Bike Perfect Verdict
A great fitting short that belies the durability and toughness needed for enduro riding with a lightness and comfort that makes them good for all shades of mountain biking where protection is desired
Pros
- +
Tough-and-durable construction
- +
Good fit and surprisingly lightweight
- +
Work well with knee pads
Cons
- -
Expensive
- -
On the baggy side
Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We\'ll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.
POC has designed the Resistance Enduro shorts to, as the name suggests, resist the most demanding elements that enduro can subject onto clothes, bikes and components. With a tough fabric and construction, they are designed to handle it all and play happily with knee pads and body armor making the POC Resistance shorts some of the best mountain bike shorts available.
Design and aesthetics
With a large white POC logo and two-tone color due to the use of the burlier Vectran fabric, these Resistance Enduro Shorts have a louder aesthetic than other more subdued shorts. But that said, they are still reasonably restrained if you aren’t a fan of some of the louder enduro designs. The shorts are designed not only to survive the tough and tumble of enduro racing but also have pre-bent knees aimed at riders who want to pedal back to the top of the hill rather than jump on a chairlift.
Specifications
POC has used a reinforced Vectran fabric on the hip, thigh and knee areas to provide additional ruggedness alongside a lighter material for the remainder of the construction. Vectran is claimed to be five times stronger than steel, which makes it ideal for enduro riding as it’s highly resistant to cuts, abrasion, and shearing. A water repellent treatment is also added along with velcro waist adjustment, two zippered side pockets and a discrete rear zipped pocket for chair lift cards. They are compatible with POC’s own VPD knee pads though any knee pads will work just fine.
Performance
The ruggedness of these shorts is clear to see and feel. The Vectran panels have a roughened texture and this helps the shorts shrug off the crash and tumble nature of enduro riding when you’re pushing your limits. They’re on the baggy side so there’s no problem wearing knee pads or body armor underneath. They’re surprisingly comfortable with a lightness that is often lacking in tougher shorts, making them suitable for long rides where pedaling comfort, heat and moisture management are essential to ride happiness. The material is quick-drying from sweat and rain as well.
Verdict
If you regularly push your limits on the bike, whether just riding in the local woods or lining up at a race on one of the best enduro mountain bikes, these POC Resistance Shorts will add a nice layer of protection and durability that lighter-weight shorts simply can’t match. The lightweight and the good fit make them usable for longer trail rides, which helps to broaden their appeal outside of flat-out enduro racing. The fit is good with easy waistband velcro adjustment, the length is generous, and they’re not overly baggy when worn without knee pads.
Tech Specs: POC Resistance Enduro Shorts
- Price: $160 / £140
- Colors: Black, Forge Grey, Superior Blue
- Materials: Very durable and tear resistant Vectran reinforced hip, thigh and knee, 3x zipped pockets, Velcro waistband adjustment, Water resistant treatment, Pre-bent knees
