The summit short as tested here is Altura's top end baggy short. After looking over the Altura range and comparing the different models I choose the summit as it suited my riding best from the range - OK so it was the dearest short they do, but it has all the features your ever going to want to ask of a mountain bike short, and my last pair of Altura's lasted so long I didn't mind paying that bit extra (oh and, well, I got a good deal on them too...)

The Summit short is made of a tough but lightweight material, which whilst being robust isn't uncomfortable or two heavy. The adjustable waist straps make for perfect customised adjustments - on each hip is a strap and velcro tab which allows you to adjust the waist tighter or looser for a comfortable fit. The short is a good length too, just keeping your knees out of the cold wind when stood around.

The main waist clasp is a two push popper press-stud fastening affair with a tough heavy duty zipped fly.

Two hand pockets in the normal place aren't zipped but are perfect for popping spares or tools whilst on the move or to stop you loosing parts in the leaves whilst on that long repair stop out on the trail...

There are another two zipped pockets on the legs, again with heavy duty zips, these are perfect for keys or a phone etc if your not one for using a Camelback.

Next to these two pockets are another two heavy duty zips which open for cooling - they simply open to reveal a mesh liner which directs cooler air onto your legs on those warmer days.

The short has a tough crotch area make of reinforced stretch panelling and a stretch rear panel to give good comfort after hours on the bike.

The short also had a built in inner short with a saddle shaped coolmax pad for superb comfort and bacterial protection.

Stitching is darn good, with double and reinforced stitching in all the places shorts need them most. Stitching around pockets in places isn't the neatest.

The shorts we tested were a 2006 model and were in a khaki colour which hasn't suffered at all through the winters mud so far - we recommend washing all new clothing once before use as it prevents the clothing staining quite as bad from mud. Available in Grey or Black for 2007.

All in all these are a superb mountain bikers short which are comfortable for XC racing or all day epic rides, yet tough enough for freeride or even light downhill duties. At £50 it is a reasonably expensive short, but it has everything you could ever need and will last the test of time...

Scott
Bucksmtb.co.uk
 

^ Close up showing popper waist, the two waist adjusters and stretch panel crotch

^ Cargo pocket and ventilation channel zips side by side, just visible

Total price :
Altura SUMMIT short RRP £49.95

Sizing:
Generally spot on, but going up a size is worth it, especially with the superb waist adjustment.

Rating:
4/5
Misses out on 5 out of 5 due to slightly untidy stitching around pockets, but apart from that these are a superb short, which look good, are comfortable, are durable and have all the features that a good mountain bikers short should. Sold.

From:
This pair were from Mountain Mania bike shop in Tring, but the Summit short is available in all Altura dealer outlet bike shops and on many online stores.