Giro CA Ride Overshort 2.0

Baggies for bagophobes.

Let me start by saying that I’ve never been much of a fan of baggy shorts. Having long abandoned any on-bike self consciousness, the support, comfort, and unobtrusive nature of Lycra has been hard to beat – and with a riding style more ‘big day’ than ‘go big,’ baggies’ supposed crash protection was never enough to sway me.

But I will admit that there are times and ride when something less form-fitting feels appropriate.  Whenever there may be extended mid- or post-ride socializing, it’s nice to wear something a bit more acceptable among the non-cycling public. Not willing to adopt the clown school dropout look favoured by mountain bike photographers or wanting to be accused of trying to fit in with those half my age, I began to search for some more subtle baggy kit.  You know – mountain bike clothing for grownups.

With their New Road collection, Giro has approached cycling clothing from more of an ‘urbane roadie’ angle. Slim (though not Lycra) fits, colours that don’t immediately identify their year of purchase, and subtle detailing are regular themes. The CA Ride Overshort 2.0 is a US-made stretch nylon/Spandex overshort with one thigh and one back pocket.  Enough for keys, wallet, and phone- but not much else. Belt loops are provided, but an internally-adjustable waist is provided as well.  Simple- but in a good way.

When they arrived, the CA Rides were very nearly returned on account of their 9in inseam. How short is 9in?  On my 33in legs, the shorts fall a few inches above the knee, roughly where Lycra tends to. They felt weird and my knees exposed (despite being no worse off than with ‘proper’ shorts. With a bit of spousal encouragement (‘that’s the style now’), I ventured out into the world.

And found what may be my favourite baggies.  Slim enough never to come anywhere near a quick release or snag on a saddle but stretchy and lightweight enough to be forgotten, the cut of the CA Ride Overshorts is about as performance-oriented as baggies come.  While they can occasionally ride up beyond the level of Giro’s own (excellent) Undershort 2.0, the length works quite well for cross-country and warm weather use. It should also be noted that the shell fabric itself is both soft and quiet – something that should be a given but too often isn’t.

While an extra inch of length wouldn’t be unwelcome, my only real complaint with the CA Rides comes from the waist adjuster.  Though the large buttons are more secure than poppers, their location at the front edge of the pelvis can be uncomfortable with bigger packs – some negotiation is required with Evoc and Ergon waist belts. It’s not a major issue with most packs but is one that bears mentioning for the big day crowd.  Pricing is also a stumbling block, but compares favourably with other US-made premium shorts.

For sure, the schoolboy look isn’t for everyone – but looking back at the photos the Giros feel nowhere near as short as they look.  And if it means keeping cool and preventing saddle snags, then I’m on board. Lycra fans, the CA Ride 2.0s may be your first step toward social acceptability.

giro.com

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