I always love when a single piece of gear can be leveraged for multiple uses. The Showers Pass Cross Country Shorts (available in men’s or women’s versions) provide style, function and comfort both on and off the bike.
These shorts have a 10” inseam for the women’s version (11.5” for the men’s) and comes without a pad. Thus, lending itself to being worn biking with or without a pad liner, ideal for riding a commuter bike, or on an MTB adventure. Off the bike, they are stylish to wear out to lunch, hiking or even the golf course. The subtle reflective elements keep you safe in low light, but also don’t scream “bike shorts.”
The women’s version is available in 2 colors (4 colors men’s) and in sizes 2-14 (28-40 men’s). You’ll get a great fit with some key features. The 4-way stretch nylon/spandex blend fabric lets you move comfortably, never binding and dries quickly. There’s no gapping in the back of the waist. Showers Pass designed these shorts with an adjustable waist band that lets you cinch it tighter. The rear waistband also has silicon grippers to keep everything in place when bending over or riding a bike. A zipper front closes securely with two snaps and a clasp.
I’ve worn and washed these shorts at least a dozen times. They come out of the wash wrinkle free, even when I hang dry them.
There is room to stuff a few items with two front slit pockets and two rear plus a hidden security pocket. I would have preferred a side pocket for easy access to my cell phone. The rear pockets were too small for my iPhone 11. Also, the snaps on the rear pockets were tough to open/close. At times I worried it would rip the fabric. Velcro type closure, zipper or a button might be a better choice.
Currently the shorts are on sale for $75.65 (normally $89) and well worth it. They’ll last you for several seasons and who doesn’t want “enjoy the ride” embroidered on the inside of their fly?
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women's cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri's full bio.
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