Trail riders seeking comfort, durability, and a fit that moves with the body will find Troy Lee Designs shorts a solid option. This guide highlights five Flowline and Skyline models that blend performance fabrics, venting, and secure pockets for long rides and aggressive descents. The table below provides quick-reference details for the selected models.
| Product | Size | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| FLOWLINE Short Black 32 | 32 | 4-way stretch, UPF 30+, phone pocket |
| FLOWLINE Short Shell Black 30 | 30 | 4-way stretch, UPF 30+, waist adjusters |
| Skyline Short Black 30 | 30 | Blue Sign 2-Way Stretch, CoolMax liner |
| FLOWLINE Short Black 28 | 28 | Deep pockets, zip fly, pad liner |
| FLOWLINE Short Shell Black 38 | 38 | 4-way stretch, UPF 30+, phone pocket |
FLOWLINE Short Black 32
The FLOWLINE Short Black 32 uses Ride Fit with a traditional waist and a relaxed cut that moves with you on climbs and descents. Its 4-way stretch woven fabric delivers unrestricted mobility, while UPF 30+ helps protect against sun exposure. A snug phone pocket keeps essentials secure, and self-fabric waist adjusters let you dial in the fit without tools. The liner is lightweight and breathable, designed to reduce chafing during long rides.
FLOWLINE Short Shell Black 30
The FLOWLINE Short Shell Black 30 offers a classic ride fit with a relaxed cut and versatile construction. The 4-way stretch woven fabric provides freedom of movement, and UPF 30+ shields you from sun. A snug phone pocket and self-fabric waist adjusters keep gear secure and the waist comfortable. The lightweight liner and open mesh throughout the front maximize ventilation on warm days while maintaining durability for rough trails.
Skyline Short Black 30
The Skyline Short Black 30 features Blue Sign Certified 2-Way Stretch Woven fabric with CoolMax Technology for comfort and airflow. It includes two zippered hand pockets and a TLD Air Mesh Liner with a 4 Hour TMF Pad for ride-ready cushioning. A revised rear 2-Way stretch panel enhances fit around the seat, while the overall cut emphasizes freedom of movement without bulk on fast sections.
FLOWLINE Short Black 28
The FLOWLINE Short Black 28 provides a traditional waist with a relaxed cut and versatile construction. Two easy-access hand pockets and Blue Sign Certified mechanical stretch fabric offer secure storage and mobility. Rubber waist adjusters help tailor the fit, while the TLD Air Mesh Liner with Pad adds comfort. A zip fly and single snap enclosure keep the waist secure during aggressive riding, making it a solid option for mid-length days on technical trails.
FLOWLINE Short Shell Black 38
The FLOWLINE Short Shell Black 38 is built on the Flowline design with a shell option for extra durability. It features a ride-fit, relaxed cut with 4-way stretch woven fabric and UPF 30+ protection. The model includes a snug phone pocket and self-fabric waist adjusters for precise fit, plus a durable liner to add comfort on longer rides. The extended size provides additional hip and thigh room without sacrificing mobility, making it suitable for riders who need more coverage.
Buying Guide
Key purchase considerations help riders choose the right Troy Lee shorts for their riding style and conditions. The following points cover fit, fabric, ventilation, pockets, liners, durability, and care, with perspective from both aggressive trail riders and casual enthusiasts.
Fit And Sizing
Flowline shorts typically use a Ride Fit with a traditional waist and relaxed cut, prioritizing mobility over a snug, race-ready silhouette. Skyline models lean toward a slightly more athletic shape with stretch panels that improve seat-area comfort. If you’re between sizes, consider the level of movement you want when standing and pedaling. Self-fabric waist adjusters provide on-the-fly tuning without needing a belt or tools.
Fabric And Ventilation
Most Flowline shorts use 4-way stretch woven fabrics, which balance durability with movement. Blue Sign Certified fabrics indicate an emphasis on sustainable performance. Front mesh panels or air mesh liners boost airflow in hot conditions, helping to manage moisture during long climbs and hot descents.
Pockets And Closure
Secure storage is practical on long rides. Look for phone pockets that sit flush against the hip and don’t bounce. A zip fly with a snap closure adds security for aggressive riding. Pockets vary in depth and accessibility; some models provide two hand pockets while others emphasize open mesh for ventilation.
Liner And Padding
Many shorts include an integrated liner with a lightweight pad. The liner harmonizes with the outer short to reduce chafing and provide extra comfort over rough terrain. Check the liner’s material and padding level to match your comfort needs for single-day rides versus multi-hour sessions.
Durability, Weight, And Care
Durability is a core consideration for trail and enduro use. Look for reinforced seams, abrasion-resistant panels, and durable waist adjustments. Quick-dry fabrics and breathable liners help reduce weight during long rides. Follow care instructions to preserve fabric integrity and UPF protection over time.
Choosing Between Shell And Standard
Shell variants add durability and protection for aggressive terrain or technical days, often with slightly heavier fabric but improved abrasion resistance. Standard Flowline shorts emphasize lighter weight and maximum mobility, suitable for warm days and flowy trails. Consider weather, terrain, and ride duration when deciding between shell and standard builds.
Size And Gender Considerations
Most Troy Lee shorts reviewed here are designed for men, with a separate line for women such as the Lilium Short. When shopping, verify the product’s sizing chart and consider how the cut aligns with your hip and thigh measurements. If you ride seasonally in variable conditions, a 2-3 size range in your gear offers flexibility between temperatures and riding styles.
Across models, Troy Lee Designs shorts emphasize a blend of mobility, venting, and secure pockets, aiming to keep riders comfortable without compromising performance. Evaluating fit preferences, climate, and typical ride length will guide you toward the best option among Flowline and Skyline families.