And if you haven’t already, make sure to check out Debbie’s verdict of the rest of the Hincapie kit here:

Review: Hincapie Power Tour Vest

Review: Hincapie Chromatic Jersey

Although a little nervous about the colour the Hincapie Chromatic Shorts are very comfortable and well designed!

On first receiving these I was sceptical about the ‘whiteness’ and design. They also looked very small, and very short. However, on putting them on I was more impressed. They are not as short as I first thought, although do expose more leg than I am used to. They are very comfortable.

The chamois is well designed with padding where needed, and much softer and more supple in areas where it’s not so necessary. After a 3 hour road ride these still felt comfortable, and didn’t have that bulky nappy feel that some chamois give you.

The material wicks very well, so didn’t feel clammy like some thicker shorts and chamois do.

The waist band is nice and wide, eradicating the pressure in your stomach, and also sits quite high on the waist, something I like. Equally the leg bands are nice and wide without that sometimes irritating rubber or elastic friction band many shorts have. The leg bands also contain a subtle reflective pattern which is highly reflective in the right light. A great idea when it is so subtly designed.

The Hincapie Chromatic Shorts do lack any pocket or holder for a key or phone or card. This would not be a problem if you are in a jersey with something which is usually the case.

I know I have already mentioned it but the colour is a problem for me. The design is great, and I love the purple (grape I believe it’s called) flatlock stitching detail, but I cannot cope with a white backside. The British springtime lanes had a field-day with these quickly leaving me with a rather more speckled backside than I would like.

Verdict

Nice fit and styling, and comfortable, but the colour would stop me wearing proudly. These would be great for a training camp overseas or road cycling holiday in warmer drier climates.

Pro

Well thought out details such as wide waistband, leg bands and subtle reflective detailing.

Con

Predominantly white shorts do not work well on damp UK roads.

Washing instructions specify cold wash.

Price: £ £65, available from Hincapie.

Liked this Hincapie Chromatic Short review? We think you will also like these:

Review: Hincapie Chantilly Series Full Kit

10 of the Cheapest Road Bike Lights

The Top Professional Women Road Cyclists to Follow on Strava