Off-Set Rear Pockets

The offset and deep rear pockets do not interfere with the saddle while cruising about. Hold on, you’re saying that rear pockets don’t have to be rendered useless while riding? I’m listening. Okay, I might not use rear pockets to their full stash advantage as I usually have a bag in tow, but now I’m given the option to actually have access to store my trinkets (phone, chapstick, cash) or ground scores. I’ll take it! I don’t know about you, but sometimes items left in my front pockets end up unexpectedly stabbing me (I’m looking at you chapstick tube). Nobody needs a surprise pocket stabbing while maneuvering through city traffic.

Reflective Piping

The reflective scalloped piping added to the left ankle cuff and left rear pocket offers a nice glimmer when hit with light and another visual cue to driver’s that there’s a cyclist ahead. Apparel with reflective features for your early morning and nighttime commutes add another level of safety coupled with lights. Be seen out there, riders!  

Crotch Seam No More

My gripe with other commuter specific jeans I own or have tried is the crotch seam. Shebeest has done away with the pesky seam and designed the jean with a crotch gusset. The gusset makes a huge difference in terms of extended comfort in the saddle. Another added feature to the gusset is that it is fleece-lined giving a little more cushion down below. Worried about chafing on that long commute? Worry no more, friends.

What do I love most about the crost gusset? It is reminiscent and constructed in a manner to my favorite mountain bike baggies. The gusset has a bit of stretch so while pedaling the whole jean is working with you and not against you.

The jean material is 97% cotton and 3% spandex offering just the right amount of stretch when out on the streets. Standard jeans, especially skinny jeans,  definitely restrict leg extension and movement. The cotton-fiber and spandex blend is also incredibly light and breathable.

Tall Back Waist

Do you find yourself checking to make sure your shirt is covering your back because the waist on your pants just isn’t quite high enough while riding? The Skinny Americano will eliminate the constant shirt tug because it is designed to put this annoyance at bay and allow you to focus on the road ahead. The tall back waist sits high enough that when you are leaned over on your bike it doesn’t fall in the “danger zone” - your backside is covered. Ride on in confidence - your rear is in the clear.

Lining Details

The inside of the waistband is lined with a polyester fabric which I found got rid of the waist pinch and rub I feel in regular jeans. The lining also sticks with the polkadot them or perhaps you’ll end up with Shebeest’s beloved houndstooth lining pattern.

The first time I placed my hands in the front pockets I had one of those “oooooh, this is nice” moments. The polka-dotted polyester lining feels good to the touch both on the fingertips and on the legs.

Overall Thoughts

Coming in at $115.00 MSRP might cause sticker shock, but the comfort ithe jean provides and the quality construction is worth the cost. These jeans are made to last. The pattern is lively and fun, but I would love to see solid colors in the Skinny Americano line-up. The sizing, depending on rider preference - loose versus a tighter feel - seems true to size (XS - XL). The size S that I put some miles on had just the right amount of waist and leg room, which has been difficult to find that balance in other commuter-specific jeans. I’ve found myself sizing up in the waist in order to find the right leg fit for my thunder thighs with other brands, but these jeans actually fit my cyclist trunk. Ladies, give these jeans a whirl - you won’t be disappointed...just be ready for all the compliments you’ll be receiving as you ride on by!

Jennah Dunham is a higher education professional, coffee and stout addict, transplant to Asheville, NC via Chicago, singletrack shredder, and climber of the steepest roads and mountains in Western North Carolina. She rides for the thrill of competition, freedom to explore and to eat all the pizza and cookies. You can follow Jennah's two-wheeled adventures via Instagram: @jennah_dunham.