We received our test pair of Gore's Alp-X shorts just as the temperatures began to drop and the rain began to fall in the Pacific Northwest. Since then, we've been reluctant to wear anything else - they're that comfortable. The stretchy softshell fabric is reminiscent of a well-worn pair of sweat pants, but with the added benefit of being water resistant and breathable. The fit was first-rate, with the top of the short falling just below our kneecap. While the Alp-X short has a slim cut, the stretchy fabric let us wear knee pads underneath without any trouble. Most of the time we used these on all-mountain rides, wearing them with a pair of knee warmers on cooler days. On rainy days the fabric worked as advertised, keeping us dry much longer than a typical riding short would. During heavy rain the shorts would eventually soak through, but they dried quickly as soon as the rain let up. While the lack of any kind of venting means the Alp-X would likely be too warm for summer riding, the shorts were comfortable even in temperatures up to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The only slight bobble in the shorts' design is the two rear pockets - any items placed in them end up pressing directly into the back of the leg when riding. Other than this minor detail, the Alp-X shorts are an ideal garment for riding in cool, wet weather. The excellent fit, comfort and performance of the Alp-X short place it high on our list of recommended riding apparel. - Mike Kazimer |
We rolled the Butcher Control through a wide range of conditions, from the dusty, dry and loose trails of summer to the wet, slimy and muddy trails of late fall/early winter. Throughout it all, the Butcher was a predicable and reliable tire, no matter the terrain. It's one of those tires you don't think about; it fades to the background, performing its job without any erratic behavior or odd handling that would draw attention to it. We didn't notice any more rolling resistance than expected from this style of tire. Granted, it's not as fast rolling as the glorified cyclocross tires XC racers ride around on, but despite its meaty tread the Butcher didn't feel sluggish, even on long, gradual climbs. Credit is due in part to its weight (730 grams), which is very reasonable for a tire of this width and with such an aggressive tread pattern. Cornering performance was admirable - even in loose, flat corners the Butcher dug in and held its own, gripping tenaciously. The 50 durometer rubber compound was much appreciated when the mud season returned - we were able to find traction on slippery roots where other tires would have spun out. The Butcher Control would be an excellent choice for an all-mountain or enduro rider looking for a wide tire that can handle rowdy terrain and won't break the bank. - Mike Kazimer |
Sombrio's Spun gloves were very comfortable from the beginning, with no break in period required. The Spun's mesh back panel is stretchy, which let the gloves conform well to our hands. The back panel also allowed for excellent ventilation on warm days, and places the Spun squarely in the summer glove category - these gloves wouldn't be warm enough once the temperatures begin to drop. The mesh back panel did begin to pill up after a few close encounters with shrubs and bushes that were encroaching on the trail. Also, after only a few days of riding, the thumb crotch seam began to come apart on both gloves. The seam splitting seemed to reach a certain point and then stop, but we don't have high hopes for these gloves in the long term. Although the retail price of the Sombrio Spun glove is very reasonable, it seems to be a case of "you get what you pay for." In a pinch, say, you're on vacation and forgot your gloves at home, the Spun would work as a simple, well ventilated glove, but for long term use we'd like to see the durability issues sorted out before we can recommend them. - Mike Kazimer |
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You should definitely try out the Control version of this tire instead of the DH if you felt like they rolled slowly. I had a pair of Butcher SX tires on my 7" travel bike and hated riding them because I would lose so much speed unless I was really on a "DH"trail. I got a Stumpy Comp Evo 26" and use this Control compound tire in the front, it is LOADS faster than the DH or SX compounds. This is partially due to a harder compound for the rubber and lower center knobs, as well as almost being almost half the weight. I was very disappointed with the DH and SX compounds, but the Butcher Control 2.3 has grown to be one of my absolute favorite all around front tires.
To the other users above, this tire lasts a lot longer in the Control compound as the rubber isn't quite as "gummy". I also recommend it in the front rather than front/rear.
Why you never see bright colors on my back,
And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone." - Johnny Cash
Black is a popular color for shorts because of its ability to hide dirt. Mud and grime are much more visible on a lighter colored fabric.
same problem here, picked up 3 pairs of different Sombrio gloves from Evans Cycles who had them on sale, thought "great price, great fit and look dope".
but couple of months in (only XC and road use!) and all have failed in the stitching
But still disappointing quality.
I've ridden everyday since and these shorts are amazing!
Sooooo comfortable!
.
Feels like I am wearing jogging shorts .
A++++ rating
Sweaty balls? Bad idea
That's 30g lighter than the Butchers. I run them front and back for XC/AM and don't find them too heavy at all.