Normally pants are something we don’t put much thought into. The go-to is just a 5-year-old denim that looks like you thrifted from a vintage store in case of an “emergency” and then proceeded to use that should have exceeded its purpose about 300 washes ago. We get holes, rips, and scrapes on it, and partially because we’re lazy, we continue to call it fashion. Not that there’s anything bad in that, but there’s a limit to it, and some have definitely pushed the boundaries way too far on that.
Sorry, where were we again? Oh yeah, you’re looking for new pants. Correction, motorcycle pants specifically. Well, good on ya because that’s exactly what this post is here to help you with. You’re already on the right track, being cautious about not only safety but also comfort, design, and, last but certainly not least, fashion. So, let’s get to it. Here to help you discover exactly how to know you’ve found the right pair of motorcycle pants that suit you best.
A Guide To Motorcycle Pants
Okay, so first of all, let’s get one thing straight. There’s going to be a wide variety of ways that one could approach this. But the first and foremost thing to be looking for here exactly is purpose. What’s the reason you’re actually looking to purchase this specific kind of pants? You do that by knowing what kind of activity you intend to be doing. In this section, we are going to be discussing various kinds of activities that one pursues and what type of general pants category you should be looking at.
Motorcycle Pant Types
The following is a list of riding styles and the features you should be looking out for appearance-wise and also protective-wise when considering what type of pants to purchase.
Touring: This category requires extra protection due to its very nature and the fact you’ll be spending extended periods of time on your motorcycle. Look for something that’s thick, highly breathable, and water-resistant, as well as features adjustable zippers on the leg bottoms for a more comfortable fit.
Racing: This one’s quite straightforward; you’ll want something thin and close fitting so that they won’t interfere with your movement at all. Look for reinforced areas in the seat, knee, and leg sections of the pants as well as something highly breathable yet still water resistant.
Adventure: This type of riding is all about off-roading and being able to explore in comfort. Look for something made from lightweight cotton material that’s highly breathable but still provides decent protection from the elements.
Street: Street riding requires something with a good balance between style and protection. Look for reinforced knee and seat sections, adjustable zippers, and multiple pockets.
What Features To Look For When Purchasing Motorcycle Pants
Now, it’s time to get into the extra features that come with the pants once you get over the general category of types. This will vary most on pricing. As they say, the more sugar you add, the sweeter the drink. The same applies here; usually, the more money you spend, the better and more refined features and add-ons you get.
Water & Weatherproofing: You’ll want something that’s highly water and weather resistant in case of any sudden changes in the climate. Look for pants with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating or taped seams for better protection from moisture and wind.
Material: Look for something made from high-quality materials such as nylon or Cordura that can offer good abrasion resistance and breathability.
Armor: Most pants will come with either CE-approved armor (knees, hips) or optional armor inserts. This is important for extra protection in case of an accident, so make sure to look out for this if you’re serious about safety.
Adjustable Features: A lot of motorcycle pants available in the market now come with adjustable features such as leg openings, waist straps, and adjustable zippers, which can help you find the perfect fit tailored to your body shape.
Reflective strips: It’s always a good idea to look for pants that have some reflective detail on them, as this can help make you more visible when riding in low-light conditions.
Pockets: Although not necessary, having extra pockets can be useful for carrying small items such as keys and other valuables.
Ventilation: If you’re looking for pants that can be used in both hot and cold conditions, then look out for one with vents or mesh inserts, which will help regulate your body temperature and keep you comfortable.
Comfort: Last but not least, make sure the pants you choose offer good comfort and fit. This can often be overlooked but it’s an important factor when choosing any type of clothing.
How Should You Choose The Material Of Your Motorcycle Pants?
The most common materials you’ll encounter while shopping for motorcycle pants are leather, denim, and synthetic fiber. Each type has its own set of pros and cons that you should be aware of before making your purchase.
• Leather: Leather is the go-to material for most bikers due to its strength, durability, and abrasion resistance. It’s also very stylish, so it’s perfect if you want something that looks sleek but still provides excellent protection. The downside is that it can be quite expensive compared to other materials.
• Denim: Many riders like denim due to its cool styling options and versatility when it comes to mixing different colors or patterns. It’s also fairly inexpensive so it’s great if you just want a pair of pants that look good but don’t want to break the bank. The downside is that it doesn’t provide as much protection as leather does, and it can be quite uncomfortable when wet.
• Synthetic Fiber: This type of material offers a great blend between style, comfort, and protective features. It’s lightweight, breathable, and provides decent protection from wind or rain, making it perfect for street riders who want something stylish yet still safe to ride in. The downside is that it might not be as strong or durable as leather or even denim in some cases, so you’ll have to replace them sooner than other materials.
The Importance Of Getting A Good Pair Of Motorcycle Pants
Now I know no one wants a lecture droning on about how important it is to wear protective gear, but there’s no denying that having a good pair of pants is essential when it comes to being safe on the roads. Motorcycle pants are designed to protect you from abrasions and impact in case of an accident, helping reduce the chances of serious injuries or even death. So, make sure to invest in a good pair of motorcycle pants that suit your needs, and you’ll be able to enjoy the ride both safely and in style.
Conclusion
Now that you know what type of riding you’re doing, what type of pants would best suit your needs, and what kind of materials are available, you should have a better idea of what type of motorcycle pants you would need to purchase. So go out there and find the perfect pair that’s both stylish and protective so you can stay safe while looking good! Good Luck! 😉