Riding in the summer heat can be brutal. You want protection, but you don’t want to melt. Finding the right riding pants that offer both safety and breathability is key to enjoying those summer rides. I’ve been there, sweating buckets in ill-suited gear, so I decided to find some better options. This review covers five of the best summer riding pants that will keep you cool, comfortable, and protected on the road.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Klim Mojave Pants: Premium off-road pants with excellent ventilation and durable construction.
- Alpinestars Tech Air Ride Drystar Pants: Versatile adventure pants with waterproofing and good airflow.
- REV’IT! Tornado 3 Pants: Lightweight and highly ventilated touring pants with removable waterproof liner.
- Fly Racing Patrol XC Lite Pants: Budget-friendly off-road pants offering decent ventilation and mobility.
- Joe Rocket Phoenix Ion Pants: Affordable mesh pants perfect for hot weather street riding.
Top 5 Best Summer Riding Pants
1. Klim Mojave Pants
The Klim Mojave pants are designed for aggressive off-road riding in hot conditions. These pants prioritize ventilation and durability, featuring a robust construction and ample venting panels. They are a favorite among serious dirt bike riders.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional ventilation with large mesh panels.
- ✅ Durable construction using high-quality materials.
- ✅ Comfortable fit with articulated design.
Cons:
- ❌ No waterproof liner included.
- ❌ Relatively expensive compared to other options.
- ❌ Styling might be too aggressive for some riders.
Verdict: The Klim Mojave pants are ideal for serious off-road riders who demand maximum ventilation and durability in hot weather conditions. If you ride primarily on the street, these might be overkill.
2. Alpinestars Tech Air Ride Drystar Pants
The Alpinestars Tech Air Ride Drystar pants are versatile adventure riding pants designed for a wide range of conditions. They feature a Drystar waterproof membrane and strategically placed ventilation panels to keep you comfortable in both wet and warm weather. They are also compatible with Alpinestars Tech-Air airbag system.
Pros:
- ✅ Waterproof and breathable Drystar membrane.
- ✅ Good ventilation with zippered vents.
- ✅ Tech-Air airbag system compatibility.
Cons:
- ❌ Ventilation might not be sufficient for extremely hot conditions.
- ❌ Can be bulky due to the waterproof liner and airbag compatibility.
- ❌ Higher price point compared to non-airbag options.
Verdict: These pants are a great choice for adventure riders who need waterproof protection and are interested in the added safety of an airbag system. If you ride primarily in very hot weather, dedicated mesh pants might be a better option.
3. REV’IT! Tornado 3 Pants
The REV’IT! Tornado 3 pants are lightweight and highly ventilated touring pants perfect for warm weather riding. They feature a durable mesh outer shell and a removable waterproof liner for added versatility. I wore these on a trip through Italy, and they were perfect for the varying weather conditions.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent ventilation with a full mesh outer shell.
- ✅ Removable waterproof liner for added versatility.
- ✅ Comfortable fit and adjustable features.
Cons:
- ❌ Protection may not be as robust as leather or textile options.
- ❌ Styling is more geared towards touring than sport riding.
- ❌ Liner can be a bit fiddly to install and remove.
Verdict: The REV’IT! Tornado 3 pants are a great choice for touring riders who need excellent ventilation and the option of waterproof protection. They are comfortable, versatile, and well-suited for a wide range of riding conditions.
4. Fly Racing Patrol XC Lite Pants
The Fly Racing Patrol XC Lite pants are budget-friendly off-road pants designed for warm weather riding. They offer decent ventilation and mobility at an affordable price point. They are a good option for riders who are just getting started with off-road riding or who are on a tight budget.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Decent ventilation with mesh panels.
- ✅ Lightweight and comfortable fit.
Cons:
- ❌ Durability may not be as high as more expensive options.
- ❌ Limited features compared to premium pants.
- ❌ Styling is fairly basic.
Verdict: The Fly Racing Patrol XC Lite pants are a good option for budget-conscious off-road riders who need decent ventilation and mobility. They are a great starting point for beginners.
5. Joe Rocket Phoenix Ion Pants
The Joe Rocket Phoenix Ion pants are affordable mesh pants designed specifically for hot weather street riding. They offer excellent airflow and basic protection at a very accessible price point. I recommended these to a friend who was new to riding, and he loves them for his daily commute.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent ventilation with a full mesh design.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Comfortable fit for street riding.
Cons:
- ❌ Not waterproof.
- ❌ Protection may not be sufficient for high-speed crashes.
- ❌ Styling is fairly basic.
Verdict: The Joe Rocket Phoenix Ion pants are a great choice for street riders who need maximum ventilation in hot weather and are on a budget. They are comfortable and offer decent protection for everyday riding.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right summer riding pants can make a huge difference in your comfort and safety. Here are a few things to consider before making a purchase:
- Ventilation: Look for pants with large mesh panels or zippered vents to maximize airflow. The more ventilation, the cooler you’ll be.
- Protection: Ensure the pants have CE-rated armor in the knees and hips. Some pants also offer additional padding in other areas.
- Material: Mesh is great for ventilation, but consider more durable materials like textile or leather for added abrasion resistance.
- Waterproofing: If you ride in areas with unpredictable weather, consider pants with a waterproof liner or membrane.
- Fit: Make sure the pants fit comfortably and allow for freedom of movement. Consider trying them on with your riding boots to ensure a proper fit.
- Intended Use: Are you riding on the street, off-road, or both? Choose pants that are designed for your specific riding style.
FAQs
Q: Are mesh riding pants safe?
A: Yes, mesh riding pants can be safe, provided they have CE-rated armor in key areas like the knees and hips. While mesh offers excellent ventilation, it’s important to choose pants made from durable materials that can withstand abrasion in a crash.
Q: Can I wear regular pants under riding pants?
A: It’s generally not recommended to wear regular pants under riding pants, as this can restrict movement and reduce the effectiveness of the armor. If you need an extra layer for warmth, consider using a dedicated base layer designed for motorcycle riding.
Q: How do I clean my riding pants?
A: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your riding pants. Most textile and mesh pants can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, while leather pants may require special cleaning products. Remove any armor before washing and allow the pants to air dry.
Q: What is CE-rated armor?
A: CE-rated armor is protective gear that has been tested and certified to meet specific safety standards. Look for pants with CE-rated armor in the knees and hips to ensure adequate impact protection.
Conclusion
Finding the right summer riding pants can significantly improve your riding experience. From the highly ventilated Klim Mojave pants to the affordable Joe Rocket Phoenix Ion pants, there’s an option for every rider and budget. Consider your specific needs and riding style when making your choice, and always prioritize safety and comfort. Safe riding!
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