New Balance Women's Q Speed Fuel Short Review

From its lightweight, breathable material to its curved hem design, the New Balance Q Speed Fuel Short is all about freeing your movement and keeping you cool as you work up a sweat. The Q Speed Shorts feature a comfortable built-in brief liner with a small internal stash pocket, an adjustable bungee drawstring for a personalised fit, and a rear envelope pocket for storing your small essentials. The shorts also feature reflective details on the waistband for visibility, and are constructed with New Balance's quick-drying fabric technology to keep you comfortably dry on your run. Our reviewers loved the stylish colour-blocking design and the flattering, athletic fit the shorts offered.

Sarah: "These shorts feature bright colours, which add a stylish flair to their modern, functional construction."

Suzy: "The features are pretty standard for a running short. There is one small pocket in the front and one rear stash pocket that's deep enough to fit a spare key and credit card comfortably. I didn't need to use the interior front pocket, but some may find it useful. I appreciated the adjustable drawstring feature to synch in the waist. There is reflective detailing at the top of the shorts, but it gets covered up when wearing a top, and I would have liked more visible reflective detailing near the bottom of the shorts.

I am a big fan of the two-tone style at the bottom of the hem, which adds a bright contrast of colour to the shorts. The fabric was stretchy without being too body-hugging, and the texture added a bit of dimension to the leg. A+ from me!"

Sarah: "The Q Speed Short was light and soft, and the toggle at the waistband offered a comfortable fit. I liked the laser-cut perforations, which provided increased airflow and breathability."

Suzy: "These shorts were lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. I was pleasantly surprised with the interior brief. I am usually not a fan of built-ins, but the brief here was more comfortable than I expected, and it provided good coverage and support without feeling restrictive. The shorts did tend to ride up slightly when I ran; however, I usually experience this with shorts in the 2.5 – 3" inseam range. I was comfortable running in these shorts with their relaxed, athletic fit, which felt roomy in the thighs and offered lots of stretch. Typically, this style of shorts tends to be bulky on me, but the Speed Fuel Shorts were the perfect combination of a loose fit while still offering some shape at the hem. I would have preferred a slightly longer inseam, but I was pleased with the fit overall."

Sarah: "The New Balance Q Speed Fuel Shorts are well constructed. After many runs and washes, they are still holding up well."

Suzy: "The shorts are of good quality for their price point."