Aldi Men's Casual Cycling Shorts

Aldi's Men's Casual Cycling Shorts represent phenomenally good value for money. Casual in this instance suggests more than just occasional scoots down to the pub; the shorts' looser, civilian looking cut is brilliant for commuting, touring and other contexts where figure-hugging Lycra would raise a few eyebrows.

A paltry £11.99 buys nicely cut knee-length outer shorts complete with single zippered pocket, adjustable waist and zippered fly, plus detachable liner. 

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Materials aren't cutting edge but will exceed most rider expectations from garments commanding a measly £12. The black with blue contrast outer short is made from a water repelling and relatively breathable polyester/elastane mix, whereas the detachable liner sports a medium density Coolmax antibacterial pad. The leg panels also feature a silver component to neutralise odour.

Elasticated hems and flatlock seams are another definite plus in the comfort stakes. Generally speaking, few liner shorts have failed to disappoint me, even those featuring in upper end longs. Some detachable types have gathered painfully in a matter of five miles, demanding a swift trip home and change.

These are detachable, allowing the outers to be worn with boxers as casual shorts, or paired with top drawer road shorts on longer rides. This was my default move off-road, having succumbed to a nasty case of saddle soreness after 30 miles' mixed terrain meandering. That said, for two to three-hour road biased riding/commuting and utility stuff, the OEM set are bang on.

Sizing is near as damn it accurate, although those like myself with a narrower waist and longer inseam (it's not me in the photos) will be pleased to note that belt loops and inner straps mean you can achieve a decent, flattering fit. Shape and hang is pretty chameleon-esque, working well with looser mountain biking/touring jersey and civvy-styled technical shirts.

The pocket is just roomy enough for a wallet/small smartphone or similar valuables, and discreet Scotchlite detailing is a nice nod in safety's direction. Being picky, I missed somewhere to park my hands when mooching about, but that's a bit of a tall ask at this end of the market.

In the saddle, I was initially conscious of some flutter at higher speeds but this was quickly forgotten, especially cruising at 15-17mph on tourers, hybrids and mountain bikes.

Showery rain tends to bead up and then roll away from the surface. Thunderstorms and persistent cloudburst will see them pretty soggy after 25 minutes or so, though the medium tog weight and polyester fibres kick in pretty quickly – they were touch dry after 20-25 minutes, less with a decent breeze. That's great news for touring, and they'll line-dry in similar timescales following machine washes.

> Read our guide to the best casual wear for cycle commuting

Used regularly off-road, frequent and occasionally savage scrapes with brambles and other foliage has made negligible impression – not even a bobble – and their ability to withstand 40 degree machine washes is another definite plus.

Ultimately, these have met their design brief and exceeded my expectations. I'd sooner pay a few quid more for additional pockets, but for plain clothes commuting, touring or just loafing about, it's hard to see where you'd go wrong with these.

Verdict

Surprisingly capable shorts for casual riding and general mooching about