Review: Dakine 8 Track Short

In my quest to don a West Coast style this season, I tried out the 8 Track short from Dakine. The 8 Track short fits quite like the Dakine Chorus short I reviewed in late 2012, thanks to the 190g, 100% nylon canvas construction with a rib-knit back stretch panel. Inside, the short features a 75g …

In my quest to don a West Coast style this season, I tried out the 8 Track short from Dakine.

The 8 Track short fits quite like the Dakine Chorus short I reviewed in late 2012, thanks to the 190g, 100% nylon canvas construction with a rib-knit back stretch panel. Inside, the short features a 75g ,100% polyester, vented mesh liner. Every year, Dakine steps it up a bit more with new features and production improvements that increase both comfort and durability.

Other features include:

  • Gusseted crotch panel
  • Exterior side waist adjustments
  • Patterning at knees designed to fit over pads
  • Belt loops
  • Zippered inner leg vents
  • Front hand pockets
  • Removable recoil pass pocket
  • Invisible zippered security pocket
  • Reinforced stitching throughout key stress zones

I really appreciated the double snap buttons for the waist, the inner zips on the legs (which allow for extra cooling when needed), and the hide-a-way park pass.

The 16in inseam on a person of my height (5ft 9in) brings the short to three inches below my knee caps when standing. With knee pads and in ride position, the 8 Track hangs just at my knee cap. This is optimal for reducing pulling and bunching while riding.

I found the 8 Track short to be very comfortable for nearly all my riding. I did have to use a chamois for longer rides, though. Other than that, I was very impressed with the fit and durability. Despite numerous washes, I had no issues with the color fading or stitches working loose.

Bottom Line: The 8 Track short offers excellent comfort and great durability in a feature-heavy package.

MSRP: $110.

Many thanks to Dakine for providing the 8 Track short for review.