Product Review: Gaiam Om Yoga Shorts

Product: Gaiam Om Yoga Shorts
Manufacturer: Gaiam
Where to Buy: Kohl's
Price: $28-36
Utilization: clothing
Rating: silver medal

I'm in year two of trying shorts for running instead of capris. I have thunder thighs, so the cute Nike tempo shorts and similar just don't work for me. Last year, I founded some bermuda-length shorts that worked decently enough and enjoyed having slightly less material during our 95+ degree summer runs. This year, those shorts are a little loose and creep up, so I had to find something else.

Kohl's is actually a favorite place of mine to find gear. I've procured a number of great tank tops and capris, plus a smattering of other gear, and usually at a decent price. I found these shorts in the front of the store with all of the other workout gear. They are available in sizes XS - 3X, though this review is only of the standard size option (XS - XL). Since everything at Kohl's is on sale sooner or later, I was able to get these at a discounted price. Add in my 30% off coupon and I snagged these for less than $20.

The length is just right. If they were a little shorter, I would worry about thigh chafing. Fortunately, they do not creep up when walking or running, so the length is perfect. The material has a slight give so it's not very compressive, but it goes on comfortably and stays put. The waistband is a little high, which gives a little extra tummy support. There is also a small pocket along the waistband which comfortably held my Chapstick and could have held a key or gel. The material is light but not at all see-through.

I took these out for a 120 minute bike ride today. Admittedly not the best choice, but I wanted to take them for a spin. There is absolutely no padding for the bike seat, but that's to be expected on yoga shorts. The shorts were very comfortable on the bike ride and didn't move when I got off and walked around. After my ride, I wore these while lounging on my porch and working in my yard. They remained comfortable for 8 hours of additional wear, through bending, squatting, walking, climbing, and sitting. The cut is flattering and made my butt look good, so I even felt comfortable enough to wear them to Lowe's. Twice. If I show up on People of Lowe's, it will only be because I was filthy and smelly!

Silver medal awarded for: comfort, fit, lack of compression