Roark Layover Pro Traveler Shorts Review: TSA-Friendly Shorts

Let’s dive into the Roark Layover Pro Traveler Shorts, the shorts version of the Layover Traveler pants. Here’s the thing: there was no shock value to how the waist fit since I already knew what to expect from the popular performance pants.

But what’s the difference, between these warm-weather alternative bottoms to the best-selling pants from Roark? In this review, learn a bit about why these could come as your single-pair-of-shorts choice on your next tropical adventure.

Why I chose the Layover Pro Traveler Shorts

After experiencing the success of the Roark Layover Pro Traveler Pants, I was curious about the shorts version. The shorts caught my attention because they promised the same TSA-friendly waistband and performance fabric in a more casual, warm-weather product.

What makes the Layover Pro Traveler Shorts special

If you’re familiar with other products from Roark, and even if you’re not, a lot of what Roark makes is in the fabric and the features. With Roark features, it’s always how to adventure better, through their apparel. The shorts are unique because:

• Gusset crotch: The best feature is actually the gusset crotch for flexibility when bending down. When shorts and pants have a gusseted crotch, I take them seriously, and they last way longer than traditional seams.
• TSA-friendly waistband: No more removing your belt at security (in the US): the hybrid waistband eliminates metal components while maintaining a flexible and snug fit. That’s why it is TSA-friendly!
• Embarq Dura-Stretch fabric: The 4-way stretch performance blend moves with you and maintains its shape through long travel days. If you saw it in the pants, you’ll see it in the shorts, too.
• Thoughtful pocket design: Phone stash back pocket and travel zip pockets keep my essentials like my phone, Ridge wallet and passport secure and accessible.

The gusset crotch is the standout feature

It’s the #1 benefit of these shorts from Roark.

Here’s what I mean: the best feature of the Layover Traveler Shorts is actually the gusset crotch. I need a gusset for bending down, as I’m always chasing my toddler or bending down to pick up the baby.

For someone like me, who, over the years, has seen the crotch of my pants split first whereby the rest of the garment stays intact, the gusset helps preserve the entire thing.

Now that we travel as a family, I’m basically always doing something like bending down, and going back up and down again. Or crouching: it’s nonstop with lots of crouching. I won’t be wearing any shorts (nor pants) that DON’T have a gusset down there, for flexibility and strength.

Fit and sizing

The waist sizing is consistent with the pants, which I already knew worked well for me. The moment I put the pants on, it was a win: the waist was true to size, the legs were relaxed, but had a vibe. With the shorts, it is the same thing, but with the 7.75” inseam, which is pretty standard in terms of outdoorsy styles.

However, I do find that they run a bit wide in the legs. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it’s worth noting if you prefer a more fitted look. The standard fit with the 18” outseam and 7.75” inseam works well me. I’m 5’9” and about 165 lbs

Then again, I rarely wear shorts that are a “version” of relaxed travel pants, so these are a singular thing for me. I am usually wearing cuffed denim from Levi’s or trim performance shorts from Bluffworks as my one pair during trips.

Performance fabric and comfort

The “Embarq Dura-Stretch” blend provides good movement and comfort. The 4-way stretch moves naturally with your body, whether you’re sitting in cramped airplane seats or walking through town. The fabric maintains its shape well through long days of wear.

The laser-perforated cooling back panel provides some ventilation, which is helpful during warm weather. The fabric feels substantial without being heavy, and the certified organic cotton in the blend gives it a comfortable feel against you as you’re wearing them.

Smart pocket design for travelers

The pocket layout is designed with travelers in mind. The phone stash back pocket is sized for modern phones (they keep getting so big!) and keeps them secure during movement. The travel zip pockets on the front are useful for boarding passes, credit cards or other small essentials I need quick access to.

The pockets are positioned thoughtfully in that the phone pocket won’t interfere with sitting or walking, and the front zip pockets are easily accessible without being in the way. Because I got the shorts in black, my wallet doesn’t show through too much, like it does on tighter styles. I always keep this in mind when trying to avoid pickpockets.

My wallet has even made an ever-lasting imprinted area of fabric wear on some shorts and pants that I own.

Build quality and care

The construction feels solid and well-thought-out. The reinforced belt loops are a nice touch, and the stitching is durable.

For washing, it is straightforward: machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low, and cool iron if needed. Like I mention in other reviews, Becca does all our laundry and tends to hang these dry because of the fabric composition.

Do I recommend them?

Here’s the thing: I like the Layover Traveler Shorts, but they run a dab wide in the legs. I don’t really think it’s a con, it’s more of a style and comfort thing. On super hot days, it’s kind of nice to wear and not feel constricted by more fitted styles that I’ve had in the past.

On the positive side, the gusset crotch is essential for my lifestyle with young kids, and the TSA-friendly waistband is a nice bonus for travel and generally in real life, not needing a belt (or you can still use one if you really need it).

The Roark Traveler Shorts are a solid choice for warm-weather travel, especially if you need the flexibility that the gusset provides. If you are down with the inseam, the outseam length and the leg opening, then I think you’d do well with these shorts in your pack for your next getaway.

Quick takeaways

• The gusset crotch is essential for flexibility when bending down and crouching.
• TSA-friendly waistband eliminates airport security hassles.
• 4-way stretch fabric moves naturally and maintains its shape.
• Thoughtful pocket design keeps essentials secure and accessible.
• Standard fit works well, but legs run a bit wide.
• Good choice for family travel and active trips.

The Roark Layover Pro Traveler Shorts are a solid choice for travelers who need flexibility and comfort, especially those with active lifestyles or young children.

Comparison with similar products

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