When it comes to marathon racing, kit choice matters more than people like to admit. Over 42.2km, weight, comfort and storage can genuinely affect how you perform and how you feel on race day. I decided to invest in the Soar Marathon Shorts for my first ever marathon, and they have since become my go-to race shorts for key events.

This review is based on my real race experience. I am also including my thoughts on the Soar Race Vest, which I now wear alongside the shorts for racing.

Why I Chose the Soar Marathon Shorts

At the time of my first marathon in December 2025, I was a Saysky athlete. I genuinely love their kit and wore it exclusively. However, as marathon day approached, I had a strong feeling that I needed the “creme de la creme” of marathon gear

Specifically, I wanted a featherlight pair of shorts with better gel storage options. Marathon fueling is non-negotiable, and I did not want to rely on a belt or feel like my side pockets were too loaded with gels.

Although I was technically not allowed to wear a competitor brand at the time, I ordered a pair of Soar Marathon Shorts and I decided to wear them for Valencia Marathon. I have absolutely no regrets and I believe they contributed to making my marathon debut a great experience.

Objectively, based on my experience, they are the best shorts I have worn in terms of weight, comfort and storage capacity.

What the Soar Marathon Shorts Are Designed For

The Soar Marathon Shorts are designed specifically for long-distance racing. These are not general training shorts. Every element is built around performance, efficiency and practicality on race day.

They are intended to feel minimal, stay secure at pace and carry enough fuel for marathon and ultra distances without distraction.

Key Features of the Soar Marathon Shorts

Gel Storage for Marathon Racing

This is the defining feature of the shorts. They include:

• A large rear external mesh pocket that can hold multiple gels securely
• Two front waistband gel loops for quick, easy access
• A zipped rear pocket for small essentials

For marathon racing, this setup works exceptionally well. Gels stay in place with no bounce, and everything is easy to access while running at pace.

Ultra-Lightweight Construction

The shorts are made from a very lightweight stretch mesh fabric designed to promote airflow and manage sweat. The laser-cut hems reduce bulk, and the bonded liner helps minimise friction over long distances.

This construction is especially noticeable when racing in warm conditions.

Performance-Focused Fit

The fit is intentionally close and streamlined. Once you start running, the shorts feel secure and unobtrusive rather than restrictive. There is no excess fabric, which makes a difference over marathon distance.

My Experience Racing in the Soar Marathon Shorts

Since investing in the Soar race outfit, this is what I have worn for my key races. This has become even more important since moving to Dubai and racing regularly in a warm climate.

In the heat, I need the lightest possible kit. The Soar Marathon Shorts consistently deliver on that. They remain breathable, comfortable and practical even in challenging conditions.

Over marathon distance, nothing rubs, shifts or distracts me. The storage works exactly as intended, and the shorts feel reliable when it matters most. That peace of mind on race day is invaluable.

Who the Soar Marathon Shorts Are Best For

These shorts are best suited to runners who:

• Race long distances
• Need reliable, bounce-free gel storage
• Prefer lightweight, performance-specific kit
• Race in warm or humid climates
• Want to invest in a durable pair of race shorts

If you are mainly running short distances or want an all-purpose training short, these may feel more specialised than necessary.

Soar Race Vest Review

Alongside the shorts, I also race in the Soar Race Vest, which shares the same race-first design philosophy.

Fit and Feel

The vest is extremely lightweight and cut close to the body so it stays in place even at faster paces. Once on, it feels barely noticeable, which is ideal for racing.

Breathability and Comfort

The technical mesh fabric allows for excellent airflow and sweat management. Bonded seams help reduce the risk of chafing, even during long races or in hot conditions.

Race-Day Performance

This is clearly a race vest, not a casual training top. It prioritises lightness, movement and temperature control, making it well suited to marathon and long-distance events.

Worn together, the Soar Marathon Shorts and Race Vest feel like a cohesive race kit. Both pieces are designed to disappear once you start running, allowing you to focus entirely on the race.

For me, this combination has become my default choice for important race days.

Are Soar Marathon Shorts Worth Investing In?

If long-distance racing is a priority for you and you want kit designed specifically for performance, the Soar Marathon Shorts are absolutely worth investing in.

They deliver where it matters most: weight, comfort and fuel storage. Paired with the Soar Race Vest, they create a race outfit that performs consistently, especially in warm conditions and over long distances.

Plus, Soar kit is renowned for being extremely durable. Anything you buy will last you for years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Soar Marathon Shorts

Are Soar Marathon Shorts true to size?

They are true to size but keep in mind, they designed with a close, performance fit. If you are between sizes or prefer a looser feel, sizing up may be more comfortable.

How many gels can you carry in the Soar Marathon Shorts?

The rear mesh pocket can hold multiple gels, with additional storage available via the front waistband loops.

Are these shorts suitable for training?

They are designed primarily for racing. While you can train in them, their main strength is marathon and long-distance race performance.

Are Soar Marathon Shorts good for hot weather?

Yes. Their lightweight mesh fabric and breathable construction make them particularly well suited to racing in warm climates.

Is the Soar Race Vest suitable for marathon racing?

Yes. The vest is lightweight, breathable and designed to stay secure at pace, making it a strong option for marathon racing.