Chrome Vanya Knickers
Review: Chrome Vanya Knickers
By Inge Wortman | Published Apr 27, 2011
We Liked
Chrome has been providing quality, indestructible messenger bags and clothing to the cycling crowd for over 16 years. Originally founded in Colorado, Chrome moved out west to San Francisco to join the urban cycling scene. On a mission to find something indestructible to bike with, the company founders began to create bags from the toughest material they could get their hands on: salvaged furniture vinyl and seatbelt straps.
The Chrome line has since evolved to include signature features such as the functional seatbelt buckle, which was born out of sheer necessity. Tired of pulling the bags over their heads, the founders decided that they needed something super tough to act as a quick release system. After harvesting seatbelt buckles from abandoned cars at the salvage yards, the first prototype for the signature buckle messenger was born.
The Vanya knickers speak true to Chrome's manifesto of functional design and utility. With four pockets and a cargo zip, there are plenty of spots to stash your stuff during a ride. The front pocket lining is constructed with a nylon mesh, similar to what you would see on a high-end pair of pro basketball shorts. This dense mesh is soft and highly breathable while still being able to accommodate a lot of gear. The pockets, along with most of the interior seams are overlock stitched to provide a soft edge, preventing any chafing or rubbing. Reinforced pockets with contrast stitching and double-headed rivets add to the utilitarian look, providing a smooth, no snag edge.
Fashion and function meet comfort. The Everest 4 way stretch fabric on the Vanya looks stylish while almost having the same stretch as pair of lycra cycling shorts. This is perfect for those times when you don't want to look like you just got off of your bike. The fashionable rugged denim exterior fabric repels water and mud while at the same time being as comfortable as your favorite pair of jeans.
Like many of the Chrome products, the Vanya Knickers are designed and made in the US. The pants have a cargo-esque cut, with the solid front leg panels made from a single cut. Cyclists will appreciate fewer seams, combined with a breathable strip of brushed fleece material that runs along the inner thigh, reducing seam rubbing and hotspots on the interior of the pants. The curved leg cuffs are very flattering, with darts stitched at the knee to help conform to the articulation of the knee.
The knickers are accented with Chrome's signature red, including the mesh pockets, embroidered Griffin logo, and stitched detail on the waist and back pockets. The black and red Griffin logo, which is way cool, was designed over a decade ago by a close Chrome friend. The Vanyas are available in Charcoal and Blue-steel, but I would like to see the designers incorporate some of the other Chrome signature colors, such as black or the Petrol-Blue found on the Men's Champ jacket. Also, mixing up the Griffin for a limited edition run would be fun, such as a pink embroidered Griffin for women's line.
Chrome went to great lengths to ensure the quality control of their sizing. The sizing for the Vanya knickers is true to size. We tested a pair of large Vanya's, which are for the 10-12 size range. We gave the pants to a women that was a size 10, as well as to a women that was a size 12. Afterwards, both women reported that the pants fit fine and neither of the evaluators wanted to give the knickers back! As female cyclists come in all shapes and sizes, the forgiving 4-way stretch of the Everest fabric truly does ensure a comfortable fit.
We Didn't Like
As cyclists, we like to see gear and clothing that has safety incorporated as part of the design. Chrome's designers have already started to include reflective details on their men's Loop Pro Knicker, and we would also like to see them added to the the Vanyas. The pant cuff (front and back), belt loops, pockets and logos are all prime real estate for a little visibility enhancement. Reflective piping running along the seam of front and back leg panels would also be ideal. A girl can never have enough reflectivity when heading out on a Friday night!
The Vanyas are cut for a women's curves, with a low rise in the front and back. While the low rise works in the front, the low cut in the back can make a lady feel a bit exposed while on a road bike. Increase the rise in the back or toss in an adjustable belt and you have the perfect pair of knickers!
The Final Say
The Vanyas are versatile pair of rugged knickers that would serve a woman well, whether at work, the mountain bike trails, the local crit, or heading off to the bars. Fun red accents add some kick to the Blue-steel canvas, while double-headed rivets bring on the nuts and bolts feel. The pants offer stretch while maintaining their shape, and are surprisingly über comfortable considering that the outside material is so durable and rough. If you are on a plane, train, or bike, at work, or working out, these knickers will serve you well.
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Vitals
- Manufacturer
- Chrome
- Model
- Vanya
- MSRP
- $120.00
- Website
- Vanya Knickers
- Weight
- 1 lb.
- Materials
- Everest 4-way stretch performance fabric with nylon mesh pockets.
- Sizes
- XS (Size 0-2), S (Size 4-6), M (Size 8-10), L (Size 10-12)
- Fit
- Athletic
- Colors
- Available in Blue-Steel or Charcoal
- Serviceability
- Machine wash cold and tumble dry on the low setting. Use a warm iron if needed. I let my Vanya's air dry after washing, and that seemed to work well.
- Installation
Just slip them on and you are ready to ride!
- Design
The Vanya knickers have 4 pockets that are accented with red contrast stiching and double-headed rivets for extra durability. Additional zippered cargo pocket has plenty of room to to stash money, keys or a cell phone. Double-stiched tonal stitching throughout the pant reinforces the seams, while a red embroidered Chrome Griffin logo accents the right pant leg. Strategically placed darts at the knees enable free-flowing movement.
Photos (10)
