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Motorcycle pants are not just another outfit. They are part of your safety gear when riding your motorbike.
You’re in the right place if finding the right pair of motorcycle pants is what you’ll like to do. This article shows you the top options currently available in the market.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Motorcycle Pants
- OUR TOP PICK: Oxford Super Leggings
- RUNNER-UP: Klim K Fifty 1 Jeans
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Scorpion EXO Covert Pro Jeans
Comparison of the Best Motorcycle Pants
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Why Motorcycle Pants Are a Must
ATGATT (all the gear, all the time) is not just a mere acronym in the world of motorcyclists and enthusiasts. Instead, it serves as a reminder to put safety first.
Interestingly, many riders will invest in gloves, boots, and helmets but neglect to buy motorcycle pants. These wears are extremely important for the following reasons:
What Jeans Will Do in a Motorcycle Crash
Here’s the thing, motorcyclists are more prone to abrasion than car drivers in case of crashes. Sliding across pavement without a pair of riding jeans can cause some serious problems for your knees, hips, or backside.
Motorcycle pants may not prevent accidents (just as helmets don’t) but can resist abrasion and reduce the overall impact.
Minimize Impact
Crashes are common, regardless of how careful you are. Therefore motorcyclists need to prepare for impact. One of the ways to protect your knees and hips from the impact of crashes is wearing a suitable motorcycle pant.
Protection
Motorcycle pants don’t only protect impact, but they also keep you warm on long rides when the weather unexpectedly starts to drop. Some of these pants have windproof and waterproof designs, making them very useful in wet or adverse conditions.
What Should I Look For When Buying Motorcycle Pants?
Resist the urge to buy just about any pants. These wears are not all the same, regardless of their similar appearance. Look for the following features when shopping for one.
Fabric
Choose pants made with strong textiles such as nylon and polyester. The fabric strength is measured in denier. Keep an eye out for products constructed using at least a 400 denier fabric.
Armor
You want to choose options with protective padding at high-impact zones, such as the hips, knees, and backside. Invest in motorcycle pants with the highest-quality armor at the most vulnerable spots.
Ventilation
Pants that make you all sweaty are uncomfortable, and you’re less likely to wear them during your rides. While thermal lining is an important feature in your motorcycle jeans, it is also crucial to choose a product with a breathable fabric.
For improved comfort, choose pants with vents or mesh sections that allow airflow. Also, waterproof and windproof pants should be on your radar.
Fit
Although motorcycle pants are not your typical denim jeans, they should offer some good fit. Look for options with an adjustable waist, and ensure you choose one that fits snuggly without bunching up behind your knees or around your hips.
Review of the Best Motorcycle Pants
We’ve rounded up the best motorcycle pants to make it a tad easier for you to pick one (or more) that suit your riding needs.
Best Overall:
Oxford Super Leggings
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customer reviews indicate that buyers generally think that the legging-style motorcycle pants are comfortable and provide good protection. It is not the best choice in warm weather but great for colder months. However, many ladies say it is a struggle getting into the leggings because it has no zipper.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It can be a bit tricky to find great motorcycle pants that truly work for ladies, but Oxford solved that problem with this option that comes in a wide assortment of sizes and lengths for women.
It has a CE level 2 knee protector for impact reduction. Unlike most traditional motorcycle pants that are available as jeans or leather, this one is a legging that offers the comfort of a yoga pant and the protection of a riding pant.
You can wear this legging on its own or under casual clothing. No doubt, this option offers amazing fit and comfort.
Bottom Line
We highly recommend the Oxford Super Leggings for ladies who value their comfort during bike rides and are looking for a practical motorcycle pant. This option comes with a knee protector, but you’ll have to order a hip protector separately.
Runner-up:
Klim K Fifty 1 Jeans
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
K Fifty 1 enjoys lots of positive reviews from satisfied buyers. It has a good fit and is comfortable, but most importantly, users say it offers good protection. The outside shell can withstand several slides on the pavement and remain intact because of the heavy-duty material. Overall, buyers like it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Klim proves once and for all that safety and fashion are not mutually exclusive with the stonewash finish K Fifty 1 motorcycle jeans. With its heavy-duty Cordura exterior, the pants can take a whole lot of punishment without flinching.
The slide zones are fitted with reinforced Kevlar panels, but the main highlight is the D30 Evo armor infused into the knee and hip for maximum protection. Besides, you can adjust the knee protection to make it even more effective.
Klim also integrated Poron XRD impact foam to protect your backside in crash situations, and it doesn’t feel awkwardly substantial.
Bottom Line
K Fifty 1 is cooler than many Kevlar riding pants. You’ll enjoy the feel even up to 85oF provided you are not held up in traffic for too long. But it’s quite heavy, so it can get uncomfortable in hot weather.
Best for the Money:
Scorpion EXO Covert Pro Jeans
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers say the pants feel comfortable in both hot and cold weather. They fit well, look great, and offer good abrasion resistance. However, there are complaints about the position of the knee pockets. Some buyers say it is too low and can go down to the shin when seated.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Covert Pro Jeans is constructed from a heavy denim material that offers impressive impact protection. It is a straight-cut riding pant that fits well even in a bent-knee position.
Unlike other pants, this one is fitted with an abrasion-resistant Kevlar lining from the waist down to the knees. It spots the traditional 5-pocket design and has knee-armor and hip pockets for optional pads.
One of its most outstanding features is the Night Viz reflective material at the rear of the pants. This lets you ride confidently in low light conditions or at night because other road users can easily spot you.
Bottom Line
Buy this if you want an affordable riding pant that offers adequate impact protection yet looks like regular heavy-duty jeans. The baggy-size motorcycle pants work well for urban riders who want superior abrasion resistance without necessarily bothering about knee armors.
Best Leather Motorcycle Pants:
Alpinestars Missile Airflow Pants
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Alpinestars Missile Airflow Pants has quite a several positive customer reviews across most major online stores, with many buyers rating it very highly. From the new leather smell to the fitment and class-leading protection, the product seems to meet many motorcycle riders' needs. Buyers love these riding pants.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are lots of astounding features about the Missile Airflow motorcycle pants that make it one of the best options available.
First, it is constructed with durable, full-grain leather that provides first-rate abrasion resistance. For knee and shin protection, the riding pant has removable pads that offer maximum safety. Plus, it has a hip pocket for optional hip armor.
The accordion stretch zones just above the knee area give you ample flexibility during rides. This is not one of those pants with loosely sewn seams. Alpinestars reinforced this pant with multiple stitching, so you don’t have to bother about tears anytime soon.
Bottom Line
If you have deep pockets or simply want to splurge on the best leather motorcycle pants, the Missile Airflow Pants is a good place to start. You can expect unparalleled performance and top-of-the-line impact protection, considering its high price tag.
Best Mesh Motorcycle Pants:
Olympia Airglide 4 Pants
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The Airglide 4 riding pant seems to check many boxes for many buyers, with its impressive impact protection features and durable construction. The biggest gripe with this pant is the length, as it doesn’t seem to work for many buyers, even though it fits true in the waist.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While a mesh is common in many motorcycle pants, there are only a few that can stand toe-to-toe with the Ballistic Airflow mesh panels in Olympia’s riding pants. Besides, the design also integrates a cool mesh airflow inner lining for maximum comfort.
This durable option comes with Hex Pro knee protectors that feature exterior zippers if you want to adjust or remove the armor. It has high-quality compression foam for hip protection, which is also removable.
You don’t have to take off your boots when you step in or out of these riding pants, thanks to the extra-long zippers.
Bottom Line
These are great warm-weather riding pants, especially with the liners off. The rain liner keeps you protected in wet conditions, and the knee armor does a pretty good job. There are no major downsides with these pants besides the possible length issue.
Best Women’s Motorcycle Pants:
Dainese New Drake Air Textile Pants
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers are head over heels with this motorcycle pants as it fits snuggly and doesn’t look anything like traditional riding pants. According to those who have been in crashes, users rave about the integrated knee armor because it provides adequate impact protection. Overall, buyers say it is a great product.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This full 750D textile motorcycle pant is lightweight, stretchy, and doesn’t have inner membranes, making it the go-to choice for multi-season riding.
It breathes well even without a mesh, and the flip-up vents at the thighs ensure ample airflow. You can close the vents to keep you warm when the weather drops or to minimize getting wet.
Women who like to stand out in simple pants will love the minimalist design, good comfort, and adequate impact protection.
The material stretches, so it is easy to wear and mostly fits nicely. However, consider sizing up if you have ample hips.
Bottom Line
These women’s riding pants are not perfect – there rarely is any perfect product anyway. But the positives outweigh the flaws for many riders. They are arguably the skinniest ladies riding pants available, meaning they wear like regular pants and look great.
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Pants:
Firstgear Kathmandu Overpants
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers think this is a durable overpant with good protection. It doesn’t come cheap, but they agree it is worth the price. It doesn’t leak in wet weather. However, users don’t find it practical for short trips because it takes an awfully long time to wear and get it off.
Why it Stands Out to Us
From Firstgear comes this option that doesn’t only go over your pants but fits over your clothes, too.
The outer shell combines a 300 denier high-density nylon and a 420 denier rip-stop nylon. This combo makes it a hard wearing yet light overpant that is very breathable.
What sets this option apart from the rest is its Hypertex waterproof construction that provides complete protection in wet conditions.
There is almost zero chance of water traveling up your pants, even on wet roads, thanks to the internal storm gator fitted with a silicone grip.
Thinner and more flexible D30 armor protects the knees and hips.
Bottom Line
We recommend these overpants for long multi-day trips in adverse weather, especially during the wet seasons. They are well-built with reinforcements where it matters. But you may want to consider other riding pants if you need something for shorter rides.
Best Hot Weather Motorcycle Pants:
Joe Rocket Phoenix Ion Pants
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Two recurrent complaints about this product are the zippers and snaps. The zippers easily break, and the snaps don’t stay intact. Customers find the otherwise great product slightly frustrating because they have to improvise. Other than the quality control issues, buyers say it is a good riding pant at a reasonable price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With these warm weather pants, “all the gear, all the time” becomes an easy proposition even in hot weather. The FreeAir mesh shell allows for greater cooling and airflow.
Joe Rocket included removable hip pads and height, adjustable knee protectors, in this riding pant for increased impact protection. It also comes with Dynax seat and hip reinforcements for first-rate safety.
The pants won’t bunch at the waist because of the adjustable sure fit waistband design. Wearing the pants during nighttime rides or riding in low-light is not an issue. It is fitted with a 360 reflective material for increased visibility.
Bottom Line
We think you should try out these pants if you live in hot climates. It is comfortable and has a generally good fit. Joe Rocket’s riding pants won’t cost half of your paycheck, and they do offer some pretty decent protection.
Best Textile Motorcycle Pants:
Scorpion EXO Covert Jeans
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers generally like the product for the material, style, and protection. It is comfortable and can pass as a regular pair of jeans. But many people have issues with the knee insert placement as well as the low pockets. Overall, buyers agree that the pants are not bad for the money.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This highly affordable motorcycle pant offers a lot more than its monetary value. The relaxed fit, dark indigo wash, pair of jeans are fitted with hip and knee pockets for optional armor.
We think this product deserves a spot on this list because of its minimalistic design and high-quality textile construction of 14-ounce heavy denim. You won’t look out of place in these riding pants.
The interior is covered with a 165 GSM Kevlar liner from the waist down to the knees. There’s also a mesh lining to keep your legs from getting too hot when the temperature goes up.
Bottom Line
The Scorpion EXO Covert Jeans might be worth buying if you want to combine abrasion protection with casual style. The comfort level is simply amazing, even when you’re sitting in traffic for extended periods. It also provides good impact protection.
Best Adventure Motorcycle Pants:
REV'IT! Cayenne Pro Pants
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers expect a lot from this Rev’It! riding pants, and judging from customer reviews, they are not disappointed. It is a high-end option with top-notch protection features, and users say it has excellent performance. There are no major complaints about the product, except that some riders find sizing a bit tricky.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Cayenne Pro has some of the most robust protection any riding pant can offer. Apart from having a nice look, it is constructed from heavy materials and fitted with substantial armor. Interestingly, it is a lightweight outfit with good breathability.
The pant features different high-quality mesh panels and ventilation panels that allow airflow to keep your legs cool during long adventure rides.
Like other top-of-the-line riding pants, this one also comes with CE protectors for the hips and knees.
The waist and calves have adjustment straps. Also, the crotch and waist come with stretch panels for increased flexibility.
Bottom Line
This is the most expensive motorcycle pant on our list, and that’s about the major downside to it. Go for it if you can afford it, especially if you don’t want to compromise quality for affordability. It has unbeatable performance.
Comparison Overview
There are various riding pants with different qualities, including leather, textile, and mesh, among others. The type you choose depends on what appeals to you. But if you are not sure which to pick, here is a quick comparison overview of a few popular options available.
Mesh vs Textile
You want to choose mesh riding pants if you live in a hot climate because this option offers good ventilation. It is typically cheaper than textile and lightweight.
However, a textile pant offers greater abrasion protection but is best for places with mild weather.
Motorcycle Chaps vs Pants
Similarities
Both chaps and pants provide covering to the rider’s lower body or some parts of the legs. They keep you warm and cozy in cold weather and offer protection from adverse conditions.
Differences
Chaps are mainly for protecting the motorcyclist from harsh weather during rides. It also serves as a protective covering against dirt, such as debris and splattered bugs. Additionally, motorcycle chaps are easy to put on and remove in a matter of seconds.
On the other hand, motorcycle pants offer protection not just from inclement weather but against abrasion during crashes. They are not as quick to wear or take off as chaps.
Dos and Don’ts of Buying Motorcycle Pants
Here are some helpful tips that can save you some headache when shopping for motorcycle pants as well as during use.
Do Read the Manufacturer’s Return Policy
No matter how well you might know your size, a riding pant might not properly fit if you are buying the product online because you can’t test it out.
For this reason, it is best to always read and understand the manufacturer’s exchange and return policies before you place an order to avoid getting stuck with a pair of jeans that you can’t use.
Do Wash in Cold or Mildly Warm Water
Most riding pants are machine washable. But the recommendation is to use cold or mildly warm water. Remember to dry them on a line after washing.
Do Use Short Washing Cycles
Short washing cycles are best to prevent tears. Fasten all the buttons and zippers before placing the pants in your washing machine.
Don’t Use Bleach
Avoid the use of bleach when washing your motorcycle pants. These can damage your riding jeans, especially options with Kevlar lining.
Don’t Use Them Like Full-Race Gear
Full-race leather gears offer greater protection than motorcycle pants. Therefore, don’t use your riding pants in place of full-race gears.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has helped you to identify a pair of motorcycle pants that will work for you or at least point you in the right direction. While there are many options, remember to always choose one that meets the buying considerations we mentioned early on in this article.
People Also Ask
This final section answers some of the common questions among many enthusiasts and bike riders as it concerns motorcycle pants.
If you still have uncertainties after going through these reviews and buying guide, you will likely find concise answers in this section to clear up any misunderstandings.
Do You Really Need Motorcycle Pants?
Yes, you do! A pair of good-quality motorcycle pants is a must-have if you want to be completely geared up and safe when riding your bike. You are likely to hit the ground or pavement on your knees in most crash cases. Therefore, protecting your lower half is a crucial consideration.
What to Wear Under Motorcycle Pants
It depends on the weather condition and what feels comfortable for you as long as it is light. Many riders find that wearing some form of moisture-wicking undies works great in hot weather. You can also choose to wear light polar fleece pants or running tights during the colder months.
How Do You Wash Motorcycle Pants?
Remove the protective pads and wash the pants in a washing machine. Ensure that the jeans are inside out and don’t use softeners. Make sure you don’t wash above 86oF (30oC) and avoid putting the pants in the dryer. Refrain from washing your motorcycle pants too often if they have Kevlar.
How Tight Should Motorcycle Pants Be?
This depends on whether you want a pair of pants for touring or racing. The recommendation is to choose pants with a relaxed fit if you plan to use them mostly for touring. It goes over your boots because it has loose-fitting. Sport motorcycle pants are tighter and ideal for racing.
How Do I Keep My Motorcycle Pants From Riding up?
A simple way to keep your pants in place during rides is to use bootstraps. These work like suspenders specifically designed for boots. This clever solution is a stretch band with clips at both ends that fits under your boots while the clips attach to the sides of your pants.
