DHB's Earnleys come with an integral (sewn in) liner. While we like this sort of construction for the lighter feeling it gives, it’s harder to get right in terms of fit – needing an impeccably cut shell.
At first glance, the simple pocket configuration and mix of lightweight fabric and more durable panels ticks all the right boxes. But the shorts look less flattering on, and are best suited to casual cruising.
They're fine for short rides, but we found the integrated liner wasn’t particularly comfortable. The surface of the pad is slightly rough and after an hour or so in the saddle this really does start to grate.
We also found the sizing to be overly roomy, with a large being too loose around the waist for a tester who usually needs extra large. It felt to us like only the snugness of the leg gripper was keeping them up.
If they turn out to be too big for you, you’d have to add a belt. There’s no other way to cinch the waist and the elasticated section isn’t enough to keep them up if they don’t fit you absolutely perfectly.
For a mere £40, though, they’re pretty good value for casual riders and there are plenty of pockets to stash your essentials in.
