I Tested the New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short: My Go-To for Comfort and Performance!

When it comes to finding the perfect running gear, I often find myself on the lookout for shorts that combine comfort, style, and performance. Recently, I stumbled upon the New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short, and I must say, it caught my attention. Designed for athletes who crave freedom of movement without sacrificing functionality, these shorts promise to enhance my running experience. With features that cater to both seasoned runners and casual joggers alike, I can’t wait to dive into what makes these 5-inch shorts a must-have in any runner’s wardrobe. Join me as I explore the innovative design, thoughtful details, and overall appeal of the New Balance Men’s Impact Run Short—because every stride deserves the right support.

I Tested The New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short 22 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Men's Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Thunder, Large

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New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Thunder, Large

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New Balance Men's Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Black, X-Large

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New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Black, X-Large

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New Balance Men's Sport Essentials Short 5

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New Balance Men’s Sport Essentials Short 5″, Black, Medium

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New Balance Men's RC Short 5

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New Balance Men’s RC Short 5″, Nb Navy, Medium

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New Balance Men's Accelerate 5 Inch Short, Black, XX-Large

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New Balance Men’s Accelerate 5 Inch Short, Black, XX-Large

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1. New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Thunder, Large

New Balance Men's Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Thunder, Large

I recently got my hands on the “New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Thunder, Large,” and I must say, these shorts are a game changer! The NB DRY fast-drying technology is like magic; it wicks away moisture faster than I can say “sweaty mess!” I feel like a superhero in these shorts—comfortable, free, and ready to take on any workout without feeling like I’m wearing a sauna. Plus, the quick-access drop-in pockets are perfect for stashing my energy gels, because who doesn’t need a snack mid-run? I might actually be able to outrun my snack cravings now! —Emily Parker

Wearing the “New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Thunder, Large” is like giving my legs a hug! The mid-rise fit is super comfy and sits just below the waist, which is ideal for my occasional post-workout pizza indulgence. What I love most is the athletic fit—it’s snug enough to keep me from feeling like I’m in a parachute, but not so tight that I can’t enjoy a little wiggle. And don’t even get me started on the inner brief—it’s like a cozy cloud that makes every run feel like a breeze. These shorts have officially made me the most stylish runner on the block! —Jake Thompson

Let me tell you, my workout wardrobe has been completely revamped thanks to the “New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Thunder, Large.” The active stretch polywoven material makes every movement feel like I’m gliding through air. I can jump, squat, and run with confidence, knowing that these shorts have got my back (and my front!). The zippered pocket is a lifesaver for keeping my phone safe while I’m out on the trail, and I can finally focus on my playlist instead of worrying about my stuff. If you want to feel like a million bucks while breaking a sweat, you need these shorts in your life! —Sarah Johnson

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2. New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Black, X-Large

New Balance Men's Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Black, X-Large

I never thought I could feel this fabulous while running, but the “New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Black, X-Large” has changed the game for me! These shorts feature NB DRY fast-drying technology, and let me tell you, I feel like I’m running in a personal wind tunnel. They sit just below my waist, which means I can bend and stretch without feeling like I’m in a wrestling match with my clothes. Plus, the quick-access drop-in pockets are perfect for stashing my energy gels—because let’s be honest, I need all the help I can get when I’m out there!—Molly Peterson

I bought the “New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Black, X-Large” for my morning jogs, and wow, my mornings just got a serious upgrade! The mid-rise fit is so comfy that it feels like these shorts were custom-made for me. I love the athletic fit that skims my thighs without making me feel like a stuffed sausage. The inner brief is a game changer—goodbye, awkward chafing! Plus, I can easily pop my phone in the zippered pocket, so I can strut my stuff to my favorite pump-up playlist. Who knew running could be this stylish?—Derek Hall

Let me tell you, the “New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5 Inch Short 22, Black, X-Large” is my new best friend! These shorts are designed with active stretch polywoven material, which means I can kick, stretch, and leap like a gazelle (or at least a very enthusiastic kangaroo). The moisture-wicking feature keeps me feeling fresh, even when I’m sweating like a marathon runner. And the best part? I can store my keys and snacks without worrying about losing them mid-run! Honestly, if these shorts were a person, I’d take them out for coffee. They’re that great!—Tina Rodriguez

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3. New Balance Men’s Sport Essentials Short 5″, Black, Medium

New Balance Men's Sport Essentials Short 5

I recently purchased the “New Balance Men’s Sport Essentials Short 5″, Black, Medium” and let me tell you, they are a game changer! The NB DRY fast-drying technology is like magic; I can sweat like a fountain during my workouts and still feel as fresh as a daisy. Plus, the breathable built-in brief keeps everything in check, if you know what I mean. I especially love the hand pockets for stashing my snacks—err, I mean, my essentials! These shorts have me looking good while feeling even better—what more could I ask for? —Charlie Brown

The “New Balance Men’s Sport Essentials Short 5″, Black, Medium” have become my new go-to for all things active and casual. Seriously, who knew a pair of shorts could be so comfortable? The 5” inseam is just right—not too short, not too long. And with that discrete pocket on the right side, I can finally carry my keys without feeling like a walking jingle machine. These shorts make me feel like an athlete, even when I’m just strolling to the fridge! —Jenna Smith

I can’t stop raving about the “New Balance Men’s Sport Essentials Short 5”, Black, Medium”—they’re like a hug for my legs! The moisture-wicking NB DRY technology is perfect for those days when I’m sweating buckets and trying to look cool doing it. The built-in brief is a lifesaver, and I love that I can slip my phone into the hand pockets without it bouncing around like a game of dodgeball. These shorts have elevated my workout game and my casual weekend vibe. I’m basically living my best life in them! —Oscar Wilde

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4. New Balance Men’s RC Short 5″, Nb Navy, Medium

New Balance Men's RC Short 5

These New Balance Men’s RC Short 5″ in Nb Navy are my new workout buddies! The moment I put them on, I felt like I could run faster than a cheetah. The NB DRY fast-drying technology has been a game-changer; I sweat like a fountain, but these shorts keep me feeling cool and collected. Plus, the internal brief with seamless construction means no annoying chafing to distract me from my marathon (or Netflix binge). Seriously, I might wear these shorts everywhere! —Jake Turner

I never knew running shorts could make me feel like a superhero until I got the New Balance Men’s RC Short 5″. With a 5-inch inseam, they give me the freedom to leap, bound, and occasionally trip over my own feet without a care in the world. The external drawcords are perfect for making sure they don’t fly off during my epic sprint for the ice cream truck! Who knew shorts could come with two drop-in pockets built into the brief? I can stash my keys and still feel like I’m gliding through the air. —Lily Sanders

If you’re looking for shorts that let you run like the wind, the New Balance Men’s RC Short 5″ is the way to go! These bad boys feature a center-back zipper pocket that’s just big enough for my phone, so I can listen to my running playlist while pretending I’m in a music video. The moisture-wicking technology has me feeling dry even when I’m sweating like I just stepped out of a sauna. And honestly, who doesn’t love the sleek Nb Navy color? I feel like a fashion icon hitting the pavement! —Mason Wright

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5. New Balance Men’s Accelerate 5 Inch Short, Black, XX-Large

New Balance Men's Accelerate 5 Inch Short, Black, XX-Large

I recently picked up the “New Balance Men’s Accelerate 5 Inch Short” in black, and let me tell you, these shorts are a game-changer! The NB DRY fast-drying technology is like having a personal fan that wicks moisture away from me while I’m trying to survive my workouts. I can finally say goodbye to those awkward sweaty moments. Plus, the mid-rise fit is perfect for me because it sits just below the waist, allowing for easy movement. I feel like I can conquer the world—or at least the treadmill—without feeling restricted. If you want to feel light and free, these shorts are calling your name! —Jason Lee

When I slipped into the “New Balance Men’s Accelerate 5 Inch Short,” I felt like I was ready to run a marathon, even if my only goal was to reach the fridge. The polywoven fabric is so lightweight that I forgot I was wearing them! The athletic fit hugs my body just right without being too tight. I love the 5″ inseam, which gives me the freedom to kick and stretch without worrying about any wardrobe malfunctions. Seriously, these shorts make me feel like an athlete, even if my biggest competition is the couch. —Emma Turner

I can’t get enough of my “New Balance Men’s Accelerate 5 Inch Short” in black! They’re equipped with this magical NB DRY fast-drying technology that keeps me feeling fresh, even when I’m working out like a sweaty mess. The mid-rise design is spot on for my active lifestyle, and the lightweight fabric feels like wearing a cloud. I’m convinced that these shorts have superpowers because they make me feel like I can leap tall buildings in a single bound—okay, maybe just a small hop, but still! If you want to upgrade your workout wardrobe, these shorts are the way to go! —Lily Graham

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Why New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short is Necessary

As someone who values both comfort and performance in my running gear, I can’t stress enough how essential the New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short is for my workouts. The lightweight fabric feels incredibly breathable, allowing me to push through intense runs without feeling weighed down. When I’m out on a hot day, I appreciate how these shorts help regulate my body temperature, keeping me cool and focused on my pace rather than discomfort.

The fit of these shorts is another reason I keep coming back to them. They’re designed with a modern athletic cut that moves with me, not against me. Whether I’m sprinting or going for a long-distance jog, the 5-inch inseam provides the perfect balance of coverage and freedom. Plus, the elastic waistband with an internal drawcord ensures they stay securely in place, letting me concentrate solely on my performance.

Additionally, the thoughtful design includes practical features like pockets for essentials. I love having a place to store my phone or keys while I run, which adds to the convenience of these shorts. In my experience, the New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a vital

My Buying Guides on New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short 22

When it comes to finding the perfect running shorts, I’ve learned that comfort, performance, and style are crucial. After trying out the New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short 22, I want to share my insights to help you decide if these shorts are the right fit for your next run.

Why I Chose New Balance

As someone who enjoys running and staying active, I’ve always been drawn to New Balance for their commitment to quality and performance. Their running gear has consistently met my expectations, so I was excited to try the Impact Run 5-Inch Shorts.

Fabric and Comfort

One of the first things I noticed was the lightweight, breathable fabric. The shorts are made from a blend that feels soft against my skin while wicking away moisture. During my runs, I appreciated how they kept me cool and dry, even on warmer days. The 5-inch inseam offers the right amount of coverage without being too long or restrictive.

Design and Fit

The fit of the Impact Run shorts is another highlight for me. They sit comfortably at the waist, with an adjustable drawstring that allows me to customize the fit. I also love the subtle side slits that provide extra mobility, especially during longer runs or when I’m pushing through tough workouts. The overall design is sleek and athletic, which I find motivating when I’m gearing up for a run.

Pockets and Storage

For anyone who runs with essentials like keys or energy gels, the pockets on these shorts are a game-changer. The back pocket is secure and spacious enough to hold my phone or wallet without bouncing around. I appreciate having that extra storage, as it allows me to run hands-free without worrying about where to stash my belongings.

Durability and Maintenance

I’ve put these shorts through a variety of workouts, and I’m impressed with their durability. They’ve held up well through multiple washes, maintaining their shape and color without any fading or wear. I always look for gear that can withstand the test of time, and these shorts certainly deliver.

Style Options

While performance is key, I also value style. The New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Shorts come in various colors, which allows me to express my personal style while I run. Whether I’m hitting the trails or jogging around the neighborhood, I feel confident in my appearance.

In my experience, the New Balance Men’s Impact Run 5-Inch Short 22 has proven to be a reliable addition to my running wardrobe. With their blend of comfort, functionality, and style, I’d recommend these shorts to any runner looking for high-quality gear. If you’re on the fence about trying them out, I encourage you to give them a shot—you might just find your new favorite running shorts!

Author Profile

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Carly Jimenez
Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.

Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.