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Bike shorts - what can you do wrong? We say: a lot! Wrong cut, wrong length, wrong fabric, stupid features, missing features... and the ride turns into a rustling, pulling, cramped, slipping, annoying session. Nobody wants that, so we want to save you from making a bad purchase.
The test trousers
The sticking points
1. fabric/material
The fabric from which the shorts are made must not be too heavy. Especially for trail rides, you want a fabric that flatters the thighs, doesn't restrict movement, is well ventilated and as quiet as possible, i.e. nothing should rustle. Elastane is currently in demand to give the fabric the necessary stretch. But if the manufacturer overdoes it with the elastane content, the result is an unpleasant rubbery feeling - as if you've slipped into a balloon.
2. cut/length
The cut should be casual. Not too wide, not too tight. Surfers are leading the way, which is why modern bike shorts resemble the boardshorts worn by surfers. In the past, boardshorts were worn longer. At least 22, often even 24 inches. Today, fashion dictates that they should be shorter again. The disadvantage of the shorter shorts (Fox, 19 inches) is that there is a slit between the shorts and the pad.
3. features
ClosureFox was one of the first manufacturers to give its shorts the practical ratchet fastener. This is easy to use and allows you to adjust the size of the waistband. We say: very practical. That's why the ratchet has become established and is used on all three shorts (Ion, Fox, YT).
Bags: At least one or better two pockets are useful - for mobile phone and keys. Naturally closable with a zip. Positioning is important. If it is more to the side (YT), you won't feel your mobile phone at all when pedalling. If it is positioned more conventionally towards the front, like trouser pockets on jeans, you are more likely to notice the contents.
VentilationLasered perforations in the fabric (ventilation holes) are designed to make the shorts more fun. We say: makes sense. Anything that cools and ventilates is good.
Fox Flexair: 99,99 Euro
The "Flexair" series from US label Fox includes all-purpose weapons, i.e. clothing made for trail rides and the widest range of mountain biking applications. The "Ranger" and "Defend" series are for tougher use. Of course, each series also includes shorts. We were big fans of the previous Attack series. The Attack shorts had 22-inch trouser legs made from a lightweight yet robust fabric. The successor model, the Flexair, was shortened to 19 inches. This takes some getting used to, but the knees remain free. But otherwise the Fox Flexair does everything right. Cut, fabric, features - everything fits! The Flexair seems to be made to last thanks to its solid workmanship. This means that there are no stretch neoprene inserts in the waistband, as there are on the Ion, for example, which could wear out over time. The robust zips in the trouser pockets are durable. The elastane content (9 %) in the fabric has not been overdone either, so that the fabric still feels like fabric and not like rubber. The khaki-coloured shorts are somewhat more susceptible to tyre marks etc., but they are also available in brown or black. Price: 99.99 euros >> e.g. available here at a reduced price.
Conclusion: We have nothing to criticise except the short 19 inch legs, but that is a matter of taste.
YT Trail Cordura Shorts: 79,90 Euro
The Trail by YT is made from Cordura (86% Cordura nylon / 14% spandex), a very tough yet lightweight fabric. The shorts are comfortable to wear without rustling - great. Ideal for everything from gravel tours to trail rides and park shredding (although YT has an even more robust model in its range for downhill missions). The seams are triple reinforced and the fabric has a water-repellent C6 coating. In addition to the ratchet fastening, the waistband can be adjusted with Velcro fasteners on both sides. The zip pockets are perfectly positioned. You won't feel a thing when your mobile phone is in there. There is a third zip pocket at the centre back of the waistband for your emergency wallet or keys so that your car keys or euros don't jingle around on your leg. We liked the slightly longer cut (knees covered) - but that's up to you. Available in black and stone grey. Price: 79.90 euros.
Conclusion: Very good shorts with useful features. We say: everything done right.
Ion Shorts Ionic LT: 99.99 euros
The Ion is very reminiscent of the Fox. That's not wrong, because we liked the Fox. Instead of the 19-inch legs of the Fox, Ion gave its shorts 22-inch legs. They reach over the knees and pads without leaving a gap. Like the competition, Ion used nylon fabric, but with a very high elastane content of 14 per cent. This makes the trousers very stretchy, a little too stretchy for some (rubbery feeling), but this is also a matter of taste. In return, the freedom of movement is high. An elasticated waistband insert ensures a good fit. All the stretch fabric seems to make sense, as the shorts are cut a little tighter. Here too: Zipped pockets on both sides. The trousers are available in black, orange-brown and khaki. Price: 99.99 euros >> e.g. at Mountain time or Rosebikes available at a reduced price.
Conclusion: Slightly tighter cut, very good 22-inch shorts with a high stretch content.
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Dimitri Lehner
Editor
