Giro Havoc Trousers Review

This review was part of the Singletrack World Issue 139 Kit Essentials Feature

• Tested by: Chipps
• Price: £119.99
• From: Giro.co.uk

Giro’s Havoc trousers are part of its surprisingly large clothing range (there’s a Havoc short and also a Havoc waterproof short). The trousers are made of a very matt black nylon/spandex material that feels good to the touch and which has a DWR coating that beads water off it really well. The sizing is generous, in that the 32in size fits me and I usually run to a 34in. And even then, I have the adjustable Velcro cinch tabs fully done up. Continuing the fit theme, there’s a bit of stretch built into the waistband and the front closure has two poppers and a further Velcro square. There are belt loops for a very thin belt, if needed. 

The Havoc trousers are tapered, but not skinny teenager style. There’s definitely enough room for pads and the ankles are trim, but not so tight as to be a struggle on or off. There are two jeans-type pockets that are great for storing your hands and for snacks. They’re not quite deep enough that I’d trust them with cash or keys, besides there’s one further pocket on the right thigh. This features a hidden zip and it’s big enough to take a phone in a case. In defiance of conventional phone pocket traditions, though, it sits on top of your thigh, rather than just behind it, so there’s a bit of phone slapping when you pedal hard. 

Havoc Trousers are aimed at a Californian company’s idea of cooler riding conditions and not a more British ‘riding into a stiff headwind loaded with greasy hail’. To this end they feature extensive vent holes in the backs of the legs and waistband, which works very well – even when you’d rather they didn’t. 

Despite not being as stretchy as some similar trousers, the cut is great and they afford great movement. Expect to size down from normal and don’t expect any kind of thermal benefit from them. However, for mild summer evening rides, extended hanging out and days where you’re creating your own heat, they’re great. 

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