Although these Gore Bike Wear Fusion Trail shorts are in keeping with this year’s ‘TicTac’ fashion colour palette, they also come in brown or black. They’re made of a lightweight matte nylon with a thin Windstopper panel on the back and crotch for spray protection. A couple of side mesh panels aid ventilation and continue up under the rear of the waistband. There are a couple of buttock pockets that reveal mesh behind if you need to cool further. One of these has a glasses cloth on an elastic leash, which is a nice touch. Two non-zipped front slash pockets hold money, snacks or hands comfortably. The waistband is half elastic, with further adjustment from two side buckles. A zip fly with popper keeps the shorts from dropping.
Despite the lack of stretch in the main (orange) material, the shorts fit extremely well and ride well too. The light weight of the fabric keeps them from feeling too warm or too noticeable, while the knee length is good for some protection, or to sit over pads.
Though thin, they’ve worn very well through several road trips and have washed really well, with the colour staying, not fading and being stain resistant, despite mid-ride chain issues, cloudbursts and immersions in mud pits. The colour won’t suit all, but as we’ve said, they do come in more Henry Ford colours for the shy.
Overall: Great three-season trail riding shorts. Minimal but durable.
Review Info
| Brand: | Gore Bike Wear |
| Product: | Fusion Trail |
| From: | Gore Bike Wear, goreapparel.co.uk |
| Price: | £79, liner not included |
| Tested: | by Chipps for |