While it doesn’t feel like it across much of the country — we have rain and snow here in California this week — mountain bike season is nearly upon us. I am fortunate to be able to mountain bike pretty much year round, and had the opportunity to test out some new-for-spring-and-summer mountain bike shorts over the winter. Here are a handful of my favorites.
7Mesh Farside Shorts (pictured top): The new summer-weight Farside Shorts are made from a 4-way stretch fabric that dries fast and feels super soft against your skin. You get two hand pockets plus a rear zippered out-of-the-way-of-pedaling pocket that is big enough for your phone or extra snacks. As with everything 7Mesh, the shorts feature beautiful clean-finish hems with reinforced seams and reflective details. A note on sizing — these shorts are trim fit, so if you normally fall between sizes with 7Mesh, I would order up.
Shredly MTB CURVY: I absolutely love this move from Shredly — making a mountain bike short to fit a wide range of body shapes in sizes. Available in sizes ranging from 4-24, the MTB CURVY shorts use a shaped back panel that offers a relaxed fit through the hips and thighs, with a stretchy yoga-style waistband that is not only super comfortable, but eliminates any chance of gaping in the waist. You still get the same features as the other shorts in the Shredly line, like invisible zipper thigh vents, a side pocket, and two (deep) hand pockets. I got a first look at these at Sea Otter last month and love the feel of the recycled fabric and fun prints.
Wild Rye Freel: With fun prints like Shredly, Wild Rye is another firm mountain bike short favorite. Made from a durable, four-way stretch nylon fabric, the shorts are water-repellant and offer UPF 50 sun protection. A 12-inch inseam provides plenty of coverage for even the rowdiest of rides. Features include front pockets and a storage pocket big enough for your iPhone, sunglasses, or extra snacks. And llamas!
REI Link Double Bike Shorts: With a built in liner that connects via two small strips, these 2-in-1 bike shorts are lightweight for warm weather riding and dry quickly should they get wet. The 2-way stretch outer fabric is treated with a DWR finish to help repel dirt and offers up UPF 50+ sun protection. The waist can be adjusted for the perfect fit and features include two open hand pockets and one zippered pocket at the thigh.
Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Bike Shorts: While not mountain bike specific, these super fun and race ready bike shorts can’t be beat if you prefer to wear lycra on a mountain bike. A slimline but comfortable chamois works with compression and wicking fabric to provide all day on the bike support. Laser-cut hems cut down on any sausage look while silicone leg grippers ensure they don’t ride up. And somewhat of a first for Pearl, they brought out fun new prints for summer. I’ve been wearing these on all kinds of rides this spring — road, mountain, and gravel.
And in case you missed it earlier this year, Lauren Steele talks about her love for Backcountry’s new women’s mountain bike line.