#2 on this list
Lee Designs Skyline
Troy
The Troy Lee Designs Skyline sits squarely in the sweet spot of modern trail and enduro riding, offering an easy blend of relaxed styling, durable construction, and balanced airflow. Long celebrated by independent reviewers as a benchmark for everyday trail riding, the Skyline is tailored for riders who want dependable knee-pad compatibility and robust coverage without the stiff, heavyweight feel of dedicated downhill kit. On the trail, the Skyline relies on a technical stretch chassis that accommodates knee pads smoothly without catching at the hem during rapid pedaling. Soft-touch interior waist adjusters allow for quick fit tweaks on the fly, and targeted ventilation helps exhaust excess heat on long ascents. Reviewers frequently note that while the fabric is noticeably more substantial than ultralight cross-country shorts, it retains sufficient stretch to avoid binding on high-cadence pedaling sections. The primary trade-offs stem from its slightly heavier overall drape, which can trap more heat on sweltering midsummer climbs, and a retail price near $150 that places it firmly in the premium category. For riders who split their time between technical singletrack and rowdy descents, however, its balanced protection makes it a reliable staple. **Highlights** - Trail-tuned articulated cut designed to interface cleanly with knee pads - Dual low-profile hook-and-loop waist adjustment tabs - Durable stretch fabric built to withstand trail debris and light crashes - Targeted laser-cut or mesh venting zones for steady airflow - Multiple zippered storage pockets for ride essentials **Watch-outs** - Heavier fabric weight can feel warm on hot, humid summer days - Priced at the upper end of standard trail shells - Relaxed cut may feel slightly baggy for minimalist cross-country riders
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#3 on this list
All-Time 11" - Women's
Shredly
The Shredly All-Time 11" is built specifically for female trail riders who have grown frustrated with restrictive, boxy mountain bike apparel. Designed with a generous hip-to-waist ratio, a flexible contoured waistband, and a mid-length 11-inch inseam, these shorts cater to aggressive trail riding while maintaining enough room to clear knee pads without binding or bunching up mid-pedal. Independent evaluations frequently highlight the All-Time's exceptional fit adaptability. The waistband avoids gaping at the lower back—a perennial issue for female cyclists—and sits comfortably under hydration packs. The technical stretch fabric offers a soft next-to-skin feel while remaining durable enough to withstand brush, dirt, and repetitive washing cycles. Its pocket layout is practical, keeping smartphones and small essentials flat against the thigh rather than sagging into the joint. The main compromises involve the lack of heavy-duty wet-weather weatherproofing and a length that may prove slightly short for riders seeking full shin coverage with bulkier downhill protection. However, for everyday singletrack pedaling across spring, summer, and fall, its fit refinement makes it an exceptional choice. **Highlights** - Ergonomic women's-specific cut designed to eliminate waist gaping - Flexible, contoured stretch waistband with internal adjustment - 11-inch inseam tailored to clear standard trail knee pads - High-stretch, durable synthetic fabric with soft hand feel - Thoughtfully placed zippered pockets that prevent cargo sway **Watch-outs** - Mid-length cut may expose the top of bulky knee pads on taller riders - Offers minimal water resistance in muddy or wet conditions - Relaxed hip fit may feel loose for riders with straighter, narrow builds
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Lee Designs Skyline | All-Time 11" - Women's |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Trail and all-mountain riding | — |
| Fabric Type | Four-way technical stretch blend | — |
| Closure Style | Snap fly with dual waist adjusters | — |
| Knee Pad Fit | Articulated for mid-profile pads | — |
| Pockets | Zippered hand and stash pockets | — |
| Approximate Price | Around $150 | — |
| Inseam | — | 11 inches |
| MSRP | — | Around $108 |
| Intended Use | — | Trail and all-mountain riding |
| Fit Profile | — | Women's athletic, contoured waist |
| Material | — | Four-way stretch synthetic blend |
| Closure | — | Snap fly with internal adjustment |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Lee Designs Skyline
- Ergonomic cut interfaces smoothly with knee pads without catching
- Durable stretch fabric resists trail snags, abrasion, and washing wear
- Low-profile waist adjusters prevent pressure points under hip packs
- Relaxed trail styling transitions easily off the bike
- Heavier fabric can run warm during slow, humid summer ascents
- Premium pricing around $150 without a liner included
- Cut may feel slightly loose for riders who prefer XC-style tailoring
All-Time 11" - Women's
- Contoured waistband effectively eliminates lower-back gaping
- Generous hip-to-waist patterning accommodates athletic builds
- Four-way stretch fabric pedals cleanly without catching on saddle
- Thigh pocket holds a modern smartphone flat during aggressive pedaling
- Minimal water repellency limits performance in wet, muddy conditions
- Cut can feel excessively roomy through the hips for straight frames
- Inseam may expose a knee pad gap on notably tall riders
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.