Fox have really got their game on with their 2009 trail shorts. The High Voltage model blends Fox’s previous Sergeant and Ranger models together to create an all-round baggy trail short.
The cross-country geek in us wished they were a fraction shorter (rather than just below the knee) and more tailored, but for standard mountain bike off-road meandering they’re absolutely perfect, especially in hot weather where the lightweight fabric and loose cut combine to keep airflow high and sweaty bits un-sweaty.
Go black, grey or aphid green – all with the High Voltage signature geometric pattern – and you’ll be Captain Fashion. The snap-out padded liners are great, making long rides possible and even pleasurable, and don’t lead to betty swallocks too quickly.
It’s hard to criticise the cut as shorts seem to be getting longer and looser but, if we had to, we’d say there’s a bit too much material in the seat leading to the occasional snag on the saddle.
There’s an MP3 cable routing in there too, although why you’d wire your pants for sound is a mystery. A great pair of durable shorts.