From fit to material, these are my favorite riding shorts. The zippered pockets are key. Other Dakine shorts I have don�t have the zippered pockets making it more challenging going when needing to carry keys, phone, etc. I normally wear size Large (33� waist and slim overall) but I opted to size down due to my experience with previous Dakine shorts. The medium fits well, doesn�t require tightening or a belt although I�m at the max in the waist.
I use this garment these daily for shortish conditioning sessions. In general, it does what I'd like, fitting snugly, keeping the legs in place, and not sagging as they wear in. The padding is pretty well placed and works well, especially when using chamois cream liberally. However, it would be more effective if it continued across the inguinal fold and down the medial thigh.
A fray has started at the bottom of the abdominal piece, but it has not propagated after several months of daily use. This is a concern. It shouldn't happen to a product in this price range. However, I have elected to continue using it, since this small defect has not damaged overall usefulness.
In sum, this is not the best cycling garment I've ever used, but it's pretty good withal and worth the price.
