Fox Ranger Shorts review

These Fox Ranger shorts are a superb example of how pure riding shorts should look.

With only two zipped hip pockets, the Fox Ranger isn't exactly coming down in cargo options, but for those of us who don't generally need lots of storage space, it is a positive feature.

Arguably long pedalling efforts don't agree with having phones and keys bouncing around on your thighs. The two pockets are deep and secure but lined with mesh, which can cause problems with sharp items like keys in the long run.

The waist adjustment is done via webbing and buckles which is a refreshing change to Velcro tabs, and the waist is bound with a single popper; there’s no zip at the fly.

The fabric is a tough, ripstop blend of nylon, polyester and elastane and has one-way stretch to help with fit.

This pair with a 34in waist had a 12in inseam and weighed 215g.

Fox Ranger Shorts performance

The first thing I noticed on the Ranger was the sizing – riders who generally fitted a 30in waist were happily pulling on the 34in waist shorts we had to review.

This was partly a testament to the excellent webbing waist adjuster, but we also felt they did size up small.

I recommend trying the shorts on before buying where possible, or if in doubt err on the large side.

The webbing and buckle waist adjuster is better than Velcro because it doesn’t stick to other items of clothing or your bag when riding, or in the wash.

The next thing I noticed was the lightweight and fuss-free design.

With only a pair of hip pockets to work with, these are pure riding shorts, with just enough space for a slim phone and some keys, although their mesh liners tended to shred up a little with bunches of keys getting pulled in and out.

The shorts were excellent to ride in.

Light and very unobtrusive, I used them trail riding, but also gravel riding – their fairly slim fit means they could realistically be used for either discipline in our book.

Even with that slim fit, the stretch of the fabric meant wearing knee pads wasn't a problem.

The lack of a zipper fly means the shorts rely on a single popper to stay closed, and its open design means colder days feel quite draughty.

Fox Ranger Shorts bottom line

These are a superb pair of mountain bike shorts suited to fast and technical trail riding, with an airy feel and low weight that didn't impede pedalling in any way.

The depth and size of the pockets mean they’re more suited to lighter, smaller items rather than bulky things, enhancing the free-moving feel of the Ranger.

Ultimately, these are a tough pair of shorts without any bells or whistles.