Rab's Escape range is aimed at the everyday, and the Rival shorts lean more to the down days than the active adventures. But they have the features and construction - as you'd expect from Rab - to cope with the rigours of travel.
"Is that a cotton thread hanging off your shorts?" I was once asked by a 'friend'. "Oh no, it's your leg." Skinny legs and baggy shorts don't mix, so my first observation was Rab have got the fit spot on for the active traveller; neat and slim.
This also makes the Rival short perfectly versatile for travel; from daytime activities through to evening drinks and even a casual dinner, you won't stand out as the grubby guy who's just left the trail.
Great design also means Rab can squeeze 6 pockets into these shorts without ruining the trim silhouette - cargo pockets often result in an unsightly bulge, but Rab have managed to maintain the low profile while maximising storage. Four of the pockets are also buttoned, which adds some security for travellers too.
OK, they're smart, but that doesn't preclude them from hitting the hills either. Although Rab don't market these as technical hiking shorts, the durable cotton/polyamide fabric will stand a beating, and while it isn't quick drying, will suit warmer climates well.
My new go-to shorts for warm-weather travels, and low level activities given their hardy construction. Rather pricey, but given they can almost do it all, the price tag represents pretty good value.
