When it comes to their new Elevate mountain bike shorts, Pearl Izumi says that they pulled out all the stops. They’re light, supposedly quite durable, and they also feature a unique way to keep them tight around the waist…
Instead of the usual velcro straps, elastic tabs, or traditional belt loops with a belt, Pearl Izumi enlisted the help of BOA on the Elevates. Unlike previous BOA equipped shorts from brands like Sugoi who positioned the two dials on the side of the shorts, Pearl Izumi has placed their single dial directly in the center of the back waist panel. Without trying them on, it’s hard to tell if the position will interfere with hydration pack or hip pack placement, but it does allow for a single dial to evenly cinch down both sides of the short.
Built out of a 4-way stretch Cordura material with bonded seams, Pearl Izumi claims that these shorts are XC light but enduro tough. Generous laser perforation on the front should help keep thing airy, while the PI Dry coating will help shed water and mud.
Inside, you’ll find their 1:1 Elite Escape chamois which includes a cargo pocket on each thigh for stashing things under the outer short. You’ll also get two zippered trail access side pockets for items like your cell phone.
Available in Men’s or Women’s, and in two colors each, both sell for $175 with the liner.
