Exceptional kit generally feels right as soon as you put it on, and with the Recons there was a definite ‘ah’ moment when we fastened the waist. Pared back in terms of design, with just two discreet hand pockets, these shorts have been considered down to the last detail.
The high price is due partly to the Gore Windstopper membrane, which is windproof and highly water resistant but very breathable. The outer fabric is a durable woven nylon and the inner is a soft textured material. We’ve worn these in temperatures from below zero to the warmth of an average UK summer day and they’ve remained remarkably consistent. And although the fabric is only rated as ‘water resistant’we’ve yet to get wet. That level of weather protection is helped by the fact that the seams are taped.Well, not just taped – they’re almost flat, and unnoticeable in use. The construction quality here is so good that you could wear the Recons inside out and they’d still look better than any other shorts. Also, the fit isn’t just exceptional, it’s perfect. Regular readers will know how we nit-pick over cut and fit, and understand how rare this is. It works because the shorts have an articulated cut – that is, it’s designed around the riding position. The dropped front knee works with pads and adds coverage when pedalling. Somehow these shorts look and feel even better when riding, but it’s a recommendation that comes at a price.
Liner: No
Price 195$