Simplicity is the name of the game with ION’s Men’s MTB Shorts Logo. What they lack in terms of bells and whistles, they make up for in quality and breathability. They size larger than expected, however, and they are rather pricey for what you get.
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The MTB Shorts Logo from ION are designed to be lightweight and versatile. Constructed with a basic build, they get two zipped pockets and an adjustable internal waistband. There’s also a stretchy panel at the rear to aid freedom of movement too. As for the closure, it's your usual zip and popper affair but the popper is surrounded by hook and loop, enhancing security a touch.
In terms of length, ION has hit the nail right on the head. Knee pad gap isn’t something you’ll need to worry about with these shorts, though I’ve found that they fit a little large around the waist. Usually, this wouldn’t be an issue as the shorts come with an adjustable waistband but tightening these up creates excess fabric at either side, at least around my 32” waist. If this adjustability was offered by an external adjuster, like what’s found on the Stolen Goat shorts, it would be possible to fold down any excess fabric.
In the grand scheme of things, this issue is small but it’s not exactly pretty and I’m not a fan of excess fabric hanging off of myself. If you size down, this won't be an issue.
ION’s 2-way_Stretch fabric results in a pair of shorts that offers all of the mobility you’ll need. The material is also mega breathable, and generally, very comfortable. In fact, these shorts pair really nicely with the Traze Amp SS AFT jersey.
They are incredibly basic though when compared to similarly priced shorts. While this is a strength, highlighting the quality build, it would be good to see a little more to justify the price tag. The PNW Components Shuttle shorts, for example, can be picked up for £75 and they’re ideal for year round riding with stitched-in pockets and excellent waist adjusters.
It’s a familiar story with the Alpinestars ALPS 8.0 shorts too. £90 for these buy you better waist adjusters and a handful of airflow encouraging perforations. They are a touch more expensive though.
If simplicity and quality are what you’re looking for in a pair of shorts, the ION MTB Shorts Logo are exactly those points. They’re comfortable and breathable and they feel light on the body. However, it would be nice to see a redesign in the waist adjusters.
