Luna's top-end Epiphany short features a snug, form-fitting 10-panel cut with a wide, flat yoga-style waistband that doesn't roll or bind – or try to cut you in two.
With an 8in inseam, the Epiphany is also a welcome relief from the aerobic-short style of many women's designs that forces you to show more leg than needed.
Sewn to the ends of the legs are Luna's own extra-wide grippers, decorated with an understated row of their crescent moon-and-star logo. This gripper isn't just for show, either – count on a laser-perfect tan line once the elastic is in place.
Now, a bad chamois could swiftly erase all these highlights but the Epiphany delivers here, too, with an Italian-made Tranquility multi-density stretch pad that keeps the thickness only where it's useful to minimise the "nappy" feel.
Longer rides are no problem with this short but longer stops might be. A prolonged coffee shop break on a sunny day revealed that the pad does not wick away moisture as well as some, and contrary to common lore, women do sweat.
Another drawback: a front seam thread started unraveling on the first test ride, which didn't inspire confidence in the overall build quality. Thankfully, we didn't have any further issues, even with multiple machine washings.
The folks at Luna took a small risk with one of the colour options: a silvery dark gray called 'ebony' that women will either love or hate. It's definitely got a sexy vibe, with its shimmery look in sunlight, but perhaps not every woman will want her derriere to glow. Wisely, there's also a more understated black.
For cooler temperatures, Luna offer the Epiphany as a knicker with all the same features as the short but in a warmer, knee-covering length.