REASONS TO BUY
Lightweight
Comfortable
Large functional pockets
REASONS TO AVOID
Plain style
Might be too long for some riders
Yeti Cycles Norrie Review
A comfortable and functional pair of shorts with useful pockets and a long enough inseam to work well with knee pads
Credit: Yeti
Our Verdict
Yeti's new version of the Norrie Short is more lightweight and breathable than earlier versions and has a significantly longer inseam, for additional protection and to accommodate knee pads. The style is subdued and you won't find any wild flair or patterns, but the adjustable waist and open legs make for a great fit. The large, zippered pockets hold everything you need on a ride. Two-way stretch and water-resistant polyester ensure a high level of comfort making it clear these shorts are made for long days on the trail.
Our Analysis and Test Results
Yeti's Norrie short is quite different than previous iterations, but it is still a high-performing short with an inseam long enough to work well with knee pads, lighter material for warm weather riding, and a super comfortable fit.
Performance Comparison
With a high level of comfort, the Yeti Norrie is made to ride.
Credit: Laurel Hunter
Fit and Comfort
The Norrie fits the same as previous versions of this short, though we recommend using the Yeti sizing chart to find your size. We tested an extra small in this model, while we chose a small in other brands. There is plenty of room in the legs for strong thighs, and the straight shape of the leg means they are comfortable with kneepads.
The Norrie has external webbing straps and buckles to customize fit around the waist. This design is minimal and easy to use without adding a ton of bulk to the waistband. Similar to how you tighten a backpack strap, simply pull the nylon webbing strap forward to tighten the waist and push back the buckle to loosen the webbing. The straps do not slip during a ride, and the ends are doubled over and sewn, making them easy to grip, even with gloves on, should you want to adjust them while riding.
Simple but effective webbing waist adjustment on the Norrie shorts.
Credit: Laurel Hunter
The high back on the waistband of the Norrie, along with the pattern of silicon stripes on the inside providing a no-slip grip, means that you don't need to worry about your shorts slipping down your backside as you ride.
The fabric is noticeably lighter than earlier versions of the Norrie, making them appropriate for warm weather riding. Additionally, there are small ventilation holes on the top of the thighs that add some breathability.
Small ventilation holes in the Norrie.
Credit: Laurel Hunter
Pedal Friendliness
Yeti uses 2-way stretch material throughout the Norrie, with meshed lined pockets. The material is quiet when pedaling and flexes perfectly with each pedal stroke. The inside of the polyester is a soft, almost fleecy material that glides really well and keeps the legs from riding up.
Protection
While this new version of the Norrie is constructed of polyester that is lighter weight than previous versions, it still provides adequate protection against typical trail hazards like grabbing branches. Some riders may find the 13 1/2 inch inseam to be too long, but if you wear knee pads or just like protection from the elements the length is useful. The water-resistant coating worked perfectly to repel splashes of water, but for colder weather or very technical trails, you may want to look at shorts constructed of heavier weight material.
The 13 1/2 inch inseam on the Yeti Norrie provides ample protection from grabby branches and other trail hazards.
Credit: Laurel Hunter
Pockets
The Norrie has two open hand pockets and two large zippered pockets — one on the outside of each leg. The zippered pockets are big enough to hold an iPhone and some lip balm, or a few snacks and extra gear. Because the pockets are so large and made with stretchy mesh, a phone can actually swing around a bit when walking or standing. This wasn't as noticeable on the bike, and if you are someone who likes to carry a lot in pockets, you'll appreciate the generous carrying capacity.
The hand pockets are handy for casual use, pre-or post-ride. We don't recommend placing anything inside of pockets without zippers while riding, having lost a few items after bouncing around a trail. However, we do appreciate having hand pockets for casual use.
The Yeti Norrie has zippered pockets on the side of each leg that are large enough to hold all kinds of things while the open hand pockets are great for casual use.
Credit: Laurel Hunter
Style
The Norrie is understated and practical in its style. There are small hits of color on the zipper pulls and a colored fabric tag on one leg, but the overall appearance is not flashy. They fit well and function perfectly, but do not exude any playful or distinctive features, colors, or patterns. The seams and shape of the pockets exhibit a strong angularity, but otherwise, these shorts are performance-driven.
The Yeti Norrie is long enough to wear with knee pads.
Credit: Laurel Hunter
Value
The price tag for these shorts falls on the high side of average. The Norrie is a solid pair of shorts that provides functionality, durability, and a great fit. We'd say they are a great value.
Conclusion
Yeti is clearly rider-focused and the Norrie is comfortable and protective in all the right ways. The ample pockets easily hold snacks, phones, and keys. They are not the most stylish but if you only want to buy one pair of mountain bike shorts, this might be the answer.
—
Laurel Hunter
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