The new Showers Pass Gravel Shorts are lightweight, four-way stretch biking shorts designed to bridge the gap between casual wear and on-the-bike performance.
To get us a closer look, Showers Pass sent Man Makes Fire a men’s review unit. After testing the new Showers Pass Gravel 10″ Shorts out on the trail and road, this is what we learned:
Showers Pass Gravel Shorts Review
I ride 3-4 days a week, mostly mountain biking, but I also hit the gravel for some longer rides. I’m always looking for new quality gear that I can add to my rotation.
I’m 6’1” and weigh 189 pounds and usually wear a 34 waist. I went with the size 34 on the Showers Pass Gravel 10″ Shorts and the fit is spot on. I particularly like the inside-the-waistband adjustable waist strap, which is so well done that I didn’t even realize it was there for several days.
As for adjustability, it’s mostly one direction — you can make them a bit tighter. For instance, if you’re a 33, you should definitely size up to a 34 and then use the adjustable waistband to get the right fit. So if you’re a tweener on the sizing, size up.
Because the adjustments are made on the inside of the shorts, it’s very trim on the outside. In fact, the whole fit is surprisingly tailored. If you’re a road biker looking for a more casual short for gravel and want something that can transition to the bar for a drink after a ride, the new Showers Pass Gravel 10″ Shorts are for you.
For casual riding for me, they’re lightweight and breathable and have great stretch. I had no problems wearing a pair of chamois with them.
The fit and finish is excellent throughout.
Best for Gravel & Town
While you can ride these Gravel Shorts on more difficult mountain biking trails, the 10″ inseams are short compared to most dedicated mountain biking shorts. If you wear knee pads — and I wear knee pads on more difficult trails — the skin gap might be a little much.
For me, the Gravel Shorts are perfect for long gravel rides and for more casual rides with friends and family that will end up in town — and that’s the niche they seem to be designed for anyway: gravel and town.
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The Details
I already mentioned the adjustable waist, which is very good, but I also appreciate the silicon grip fused to the rear part of the waistband. It helps the shorts stay put.
The fabric is a nylon-spandex blend, which gives you the comfortable 4-way stretch. Showers Pass also worked in a seamless gusseted crotch for additional comfort.
Showers Pass says you can open the thigh pockets to use as vents, which might be good for long hot rides — but I haven’t tried it yet.
As for pockets, you get the two thigh pockets, two hand pockets and one rear zippered pocket. The two side zip pockets aren’t overly large, but I was able to fit my smartphone in one and a bar in the other.
Finally, I do want to note that I like the snap system for the fly — it’s easy to use and super secure.
The Verdict
All-in-all, the new Showers Pass Gravel Shorts are a great alternative to Lycra if you’re looking for a more relaxed gravel riding short that can also transition to riding around town. In fact, the Gravel Shorts are stylish enough to wear around town even when you’re not biking. Because they’re so breathable and have excellent 4-way stretch, they feel great when you’re in and out of the saddle on a tough ride. Highly recommended.
Get the Gear:
- Showers Pass Gravel 10″ Shorts – men’s
