2XU Comp Tri Shorts–Initial Review

About two weeks ago, we published an initial review of the DeSoto Carrera Men’s Tri Shorts.  Those shorts were just one of a few pairs we picked up for testing in February.  Next up are the 2XU Comp Men’s Tri Shorts.  These shorts are 2XU’s least expensive tri shorts, retailing for $75 but you can sometimes find a previous year’s version for less than $50.  These shorts are made of SBR Skin, promoted as providing moisture control, comfort, and longevity.  Without getting into the technical details, the SBR skin is more chlorine and bacteria resistant and is supposed to encourage air flow and wicking out of the water.  We picked these shorts because they’re a bit more expensive than the DeSoto shorts, but not bank breakers and still within reach for many triathletes.  Since they also claim to be a bit more resistant to chlorine damage, they might reduce the need for a pair of tri shorts and a pair of swim trunks.

Appearance:

The 2XU tri shorts feature large visible seams, very similar to the DeSoto’s we tested last month.  Our shorts are solid black with several fabric panels comprising the shorts.  While not quite as long as jammers, these shorts do have reasonably long legs.  The waistband is narrow but comfortable.

Comfort and Fit:

These shorts fit true, order your proper size.  As with other mid priced shorts, these are constructed of a heavier weight fabric than you find in low end tri shorts.  The 2XU Comp Tri Shorts are made of Lycra and claim to prevent or reduce muscle fatigue through the 2XU Kinetic Compression feature.  We can’t confirm this yet, but we can attest to the snug fit and compression of the shorts.  The multiple panels allow a very custom feeling fit and provide serious compression.

As you might know, we’re suckers for highly adjustable waistbands and elastic or silicone leg grippers.  Fit is very important to us at FitEgg and these two area, waist and leg, are the most important.  The 2XU Comp short doesn’t disappoint.  The waist drawstring provides a reasonable amount of slack to tighten or loosen these shorts.  The silicone leg grippers simply work, keeping the legs well in place.

Overall:

Overall, it’s a bit early for a verdict.  We’ve worn these shorts 7 or 8 times and are happy so far.  We have done at least four swims, two swim to bike bricks, and one swim to run brick.  In all cases, these 2XU tri shorts retained very little water, dried reasonably quickly compared to our other shorts, and didn’t ride up or fall down.  There are no glaring issues to date.  The shorts are well made, no construction issues out of the box.  The 2XU Comp Tri shorts fit true and tight.  The multiple panels ensure a snug fit with minimal bulk.  The chamois is small enough to not get in the way, but provides a bit of comfort on the bike.