Let me start by saying these Real Essentials high-waisted shorts are a STEAL for the price. As someone who's constantly between gym sessions and errands, I've put these through their paces - literally.

The Good Stuff:
- The 4-pack value is unbeatable - it's like getting designer dupes at Walmart prices
- That high waist? Chef's kiss. It stays put during burpees and doesn't roll down
- Pockets! Actual functional pockets in workout shorts (though fair warning - they're a bit slippery)
- The quick-dry fabric saved me during sweaty HIIT sessions - no swampy feeling afterwards

Reality Check:
- Light colors are practically see-through (stick to darker shades unless you're going for that 'mystery underwear' look)
- The liner isn't the yoga short style some expect - it's more like built-in underwear
- They run slightly small in the thighs (my fellow thick-thighed girls, size up!)

Personal Experience:
Wore the black pair for a 5K and they didn't ride up once (miracle!). The material is surprisingly soft - not that scratchy athletic fabric some budget shorts use. Washed them about 10 times now with no fading or pilling.

Final Verdict: For $20-something? Absolute yes. They're not Lululemon, but they're 80% as good at 20% of the price. Just avoid light colors if you're modest, and maybe size up if you've got muscular legs.