The most important bit of kit for cyclists is arguably a good pair of shorts - I tested this pair of Gore multi-purpose shorts on the road, and on a very mucky off-road ride and they passed both tests with flying colours.
Designed to be versatile, this two-piece short is aimed at all types of mountain biking and would also work well for touring. Typically for a Gore Cycling item, it is really well engineeered and very classic, but maybe needs little more style!
Front view
The cut is loose, but slim, which is more flattering than a baggy short. In fact from the front it almost has a tailored city look - which I quite like!
The outer fabric is lightweight and soft with a natural stretch making them really comfortable. Importantly the fabric is also quick drying.
Stretch panels at the hem mean that even when flying along at top speed there are no restrictions!
Side view
There is reflective piping at the back seam and belt loop (not shown) for visibility.
The waistband is elasicated and really comfortable. It also sits quite high on the true waist - personally I prefer this for riding, but some may prefer a more hipster look.
Pocket detail
There are two front pockets and one side zip pocket - all are mesh lined.
I didn't really use the front pockets, but the side zip pocket was perfect for my phone and some money. It is very well positioned too, I didn't notice my phone when I was riding and when I took a sideways tumble miraculously I didn't land on it!
Inner short
This is a two part-short with a padded inner short. The inner is made from a combination of lycra and lycra mesh making it really comfortable and well ventilated on hot days.
There is a wide elastic waistband which again sits quite high on the waist making it really comfortable.
The inner is attached to the outer via a simple loop (on the inner short) and press-snap tape on the outer. It's really easy to remove the outer short when you are wearing them - which is handy when they are caked in mud!
The test!
I wore these shorts for a couple of rides - one was dry and on the road, and the other was very, very wet and muddy off-road.
They performed well in both conditions and - of particular note was just how comfortable they remained even when wet through.
The inner short padding worked well on both rides, and considering I have a very basic, hard saddle, I would say that is a good recommendation!
Good points:
- Easy to wear and versatile for different rides
- Quick drying and excellent quality fabric
- Great inner and padding makes for a comfortable ride
- Supreme detailing and engineering
Bad points:
- Maybe just a little more style needed, but then thats all down to personal taste.
Rating: 4/5
Price: £84.99
Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Buy: www.goreapparel.co.uk
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