WOLACO Warren Short Review

The WOLACO Warren Short has been one of the most surprising gym shorts that I’ve tested lately. I was a little skeptical of them with their higher price point. I was curious, “Why should I pay for these when there are ~$50 options out there?”

And before we continue, I will say — I like these shorts a lot, but there are definitely contexts where they fall short. On top of this, at the end of the day, if you want to spend less, you definitely can while still finding solid products. I’ve reviewed budget options before.

As a reviewer, I just don’t want you to feel pressured into spending on a pair of shorts that may be out of your budget. So, I want to get ahead of that and reaffirm that you shouldn’t have buyer’s remorse if you want to go with something cheaper.

That said, I’ve loved the Warren Short for my hybrid workouts for a few reasons. I’ll explain why they’re in my rotation with the TT Interval Short, and I’ll cover why and when they fall short. FYI: I went with the liner version for this review.

Who Should Buy These Shorts

1. Hybrid Athletes, Lovers of Lifting and Running

These shorts are an excellent choice for hybrid athletes who balance both running and lifting in their workout routines. Their versatile design offers the mobility needed for explosive movements during lifting, while also maintaining a lightweight, breathable feel for longer runs.

2. Guys Big On Phone Storage

Athletes who like to keep their phone close will benefit from the sweatproof pocket, a feature that ensures the phone stays dry even in the most intense sessions. This pocket is particularly useful for outdoor runners or those training in humid environments, as it eliminates the need for external phone accessories.

3. Dudes Who Love Stretchy Shells and Moderate Compression

The shorts’ stretchability and material composition offer flexibility without restricting movement, making them perfect for dynamic workouts that involve varied exercises. They are especially suited for individuals with slimmer or moderately muscular legs, as the design fits snugly without feeling overly tight.

The waistband’s drawstring allows for an adjustable fit, catering to personal comfort preferences. If you value high-function gear that combines performance with thoughtful design features, these shorts are a solid option.

Who Shouldn’t Buy These Shorts

1. Budget Shoppers

If you’re someone who keeps a close eye on your budget, these shorts may not be the best investment at $78, a price that is higher than average for athletic wear. While the quality and features may justify the price for some, more affordable alternatives exist that still offer good performance.

2. Guys Big On Smooth Waistbands

Additionally, individuals who are particular about comfort might find the internal ribbing on the waistband bothersome, especially during prolonged wear. The ribbed design might be a dealbreaker if you prefer a smooth waistband, as it could feel less comfortable on the skin over time.

3. My Muscular Friends With Thicc Thighs

For athletes with larger thighs, the compression liner may present an issue, as it tends to ride up during activities, leading to potential discomfort. This issue, though not critical, could be an ongoing annoyance, especially for those engaging in high-intensity, leg-heavy exercises.

Pros

1. Sweatproof phone pocket. This is great for anyone exercising in humid or high-sweat environments. For example, if you’re running outside on a hot day or doing an intense HIIT workout, the phone pocket ensures your device stays dry.
2. Stretchy Shell Moves Well. The nylon and spandex blend further enhances the shorts’ flexibility, allowing for a wide range of movements, from deep squats to dynamic lunges, making them ideal for hybrid athletes.
3. Good Waistband Security. The waistband has proven to maintain its shape and size even after several washes, offering long-term value. Unlike many other athletic shorts, which may lose their elasticity over time, these retain their fit, adding to their overall durability.

Cons

1. Some stitching imperfections. I’ve noticed some fraying around the waistband’s stitching after extended use, which, while not immediately compromising the shorts’ integrity, may raise concerns about long-term durability.
2. The compression liner takes a second to settle in. The liner tends to ride up for individuals with larger thighs, especially when starting to run or hit cardio exercises. This could be particularly problematic during exercises like squats, running, or biking, where continuous adjustments become a distraction. For example, during a long-distance run, stopping to fix the liner mid-way through can break your flow and reduce performance.

Sizing and Fit, My Suggestions

The shorts come in S, M, L, XL, and XXL. My waist sits between 32-33 inches, so I’m either a medium (waist 30-32) or large (waist 33-34). I’ve found the sizing to be fairly accurate, but those who prefer a snugger fit may find the waistband slightly loose, and if you have thick thighs you may find the legs a little snug on these.

If you’re in between sizes like me, I’d go up if you have thicker thighs and down if you have a slimmer/leaner build. I chose a medium, and I’m happy with my choice.

Below, I’ll share my dimensions so you can get an idea of how the shorts fit for my anatomy. Again, I’m wearing a Medium 5″ inseam short in this review.

• Height: 6′ 0″
• Weight: 181 lbs
• Waist: 32-33″
• Hip (circumference around butt): 40″
• Mid-Thigh: 23.5″-24″

Performance Assessment

Lifting Breakdown

• Lifting: For lifting, these shorts offer solid performance, scoring an 8/10 per my That Fit Friend guidelines.

The durable material holds up well against heavy lifting, making them a reliable choice for athletes who engage in barbell or kettlebell work. The shorts don’t bunch up during squats, deadlifts, or lunges, allowing you to focus on your form without worrying about adjusting your clothing. 

As mentioned above, the compression liner can sometimes ride up during deeper ranges of motion in squats and sumo deadlifts, especially for individuals with larger thighs, requiring occasional readjustment.

In exercises that involve high levels of abrasion, such as deadlifts and power cleans where the bar may rub against the legs, the shorts remain resistant to damage. This durability, combined with the stretch of the material, ensures they provide a full range of motion, which is essential for compound lifts.

Cross-Training Thoughts

• Cross-Training: These shorts perform really well, and I’ve given them an 8.5/10 compared to other shorts I’ve reviewed.

The flexible nylon and spandex blend allows for a wide range of movements, which is crucial in exercises like box jumps, burpees, and kettlebell swings. The sweatproof phone pocket stands out in cross-training environments, as you can move through circuits without worrying about your phone getting in the way or getting wet.

The waistband stays securely in place, even during high-intensity intervals, ensuring you don’t have to constantly adjust them mid-workout. However, if your cross-training routine involves a lot of running or jumping, the liner could become a distraction if it rides up.

For those who prioritize breathability and flexibility in cross-training, these shorts are an excellent choice, keeping you comfortable during both static and dynamic movements.

Short Run Assessment

• For short runs, these shorts excel with a score of 9/10.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these for my running needs — which are more recreational lifter hybrid bro in nature. The sweatproof phone pocket ensures that your phone stays secure and dry, which is a major plus for runners who prefer carrying their phones without using arm straps or belts.

The lightweight material and breathability make them ideal for runs of 3 to 5 miles, as they prevent overheating while maintaining comfort. However, for longer runs, the compression liner might start to ride up, particularly for runners with more muscular legs, which could lead to some discomfort.

 

Despite this, the shorts perform well on shorter routes, especially with their mobility and snug fit around the waist. If you frequently engage in quick sprints or interval running, the shorts’ stretchiness and lightweight design offer little restriction, allowing for natural running movement. If you’re a marathoner or need the lightest shorts possible, note these likely won’t be for you.

Daily Wear and Comfort Thoughts

• For casual, everyday wear: These shorts score an 8.5/10.

I like the stylish design of these, particularly the royal blue color, which makes them suitable for both workouts and general outings where I want a little vibrance. The material is soft and breathable, which means you can wear them comfortably throughout the day without feeling too restricted or warm.

The waistband stays flat, even after multiple washes, so it retains its shape over time, making it a good investment for daily wear. One potential drawback, however, is the compression liner, which may not be ideal for all-day comfort, particularly for those with thicker thighs, as it could ride up over time.

Still, their versatility makes them a great option for people who want a pair of shorts that transitions seamlessly from the gym to casual settings like running errands or meeting friends.

Final Thoughts: Would I Buy Again?

I would.

I didn’t have a lot of faith in this brand when I bought my Warren Short. I figured they were just another influencer brand that would look the quality I want for that type of price.

I’ve been pleased with my Warren Shorts. Are there some minor flaws with the shorts, like some stitching fraying and the waistband riding up? Sure, but these shorts have lasted me a year, and they’re still going strong, which makes their price worth it for me.

If you have additional questions about these shorts, drop a comment below or reach out via social media!