#7 on this list
Freewheel Ride Shorts
Outdoor Research
The Outdoor Research Freewheel Ride Shorts cater to technical trail and all-mountain riders who need dependable fabric durability without sacrificing mobility on pedal-heavy loops. Constructed from a tough 88% nylon and 12% spandex blend, the Freewheel registers a measured weight of 211 grams in a size 32. It strikes an intelligent balance, giving riders sufficient abrasion resistance for rough terrain while keeping the weight in check. Independent reviews praise Outdoor Research's transition into dedicated mountain bike apparel, particularly noting the Freewheel's clean articulation and weather-resistant face fabric. The waistband sits securely under pack straps, and the gusseted crotch avoids catching on the saddle when shifting body weight over technical drops. The 12% spandex provides adequate stretch, though the nylon weave feels slightly stiffer out of the box than featherweight options. It is an exceptional three-season trail short, though riders facing humid heat waves will find it runs noticeably warmer than dedicated lightweight garments. For riders who value longevity and protection on overgrown, technical trails, the Freewheel delivers a durable, confidence-inspiring build. **Highlights** - Rugged 88% nylon and 12% spandex technical chassis - Measured weight of 211 grams (size 32) balancing toughness and weight - Seamless gusseted crotch tailored to prevent saddle snag - Durable water-repellent coating sheds mud and light spray - Low-profile zippered side pockets engineered to stabilize phones and keys **Watch-outs** - Nylon face fabric feels stiffer initially than knit-style stretch shorts - Retains more heat than ultralight alternatives on hot midsummer climbs - Leg openings can feel snug over hard-cap downhill knee armor
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#8 on this list
MT500 Spray Shorts
Endura
The Endura MT500 Spray Shorts are purpose-built for riders who do not let wet trails, winter grit, or muddy loam keep them inside. Designed in Scotland, these shorts solve a specific, frustrating problem: wet rear tires spraying mud and water directly into the seat of the shorts. Endura solves this with a hybrid construction that combines a breathable, flexible front panel with a fully waterproof, taped, three-layer rear seat panel. In foul-weather evaluations, the MT500 Spray stands out for keeping chamois liners dry and grit-free through hours of sloppy riding. The front panels breathe adequately and stretch freely over knee pads, while the burly rear panel shrugs off trail roost and saddle grinding. However, this specialized weatherproofing makes the MT500 Spray a poor choice for warm, dry riding conditions. The waterproof seat fabric does not breathe as freely as standard softshell weaves, creating noticeable heat buildup in dry weather, and the multi-panel construction carries a premium price near $155. For wet-weather enthusiasts and shoulder-season riders, however, it is one of the most effective tools available. **Highlights** - Critical hybrid construction with fully waterproof, taped 3-layer seat panel - Lightweight, durable four-way stretch front panels with DWR finish - Built-in zippered thigh vents for temperature regulation - Clickfast liner compatibility for seamless chamois integration - Reinforced inner ankle/hem zones designed to resist mud abrasion **Watch-outs** - Waterproof seat panel traps heat and moisture in warm, dry weather - Stiffer rear fabric can feel crinkly when pedaling off the bike - Premium $155 price tag for a specialized foul-weather garment
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Freewheel Ride Shorts | MT500 Spray Shorts |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Blend | 88% nylon, 12% spandex | — |
| Measured Weight | 211 g (size 32) | — |
| Best Discipline | All-mountain and technical trail | — |
| Price Point | Around $130 | — |
| Gusset Style | Seamless crotch construction | — |
| Category | Midweight trail short | — |
| MSRP | — | Around $155 |
| Seat Material | — | 3-layer waterproof seam-taped fabric |
| Body Material | — | 4-way stretch lightweight nylon with DWR |
| Ventilation | — | Dual zippered thigh vents with mesh inserts |
| Liner Integration | — | Endura Clickfast system compatible |
| Waist Adjustment | — | Velcro side tabs with stretch waistband |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Freewheel Ride Shorts
- Resilient 88% nylon shell resists snagging and brush abrasion
- Measured 211g weight balances durability with pedaling efficiency
- Gusseted crotch prevents saddle snags during steep descents
- Stable pocket placement keeps stored gear flat against the thigh
- Noticeably warm on high-humidity and midsummer climbs
- Tighter leg cuffs limit compatibility with hard-cap downhill armor
- Woven nylon shell feels slightly stiff out of the packaging
MT500 Spray Shorts
- Waterproof three-layer seat panel prevents chamois saturation from wheel roost
- Zippered thigh vents provide effective mechanical airflow during climbs
- Four-way stretch front fabric maintains natural pedaling mobility
- Durable seat fabric resists abrasion from gritty mud and saddle friction
- Waterproof rear panel traps body heat and sweat during warm, dry rides
- Stiff rear laminate creates noticeable crinkling and bulk when walking
- High price tag for a seasonal, foul-weather-specific garment
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