Finding the right shorts for outdoor activities can be a tricky challenge. Do I go with the old-school short shorts for ease of movement and light weight, or do I go with something a little longer for the greater good (because nobody needs to see that much thigh)?
Whatever your flavor, there are plenty of options in the world of outdoor shorts. My recent experience with the Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts has been a great opportunity to try something a little longer, yet still comfortable for trail running, hiking or even casual wear.
About the Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts
Built with a combination of nylon front and softshell material in the backside, the Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts are made for all outdoor activities. Here are a few highlights:
- 10″ inseam for all-around use
- SuperSmooth™ polyester front
- Stretch Cyclone™ backside for freedom of movement
- Front hand pockets
- Drawstring elastic waist
- Hidden stash pocket for small MP3 player or key
- Colors: Black
- Weight: 6 oz.
- MSRP: $60
Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts Review
Lightweight and comfortable with an elastic waistband to keep things simple, the Journey Trail Shorts have been excellent as trail running shorts. Granted, the 9″ inseam is a little long for a dedicated running short, but with the stretchy softshell rear material, the extra length doesn’t mean restricted movement.
Even during warm-weather runs, the Journey Trail Shorts have been cool and comfortable. They are unlined, which I prefer. I used them in combination with the Ex Officio Give-n-Go boxer briefs and found them to be extremely comfortable.
The two front hand pockets are deep enough to stash a wallet, Blackberry and keys with room to spare. There is also a smaller stash pocket for a single key or small MP3 player (iPod Nano fits perfectly). The simple drawstring can provide an extra measure of adjustability should you choose to cinch them down a little.
I found the size medium to fit me perfectly (5’11” – 175 lbs. – 33 waist) and the length was comfortable for extended use around town without showing too much thigh (everyone but my wife appreciates that, I’m sure).
The material dries quickly and these shorts are versatile enough for river trips, trail running, lounging or swimming–lots of flexibility with these.
In spite of them being lightweight and comfortable, I’d like to see a few mesh vents here and there and some sort of pattern on the front. With the plain front design, they just look boring, but the lack of seams eliminated chaffing, so I suppose it’s a trade-off.
Good Journey Trail Shorts
- Lightweight fabric is comfortable and dries quickly
- Stretchy rear fabric adds to freedom of movement
- Versatile enough for all outdoor or even casual pursuits
- Deep front mesh pockets
Bad Journey Trail Shorts
- Could use a mesh vent or two
- Front looks a little bland
The Bottom Line: Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts
The ultra-versatile Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts are a great option for all-around outdoor activities. I found them to be comfortable for trail running, hiking and casual wear. Great shorts to have on the top of the pile.
Buy Now: Find Running Shorts at REI
