Patagonia Women’s Dirt Roamer Bike Shorts review

Central to Patagonia’s sustainability mission, Patagonia’s Dirt Roamer shorts are made from 86 per cent recycled polyester, with 14 per cent elastane for generous stretch, and are part of the world’s first Fair Trade-certified MTB clothing range.

The multiple panels are sonic-welded together rather than stitched, to improve comfort. The material is incredibly light and coated with a DWR (durable water repellent) treatment to protect you from splashes.

A button and zip fastening forms part of the adjustable waist, with a thin webbing strap to tighten the fit marginally, using the button as a buckle.

Internally there are popper straps for attaching Patagonia liner shorts and on the outer there’s a zipped pocket on the left thigh, which fits a phone.

Patagonia Women’s Dirt Roamer Bike Shorts performance

The Patagonia Dirt Roamer shorts have a slimmer fit than many trail shorts, so, if you prefer a slightly looser fit, I’d suggest sizing up as I did.

And, while the waist adjustment system is clever, it doesn’t offer a significant range. Having said that, the soft four-way stretch material means they aren’t at all restrictive.

The 11¾in leg length is slightly short, but works fine with low-profile knee pads thanks to a dipped front hem, although the fabric can be prone to bunching around them due to the slim fit.

I liked the minimal styling and prefer to store items such as tools in a bag rather than close on the body in pockets anyway. The zipped thigh pocket worked well for my phone, though, and didn't inhibit pedalling.

The muted colourways of forge grey and camp green are really lovely, and the shorts look great off the bike, too.

Patagonia Women’s Dirt Roamer Bike Shorts bottom line

These might not be the cheapest women's mountain bike shorts but you are getting a responsibly sourced and made product.

Due to the close fit, I'd suggest the Patagonia Dirt Roamers are best suited to cross-country, trail and gravel riding rather than enduro duties.