Bike shorts to look good but still provide padding lining

Known for its outdoor clothing, Patagonia is dipping into mountain-bike specific apparel with a new collection released this spring.

While plenty of mountain bikers ride in the same tight Spandex shorts seen on road cyclists, many prefer a looser look more like a hiking short. But as anyone who’s spent much time in a saddle can tell you, the contoured and padded bike short is a must-have for both comfort and to avoid chaffing while riding.

The Dirt Craft features a removable three-layer padded liner, which gives you that on-the-bike comfort, and pairs it with a stretchy outer short that works as well in the saddle as in a coffee shop. The mostly nylon outer short is water repellent and keeps a slender profile to avoid catching on twigs, but still offers plenty of mobility and a looser feel. The adjustable waist includes a clever clinching system to allow riders to customize the fit, and a zipped side pocket is a great way to keep from losing those car keys. $149, patagonia.com.