I’ve been running for about three years now, and I’ve gone through my share of shorts. Some bunch up, some feel too tight, others just look awkward. When I ordered the Brooks Sherpa 7-inch shorts, I wasn’t expecting much beyond another basic pair. But honestly, they surprised me.

The fabric is light and moves with you — no fighting against your legs on longer runs. I got the navy color, which goes with pretty uch anything, and the length hits right above the knee. It’s a good balance between coverage and freedom. I didn’t expect the inner liner to be as comfortable as it is; it’s soft and doesn’t ride up, which is a win in my book.

One morning, I was out for a jog and had some G Herbo playing through my headphones — the beat just matched my pace, and the shorts felt like they were part of the rhythm. It turned out better than I thought. For around $40, these are a solid pick if you’re looking for something reliable without breaking the bank. You can view product here if you’re curious.

They’re not magic — you still have to put in the miles — but they make the process a little more enjoyable. And sometimes, that’s what keeps you lacing up day after day.