Patagonia Men's Sender Shorts : Climb Every Mountain

Patagonia's Sender Shorts are a great addition to my summer wardrobe here in Colorado. The climbing inspiration is obvious throughout, but these lightweight bottoms are great for any outdoor endeavor -- especially those enjoyed by rugged types who like to get down 'n dirty. The Senders can handle abuse.

Because the shorts are made by Patagonia, I had high expectations for their design and build. Of course, I wasn't let down, even by the most minor of details. Case in point - the button atop the fly. Almost every button I've used has been sewn on -- and some of them have popped off. The Sender's button is actually strapped in place by webbing. I can't imagine it ever falling off unless I cut it with a knife. Add metal zippers and double-stitched seams throughout and I've got a piece of clothing that will really last. I have been beating them up for weeks, and they still look great.

I've obviously spent a fair amount of time climbing in these shorts, and I'm thoroughly impressed. I like the ever-so-slight stretch afforded by the spandex-nylon weave and the gusseted inseam. Both allow me to clamber around with aplomb on rock faces, creek beds, trees, or whatever I encounter. I also really like the low-profile waist -- there's no elastic or other extraneous material to get bunched up and cause chafing underneath a harness. I really appreciated this after I spent a few afternoons thrashing and dangling my way up a climb that was way too hard for me; for once I didn't have any red marks around my hips. Good on ya, Patagonia.  

I also liked the generous 11"  inseam. I  know it  sounds lame, but I'm  sick of too-short climbing shorts that resemble running  shorts from 1985 once beneath a  harness. The  Senders keep my  legs well covered, thank you very much.

One thing that's pretty nifty is the slim webbing bands inside of the waist. Since the shorts lack elastic, they didn't quite fit perfectly -- but I was able to cinch up the internal webbing to give the Senders the perfect fit.  

Finally, I have to hand it to Patagonia for its eco-conscious approach. These shorts in particular are made with recycled materials, and Patagonia is well known for its industry-leading environmental ethic.  

Available in tar and khaki.

Bottom Line :  Indestructible, comfortable, lightweight   climbing-inspired shorts  that  are  perfect for anyone who's   rough on their  clothes. (NW, Aug. '09)

Price : $70.00; , on sale at Moosejaw - click on icon

Manufacturer's Site: www.patagonia.com

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