The mens Incendo Short is part of the Endorphin line of clothing from Arc’teryx. I recently tested out the Incendo Jacket, and was just as smitten with these shorts that share the same name!

Arc’Teryx makes the “Incendo Long” Short, and the “Incendo Short” Short. The ones I tested were the short model (7” inseam) and they were a great length for running, especially in the summer. The fit of these shorts (size medium) was perfect on me (I’m 6’ and just under 165 lbs) One thing that really stood out for me was that the cut of the legs was straighter than most running shorts that have a flared leg opening. I liked the feel of this, especially for running on trails where it kept the fabric close to my body. The cut of the leg didn’t cause any limitations to my range of movement, and the fabric (Invigor LT) is nice and light, so reduced breathability also wasn’t an issue.

Straight cut leg with reflective Arc’teryx logo

I have found that all of the Arc’teryx clothing incorporates many small, but important, details. On these shorts, the quad length liner is manufactured with two different types of material rather than the single fabric that I typically see in running shorts. The front panel is a smoother, more densely woven material, while the rest is a nice airy mesh fabric with a flat elastic band at the end of the leg. I was a little hesitant with the longer cut of the liner, but found it to be breathable and very comfortable. The waist band on the Incendo Short is also nice – wide and very secure with a flat drawstring that doesn’t get it in the way or cause any interference.

Inner quad length liner

Comfortable flat waistband and drawstring

The shorts are nice and minimalist, with only one small pocket on the back. The pocket can hold a gel, key, card, or other small items you have to carry with you. I found it to be quite secure even without a zipper. The only suggestion I would make for these shorts would be to incorporate some kind of stiffener fabric in the edge of the pocket opening and the flap closure. The pocket doesn’t have a zipper, and I found that while running it is difficult to get into because it took some fumbling to find the opening. A slightly heavier fabric sewn in would differentiate the pocket from the rest of the fabric and make this process easier. The short also has a reflective logo on the leg to help with nighttime visibility.

Small pocket on back of shorts

Manufacturing quality on these shorts is excellent. I didn’t find any problems with stitching, seams, or bunched fabric. Overall I found these to be an awesome pair of shorts for trail running (and just as good for road running) from a great Canadian brand. In my Incendo Jacket review I mentioned the challenge for runners to find gear from companies like Arc’teryx since it isn’t commonly found in running stores (at least in my area) so if you are looking for retailers, check them out at the Arc’teryx website.

Gear test self portrait (not as easy with shorts!)

Disclaimer – Arc’teryx was kind enough to provide these shorts as a sample for me to try. There were no conditions or expectations in terms of what I would say about them and no financial compensation provided. The opinions expressed here are definitely and entirely my own, based on my use of the shorts.