triumph united iceberg shorts
sizing = 10/10 these shorts fit true to size, and the drawstring helps for those who are slimming down.
comfort = 8/10 no stretch panels take away a bit in terms of the comfort, but it still performs the way i like it. they are the second shortest in terms of length, with about a 3.5" split seam. i noticed that they "caught" a few times when my legs were in odd angles, but nothing that was a dealbreaker. they are still great shorts, but a stretch panel would have helped in my opinion. some of the less flexible guys at my gym had no problems with these shorts, but as i am a bit more flexible than the majority there, i noticed an issue with comfort. the over the top enclosure for velcro is also a favorite of mine and helps to prevent the velcro from skin irritation for those of you that roll without a rashguard.
construction = 8/10 i love the triple stitching on the inseam and outer areas, and the velcro is tough as nails. the logos and lettering hold up very well, no bunching issues here. some of the stitching came loose on the triumph logo, but that was my dumbass fault because the velcro caught on the logo and pried some threads. again i have an issue with no stretch panels but these shorts are great. the mouth guard pocket is also big enough to fit my custom guard in which is a plus.
overall = 8/10 i love these shorts, and will buy triumphs next line of shorts without a doubt if they come with stretch panels. the split seams are just long enough not to turn the shorts into something that melvin manhoeff would wear to a fight.
final verdict = clinch gears are the most comfortable shorts i have worn. once i get to a natural 32, another pair would be purchased without hesitation, unless an adjustable wasitband version comes out that is similar to sprawls without the huge side splits. the only thing that doesnt make them a perfect 10 is the lack of leeway in terms of waist sizing. a lot of people out there are "in betweeners" where a size up would be a little too loose, and a size down would feel too constricting. triumphs and 40 thieves are also great shorts, with only minor annoyances, and that's only because i'm a nitpicking bastard. i'd recommend all of these brands to anyone who wants to train. i havent given the industry standard sprawl a try yet, but i will once their vflex closed seam shorts restock.