We put each pair of shorts to the test in variable temperature and weather conditions. We ride singletrack, technical trails, and downhill missions to evaluate their performance. Here, we dive into the details of our testing process.
Comfort and Fit
Because apparel manufacturers all use different sizing, we looked at size guides for each model and evaluated their fit. We used a tailor's tape to measure each pair of shorts and compared our measurements to the manufacturer's, noting where there were differences. We tried on each pair of shorts, walking, squatting, and sitting in them to get a sense of their general comfort and any areas where they are tight or loose (hips, waist, inseam, rise). We tried on each pair with a chamois to see if it affected the fit of the shorts. We walked around in the shorts, bent over, did some squats, and ran errands, noting where they were comfortable and where they rubbed, bunched up, and so on. We also thought about different body shapes, whether the cut of the short would accommodate various body types, and whether the company offers inclusive sizing.
Pedal Friendliness
To evaluate this metric, we asked a lot of questions during our rides. Questions like, do the shorts ride up on our legs when pedaling? Do they stay up on our hips? Do pads, or lack thereof, affect how the shorts fit? What about a chamois? Does wearing a chamois add too much extra bulk for comfort, or does a chamois enhance the short's fit? We rode in each pair of shorts on shorter rides and longer, multi-hour rides to see if anything changed throughout the ride. We noted if the shorts bunch up, bind, snag on the nose of the saddle, or ride up or down in active riding positions. We noted how well they articulate at the hip and knee while riding with pads. We then repeated the same test without pads. We rode in each pair with and without chamois to see how the extra bulk affects the short's fit while riding.
Protection
The protection metric is related to the length of the inseam, the leg opening size, the durability of the fabric, and whether it has a UPF rating or DWR coating. Terrain and riding style will typically dictate how durable you want your shorts to be, but even if a rider opts for lightweight shorts, we look at protection from the sun and trailside vegetation. Longer inseams offer greater protection and generally work well with kneepads. We wore each pair of shorts with low and mid-bulk knee pads to test protection. We noted if they had a listed UPF rating and examined our thighs to see if we had any sun exposure through the fabric. We checked their abrasion resistance by brushing up against thorny desert shrubs.
Breathability
This metric focuses on airflow, moisture retention, and vents; all aspects affecting how breathable shorts are. While riding, we noted if we felt airflow through the shorts. Some shorts have thick fabrics that breathe poorly and feel hot while riding, while others are incredibly breezy. We looked at moisture retention, especially in the upper thighs where the shorts rub against the saddle while pedaling. If the shorts have vents or perforations, we determined if they were doing anything.
Features
Most mountain bikers want to have at least one pocket for easy access to lip balm or their phone. Others prefer not to carry a pack, so lots of pockets are desirable. For this metric, we evaluated pockets and zippers, their usefulness, size, and their ease of use with gloves on. We measured each pocket to give a sense of what it can hold. We evaluated pocket placements and if they interfere with pedaling or are in an uncomfortable location. We tested each zipper with our gloves on to see how easily we could pull them open and close. We also evaluated additional features as they appeared.
Construction Quality
For this metric, we carefully examined each pair of shorts and their stitching, noting how well they are constructed. Are there missing stitches or loose threads? Are the ends of threads neatly cut off, or do they hang long? Long threads can be pulled and cause seams to unravel, and too many missing stitches can form a hole. We looked for areas of wear in the shorts, paying attention to closures, such as zippers and snaps, and high-wear areas, including the seat and inner thighs. We examined the fabric for holes, runs, or snags during and after our testing process.
Conclusion
Using these metrics, we aimed to test the most popular and top-rated ladies' mountain bike shorts and present our findings to you.
