Gear Review: Brooks Sherpa Shorts

The Brooks Sherpa 7" Shorts

Running shorts are a warm-weather necessity, so Brooks redesigned its popular Sherpa line for an even better experience.

Whether you want the shortest cut for max speed or you prefer a longer length for more versatility, the Sherpa collection has you covered. With the Sherpa 3” Split Short, Sherpa 5” Short and the Sherpa 7” Short, you can choose the right length for the right workout.

Like the best Brooks running shoes, these men’s running shorts deliver distraction-free performance that lets you rack up the miles. Fleet Feet runners tested the updated models to see how they work in the real world. Here’s what they thought.

Brooks Sherpa 3" Split Short

A runner wearing the Brooks Sherpa 3" Split Shorts

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Brooks shrunk the inseam on the 3” Split Short to optimize it for race day or your fastest workouts.

Designers cut the main short from Brooks’ DriLayer fabric. The fabric is made of 89 percent recycled polyester and 11 percent spandex, which makes it lightweight and slightly stretchy. It also wicks sweat and dries quickly.

Inside the short, Brooks added a breezy mesh brief-style liner. The thin mesh adds a bit of support and breathes easily to keep you cooler in warm weather.

One Fleet Feet reviewer says the 3” model looks and feels fast.

“It’s barely there,” he says. “Both the outer short and inner brief are ultra light and airy, so you don’t even notice them when you start moving. But beware: the 3” inseam shows off plenty of thigh.”

Because these are built for speed, there are only two stretch pockets on the back of the shorts. The pockets are big enough for a few energy gels, and a key loop can secure your house or car key.

Brooks Sherpa 5" Shorts

A runner wearing the Brooks Sherpa 5" Shorts

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For a slightly longer option than the 3” model, the Brooks Sherpa 5” 2-in-1 Short adds two inches and a boxer-brief-style liner for increased comfort.

“The 5” is the ideal fit for me,” one reviewer says. “It’s short enough to stay out of the way but not so short that it looks out of place walking around the grocery store. These shorts really do it all.”

The Sherpa 5” uses the same outstanding waistband as the 3” Split Short and the Sherpa 7” Short: It lies flat against your body, and it’s soft against your skin.

Brooks’ 2-in-1 models include a snug boxer-brief-style liner for support, while the standard Brooks Sherpa 5” Short employs the brief-style liner. The soft, smooth liner wicks sweat and won’t chafe, thanks to its flat, minimal seams.

To keep things light, Brooks didn’t include hand pockets. But there is a trio of pockets in the back. A central zippered pocket is large enough for most modern phones, and a stretch pocket on each side can hold some nutrition or keys.

Brooks Sherpa 7" Short

A runner wearing the Brooks Sherpa 7" Short

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The longest cut of the bunch, the Brooks Sherpa 7” Short gives you full coverage while maintaining top-end performance.

DriLayer fabric makes up the outer short. The polyester-spandex blend feels light and soft while wicking sweat away and drying out quickly. The inner brief is also a polyester-spandex blend, but it’s woven into a thinner mesh for enhanced breathability.

Like the 5” version, the Sherpa 7” comes in two versions: the brief liner and the Sherpa 7” 2-in-1. The brief is thin and lightweight, while the boxer-brief style adds light compression and a smooth feel.

“Liners can be hit or miss for me, but Brooks nailed it in the Sherpa,” one reviewer says. “It doesn’t bunch or ride up, and it’s extremely light and breathable.”

Three pockets in the back—including a zippered pocket that can fit your phone—let you bring along everything you need to get out and back, and an athletic fit is ready to run.

Topped with the same wide, flat waistband as the shorter versions, the Sherpa 7” stays put at top speed. Plus, an internal drawcord lets you cinch it tight around your waist for an even better fit.

Still not convinced? Don’t sweat it. Fleet Feet's return policy means you can test drive your shoes and gear without risk. If you’re not happy with the way your gear performs, looks or fits, we’ll take it back within 60 days. Plus, you’ll get free shipping on orders over $99 and free return shipping on all fleetfeet.com orders. That's our Happy Fit Guarantee.

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Whether you want a short cut for max speed or longer styles for more coverage, the Sherpa short is for you. Here's what you need to know about the updated lineup.