Baggy MTB shorts these days are getting baggier, bigger and arguably more cumbersome. So, when selecting a pair of baggies, you’ve got to be extra-cautious of the materials and design. The Sugoi Gustov shorts look pretty baggy off the shelf, but just how well do they ride in the saddle?
Sugoi Gustov Shorts Features:
- Durable double needle stitching
- Fly with 2 snap front closure
- Front panels are vented with a mesh pleat behind locking zips
- 2 comfortable front pockets
- 2 back pockets
- Removeable liner with RC Pro chamois and signature grip leg elastic
- Seamless crotch gusset to eliminate saddle hooking and bulk
- 13 inch inseam
- Dual side velcro tabs provide an adjustable waistband
- MSRP: $125
Sugoi Gustov Shorts Review
The Gustov shorts are about as full-featured as baggies come. Looking down the feature list, it makes out much like a little kid’s Christmas list with everything checked off. These are serious shorts that are built to take a grundle of abuse. The fabrics used are burly and durable — not one sign of wear on them yet.
When I took the Gustov’s out of the package, I immediately thought they would be too large. I had the size large and they just looked way too big. With baggies, I often opt for medium’s to reduce extra bulk and while I likely could have gone with the medium Gostov, the large ended up working out just fine. One of the main reasons for that was the dual-side velcro tabs that make for quick waistband adjustments. This system is much better than the one found on the Pearl Izumi Divide shorts I tested this Summer. It provides a quick cinch that maintains the right amount of flex to keep the shorts comfortable under all conditions.
So far, I’ve been riding the Gostov’s in 80-90 degree heat and have found them to be just fine. I think much more than that and they’d be at their tipping point, but the leg vents and breathability of the liner shorts kept things comfortable. Speaking of the liners, the RC Pro chamois really delivers a smooth ride in the saddle. I found myself settling right in with little to no discomfort. My Specialized Henge Body Geometry saddle offers a great combination and not once did I feel the shorts snag as I moved around the saddle and off the saddle throughout my rides.
Continuing on about the inner liner, the RC Pro liner does offer a ton of comfort. it’s quite large, but goes unnoticed on the trail (a good thing). The grippy leg openings help keep things in place. All-in-all, the liner shorts are comfortable, breathable and stay put right where you want them. I could hang out in these shorts for hours after a ride, no problem.
The extra length of these shorts seemed like it might be a challenge, but not once did I feel like they restricted my pedaling or maneuvering. The fabric, though durable, might be a little heavy. in the end, many riders will appreciate their durability for he long-haul and be OK with their extra weight. A nice touch on the fabric is the DWR finish that repels water like a charm. These shorts will be great wet-weather companions during the next few months of wet riding.
Good Gustov
- Chamois offers excellent comfort in extended saddle time
- Liner shorts stay put, breathe well
- Rides well, despite baggyness
- Waist adjustments are quick and easy
Bad Gustov
- Could be a bit too baggy
- Fabric is pretty thick and heavy
Bottom Line: Sugoi Gustov Baggy MTB Shorts
The Sugoi Gustov baggy MTB shorts may look too baggy, but in the saddle, they ride well and have a lot to offer the all-mountain rider. The liner is comfortable and the exterior is bombproof and protects you from the elements.
5 Comments
In searching for the perfect short, my current favorite is the Bellwether Switchback. I had never heard of them until my shop kind of “pushed” me towards them. The removable chamois is very comfortable and the outer short is a good combo of light and strong.
Thanks for the info. Bellwether makes great shorts, but you’re right… kinda hard to find and unknown compared to many of the big boys.
Hi great review. I’m searching for the most comfortable chamois for mtb. I hear rave reviews about the RC Pro liner padding. You also gave rated the mtb 3d chamois on the pearl Izumi as excellent. Given that you had a chance to use both which ones would you recommend if you could only choose one.
Cheers
For road, I like the PI chamois better, but for these shorts, I do prefer the RC Pro chamois. I just rode my PI shorts this week after riding the Gustov’s and I do like the Gustov’s liner better.
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