The trail running skirt that messes with my rhythm
14.9.2023
Translation: Eva Francis
Odlo’s trail running skirt takes me back to the 90s when skorts – skirts with sewn-in shorts – were popular sports and leisure clothing. But for running, I’m not a fan of these hybrid shorts.
I recently switched from wearing classic running shorts that are loose around my thighs to longer, tighter ones that look a bit like cycling shorts. When I saw the Odlo Skirt X-Alp, I initially thought this running skirt would be right up my street. It features longer, tight-fitting liner shorts that don’t rub and are covered by a loose-fitting skirt. Uncompromising functionality and – well, what else?
Useful details
The skirt is made of a mixture of polyester, polyamide and spandex. It features three handy stretchable pockets with elastic at the back. They’re great for storing gels or energy bars. The side pocket on the sewn-in shorts even fits a smartphone. Azaming! According to the manufacturer, Skirt X-Alp is designed for trail running, but is suitable for all outdoor activities.
The tight-fitting red liner shorts peek out a bit below the skirt. This doesn’t look great, in my opinion, but the length has its advantages. The shorts hug the leg better and the cuffs are outside the thigh areas that typically rub against each other when running.
This said, I find the fabric of the shorts a bit too thin. It offers no support (size XS), is very stretchy and slightly transparent. However, this shouldn’t be a problem, as the shorts are covered by the skirt, protecting you from unwelcome looks.
The skirt flutters and bothers me
Now, let’s get to the skirt. To be honest, I’m not sure what its purpose is – except keeping away unwanted looks. Although it’s made of lightweight material and is loose-fitting, I quickly feel too hot under the skirt. But what bothers me most is the feeling of it billowing and falling with every step. This messes with my running rhythm, as I feel the constant need to smooth the skirt. I don’t give in to the urge to fold the fluttering skirt over and into the waistband. After all, the liner shorts are quite thin and might reveal more than I’d like to.
Source: Siri Schubert
Conclusion: neither great nor awful
As everything, it’s a matter of personal preferences. While I’m not a fan of a skirt covering my shorts, other runners are sure to find this a perfect piece of clothing for their legs and bottom. I’d prefer running shorts made of slightly thicker, non-transparent material – without a skirt. There’s a wide selection of running clothes that cover just that need. Among them, shorts with liner shorts from the same Odlo series. With shorts on shorts, there wouldn’t be any annoying fluttering anymore.
After wearing Odlo’s Skirt X-Alp on three runs, my conclusion is it’s neither great nor awful. If you’re looking for a lightweight combination of skirt and running shorts, you’ll like the Odlo X-Alp Skirt. Personally, I think it’s neither fish nor flesh.
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
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