Name: Women's Other Janji 3.5" Trail Short
Brand: Other
Rating: 4.0 (1 reviews)

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Abigail Lock

Durango, CO

Women's Apparel > Women's Shorts

Other - Janji 3.5" Trail Short

Summary

Comfortable, compressive, and versatile trail short with numerous, functional pockets. The durability of the mesh pockets is somewhat lacking, but if you want a minimalist, sleek design for long days on the trails, this Janji product goes unmatched.

Posted May 19, 2023

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Janji 3.5" Trail Short

4.0/5

(1)

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Pros

Side pockets
Compressive
Drawstring keeps shorts in place even when pockets are loaded
High waisted
Key clip
Silicon grippers on shorts hem prevent riding up
Moisture wicking
Dries quickly
Rear stash pocket with pass-through for a layer

Cons

Nylon side pockets rip easily
Black colorway shows sweat easily
Must be washed delicately

I purchased the Janji 3.5" Trail Short with the intention to replace the need for a waistbelt or vest on long runs, and I was not disappointed! Janji's thoughtful design of this trail short is evident in its pocket placement (two tiers of pockets on the sides and one stash pass-through in the back) and silicon grippers to prevent riding up.

These shorts retail for $68 dollars on the Janji website, but I've seen them listed elsewhere for a more affordable price. Either way, these shorts are a steal compared to the 4" Rabbit Smashems shorts (retail $80) that offer similar storage.

The only major complaints I have about the Janji 3.5" Trail Short pertain to the durability of the material. On my first trail run in these shorts, I passed by a low-hanging branch and the mesh side pocket tore immediately. The hole isn't big enough for anything to fall out, but I was frustrated that a minor snag had damaged these shorts on their maiden voyage. I wonder how the fabric will fare over time and after multiple washings.

The Fit

The compressive, high-waisted short offers a flattering and functional fit.

Capped drawstrings won't slip into waistband.

While looks aren't everything, feeling good about how you look in your running clothes is a bonus. These Janji 3.5" Trail Shorts are some of my favorite shorts to wear because of their blend of functionality and fashion.

The material compresses just enough to feel secure without being restrictive.
The drawstring keeps the shorts in place even when you load the pockets to max capacity.
Silicon grippers at the bottom of each hem keep the shorts from riding up too far as you move. Of course, these grippers can only do so much sometimes, and you'll find yourself adjusting these shorts occasionally, but in comparison to other compression shorts, the adjustments are few and far between.
I found these fit true to size, as I typically wear a size small or extra small in shorts. I ordered a small, but would also be comfortable in an extra small.

Storage Capacity

Back pocket can store nutrition or act as a pass-through for an additional layer

These shorts are serious about providing storage. The lower side pockets are large enough to store a soft flask and phone. The smaller side pockets can easily house your keys, headphones, smaller nutrition items, salt tabs, etc. I've also stuffed a layer into the side pockets in addition to my nutrition. As long as I cinch and tie the drawstrings, these shorts don't sag or bounce when loaded. One of the best features is the key security these shorts offer with an s-biner--never stress about your car keys again! The only downside I foresee with the storage is that these lack a spot for trekking poles.

Durability

Given the price of these shorts, I was hoping they would be more durable. They are, after all, "Trail Shorts" and I (wrongly) assumed they would withstand some branches and a tiny bit of abuse. Since I've noticed how delicate the mesh is, I don't wash these shorts every time I wear them, and when I do wash them, it's on a delicate, cold wash cycle.

If you are planning to bushwhack or cut fresh trail, these probably aren't the best choice for you.