Troy Lee Designs Mischief women’s shorts review

Women’s bike kit has made a great step forwards over the past few years, and Troy Lee Designs' Mischief shorts are a good example, striking a great balance of performance and fit.

The shorts have a relaxed fit with a bluesign-approved four-way stretch material that's designed to move with you as you ride.

There are three zipped pockets, a zipped fly and snap closure for the mid-ride waist, which has a silicone waist gripper and waist adjusters, too.

Available in five sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL) and a selection of colours, they can be bought with or without a liner.

The Mischiefs are suitable for sunny days with the fabric offering sun protection of 30+ UPF (ultraviolet protection factor), so approximately only 1 in 30 units of UV should pass through the material, and it feels protective but isn’t stiff and still offers plenty of stretch. This makes them comfortable for pedalling, but not the coolest on warm days.

I found the legs were long enough to cover the top of my knee pads at all times and liked the casual fit, which makes them great all-rounders. The waist adjusters did a good job of keeping the shorts in place, too.

The two zipped pockets on the sides are neatly tucked under a flap, and the lower one was big enough to squash a smartphone into.

I'd be happy wearing the Mischief shorts for everything from enduro races to bike park sessions. They're fully deserving of their place on any list of the best women's mountain bike shorts. The only thing that stops me from giving them five stars is the price.