fbpx

Gear Review: Showers Pass Cross Country Short

Showers Pass Cross Country DWR 11.5” Shorts are an amazing short to ride in. They are loose enough where you can move around freely, but not so loose that it catches and snags on the saddle.

Showers Pass Cross Country Short
Showers Pass Cross Country Short

The waistband has a silicone grip to make sure it doesn’t slide down.

Over the testing period, I found myself using them for more than just biking. Just like some of our other Showers Pass reviews, I’ve seen myself use the same products for trail-running and hiking. These were no exception. When I was training for a 50K, I had to get a run in on an exceptionally rainy day, so I wore these shorts instead of my go-to running shorts. They held up. From the waist down I was dry and the contents of the insides of my pockets were dry, as well.

At night, these shorts compliment the Hi-Vis Torch Jacket when riding. At the base of each leg, there’s a reflective to provide subtle visibility. 

With long runs, these shorts are comfy, but there’s no additional padding. But while I felt seat sore, it wasn’t because of the shorts. Even after several hours, my legs were comfortable. There wasn’t any rubbing or irritation, either. 

Showers Pass Cross Country Short
Showers Pass Cross Country Short

For storage, there are two side pockets—large enough for a couple Gu’s or an energy bar—and stud-fastened rear pockets.

These features and comfort, make the Cross Country short a winner.

Gear Review: Showers Pass Gravel Shorts

Now that I have a gravel bike, Showers Pass has become a staple of my daily commute. Gloves, jacket, hat—always. But now that it’s summer, their new Gravel 10” Shorts that Showers Pass sent to test, have replaced them.

Showers Pass Gravel Shorts
Showers Pass Gravel Shorts

What I love most about them is that I can wear them comfortably all day. My commute is short, so it’s great to wear a pair of cycling shorts that I can keep on.

One thing I do want to call out, though, is that I found their sizing inconsistent. Across every brand I wear, I’m a 32-inch waist. Always. I also ride in the Showers Pass Cross Country Shorts and I’m a 32-inch in those as well. Even though the Gravel Shorts have an internal micro-adjustable waist cinch, I couldn’t loosen the 32-inch enough to fit my dad bod into them. I had to go up to a 34-inch, but once I did, there was no looking back.

The fit is pretty snug, but with the multi-directional stretch of the fabric, I found them extremely comfy on and off the bike. 

Showers Pass Gravel Shorts
Showers Pass Gravel Shorts

Unlike the Cross Country Shorts, the pockets shifted to the outside of the leg. I would put the occasional wallet or phone in those pockets, but I discovered just how versatile the angled zippers were when I was putting in and taking out headphones. They can also serve as vents as well on hot days or long rides.