Stio Women’s Goodwin Short 5″

Review by Kate Agathon

This season, the updated wear-anywhere Stio Women’s Goodwin Short 5” features a softer feel and a roomier fit.

Since casual shorts with built-in belts are the rage this spring, I was eager to try the Stio Women’s Goodwin Short 5”.

Compared to others, the simplicity of the design immediately stood out to me because they weren’t weighted down with cargo pockets, the belt and fabric combinations were aesthetically pleasing, the fabric texture was not too stiff, and the 5” length was just right.

Look and Fit

Not too long and not too short, the shorts were just the right length and draped nicely.

I have a similar pair of 5” shorts that get bunched up when I sit down and make my hips appear wider when I wear them. Thankfully, the Stio Women’s Goodwin Short 5” draped nicely and remained in place when I sat down.

The midrise waist is flattering and the integrated belt adds a bit of style, which is absolutely on trend for this season.

Despite the regular fit, I recommend sizing up.

I typically wear a size small, but in this case the size medium was the way to go. Even then, they felt a little tight, but after loosening the integrated belt, I was able to dial in the fit.

The shorts also include a logo snap and zippered front fly. Having to unfasten the belt and then unsnap and unzip just seemed like a couple of unnecessary steps. I prefer a pull on waist for ultimate ease of use, but that’s just me. At this stage in my life, I’m all about ease.

Responsibly Made

Constructed from ReGuster™ Crinkled Ripstop Nylon, the crinkled texture provided a softer feel than notably stiffer fabric used by others. In other words, they felt comfortable right away and did not require a breaking in time.

The updated fabric also utilizes an increased amount of recycled materials that feels more softer and less rigid and artificial to the skin.

Finally, the shorts have a PFSAS-Free DWR finish that resists water, dries quickly, and contributes to the light weight feeling.

Details

• Mesh lined pockets
• Encased elastic waistband
• Interior loop stores keys
• Drop in hand pockets
• Zippered back pocket
• Custom Stio® snap closure and zippered fly
• Heat transfer Stio® and pinecone logos

My overall impression is that these are fun, casual shorts that do not appear overly technical. Thanks to its built-in belt, they look a bit more stylish and drape well.

The Stio Women’s Goodwin Short is available in two inseams (5” and 3”), five sizes (XS to XL) and four colors (Hot Sauce, Canyon Rock, Mudslide, and Boundless).

Kate Agathon

Dr. Of Stoke

Freelance writer, bicyclist, outdoor recreation enthusiast, and mom to her furbabies, Sansa and Benjen.

 

A Colorado native, Kate considers the outdoors her mother ship. She brings her passion for bicycling, the environment to her writing.

Her primary outdoor recreation activities are mountain biking, road biking, nordic skiing, alpine skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, and peak bagging Colorado’s 14ers. She and her husband, Paul, live in Summit County with their dogs, Benjen and Sansa.

Kate earned a BA in History from Colorado State University and later an MSEd and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Purdue University. In addition to her education, Kate’s background serving two terms on the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Committee and experience working for non-profits and bicycle sales well position her to bring depth and understanding to the complex changes currently taking place in the outdoor recreation industry.

The Dr. of Stoke has been part of the Engearment team since 2016.