When it comes to trail running, the right gear can make all the difference. Nothing disrupts a great run more than uncomfortable, soggy shorts or a shirt that chafes. That’s where Path Projects comes in – a brand known for its high-quality, technical materials and shorts with pockets designed to keep your essentials secure. Naturally, I had to put their latest gear through the ultimate test. So, I hit the trails -rain, mud, rocks, you name it. Did their gear live up to the hype, or did it crumble under pressure? Let’s break it down!
Sykes PX
The Pro:
When I hit the trails, having enough pockets in my running shorts isn’t just a preference – it’s a necessity. Not just one pocket, but a bunch of them! The Sykes PX shorts check all the boxes, offering three functional pockets that are exactly where I need them. I can comfortably carry my iPhone 12, at least five gels, and a few salt tabs without any fuss. Beyond the pocket game, the fit is spot on. The 5-inch inseam gives just the right amount of thigh coverage without venturing into track-and-field split short territory. I’m usually a size small in shorts, and I’m happy to report that the length and waistband fit perfectly. Plus, the TORAY PRIMEFLEX material might just be the most durable fabric I’ve ever worn; I’ve put at least 200 miles on one pair through every weather condition imaginable, including a fair share of falls and slides down the trail. The Sykes PX shorts truly deliver on multiple levels.
The Con:
While the Sykes PX shorts tick many of my boxes, there’s one drawback, and it has more to do with the business model than the shorts themselves. When you buy the Sykes PX, they come without a liner, which means you need to spend an additional $32 at Path Projects or find another liner elsewhere. With the shorts already priced at $58, this pushes the total to nearly $90, which is pretty steep. It would be great if they included a liner option at this price point to make the overall package more reasonable.
The Buy:
The Sykes PX shorts are made for the trails, and if you’re hunting for that perfect, do-it-all running short with more pockets than you know what to do with – congrats, you’ve found it! But fair warning: you might need to dig into that secret stash of birthday money to grab a liner, because otherwise you’re short the whole package.
Wadi Tee
The Pro:
One of my biggest complaints about Path Projects in the past has been that, while I love their gear, they never seemed to have a tee that could handle my sweaty self without being some super technical blend. Well, Path Projects said, “Hold my beer,” and introduced the Wadi Tee. This shirt features a new sweat-wicking material – TORAY FIELDSENSOR BYOKAN – that has completely changed the game for me. Not only does the Wadi Tee look great, but it performs where it matters. The fabric handles my sweat like a champ, and best of all, I haven’t experienced a hint of chafing.
The Con:
While the material used in the Wadi Tee can finally handle my level of sweat and didn’t cause any chafing, I must point out that the fabric is a bit on the rough side. Not exactly sandpaper rough, but definitely not the usual “cottony” soft feel I’ve come to expect from Path Projects. As for the fit, I wear a men’s medium in pretty much every brand, and the Path Projects medium fits me just right – not too snug, but not too loose either. If you’re after a more relaxed fit, I’d recommend sizing up.
The Buy:
If you’re in the market for a technical trail shirt that brings those earthy, nature-inspired vibes, the Wadi Tee has you covered. It handles sweat incredibly well and doesn’t cause any chafing. However, be aware – the material is a bit on the rough side, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
Pyrenees T19 Hoodie
The Pro:
Ain’t nothing better than when the temps drop and it’s officially hoodie season! The Pyrenees T19 Hoodie has quickly become my go-to for those crisp mornings – whether I’m gearing up for a run, mid-run, or just taking the dog out for a walk. This hoodie nails that sweet spot between practical and athleisure. It’s got a sleek look, a nice natural color palette, and it’s thick enough to keep you warm without turning into a total sauna. I went with my usual medium, and it fits perfectly – more on the relaxed side. This hoodie looks just as good on the run as it does at the coffee shop or while picking up the kids from school.
The Con:
While I truly believe in “look good, feel good, run good,” and the Pyrenees T19 nails that vibe, I have to point out that it doesn’t handle sweat all that well. It’s fine for lighter activity, but if I’m really going for it, the hoodie starts to feel heavy. So, while it looks amazing out on the trails, I find myself wearing it more at the trailhead or when I’m out and about with the family.
The Buy:
The Pyrenees T19 might just be my favorite Path Projects item, but ironically, it’s the one I use the least on the run. To me, it feels more like an athleisure piece than something I’d reach for when it’s go time. That said, if you love running in a hoodie and want to look stylish while doing it, Path Projects has you covered.
Path Projects brings a lot to the trail scene with its rad gear, natural color palette, and functional designs perfect for shredding on the trails or hitting the coffee shop. Whether you’re in the market for high-quality running gear or simply want to support an up-and-coming brand that truly gets what runners need, Path Projects is worth checking out. They’ve managed to strike a balance between performance and style, making their gear just as suitable for the trails as it is for everyday wear.