“Quality is not an act, it is a habit.” – Aristotle
ashmei, a UK-based company unafraid of challenging conventional thinking, has one overriding purpose: Create the worlds best running apparel.
It’s one thing to set the lofty goal of producing the world’s finest performance running apparel. It’s quite another to surpass that bar with each new product. With the introduction of their new 2-in-1 running short, ashmei not only demonstrates that they are making a habit out of quality, but they may have crafted the best running shorts on the market in the process.
ashmei first won over our run gurus with the ashmei Ultimate Softshell jacket. Then came the ashmei trail running socks which were met with equal praise. So when ashmei announced the latest addition to their line of run apparel was 2-in-1 run shorts, our team had elevated expectations. Luckily for the consumer, (and our reviewers) no one has higher expectations for their products than the ashmei design team, ensuring that their 2-in-1 run shorts were virtually destined to impress.
On Design and Performance …
Not all running shorts are made the same, and because there’s no such thing as a ‘quick run’ in your book, ashmei designed their first ever 2-in-1 running short. The two-in-one design features a compression inner short and lightweight, relaxed-fit outer short that help you get the performance you need without sacrificing the stylish look you want.
As always, ashmei’s design process begins with the use of high quality materials and is constructed with a meticulous attention to detail. In developing their first 2-in-1 running short, ashmei knew they wanted to incorporate superfine merino wool into the short so your strides are always made in comfort. To accomplish the goal of superior comfort and performance, ashmei created their own bespoke stretch merino fabric which they use to construct the inner compression short.
Comprised of a 45% superfine merino wool, 44% Nylon, 11% Spandex blend, the inner compression short is designed with minimal seams ensuring next to skin comfort. Tight enough to enhance performance by stabilizing muscles and reducing vibration and fatigue, yet smooth enough to eliminate the discomfort and chafing that sometimes results from the use of synthetic materials and multiple thick seams.
And because you’re the type of athlete that doesn’t allow the weather to determine your running schedule, ashmei’s bespoke fabric is designed so that the merino element is always next to the body keeping you warm when it’s cold, yet cool when it’s warm. Moreover, merino wool’s natural moisture management properties help to keep you comfortable and dry, no matter the conditions.
There’s another benefit to ashmei’s use of fine merino wool. When our bodies perspire, microbes feed off components in our perspiration producing an odorous by-product. Merino fiber is made up of 90% keratin. This very resilient protein doesn’t support bacteria. If the bacteria that cause odor can’t build up on the merino fiber, you, and your shorts stay fresher for longer, even during intensive activity over extended periods of time. In short, the ashmei 2-in-1 shorts repels damp dingy odors that your synthetic run shorts cling too.
When it comes to the outer shell of most running shorts, the typical model is a lightweight shell that just sits there not doing much. The ashmei 2-in-1 shorts are different. The outer shell not only features reflective detailing for enhanced visibility, but laser cut ventilation for added breathability. Add in a functional centered rear pocket for keys, gel or an iPhone and you’ve got a product that looks as good as it performs.
Remember, these aren’t your standard toss-em-in-the-wash-with-your-daily-grubbies run shorts. Once you bring the ashmei 2-in-1 shorts into your run collection, be mindful that they will necessitate a little extra care. Pay special attention to the care instructions – wash in cool water, with other darks, no bleach or conditioners and line dry. Follow the instructions and your investment will pay dividends over the long haul.
While ashmei strives for perfection, there are those rare occasions when even the purveyors of the most meticulously constructed apparel on the market may miss a stitch or two. While ashmei’s 2-in-1 shorts have logged hundreds of miles on some of the most prolific ultrarunners without incident, should that rare defect arise (yes, they are human) ashmei warranties against defects in the construction of their shorts.
The Critique…
Luxury has it’s price, and slipping your legs into the best running shorts on the market doesn’t come cheap. At $120, the ashmei 2-in-1 shorts are two to three times the price of other running shorts with a compression liner. That being said, our run gurus believe ashmei’s latest addition to their line of run apparel is a near perfect balance of performance, style, and comfort making it a product worth every penny.
Bottom Line …
Score another high-performance win for ashmei. Simply put, the ashmei 2-in-1 running shorts create a new standard of comfort and performance in the running apparel category. True, you might not always medal in your race, but wearing these shorts will definitely make you feel like a million dollars. Gumption tested, Gumption Approved.
Manufactured by ashmei, the 2-in-1 running shorts (skort available for women) are available in SM, M, L & XL in black. Available from http://www.ashmei.com. Price $120 US.
*Gumption Gear Review received the 2-in-1 running shorts from ashmei at no cost and receives no monetary compensation for this or any related review. The items featured are provided solely in return for our honest views and opinions.