Nukeproof Blackline Winter shorts review

In the past, Nukeproof’s Blackline riding kit has received high praise, so I’m keen to see if the brand's Winter shorts are up to the task of preventing wet weather from spoiling your ride and your underwear.

This British brand should be in tune with poor weather, and you'd expect that it knows what it's doing in this area. Read on to find out.

Nukeproof Blackline Winter shorts details

Nukeproof’s Blackline Winter shorts are made from a Cordura Ripstop fabric and membrane with a claimed 10,000mm and equal 10,000g/m2/24h waterproof and breathability rating. The material also has a slight stretch.

While the waistband isn’t elasticated, it uses adjustable Velcro tabs to tailor the fit and silicone grippers inside to help prevent the shorts from slipping down.

The rear panel is cut higher to help prevent the chance of showing any of your backside to riders behind. There are also two poppers and a zip fly.

The stitches are internally sealed to help keep them watertight. There are two hand pockets with plenty of space for a phone, and there’s even a D-loop to which you can attach keys, which is pretty clever. These pockets benefit from waterproof zips, but no additional storm flap protection.

The hems are bonded instead of sewn together. They feature an internal gaiter with an elastic drawstring that is designed to help prevent spray and mud from soaking you from the bottom.

Nukeproof Blackline Winter shorts performance

Nukeproof has carried over its relaxed-fitting kit to the Blackline Winter shorts, with a cut that gives you a bit of space without being overly baggy. This, and the gentle stretch of the fabric, means they’re comfortable to pedal in.

The hems fitted over my enduro knee pads without issue. Fortunately, they stayed in place nicely with a secure waistband. The material is relatively noisy when pedalling, but not off-putting.

While the Cordura® material isn’t overly heavy, it still feels durable and up to the task of shorts for trail riding. However, I still recommend a good short liner underneath.

The fabric did an admirable job of keeping my chamois dry and ensuring I remained comfortable during testing. The Winter shorts fended off the wettest trails well. I didn’t notice any leaks, wasn’t overly clammy and had no complaints about their breathability.

The gaiters went unnoticed while riding, which is a bonus. I’m still on the fence about whether they make a difference, but as they didn’t bother me, why not use them?

The pockets were usable, but are on the larger side, so your contents can swing around when riding, although this also often went unnoticed.

Nukeproof Blackline Winter shorts bottom line

Nukeproof has made a functional pair of shorts for poor weather. They stay in place well, have usable features and are made from material that is up to the task. The Blackline shorts will enable you to crack on in rough winter conditions without worrying too much about your backside.