DeSoto Sports Carrera Men’s Tri Shorts–Final Review

A few weeks ago we wrote an initial review for the DeSoto Sports Carrera Men’s Tri Shorts.  Since then, we’ve used the shorts extensively and are prepared to provide a final review.

We selected these shorts largely due to DeSoto’s reputation, but also because they’re a reasonably priced pair of tri shorts.  The MSRP for the Carrera Tri Shorts is $56 directly from DeSoto.  DeSoto uses Carrera Skin, a nylon and spandex blend that is advertised as quick drying and supportive.  According to DeSoto the Carrera Skin blocks three quarters of UVB rays.  As we mentioned in the first review, these shorts are available in a standard and a low cut version.  The low cut waist is 1.5 inches shorter.  The inseam in these shorts is variable, from 6.5″ in the small shorts to 8″ in the XL.

Appearance:

Just to recap, you’ll notice the sturdy construction as soon as you pull these shorts out of their packaging.  The seams are a bit more prominent than less expensive shorts.  Compared to swim jammers, these shorts are noticeably heavier due partly to the chamois, but mainly the stronger fabric.

Comfort and Fit:

Again, just a bit of a recap on the comfort and features.  The construction of these shorts, using stronger fabric and multiple panels is great.  This method is supportive and provides a bit of compression.  We mentioned that the shorts don’t have additional elastic or silicone in the legs, just a band of the Carrera Skin fabric.  We also appreciate that DeSoto manufactures these with a decent sized waistband.

Final Impressions:

In the initial review, we tested these shorts in the pool and during one swim to bike brick.  The results there were good, the shorts fit well in the pool, they didn’t sag, the legs stayed in place, and the pad was basically unnoticable after a few laps.  On the bike, we noticed that the shorts dried reasonably quickly, especially the outer shell.  The pad and liner parts of the shorts took a little longer to dry.  We consider these shorts to be quick drying, as advertised.  For the initial review, we also wore the Carrera Tri Shorts for a separate run with no swim or bike beforehand.  We were pleased with the breathability and fit during the run.

Since the initial review, we have worn these shorts in the pool numerous times, used them in a few swim to bike and swim to run bricks, worn them just on the bike and just for a run, without swimming first.  The only issue we have  is the shorts riding up a bit at the beginning of the bike, especially after swimming.  Maybe it’s the lack of elastic or silicone in the legs, but the shorts tend to creep when you first start out.  In every case but one, the shorts didn’t move after we adjusted them the first time.  Realistically, this isn’t a fatal flaw, but it can be irritating, especially if it doesn’t sort itself out after one adjustment.

We’ve found that the DeSoto Men’s Carrera Tri Shorts are a really good value and a very well made pair of shorts.  The legs can ride up a bit, depending on the situation, but this isn’t enough of an issue for us to not recommend the shorts. They’re solidly constructed, fit true, have a very comfortable chamois that’s virtually unnoticeable, and they’re reasonably priced.  We’re comfortable recommending the DeSoto Carrera Men’s Tri Shorts based on the above information and testing.