Under Armour Men's Launch Run 5 in Shorts - Lightweight Performance

Our review of the Under Armour Men's Launch Run 5 in Shorts finds them best suited to runners and gym-goers who prioritize light weight, breathability, and quick-drying performance. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a lightweight woven shell and an internal mesh liner that keeps movement unrestricted while maintaining coverage and support during sweaty sessions. These shorts strike a practical balance between training-ready features and everyday comfort, making them a dependable choice for most short-distance runs and general active use.

Key Features

• Lightweight woven fabric: The main body fabric feels airy and durable, so the shorts move well without weighing the runner down during intervals or tempo runs.
• Internal mesh liner: The liner adds coverage and support, reducing chafing and helping moisture management during longer or hotter workouts.
• Fast wicking material: Fabric wicks sweat and dries quickly, which keeps the wearer comfortable from warm-up through cooldown.
• Super-breathable mesh panels: Targeted ventilation improves airflow where sweat accumulates, helping to prevent overheating on warm days.
• Comfortable waistband: A soft knit waistband with an internal drawcord provides a secure fit without digging in, useful for varied movement and pace changes.
• Pocket organization: Open hand pockets plus a right-side internal phone pocket keep essentials accessible and secure while training.

Who It's For

The Launch Run 5 in shorts are ideal for casual and dedicated runners who want a simple, dependable short with breathable panels and a supportive liner. They work well for gym sessions, track intervals, road runs and everyday warm-weather training where a 5 in inseam is preferred for freedom of stride.

These are less suited to runners who need specialized storage for long runs or ultrarunning features, since there is no dedicated gel pocket or extensive storage. Also, those who require a roomier waist or a much longer inseam should consider alternative models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight, durable woven fabric offers a good balance of comfort and resilience for regular training.
• Internal mesh liner provides reliable coverage and support without excess bulk.
• Fast-wicking material and mesh panels deliver strong breathability and quick dry times.
• Pockets, including a right-side internal phone pocket, make carrying essentials easy and secure.

Cons

• Fit runs mixed for some buyers; the waistband can feel tight to those between sizes, so sizing up may be necessary.
• No specialized long-run storage such as a gel or larger zip pocket for extended distance needs.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Under Armour Launch Run 5 in shorts are an excellent value for runners who want lightweight, breathable shorts with a supportive liner and practical pockets. They perform well across typical training sessions and hot-weather runs; choose a size carefully if you prefer a looser waistband, but otherwise these deliver dependable everyday performance without unnecessary bells and whistles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts good for hot weather?
Yes, the lightweight woven fabric and super-breathable mesh panels help keep you cool and dry in warm conditions.

Do they have a phone pocket?
Yes, there is a right-side internal phone pocket inside the open hand pocket for secure carry.

How does the fit run?
Fit is mixed among customers; some find the waistband snug, so consider sizing up if you prefer extra room at the waist.