Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts Review

Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts

Introduction of the Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts

I have had the pleasure of owning several pieces of Ibex outerwear and base layer apparel.  Although they are not necessarily a big player in the athletic running world, Ibex has applied their knowledge and expertise into making some really nice quality running apparel pieces. With a quick glance, these shorts don’t seem like anything special. I’ll even go as far as saying that these won’t win any runway contests for style points. That said, the smooth and freeing feeling created when wearing the Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts will having you placing these high on your list of running necessities.

Features of the Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts

Let me be frank first and foremost, I usually wear a 2 in 1 type of short which consists of an inner liner and a somewhat longer 6-9” inseam.  The side split seam really short shorts are just not my cup o’ tea. These Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts fall somewhere in the middle from an inseam length standpoint, and have grown on me so to speak. The simple and subtle Ibex logo on the side is a nice touch.

Ibex Logo and mesh outer panels on both sides helps to vent and cool.

They are lined with a stretch Merino internal long brief to keep things comfortably in place.  This is a more comfortable and looser mesh, so to be completely clear this is not an overly tight compression tight liner. Over time with wear and washing, the Ibex Pulse Runner shorts have almost molded and formed a relaxed fit to provide for a very efficient and smooth running short.  The fabric is light, and so nice and soft that it flows really well when running.  I have had the chance to put these guys to the test during short easy runs, my longer runs, and in a very fast tempo 5k race setting.

The one small interior stash pocket is just big enough to hold a key, credit card, or energy gel.

These shorts are a very high quality piece of running apparel. If you don’t mind spending just a little more, you will be pleasantly surprised at the longevity.  I have not actually had the luxury of testing these shorts for more than a few months, but I tell you that I have not seen any fading, wear, or breakdown of any critical components. I run 5-6 times per week with numerous double day runs thrown in. I commute my little ones to school pushing a stroller which turns into approximately 2 5k’s per day. Let’s just say that these shorts have seen their fair share of action in what I would consider a short period of time.

They have been washed about a dozen times. Do be sure to take care, and follow their recommended washing suggestions.  I have 3 baskets at home; colors, whites, and technical pieces. My highly prized running, biking, and skiing pieces usually go on the delicate cycle and will not get put into the dryer. I want longevity to protect all those wonderful technical terms that brands have thrown at their products.

Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts ease of movement, and a slight reflective line for night time running

Technical specifications

• Four-way stretch fabric (87% recycled poly, 13% spandex)
• Mesh panels (65% merino wool, 35% poly)
• Inner brief (96% merino wool, 4% spandex)
• Spandex waist with drawcord
• Reflective hit
• Stash pocket

Ok, my one knock. The flare effect when viewed from straight ahead. It’s minor, and obviously does not effect it’s quality or use.

Ibex Men’s W2 Sport T-Shirt

• Weightless Wool (87% merino wool, 13% nylon)
• Semi-fitted

I have also had the pleasure of putting the Ibex W2 Sport T-Shirt through its paces in conjunction with the Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts. This shirt has a similar make up with 87% Merino wool and 13% Nylon. The Medium I am testing has a somewhat relaxed fit. It also does not feel like a highly technical mesh tech tee that we are all accustomed to, and receive as schwag at most races.  This shirt feels really soft. I have to admit that even though this is an active outdoors base layer shirt, I often catch myself grabbing it simply to wear as a casual shirt around the house. The fabrics softness and how the Ibex Men’s W2 Sport T-Shirt drapes so easily and comfortably over my torso has me convinced that this is a very versatile and multi-purpose shirt.

Ibex Men’s W2 Sport T-Shirt

Having said all that, the technical wicking qualities that adorn this quality piece of running apparel trend toward the higher range of shirts I have worn. I have taken the Ibex Men’s W2 Sport T-Shirt for several easy runs, and raced a 5k in the Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts, and this shirt just to see how well it worked when really going hard and sweating a ton.

For January, it was quite warm with temperatures in the 50’s. I still wore a light long sleeve shirt over top to fend off the slight morning chill and bit of wind that was present. I ran strong and hard (with a P.B., btw), and didn’t give my choice of clothing even a second thought. When finished after a brief exhaustive collapse to the side of the finish line, I rebounded with vigor to celebrate my time and age group first place. That’s when I realized how much I had perspired, and both the shorts and shirt had wicked away the majority of my sweat, and I did not have any rubbing or chafing spots.

Ibex Men’s W2 Sport T-Shirt

Who the Ibex shorts and shirt are for:

The Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts are made for running, but are great for many of your active sport endeavors. Hiking, weightlifting, yoga, plyometrics, and Frisbee in the park were some other great uses because they fit so smoothly.

W2 Sport T-Shirts is  intended for climbing, hiking, outdoor activities, streetwear, and I ran in them. Except for climbing I wore this shirt for all those, and it is a fantastic lightweight first layer. With it’s semi-fitted design, the W2 provides for a pleasant fit with a great range of movement without feeling that restrictive compression offered by more technical pieces. A great choice for whatever your passion.

Final Thoughts on the Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts

The Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts are a very nice pair of shorts that fit well, and perform great with a soft and silky feel making them almost unnoticeable. The quality of the Merino will give you a fine piece of running apparel that will last a long time. Pick some up, and while you’re at it, the very smooth and comfortable Ibex W2 Sport T-Shirt.

Ibex Pulse Runner Shorts MSRP: $84.95

Ibex W2 Sport T-Shirt MSRP: $79.95

For more information on these two pieces of running apparel, please visit: www.ibex.com