We’re big fans of Pearl Izumi’s entire Summit line, but the Summit Shell Shorts were certainly a standout. Biking with a phone in your pocket can be absolute torture, but the Summit Shell’s pocket placement—parallel to your IT band—is such that you can hardly feel a phone at all while riding.
The pockets were no doubt a standout feature of these standout shorts, but the rest of the construction is on point, too. The DWR-treated material is durable and can handle light rain. Testers judged the fit baggy enough for kneepads and found the 14-inch cut offers plenty of protection. A skinnier rider loved the hook-and-loop waistband, which is secure and snug without feeling constricting while in the saddle. All told, these may just be our new favorite mountain bike shorts.
Tech Specs
- New four-way stretch transfer woven fabric is lightweight yet durable
- Eco-friendly C6 water resistant DWR treatment sheds precipitation
- External hook-and-loop waist adjustments provide a secure, sag-free fit with less bulk
- Seamless crotch panel construction for in the saddle comfort
- Bonded lower leg hems are angled to smoothly interface with knee pads
- Two zippered trail access side pockets shift contents to back of leg for pedaling comfort
- New premium liner short with the Select Escape 1:1 Chamois
- 14"" Inseam
