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Searching for some trousers that can take regular use on the bike, look smart enough when you see clients and also actually be warm and comfortable is quite a task.
One of the curses of a regular cyclist is the developed leg muscle that seems to make nearly all trousers not quite fit. Too baggy on waist and too tight on thighs, low rear, no stretch, wear on the crotch seam – the list goes on.
A friend of a similar build recommended swrve – so after some time browsing the site I came across some black wind and water resistant trousers.
When they turned up I was impressed, good finish, nice lined pockets in a funky fabric, and crucially they fitted not just at my desk but also when sat on the bike.
Using a lovely stretch fabric with a diamond panel to make them comfortable to ride in, the swrve trousers are water and wind resistant and it is quite clear that these have been designed with riding in mind.They even have some subtle reflective belt loops and a rear zip pocket – really handy bike apparel features.
Although riding long distance in them wouldn’t be awful, they definitely hit the short trip type clothing – and they are a staple piece of clothing for meetings with clients when I’m on the bike. They manage to keep looking smart even after mud splatters from country lanes or light rain showers.
They also do a good job of hiding the inevitable chain mark for when you forget to do the clever roll of the trousers, don’t tuck your sock or clip on that trouser bicycle clip.
Whilst they can prove a little too warm above about 10 degrees or so when you are riding, these stylish cycling trousers really do serve represent the ideal blend of style and practicality.
Key Features
- Low waist in front to prevent your belt from digging into stomach
- Higher waist on back
- Articulated knees for a better fit on a bike, office chair, or barstool
- Seamless gusseted crotch for comfort
- Zippered back pockets fit a mini U-lock
- Two front pen pockets
- High quality YKK zippers throughout
- Steel jeans-style button
- U-Lock Holster
- Reinforced pocket entry for durability
- 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex
- Water and wind resistant
- 4-way stretch- stylish trim fit for everyday use
Whilst a little steep at £88, these swrve mid-weight WWR (water and wind resistant) trousers are formal enough to wear at the office, but also come with a multitude of cycling-friendly features to make them both a pleasure on and off the bike.
Fit: 8/10
Function: 9/10
Style: 9/10
Value for Money: 6/10
Quality: 8/10
Overall: 39.5/50
This was a guest post by a fellow Discerning Cyclist, Jim Clarkson, who you can find on Twitter @jimdesign.
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