Royal Blast downhill shorts review

Not everyone will like the Blast shorts’ eye-popping looks, but we’re big fans. Sartorial sensibilities aside, beneath the 600 denier polyester outer, there are plenty of useful features that riders and racers will benefit from.

Unlike many other hardcore shorts, the Blasts feature two really useful zipped pockets, which are perfect for stashing a goggle bag or car keys. There’s also a meshed liner that helps when things get sweaty. The fairly square cut fitted us perfectly, sitting just over the knee with a great fit over pads.

We didn’t experience any snagging on shifters or the tops of dual crown forks. Those who are a little longer in the leg might find they’re not quite long enough but we had no issues at all. We’ve crashed in them numerous times and washed them plenty, and the Royals are still looking and feeling as fresh as ever.