Chrome Industries has released a new summer shorts collection aimed at commuters, messengers and casual cyclists.
The Portland-based ‘urban utility’ brand is well known for its messenger bags, casual SPD footwear and technical apparel, and its wares are popular among casual cyclists, messengers, and commuters who prefer to steer clear of Lycra and the best cycling bib shorts. It focuses on creating long-lasting and durable products that perform and blend in, both on and off the bike.
This summer’s shorts collection, according to Chrome, is “built with the knowledge and intuition that comes from years of riding and living in the city”. Several existing items have been updated, while a brand new mid-short model is being introduced for those requiring a shorter inseam length.
Chrome Industries SS22 shorts collection
Making its debut this summer is the Folsom 2.0 Mid, which builds upon the foundations of the original Folsom, but comes with a trimmed down 8-inch inseam (as opposed to 11-inch). These were designed to sit higher above the knee, and are aimed at fans of short-shorts as well as those with less length in the leg department.
They’re constructed from Everest fabric, which has four-way stretch and is claimed to be quick-drying and highly durable. A seamless double-layer seat gusset is included for extra comfort, the belt includes a five-bar webbed D-lock holster, and there are floating pockets for storing essentials. They’re available in sizes 28-38-inch, come in three colors: Black, Olive Branch, and Wood Thrush, and retail at £110 / $120.
Buy the Folsom 2.0 Mid Shorts from Chrome Industries
The popular Folsom 2.0 returns this year as well, bringing with it many similarities with the Folsom 2.0 Mid, though offering a longer inseam. Chrome says they’re designed to be worn all day, every day, and they’re a popular choice among messengers for that reason. Their six-panel and four-pocket construction is designed to be utilitarian, while the aesthetic is workwear-inspired, for an overall style-meets-functionality approach. The crotch is reinforced for durability on the bike, as are the seams and belt loops. There is also a D-lock holster on the waist. These are available in two new colors for 2022: Olive Branch and Castle Rock, and retail for £120 / $125.
Buy the Folsom 2.0 short from Chrome Industries
For those wanting something longer and with a looser fit, the new Sutro range has a 14-inch inseam and wouldn’t look out of place on a gravel ride or bikepacking trip. They feature mesh pockets and an adjustable hook-and-loop waistband, which is claimed to deliver optimum comfort, fit, and mobility on the bike. The relaxed fit leaves room for a padded liner underneath if desired, while the four-way stretch fabric is stain- and water-resistant with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. They’re available in three colors: Black, Olive Branch and Castle Rock, and retail at £120 / $130.
Buy the Sutro shorts from Chrome Industries
Finally there’s the Union 2.0, which offers a relaxed fit and low-profile aesthetic for city riding and commuting. Similarly to the rest of the collection, they’re made from water-resistant four-way stretch fabric that promises comfort and flexibility, while a full-length gusset is said to add to the comfort level. Practical features abound, like mesh lined pockets and a handy front coin pocket, while there’s a full-zip wallet pocket and reflective details. There are three colors available: Black, Castle Rock and Castle Thrush, and they retail at £100 / $125.
