It’s logical that a three-quarter-length pair of waterproof baggies would deliver better protection than shorts while remaining cooler than trousers. However, the fact that the Venturi has become the choice of many of our testers on days of howling wind and rain speaks volumes about their comfort.
That’s down to the construction and the fit – a proper fly opening with integral belt means a firm fit around the waist, plus there’s less bulk. The stretch panel across the back means the cut doesn’t have to be baggy in order to accommodate movement.
If you’re particularly long of leg, you may find the articulated knee doesn’t hit the right spot, but in general the length combined with a neat cut is inspired because the legs stay under control in gale force conditions and there’s less chance of mud and muck creeping up underneath them.
The Venturi is compatible with Endura’s ClickFast liner system, with pop-fasteners inside the waistband, and we found that the short works best when you use it in this way as the outer shell doesn’t move around over the inner short as much.
Engineered with an extra-durable seat panel, fully taped seams and waterproof pocket zips, it’s clear these have been created with UK winter riding in mind. And given its bomb-proof qualities, the eVent fabric doesn’t make you feel too hot either.
