AllOutdoor Review – Proof Rover EDC Shorts

By Patrik Orcutt

Last year, Huckberry sent me out a pair of their, at the time, new Proof Rover EDC Shorts. I make it a point to find gear that is as durable and well-organized as it is comfortable, given how much time I put in outdoors, be it for a hike, some work around the property or the usual daily errands. So I was keen to give them a try and see how functional these shorts could be for me in daily life. After putting over a year of regular use on these shorts from spring in Alabama and Florida to summer day trips down the river in Maine, the Rovers have been pretty much everywhere I have been.

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The Proof Rover EDC Shorts were provided by Huckberry for this review and while I am allowed to keep them after the conclusion of this review, this will not change my opinion on any of their current or future products. Proof and Huckberry have not been allowed to preview this article prior to its publication. I have been rocking these shorts for the last Year and have taken them on fishing trips, hikes and on an extended Canoe trip. 

Specs – Proof Rover EDC Shorts


Inseam: 7”
Fit: Athletic/straight with a gusseted crotch
Fabric: A blend of cotton and poly with Lycra for stretch; it is a durable canvas-type material
Pockets: You get seven of them between the front hand pockets, back zip and welt, an internal key clip, a hidden zip for security, and a spot for a knife or Phone on the right thigh.
Price: $98 or so

Design and Everyday Performance – Rover EDC Shorts

 

There is a clean versatility to the Rover EDC that suits an active day as well as casual wear. The fabric has a bit of heft to it without being heavy or in your way, and the Lycra provides the kind of range of motion you want when you are out hiking or even just climbing in and out of the truck. If they do get wet they are quick to dry, and I have not seen them fade or go out of shape after repeated washes.

But what you will notice is the pocket arrangement. Seven in all, and each has its job. The front ones are roomy. There is an internal pocket for keys so they don’t jingle, and a concealed zippered one on the right for your phone or wallet. I like the knife clip / Phone pocket on the right thigh, it holds my phone perfectly and is the most comfortable place to carry it on any shorts I have worn. The layout is similar to what you will find on any Kuhl pants or shorts, and that’s a big win in my opinion.

With the two back pockets to top it off, you can have your multitool, wallet and whatnot on you without any of it feeling cumbersome. It is the sort of organization that means you are less apt to be digging around for things and more prepared for the day, no matter where you find yourself.

Comfort and Versatility – Proof Rover EDC Shorts

They have been with me in good measure over the warmer months. On a hot summer hike the airflow is good enough to keep you cool, and on the water during a river trip they don’t cling and dry in no time. I wore them a lot last summer on many outdoor projects i was working on as well.  Around town or doing chores, they don’t have that overt “tactical” feel to them.  The 7-inch inseam is a happy medium and the fit is athletic but never tight. My girlfriend has said more than once they look good on me, which is always welcome. The neutral tones and cut make them easy to put together with whatever you have on top.

Build Quality – Proof RoverEDC Shorts

You can tell the construction is sound. The zippers and buttons have been reliable, and the seams are reinforced where they need to be. I haven’t been hard on them yet, but there is little sign of wear after plenty of outdoor time, and they still hold their color.

What I Like
The pocket layout is as useful as it is well considered for EDC. The fabric is breathable and gives you good mobility. The build is solid and the overall look is versatile.

Final Thoughts – Proof RoverEDC Shorts

If you want something that can take a real pounding while keeping you organized and at ease, the Proof Rover EDC is worth a look. For the price, the pocket setup is among the best I have come across in a pair of shorts. Whether I am on the trail or just running about, they make it easy to have what I need. They have become one of my first choices for the warm weather and I have been pleased with the pair from Huckberry.

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