or if it got wet. Short shorts are not a good look for me!

  • http://www.billstrainingblog.com Bill Wallace

    Yeah, I think that’s what the FBH meant as well when she said “too much flesh, dear” :)
    I found some “normal” length shorts with the mesh and they seem to be working well on the shorter runs. May be the same style as what you have.

  • http://ajhblog.wordpress.com Andrew(AJH)

    I wear Everlast sports shorts, the cotton ones, not really wicking ones. However if you are seriously concerned about chafing I’d strongly recommend some Skins. Maybe get some of them and suggest to FBH that you just wear them (without shorts) – which is something I’d never do – just to see her reaction. The compression wear doesn’t leave much to the imagination, even if they are dark in colour!

  • http://www.billstrainingblog.com Bill Wallace

    LOL, yes, my daughter has spoken to me tersley to ALWAYS wear shorts over the skins!
    I’ll check out the Everlast!