As with everything in Kitsbow's line, the Soft Shell A/M shorts embody a minimal, function-driven aesthetic and attention to the small, but crucial, details. Such is the case with the materials that compose the shorts, as the designers called upon the fabric experts at Schoeller Textiles for the materials necessary to construct the most ideal lower body layer for cool-weather riding. Schoeller's Dryskin fabric got the nod here, as this durable, abrasion- and water-resistant softshell material is perfectly suited for trail riding. A lightly brushed interior provides a smooth interface with the rider's skin, which also aids in transferring moisture to the fabric's outer surface. The result is a comfortable, dry lower half and a consistent, evenly-regulated body temperature.

With its controlled stretch, the Dryskin material selected for the A/M shorts also served as the perfect foundation for Kitsbow to dial-in the best fit possible. To start, the designers eschewed conventional trail short sizing (think catch-all adjustable waistbands) in favor of a more structured platform that relies on even and odd waist measurements. They then created a silhouette with minimal panels for a trim, unobtrusive fit that follows the body's movements while in the saddle. The back panels were shaped as to not brush the rider's calf while pedaling, with the inseam breaking where the knee naturally bends. Taped seams on the interior further this notion, along with a quilted waistband that naturally rests above the pelvic bone. The built-in articulation here ensures complete coverage and freedom of movement, while also reducing overall friction while pedaling.

A large portion of Kitsbow's obsessive mantra also stems from its dedication to the functional details. This is ever-present with the Soft Shell A/M shorts, as a discerning eye will quickly pick up on the finishing touches — aside from their balanced fit — that set them apart from other trail riding shorts currently available. For example, rearward facing seams have been cover-stitched, which serve to both enhance durability and create a clean aesthetic, and zippered side pockets are reversed and contoured along the leg to boost storage space without pedaling interference. And speaking of pockets, they have been lined with stretch mesh, which, when zipped open, double as ventilation channels. The hardware has also been carefully selected, with the intuitive RiRi slider-snap front closure and YKK zippers providing proven reliability to the Soft Shell design. The shorts were finished off with subtle embroidered logos and reflective accents on the side panels, and every pair is made in Vancouver, British Columbia.