I’m still early in my running journey, but I’ve already learned two things:
- The right gear can make or break a run.
- Having races on the calendar keeps me motivated.
So today’s post is a mix of both — a first impressions review of the Baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Shorts and a look at what’s coming up on my race schedule.
First Impressions & Run Test: Baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Shorts – $25.99
When I ordered these shorts, Amazon told me I needed a 3X. That caught me off guard—I’ve never worn a 3X in anything other than tops, and usually an XL short fits me just fine. But I went ahead and trusted the size chart.
Out of the package, they looked a little big. On the waist they fit comfortably, and the liner felt fine. The issue wasn’t comfort—it was the cut. These shorts are big, baggy, and noticeably poofy in the front. Not a huge deal once they’re on, but they definitely don’t have that athletic taper.
The Run Test
Heading out for my first run, I was a little concerned the crotch sag would cause my thighs to rub together. One quick adjustment fixed that, and after that it wasn’t a problem. Once I got moving, they were actually comfortable, breathable, and supportive.
My man-bits stayed in place, no chafing, and they kept me cool. The only odd moment came when the liner on my right butt cheek started migrating toward my butt crack—but it corrected itself and ended up being a non-issue. I’ll monitor this on future runs to see if it becomes a problem.
The liner is thin, and that’s my biggest concern for longevity. It holds everything in place fine now, but I do wonder how it will hold up after repeated runs and washes. The shorts themselves are also thinner than I’m used to, which makes them nice and cool but may also mean they’ll wear faster.
I grabbed these in white (probably not my best idea, but they were $5 cheaper than other colors). Time will tell how they handle sweat and the wash cycle.
Ratings (So Far)
- Comfort: 8.4/10
- Performance on Run: 7.8/10
- Longevity Confidence: 4.5/10
- First Impression Score: 6.8/10
- Value Score: 8/10
Will I Buy Again?
Not yet. I’ll need to get about 8 runs and washes in before I know if these shorts stretch out, hold up, or fall apart. For now, they’ll do the job—though they may be spending the next 6 months in the drawer once fall and winter roll in.
What’s Next on My Running Calendar
Since I’ve started running again, I like having races on the calendar to keep me focused. Here’s what’s lined up:
- October 19th – CITY 5k Sprint
Goal pace: 12:30. But honestly, finishing is all I care about right now. - December 6th – 10k
(Not going to say where this one is for privacy reasons.) Same 12:30 pace goal, same “just finish” mentality. - April 11th – Greater St. Louis Half Marathon
Again, I’ll shoot for 12:30 pace, but finishing is the only real goal.
Looking ahead, I plan to sign up for the 2026 Great GO! St. Louis Halloween Race. If I don’t manage to run the entire half in April, then the fall race will be my target to go the full distance. If I do run the full half this spring, then the fall goal shifts: bring my pace down to 11:30.
If that goes well, my next spring half goal will be 10:00 pace. And if I hit that? Well…then it’s time to decide if a full marathon is in my future.
I know I’m way ahead of myself here—I’ve only got 13 runs under my belt—but that’s just how my brain works. Even if I run the full half marathon and lose 100 pounds, I won’t be done. There will always be a next goal waiting.
Buckle up. And hell, join me.
Catch up on all my other post here.
