off-road.cc

The Dakine Thrillium Bike Shorts are summer-specific and designed with the downhills in mind. They’re well built, comfortable and super cool, but try them on before buying – they size up pretty small.

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The Thrillium shorts are made from 4-way stretch Schoeller fabric with double-stitched construction. The waist and inner thigh are perforated for airflow, and there’s a built-in belt for extra security.

Either side of the short is a zipped pocket with a mesh liner, so leaving it open adds a small amount of extra ventilation.

On the left outer thigh is another pocket with a similar mesh liner, plus a loop inside to hang your keys.

I usually fit pretty happily into a medium, but the Thrillium comes up too small around the waist and a smidge too short at the knee as well. The built-in belt cinches the waist even smaller on top of the already tight fit, so be sure to size up if you’re on the cusp.

Fit issues aside, the Schoeller fabric gives a durable feel, and stretch panels allow for great maneuverability even with the very slim cut.

The perforations make the Thrillium incredibly cool. However, if you get caught in the rain, there’s nothing stopping the shorts from soaking through very quickly.

While sometimes an issue on other shorts, the lower leg pocket on the Thrillium works really well. Because it’s small you’re limited to lighter items, so there’s very little awkward flapping. The zipped pockets at the top are also a bonus, as you can stash heavier and/or more important bits and bobs in a safer spot.

There’s very little wrong with the Dakine Thrillium shorts. They’re cool and hardwearing, and ideal for hot, dry rides. Just be sure to size up if you’re anywhere near the upper end of a size range.

• www.dakine.com

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