Advnture Verdict
In dry conditions the BAM Standons are a comfortable and versatile pair of shorts for running, hiking or climbing in.
Pros
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Environmentally friendly
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Supremely comfortable
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Naturally odor resistant
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Breathable
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Moisture wicking
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Warm
Cons
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No inner
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Heavy
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Take a long time to dry
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BAM Standon Athletic Bamboo Shorts: first impressions
A multipurpose pair of shorts, BAM Standon Athletic Bamboo Shorts were easily the most comfortable shorts in our best trail running shorts test. The next-to-skin caress of the majority bamboo double-knit material used in this garment is sensational.
But it’s not all about the touchy feel factor here. Bamboo viscose is a high-performance fabric. It breathes well, wicks moisture away from the body and keeps bacteria and bad smells at bay, even after repeated use (see also BAM! The bamboo vs B.O. battle is about to begin). Along with the other main ingredient in these shorts, cotton, it’s also grown instead of being artificially made, and it will biodegrade at the end of its active life.
It is, however, considerably heavier than the synthetic materials used in the majority of other shorts we have tested on the trails, and if it gets wet that becomes much more of an issue – it will take much longer to dry, and the bamboo/cotton mix is no good for keeping you warm when wet.
• RRP: £44 (UK)
• Inseam length: 23cm / 9in
• Sizes available: S–XXL
• Weight (large): 344g / 12.1oz
• Materials: Bamboo Viscose (67%), Organic Cotton (27%) & Elastane (6%)
• Colors: Black / Charcoal Marl
BAM Standon Athletic Bamboo Shorts: on the trails
These shorts are not specifically intended for hiking or running, but in dry conditions, they do offer an interesting and comfortable option – so we took them out on the trails. We did this in a variety of conditions and, as noted above, the difference in performance is significant depending on whether the shorts remain dry or get wet.
In dry conditions they are exceptionally comfortable, wick sweat away and allow your body to breath well – despite being relatively thick. When wet, however, they weigh a lot, and take ages to dry.
There’s no liner, but you don’t necessarily need one, or you can wear performance underwear. We recommend the latter, and worn in conjunction with underwear these shorts can be donned for several adventures before they require laundering.
The BAM Standons feature two zipped hand pockets, one on either side, which is useful for securing things like car keys or other trail running essentials when you’re out on the trails. These shorts can just as easily be worn as a hiking short, or for running, or for climbing on outdoor crags in summer, and indoor walls in winter.
