First off, I rarely wear women’s clothes anymore, it’s been ages (don’t ask). And that was my first thought when I received a pair of Murray Shorts by Harlot Clothing Co, “but I don’t even cross-dress these days, why would I want to wear a pair of women’s mountain bike shorts? I don’t even like wearing men’s mountain bike shorts.” Admittedly, they looked badass and masculine, that’s when I realized that “H4M” stands for “Harlot for Men.”

Harlot’s line of men’s clothing is very limited compared to their expansive line-up for the ladies, but with a name like Harlot, you can’t expect them to cater to the dudes too much. I made a point of calling their customer service line and letting them know that they need to beef up on their menswear. I’ve been known to rant about the substandard offerings of the bicycle industry’s clothing options, so I was excited when I saw that these shorts at least looked cool, and it only got better once I tried them on.

Very understated and sleek, you can wear the Murray Shorts out in public and no one will think you’re in bike gear. Before I tested this theory however, I decided to take them on a short ride to test their performance and durability. Despite their sleek appearance, the Murray Short is very roomy in the leg and has seatbelt-style straps on the waistline so you can optimize your fit. The gusseted crotch provided unlimited flexibility and comfort.

YOU CAN DO THIS IN A PAIR OF MURRAYS!

Van Damme could have worn these in Bloodsport and still won the Kumite. There’s no chamois in these babies, but the nylon/polyester blend is comfortable enough for freeriding or a short cross-country jaunt. As I said before, they’re a lot roomier than they look and are designed to have enough room for slim-fitting bike shorts underneath if you’re gonna be riding longer than a couple hours. My only complaint about this style of shorts is how hot they get with a pair of traditional chamois bike shorts underneath. In temperate weather it’s fine, but hot summer days will wear you out fast if you’re wearing bike shorts under the Murrays.

Now a word on durability: Remember those “Bike” brand shorts your PE coach used to wear? You know, the nut-hugging short-shorts with the double-snap waist tab? If one so chose, you could slide into third on a bed of glass and the shorts wouldn’t have a scratch. Well, the Murray Short is like that, but it looks good (Win-Win!!). It’s also water-resistant, so they won’t get heavy and chafe if you go for a wet ride. They also sport a moisture-wicking waistband to ensure your comfort through sweat, dirt, and grime.

Best of all, they’re made right here in the U.S.A. out of North American-sourced materials. Kudos to Harlot for making a clothing product even I approve of, now if they would just make some more stuff for guys!!

The Straight Dirt:

The Good
Sleek, comfortable, attractive, performance-oriented, doesn’t look like typical cycling gear, affordable.

The Bad
Hot as hell on a summer day with bike shorts underneath. By themselves = no problem.

Murray Short:  $89.00

Harlot Clothing Co.
68 Camino Torcido Loop
Santa Fe, NM 87507

www.harlotwear.com

• March 16, 2009 -- All Harlot and No STD’s