We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Patagonia Dirt Craft Bike Short – Men’s and summarize the results below:
Universal Ranking
PeakScore: 85 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.4 stars
Expert Rating: 3.8 stars
Number of Ratings Reviewed: 87
Pros & Cons
Reasons to buy:
User Reviews
- Sturdy and lightweight.
- The material does not bunch, enhancing mobility and comfort.
- The stretchy fabric promotes flexibility.
- Breathable material.
- The waist band features micro-adjustments for determining the appropriate fit.
- Pockets are placed efficiently and functionally.
Expert Reviews
- The chamois is comfortable for long endurance-rides.
- There are ample pockets for storage, with two unsecured pockets on the front, and one zippered-pocket on the left thigh.
- The nylon straps include snap buttons for attaching the chamois to the shorts.
- The DWR can help in preventing against light precipitation and mud spatter.
- The shorts are bluesign approved, meaning they are sustainably-sourced.
- The waist closure features an integrated and adjustable belt for comfort.
Reasons NOT to buy:
User Reviews
- The liner can make the shorts feel a bit bulky for walking in.
- Some reports of users wishing they sold the shorts without the liner.
- Some reports of the waist fitting, but the rest of the fit being too tight.
- Sliding the sizing clasps in and out of the loops can be tedious and difficult if wearing gloves.
Expert Reviews
- The lack of articulation can slightly restrict mobility.
- The seams are rough and can cause chaffing on longer rides.
- The chamois pad is large, which can be comfortable for long-rides, but difficult for walking or hiking.
- The cut is more similar to a hiking-short than to a performance-oriented mountain-biking short.
- The stretch in the pants is 2-way, compared to 4-way, which includes both horizontal and vertical stretching.
- The shorter inseam means there is less leg coverage, which may not be ideal for prolonged downhill use.
- The leg cuffs can sometimes ride up above knee-pads.
- The hook system for tightening the shorts can come unhooked sometimes.
Summary:
The Patagonia Dirt Craft Bike Short for men is a functional piece that can be used for mountain biking, climbing, and hiking, if you get the sizing right. The durability and adjustability make this a functional short, while the limited mobility and the heavily-padded liner may make this unsuitable for some body types, and for some aerobic activities.