Ibex Springbok Short

Review by Erin Trail

The Ibex Springbok Short is a super lightweight, ready for anything short that’s great for both running and adventuring.

Technical Features

• 3” inseam
• Rear zipper pocket for stashing small items like keys or a gel
• Inner hidden pocket with an elastic key retainer
• Built-in brief that features Ibex’s Pro Tech Lite merino fabric
• Elastic waistband with drawstring
• Shell fabric: 82% Nylon, 18% Elastane
• Lining: 83% Merino Wool, 12% Nylon, 5% Elastane

Fit and Function

I ordered a size medium, in accordance with the Ibex Style guide.  The leg openings and hips of the shorts fit great, but I do find that the waistband is a touch snug.  If you don’t want a snug waistband, size up.

My initial impression of the Ibex Springbok Short is how light the outer shorts layer is. They are so incredibly light, which is exactly what I look for in running short. The outer fabric has a nice stretch to it, making any leg movement happen with ease. The inner liner is made with Merino (in a grey heather colorway for the granite colored shorts) and is lightweight and soft. 

I have athletic thighs and it’s hit or miss if a pair of running shorts will creep up on me.  The length of the Ibex Springbok Short is 3 inches, which is a bit longer than many of my other run shorts.  I did experience some inner thigh upward migration of the shorts, but once I got sweaty enough, the shorts started to stay put.  I also haven’t experienced any upward movement while casually walking around.

The leg openings for the Ibex Springbok Short on my legs are not as loose as it is on the website model.  The shorts aren’t tight, but they also aren’t terribly loose, either.  I have muscular legs, so this is going to be variable for anyone.   But these definitely aren’t the baggy soccer shorts of the mid-90s.  All that being said, I like the look and cut of the shorts, as it highlights all the work I do in the gym.

I got the lighter grey colorway (granite).  During my more sweaty runs, you could definitely see a darkened area of sweat along the back waistband and down the upper back of the shorts.  Thankfully, that was the extent of sweat areas (i.e. it didn’t look like I skipped a mid-run porto stop).

I also really enjoy wearing the Ibex Springbok Short as I’m running errands or hanging out.  The athletic fit of the shorts means they aren’t too poofy in the mid-section.  I haven’t used these on a paddleboard, but I bet they’d be great for that activity as well. 

The Ibex Springbok Shorts are really light weight and are a great option for camping, backpacking, or travel.  I’ve hand washed the shorts in a pinch and they dry super fast when outside on a clothesline. I recently went on a trip to Spain where my luggage went missing for days.  I randomly grabbed my Springbok Shorts and put them in my carry-on, just in case.  And I was glad I did.  I wore these shorts day and night for three days of travel.  They still looked great, felt good to wear, and managed the heat and humidity well. 

They make a great all-around adventure short and have quickly become a staple in my summer wardrobe.

The women’s version of the Springbok short (3” inseam) comes in 2 colorways and in sizes ranging from XS to XXL.  The men’s Springbok short (5” inseam) are available in 2 colorways and in sizes ranging from S to XXL.

Erin Trail