Fit / Sizing
The large Half Rack knickers fit my 34 waist quite well. They actually are a bit larger than a 34, but the size of the waist is easily dialed in using the adjustable nylon straps located on the side of the knickers. These nylon straps have a simple but effective cam-locking buckle and offer a couple of inches of adjustability on each side. The knickers also have belt loops, but the adjustable straps have worked so well that wearing a belt is unnecessary.
I wear a large mountain bike short in both Race Face and Pearl Izumi, and I think the fit of these shorts is comparable. Most large shorts are generally slightly larger than my 34 waist, and I usually have to snug them up with a belt.
Pockets
I personally don’t carry anything in the pockets of my cycling shorts while riding, but for those who do, the Half Rack features two zippered pockets. The left rear and left cargo pocket have zipper closures and are big enough to fit a phone, wallet, or snacks. On the right rear of the knickers is a non-zippered pocket, and rounding out the storage options are mesh-lined front pockets on both sides.
Ride Performance
It would appear that the Half Rack was designed by someone who understands the position of the human body while riding.
The articulation in the knees and front of the waistline made these very comfortable while in riding position. The cut is baggy, but not excessively so. The cut tapers slightly toward the knee, helping prevent unwanted hang-ups on bushes and other hazards. Freedom of movement is in no way compromised due to the one-way stretch fabric, and the crotch is cut high to further prevent saddle snag or unwanted hang-ups. Simply put, the Half Rack fits comfortably and appropriately for riding a bike.
Durability
All Club Ride apparel is made in the USA, and so far, the craftsmanship and durability of the Half Rack have not disappointed me in any way. None of the materials appear to be worn excessively, and all the seams and stitching are holding strong, even in the weight-bearing areas of the crotch.
At $110, the Half Rack knickers are definitely a little spendy. Mountain bike shorts are expensive, though, and Club Ride’s shorts and knickers are comparably priced to most other apparel brands ($80-150). It is important to note that the Half Rack knickers do not come with a chamois. Personally, I’m not disappointed by the lack of a chamois, as I own quite a few and prefer to choose my own.
Style
The man-pri look isn’t exactly the casual wear style that I’m going for off the bike—it’s a little too Euro for my taste. I wouldn’t go out of my way to wear these around town, in other words, but I have definitely worn them out for a beer or two after a ride. If you’re the type who stops at the bar or at your friend’s house for a BBQ on your way home from a ride, the styling of these shorts is more casual and normal looking than most bike shorts out there, and therefore more reasonable looking in that type of setting.
Bottom Line
Overall, I am extremely pleased with the quality, fit, and performance of the Club Ride Half Rack. If you ride in cool weather and are looking for casual looking and high-performance shorts, then these are a solid option. I am happy to add these to my quiver of riding shorts for spring and fall riding in the mountains.