The right gear can be the difference between an incredible journey through the backcountry and a miserable slog on the trail. While guiding and exploring, we’ve found some favorites and not-so-favorites. We’re sharing detailed gear reviews so you can go prepared.
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” -Alfred Wainwright.
The Gear: rabbit FKT short
The Features:
-94% poly/ 6% spandex woven fabric
-rabbitKNIT brief liner
-back pocket measures 6.5″ x 4.5″ with a 5.5″ opening, plus two side pockets and 1 internal pocket
– 3″ inseam (all sizes)
– flat waistband with internal drawstring
Our Take:
These shorts are so comfortable! I love the breezy fabric and unobtrusive liner. The material is breathable and wicks incredibly well, meaning you stay comfortable while working hard in the heat. At the same time, there’s enough weight to the material that they hold up to cooler temperatures.
Crucially, on 30+ mile days in variable weather I’ve experienced no chafing. The interior liner is comfortable. The padding around the waistband is soft, and makes for a pleasantly snug fit.
For shorter runs, I love leaving the vest behind and traveling light. These shorts pull ahead of other models and let their pocket game shine with four functional pouches for your trail needs. The iPhone 11 fits easily in the back pocket, and the two side pockets have room for trail snacks. The interior key pocket seals the deal.
At this point my pair of FKT shorts have ~700 miles on them and more than a handful of epic wipeouts. Checking the seams and stitching throughout, and looking at the fabric color, I would guess a fraction of that use. Durability is key for me when considering trail gear, and honestly, I’m impressed.
The Wrap:
rabbit’s FKT short exists at the meeting of function and comfort. Given the breezy feel, snug and stylish fit (plus the day-glo green color option), and utilitarian pocket set up, I can’t think of what more (or less) I would ask for.
Trent Banks is a mountain rambler, a disc jockey, and father of two daughters, based out of Seattle, WA. He joined the Aspire Adventure Running crew in 2018. You can find him guiding trips, leading sponsored runs at running stores in the Seattle area, and working aid stations at races across the Pacific Northwest with the rest of the Aspire team.
Be sure to check out rabbit gear at www.runinrabbit.com.