The Hunt for the Perfect Pair of Shorts
I am on the hunt for the perfect pair of shorts for our upcoming bikepacking trip on the Katy Trail in Missouri, and I have found them. As luck would have it, Kuhl reached out during my research and offered to send me a pair of shorts from their Men’s Shorts page. They didn’t have to ask me twice!
My goals for the shorts were simple. First, comfort above all. I will be in the saddle for 6-7 hours a day and wanted a pair of shorts that wouldn’t chafe, that were long enough, and that didn’t have padding. In the end, we are somewhat minimalists when it comes to adventure packing and I only want to bring one pair of shorts to cycle in. Secondly, I would like the shorts to be multi-functionable. To be able to hike, bike, or sip a bourbon after the end of a day on the bike ride is the idea. The ultimate goal – one pair of shorts to rule them all.
I found exactly what I was looking for in the Kuhl Renegade Outsider shorts. I was in love immediately upon putting them on.
They looked great. They felt great. In addition to the look and feel I liked the fact that the material is water resistant, quick drying, and provides a UPF of 50+. The shorts also have a bit of stretch in them making them comfortable for many active activities.
And, there are pockets … man are there pockets – enough pockets to make Chica jealous. I love the stretch and as with all Kuhl products I own, the construction is flawless. It might sound strange, but I love how tight the button closure is. It is NOT coming undone.
I chose the 10″ inseam and it is the perfect length for coverage on the bike.
Over the past week I put the shorts through the paces. I cycled about 30 miles in them and hiked around 12 miles. I am not kind to my clothing or gear. What I use on adventures must stand up to abuse. I have no qualms about these shorts – they are rugged. Made for active individuals pursuing an adventurous life.
On the other hand, boy do they look good. They fit right into the scene at a restaurant, winery, or brewery. I am not a big fan of traditional cycling attire – slim-cut, tight fitting and flashy. That is not me. I prefer practical, functional, and comfortable. Kuhl men’s shorts delivers.
The Renegade Outsider shorts are damn near perfect. I do have one small quibble. Although there is light elasticity to the waistband, I still choose to wear a belt. The problem is the first belt loop is too far from the front to tuck the loose end of the belt away. That is it, the only complaint about this pair of shorts.
As mentioned in the beginning of this post, I received the pair of shorts for free. That said, I truly love them and they have become my go-to attire for summertime leisure and active wear.
