Chrome SHINS-Knickers that aren't just for the couriers.

Ok, so with all the clothing companies out there, you'd think that we'd be all dialed in for new gear and designs. Well this new garment isn't coming to you from a clothing company, but rather from a Messenger Bag company that happens to know a few things about fashion too.

Chrome is the manufacturer of some of the most in demand courier bags on the market. With all this time spend flying around the streets of all major cities, their clientelle was in need of some user specific functional, fashionable wear for during and apres work. Enter the SHINS.


The SHINS are a three quarter length technical cycling knicker and I first saw them back in the spring but wasn't able to get a pair for myself until this past October. Which turns out was the perfect time to be running 3/4 length riding gear. The appeal to me is that they look really good-no big gawdy logos that stick out like a bad hair cut. They are fashion meets function, straight from San Francisco, USA.


Ok so you're going "Tyler, who cares if they look good, what else can they offer me?" First off, I know that you care what they look like or you'd be rocking Louise Garneau bib shorts and a Yellow leader's jersey while free riding, but since that's not the case, I know fashion matters too.

Here's the tech low down though. The SHINS are made of a breathable, water and wind resistant, 4-way stretch fabric that features articulated knees for ease of pedaling. The combination of the articulated knees and 4-way stretch fabric makes for one nice pair of pedaling friendly knickers(I laugh each time I type that word!). Since I have been primarily wearing my SHINS on downhill runs, the re-inforced padded ass and inseam area hasn't been a huge benefit, but I can definately see how it would make a long day in the saddle on some down town streets more enjoyable. Getting them all wet and muddy on the last weekend up at Whistler was fine as the mud just fell off once it dried (No Staining) and the fabric dries so fast too.


The features on these shorts are also well thought out, from the nice big belt loops to the zippered cargo pockets. Belt loops mean you don't need to worry about lame pull tabs to secure your spare tire in place and you can wear that favorite belt your grandma bought you for Christmas too! Cut higher in the back and lower in the front for a nice natural fit.



Material:
-Machine Washable and Dryable
-91% Nylon 9% Spandex

Sizes:

Small: 28"-30" / inseam 21"
Medium: 30"-32" / inseam 22"
Large: 32"-34" / inseam 22.5"
X-Large: 34"-37" / inseam 23"

Cost:

$135 USD (Suggested Retail)



Pros:

-4 way stretch material is great to ride in
-big zippered cargo pockets so you don't lose important items (mini tool, cell phone)
-short enough to stay out of your chain rings
-each time you say knickers you'll laugh or at least smile
-lifetime guarantee against defects

-lack of big corporate logo (even if I'm a lable whore)


Cons:

-$135 is a lot for riding shorts, but damn they feel and look great
-Made in San Francisco, USA (just kidding)
-only one color option so far-Charcoal Grey


My final impression is that the SHINS are now a staple in my riding gear closet! I am way over stoked on the comfort level that I've found here. Yeah they were designed by a messenger bag company, but who else spends more time in the saddle then a courier does? Exactly! So you know that they are build for function above all else, the bonus is that they look good too. I'm looking forward to seeing what else comes out of the San Francisco area in the coming months. Good work folks!

Visit www.chromebags.com to learn more about other Chrome products and upcoming garments from their small clothing line.

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Reviews and Tech Reviews