The Alo 5" Traction Running Short is a lightweight waffle-knit short with an elastic waistband and zippered side pockets. List price is about $88. Alo calls it breathable and says it keeps you cool, though the page does not mention a liner. It is a stylish short-cut option for runners who like a knit feel, and it costs more than shorts that include liners. Alo's fit note says it is true to size. Availability looked limited when we checked, so confirm stock before planning around it.
Illustration drawn from the product’s specs: see the brand’s site for real photos and colors.
Alo Traction Running Short 5" Review (2026)
3.3/5
our rating
our rating
$88Full price on Alo Yoga’s site, checked Oct 7, 2026
Best for: Runners who like a short cut and a knit feel, and don't need a liner.
Skip it if: You want a built-in liner or a bargain.
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What we like
- Lightweight waffle-knit fabric that Alo says keeps you cool
- Zippered side pockets
- Short 5 inch cut
- Regular fit described as true to size
Watch out for
- Priced at $88 for a short with no liner stated
- Inseam grows with size (5 inch in S to 7 inch in 2XL by Alo's table)
- Page showed it out of stock
On this page
Fit and sizing
Alo says the Traction is true to size with a regular fit and a 5 inch inseam. Its size table makes the inseam grow with the size: 5 inch in S, 5.5 in M, 6 in L, 6.5 in XL and 7 in 2XL. Sizes run S to 2XL. The page showed the navy colorway out of stock when we checked, so verify before you plan around it. For help picking a length, use the shorts finder.
Fabric and feel
The fabric is a lightweight interlock waffle knit: 46% nylon, 39% polyester and 15% elastane. That blend feels softer and more textured than the woven shorts that dominate running. The waistband is a secure elastic.
How it performs for running
Alo describes it as designed to keep up and made of breathable fabric that keeps you cool. Zippered side pockets are the key storage feature. With no liner stated, you will want your own underwear or running briefs. For runners wanting a liner and phone pocket for much less, see the Under Armour Launch Elite. Our best running shorts for men list has more.
Price and value
At about $88 this is one of the pricier shorts in our set. You are paying for the brand and the knit feel. The Alo Repetition costs about $78 and has a more casual look. If budget matters, a Gymshark running short is under $50.
Alternatives
The Ten Thousand Session 5" offers lighter airflow and more pockets. For a liner and zip storage at lower cost, check the Gymshark Running 5". More brand context is on our Alo page.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you want a liner, split hems for racing or a short that is easy to find in stock. Budget shoppers should also pass.
Specs
| For | Men |
|---|---|
| Sizes | S-2XL |
| Extended fits | Plus sizes |
| Fabric | 46% nylon, 39% polyester, 15% elastane (lightweight interlock waffle) |
| Inseam options | 5″ |
| Liner | None |
| Pockets | Zip |
| Fit | Athletic |
| Fabric feel | Stretch knit |
| Waistband | Elastic |
| Good for | Running, Gym training, Everyday wear |
The verdict
A soft, short-cut running short with zip pockets and a distinctive waffle-knit feel. It is pricey for a short with no stated liner, and stock looked limited, so it suits style-minded runners more than bargain hunters or anyone wanting a liner.
Alternatives to consider
Alo Yoga 7" Repetition Short3.3/5 · $78Rhone Pursuit Short Lined 7"3.8/5 · $84Vuori Kore Short Lined 5"3.8/5 · $78
Frequently asked questions
What is the Alo Traction short made of?
Alo lists a lightweight interlock waffle fabric of 46% nylon, 39% polyester and 15% elastane.
Does the Traction short have a liner?
Alo's page does not mention a liner. Assume you need your own underwear or briefs.
What is the inseam?
Alo says 5 inches for the regular fit, and its size table runs from 5 inches in S to 7 inches in 2XL.
Does it have pockets?
Yes. Alo lists zippered side pockets.
Sources and last checked · Oct 7, 2026
Notes: Fabric from Alo's page data. Alo's size table: inseam S 5", M 5.5", L 6", XL 6.5", 2XL 7". Liner not stated; set to none. Style may be a carryover; availability not guaranteed. Ratings estimated.
Specs and prices come from the sources above and change often; ratings are our editorial estimates, not lab tests. Spot something out of date? Tell us.
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