Lycra shorts with a synthetic chamois pad are unbeatable for comfort on the bike, but no one wants to run into that guy at the grocery store or coffee shop. Cut offs over bike shorts are nothing new, but there is now a plethora of specialty riding overshorts available for those not looking to strut around in lycra, or just looking for some pockets.

Chrome Folsom Short

Price: $120

Sizes: 28”, 30”, 32”, 34”

Inseam: 11”

Fabric: 4-way stretch

Features: Seamless gusseted double layer crotch, u-lock holster, reflective rear patch.

The heavy 4-way stretch fabric and double layer crotch of the Chrome Folsom shorts are designed with all day, every day wear in mind. Not a true pad, the double crotch does make riding without padded shorts more comfortable. The water resistant fabric sheds light rain and splashes, and four deep pockets have room for your daily needs. A webbed lock holster holds a full sized u-lock, but isn’t adjustable to fit a smaller shackle. Reinforced belt loops won’t tear out, but a belt does block the reflective maker’s patch on the right hip. Weekend camping trips or a couple of days on the road is where these really shine. www.chromeindustries.com

Club Ride Pin’It

Price: $80

Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, XL

Inseam: 12”

Fabric: PowerWeave

Features: Seamless crotch gusset, zippered side pocket, raised rear waistband.

The navy blue and pin stripe Club Ride Pin’It shorts are the best looking shorts I own, cycling or otherwise, and see a fair bit of casual use aside from riding. The fabric is the lightest weight of the bunch, breathable, quick drying and with just a bit of stretch. Four standard issue pockets and a zippered cell phone pocket help you carry the goods, though the pockets are shallower than I’d prefer and I added my own velcro closure to help keep my wallet in place. The wide waistband is comfortable and has internal button adjustments to wear without a belt. www.clubrideapparel.com

Giro New Road 40M Tech Overshort

Price: $120

Sizes: Slim and Regular 28”, 30”, 32”, 34”, 36”

Inseam: 11”

Fabric: 4-way stretch

Features: Side and crotch gussets, adjustable waistband, zippered side pocket.

Nylon and spandex side and crotch panels and a lack of conventional pockets make it clear that the Giro New Road 40M Tech Overshort is designed with riding in mind first. This is made in California performance clothing, but without the race kit. Stretch fabric throughout means the 40M doesn’t bind or catch while riding, and the hydrophobic coating helps shed rain when the sky opens. The small key pocket and zippered cell pouch limit you to the bare essentials, and make casual wear less convenient. Five sizes, with regular and slim fit in each, gives an unmatched number of options in fit. www.giro.com

Cutoff Work Pants

Price: $0

Sizes: Guaranteed Fit

Inseam: Custom

Fabric: Inexpensive cotton

Features: Broken in, familiar pockets, low price.

Perhaps not the best choice if you’re buying new just to cut into shorts, but the pants you last painted in will do the trick for free or close to it. The cut-to-length inseam is the correct length every time, the worn fabric perfect for wiping your greasy hands on guilt-free. Raised seams can cause chafing problems for some people, and you’ll eventually retire the shorts when you wear through them or blow out the crotch. Cut offs might be your only option if your waist is more than 36” around. The price is right and there is no shortage of old pants just waiting for a set of scissors.