WindRNNR v2 Elite Split Shorts: The Full Review

This review was made by ALKE. Yes, we built these shorts — which is exactly why we can break down every design decision, what changed from the original, and who should (and should not) buy them. Everything here was tested on real training runs and race efforts.

What is the WindRNNR v2 Elite?

The WindRNNR v2 Elite Split Shorts (₱1,290) are the second generation of our fastest shorts — the original WindRNNR Split Shorts rebuilt from the fabric up. Same ultra-split silhouette built for full stride freedom, now softer, lighter, and with storage the original never had: two hidden gel pockets and a water-resistant back zipper pocket.

What changed from the original WindRNNR?

Three upgrades define the v2:

• Featherweight Elite fabric. A new 90% nylon / 10% spandex blend that is noticeably softer against the skin and lighter on the run. On sweat-soaked runs it wicks and dries fast enough that the shorts never feel heavy — the “forgot I was wearing them” effect is real once you hit tempo pace.
• Two hidden gel pockets. Tucked inside the shorts rather than sewn outside. Two gels sit flat against the body with zero bounce, zero flapping, and no aerodynamic penalty. This was the single biggest request from runners racing in the original.
• Water-resistant back zipper pocket. Phone, keys, and cash stay dry through soaked long runs and sudden downpours. The zipper is the difference between checking your phone works after a rainy run and knowing it does.

What carried over from v1?

• Ultra-split cut — the high side-split frees your full stride at peak pace, which is the whole point of a split short.
• Built-in liner — seamless support, no separate underwear needed, and one less chafe point over long distances.
• Reflective print — visibility for the 4:00 AM long-run crowd and evening street runners.
• Adjustable drawstring — locks the waist in place once dialed.

How do they perform on the run?

Speed sessions: This is where the v2 disappears. The split cut means zero fabric resistance at full knee drive, and at this weight there is simply nothing to notice. Intervals, tempo runs, and race-pace work are its natural habitat.

Long runs: The gel pockets change what a split short can do. Two gels ride silently at your hips, and the back zip carries a phone. The fast-drying fabric earns its keep after the 90-minute mark, when heavier shorts start to sag with sweat.

Race day: With fuel carriage built in, the v2 covers races from 5K to the half marathon and beyond — gun to finish line with no belt required if two gels are enough for your plan.

Sizing and fit

The v2 runs in Black, sizes S to XL, in a unisex cut. The fit is trim through the waist with the freedom coming from the split — if you sit between sizes, our size recommender on the product page will point you to the right one. At ₱1,290, it sits ₱300 above the original WindRNNR, which stays in the lineup at ₱990.

Who are these shorts for?

• Buy the v2 if: you run fast sessions or race, you want the lightest thing in your rotation, and you carry two gels or fewer plus a phone. It is the best pure-speed shorts we have ever made.
• Stick with the original WindRNNR if: you want the split-short feel at the friendliest price and rarely carry fuel.
• Choose the Stride Omega 2-in-1 Race Shorts instead if: your race plan needs four or more gels — its built-in race-belt system is the dedicated marathon carry solution (also available in a women's fit).
• Prefer more coverage? A 2-in-1 like the StrideMax Utility Shorts gives you the inner-tight feel with big storage. Our running shorts guide maps the whole decision.

Frequently asked questions

Are split shorts good for hot and humid weather?

Yes — they are the coolest-running shorts style there is. Maximum airflow, minimum fabric, and the v2's quick-dry blend keeps sweat from weighing it down.

Do the gel pockets bounce when loaded?

No. The pockets sit inside the shorts against the body, so gels ride flat and silent even at interval pace. That placement is the reason we hid them instead of sewing them on the outside.

Is the back pocket fully waterproof?

It is water-resistant — built to shrug off sweat, splashes, and rain showers. For torrential monsoon runs, we still recommend a small zip bag around your phone inside the pocket.

Can I race a marathon in the WindRNNR v2?

You can — many runners will. If your fueling plan is two gels plus aid stations, the v2 covers 42K. If you carry more, pair it with a running belt or step up to the Stride Omega, which was purpose-built for marathon-scale carriage.

The verdict: the fastest shorts we make, now with race-day utility. See the WindRNNR v2 Elite Split Shorts →