I was offered to test the Primal Modenza Short pretty late in the mountain biking season in Colorado, but I jumped at the chance to try these out despite looming frigid weather, given the quality Primal has consistently produced in other products I’ve tried.
A local Denver company, Primal is known the world over for cycling apparel on both dirt and road. I actually worked with them privately this year to order a custom jersey for a local club, and the quality was amazing. That business interaction solidified my interest in their products, and it was at an annual IMBA meeting that I first put hands on the Modenza in the spring of 2015.
The Modenza is a versatile short for all types of mountain biking, but it was clearly designed for riders who demand a durable, aggressive fabric that can withstand a fall or two. The Taclar ballistic nylon moisture-wicking ExoDura fabric is svelte but stiff, with a tailored, loose fit with vents for warmer days. Two ratcheted waist straps which pull and snap keep the silicon-gripped waist band snugly in place. An Italian-made TMF® detachable chamois is included.
The Deets (from Primal)
- ExoDura Fabric
- Loose Fit
- Detachable Liner with Chamois
- Ratcheted Waist Straps
- Taclar Ballistic Nylon
- Snap Button Closure
- Belt Loops
- Zippered Mesh Pockets
- Velcro-enclosed Rear Pockets
- Reflective Accents
- Sizes: M, L, XL, 2X, 3X
- Technical Specs: 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex -190 gsm
Testing
Fitting shorts is always personal. Like many of you, I have freakishly-large quads and hamstrings and usually have to go up a size when I shop for shorts and chamois. The Modenza was no different. The chamois was well-tailored and was comfortable overall, but I though the leg bands were a bit snug. However, they stretch out after a couple of rides. The chamois was slightly too large for me and instantly felt a bit diaper-ish when I tried them on, but became unnoticeable and very comfortable once I started pedaling.
The actual short was roomy, although the fabric over the upper thighs were a little tighter than the lower portion of the short. The waist seemed about right (XL tested, 35in waist), and there are handily-crafted pull tabs on the waist to cinch it snug.
The silicon grippers on the waist band initially produced some mixed feelings about what I considered to be an overall excellent short. On the first couple of rides, the silicon grabbed the skin of my waist and tugged; it was annoying enough that I actually tucked my shirt into the back of my shorts, something I never do. After two rides, however, this did not happen again–either my skin was more moist, or the uber-grip of new silicon lost a little of it’s bite… or both. Since then, these shorts have been nothing short of comfortable.
Overall I really liked the Modenza and would recommend them; in fact, when these wear out I plan to buy another pair. A couple of notable things that make this short stand out above so many others:
- Quality: Excellent craftsmanship and bombproof seams make this short durable and built to last. I really like the reinforced fabric in both the seat and in the inner thighs–two areas that see a lot of abuse when pedaling. The fabric is sufficient, but not too thick, so it retains a soft and pliable feel (unlike some other shorts that resemble burlap’s little brother).
- Pockets: There are two side pockets which are zippered, and one on the left leg, also zippered. These are the perfect size for small objects like gels or maps.
- Waistband closures: I used these every time I put them on, which helped make for a perfect fit.
- Vented thighs: These shorts are black, and have the potential to get hot. Having vents on the front of the thighs, backed by a fine mesh, that are easy to access, make these a good 3-season choice.
You can find out more about the Modenza here on Primal’s webpage, along with other shorts and products for both road and mountain biking.
MSRP: $130
Thanks to Primal for sending the Modenza over for review!
Check out some more product photos:
