Polaris AM 1000 Repel Trousers - Review
Born in Derbyshire, England, through founder Roger Dillon's desire to create suitable clothing for the emerging mountain bike market, Polaris takes its name from the navigational aid, the North Star. With no prior experience in the field, when Dillon founded the company he even had to teach himself to sew in the process. 2015 marks their 25th anniversary, and the products are now available in over eighteen countries.
Constructed from DWR (durable water repellent) fabric the AM 1000 Repel Trail trousers feature an elasticated, wicking waistband/belt, side vents and a zipped pocket on the hip. The 'Linkin system' allows you to attach the trousers to any of Polaris' short liners. Colour options are Black and Graphite, with a choice of Cyan or Lime highlights. Sizing is available in S through to XXL and are priced at £69.99 (approx $106 USD). Polaris Bikewear
The belt/waistband functions well, holding up the Repels even when heavy with mud.
Zip-vents help slightly, but their positioning on the outer thigh means they're not as effective as they could be.
Pinkbike's Take:
 | Its been at least 10 years since I last rode a bike in trousers, back in my downhill heyday, when muddy races often required some huge, military-surplus style over-trousers in a vain attempt to stay warm and dry for at least two runs and the subsequent lifts up in a cattle truck. When I received these they weren't the first thing I was reaching for to try out, but when they were finally donned I was more than pleasantly surprised. They're lightweight, with a decent belt system that keeps them up despite my skinny waist, and a four-way stretch material that's more than flexible enough while sitting and pedalling even over a set of medium-sized knee pads. In addition, the high crotch keeps them from snagging on the saddle when getting on or off the bike, or during steep downhill sections. Velcro ankle adjustment keep out the cold and avoid getting caught up in the front chainring despite the rise of one-by systems without a guide. The grey 'butt panel' is more waterproof than the rest of the trouser, which are splash-proof, but the water will soak in over a long day in the rain. I have been using the Repel as an over-trouser, wearing leggings underneath for warmth and the trouser to deter water and mud. I found they are a good weight, and haven't encountered much overheating. The vents being situated on the outside of the thigh don't really allow as much air flow as vents on the inner thigh would, but they do help slightly. A massive bonus of wearing trouser when heading out for a muddy shred is not having to clean knee pads and tights along with the rest of your life after every ride; the Repels end up hanging to dry on my handlebars until the next ride. If you're trying to be a cool downhill kid, these may not have the fashion appeal you long for, but they are a solid, functional product. - Paul Aston |
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