Sugoi Gustov MTB Shorts Review

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.

Buy Now: Sugoi Bike Shorts at CompetitiveCyclist.com