NUKEPROOF BLACKLINE
£80 www.hotlines-uk.com
When we first reviewed the Blackline pants back in 2019, we awarded them a full five stars, as they were the best pants we’d ridden in at that point. Despite some fierce competition hitting the market since then, they continue to be some of our favourites, although they couldn’t quite hold onto the top spot this time around. Their tapered cut ensures that, even if you have stumpy legs like our tester and some material does gather at the ankle, they’re just about tight enough around the shins that this goes unnoticed, even when weighed down by mud. The four-way stretch fabric allows unrestricted pedalling, and a DWR coating repels puddle splashes and light showers, which is handy when riding in mixed conditions in colder weather. Nukeproof have included two zipped hip pockets and nothing more, and that’s fine by us. Both are big enough to stash a phone in, and hold the contents securely enough that they won’t hinder pedalling or shift about as you throw your weight around. There’s even a key fob inside the left pocket – a nice touch to boost peace of mind. Twin Velcro waist adjusters allow you to alter the fit. Once cinched up comfortably, you feel properly locked into these trousers, so even when sodden and muddy we had no issues with them slipping down or needing to be readjusted. It helps that the back of the waist is raised and there’s silicone print on the inside for grip. A zipped fly with double popper means the Blacklines won’t be falling down any time soon either. Overall, it’s quite astonishing what Nukeproof are offering for the money, so it’s no surprise that just about everyone in the MBUK office (except for long-legged editor JCW) owns a pair.