Why drive when you can bike there? That’s usually my motto for errands around home, where roads and trails are paved and it’s easy to get a cargo bike to and from the market. When the weather is beautiful and I want to skip the errands to hit the trail, I usually wear the same cycling clothing.
Among my favorite pieces lately that do great double duty are the Backcountry Slickrock 7-inch Bike Shortand the Backcountry Slickrock Drirelease Long-Sleeve Tech T-Shirt.
The short has a recycled nylon fabric that’s heavy enough to withstand abrasion, but is lightweight enough to wear in warm climates. It’s also stretchy, wicks moisture, and dries quickly. Laser-perforated venting for air circulation keeps you cool when you’re out on the trail. The fabric provides UPF 50+ protection from the sun’s powerful UV rays.
The slim fit of the short works both on its own and with low-profile pads. The articulated hip and high back rise ease pedaling and provide good coverage. An adjustable waist belt and gripper dots on the waistband create a secure fit. Two zippered hand pockets are large enough to fit snacks and tools, or some cash for an end-of-the-trail refreshment.
Don’t want to pack both bike shorts and hiking shorts? This choice does both well. The Slickrock 7-inch Bike Short comes in black, turbulence (gray), oil blue, and red mahogany, and lists between $45.00 and $89.99 (depending on your color choice. Get it on the Backcountry site.
The tee is made with a silky-soft lyocell blend that feels comfortable against the skin especially while riding in warm weather. The drirelease fabric naturally wicks moisture and dries quickly, and body-mapped mesh in the T-shirt boosts breathability. I especially love wearing this tee when I’m riding in Hawaiʻi and want to keep cool, yet want to protect my skin from the sun.
The T-shirt has a moderately loose fit. It drapes well, and isn’t too tight or too wide. If you’re riding with a backpack, the forward shoulder seams of the tee keep irritation to a minimum. A droptail hem gives full coverage when you’re riding, and reflective details improve visibility in low-light conditions. Two drop-in side pockets keep small essentials within reach.
The Slickrock Drirelease Long-Sleeve Tech T-Shirt comes in black, fog (light beige), and a kalamata/turbulence combination of olive and gray. It lists for $59 on the Backcountry site.