In my quest to don a West Coast style this season, I tried out the 8 Track short from Dakine.
The 8 Track short fits quite like the Dakine Chorus short I reviewed in late 2012, thanks to the 190g, 100% nylon canvas construction with a rib-knit back stretch panel. Inside, the short features a 75g ,100% polyester, vented mesh liner. Every year, Dakine steps it up a bit more with new features and production improvements that increase both comfort and durability.
Other features include:
- Gusseted crotch panel
- Exterior side waist adjustments
- Patterning at knees designed to fit over pads
- Belt loops
- Zippered inner leg vents
- Front hand pockets
- Removable recoil pass pocket
- Invisible zippered security pocket
- Reinforced stitching throughout key stress zones
I really appreciated the double snap buttons for the waist, the inner zips on the legs (which allow for extra cooling when needed), and the hide-a-way park pass.
The 16in inseam on a person of my height (5ft 9in) brings the short to three inches below my knee caps when standing. With knee pads and in ride position, the 8 Track hangs just at my knee cap. This is optimal for reducing pulling and bunching while riding.
I found the 8 Track short to be very comfortable for nearly all my riding. I did have to use a chamois for longer rides, though. Other than that, I was very impressed with the fit and durability. Despite numerous washes, I had no issues with the color fading or stitches working loose.
Bottom Line: The 8 Track short offers excellent comfort and great durability in a feature-heavy package.
MSRP: $110.
Many thanks to Dakine for providing the 8 Track short for review.
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