Choosing motorcycle pants is very much a matter of personal choice. What you might find stylish and comfortable might not suit another rider in the same way. In this regard, choosing motorcycle trousers is very much like choosing the right motorcycle jacket [Motorcycle Jacket Link] because so much comes down to individual preference. That being said, there are some general principles you should follow when selecting new motorcycle pants to help make sure you obtain trousers that are suited to your lifestyle and type of riding.

Without a doubt, choosing motorcycle riding pants is not merely a question of finding the right style and size. Important as these buying considerations may be, it is vital that motorcyclists realize that motorcycle pants are a key part of their riding equipment, clothing that is designed to ensure they're safe on the road.

Motorcycle Trousers Safety Certification

If you are looking for a fresh set of motorbike riding pants, then first consider the safety rating and certification of any trousers you see. What you will want is impact protection, of course, but make sure such protection is CE-certified or has a similar accreditation so you know that these reinforcements are manufactured to the right quality standard. You don't want to find out that knee and hip reinforcements are sub-standard following an accident, after all.

Motorcycle Trousers Material

Just as crucially, you should consider the material of the motorcycle pants. Ideally, the pants in question will offer considerable abrasion resistance, so look for materials such as Kevlar, Cordura, as well as traditional leather. For example, riders who spend some time on track days at high speed are likely going to need armored leathers, offering more protection than occasional riders who only use their bike for short commutes.

Motorcycle Trousers Weather Protection

Remember, too, that weather protection is just as important as style. Weatherproof motorcycle pants are obviously more important for year-round riders and tourers, while thermal trouser linings will be handy if you happen to live in a location that is exposed to the elements.

Motorcycle Trousers Visibility and Ventilation

For city riders, increased visibility from high-viz panels will be extremely useful. That's because motorcyclists are often harder to spot on busy streets. In addition, ventilation may be an important buying consideration for you. This is likely to be the case if you live in a warm climate or do most of your riding in the summer months.

For the same reason, you might want to consider how adjustable the motorcycle riding pants are. Look for adjustable vents at the ankle or waistbands you can alter, which provide greater versatility for riders. Additionally, pockets might be more important for some riders than others. If you want easy access to your belongings, then choose motorcycle cargo pants with adequate storage.

Motorcycle Trousers Pockets and Convenience

Zippers and other connectors might also be worthy of consideration before you choose which motorcycle pants to buy. If you want your riding pants to connect to your jacket to improve weather protection or simply because you prefer the look, then seek out pants that are compatible with your jacket.

Finally, look for motorcycle pants that are easy to look after and maintain. Just as is the case when finding the perfect pair of motorcycle gloves for your ride [Motorcycle Gloves Link], buying pants that are easy to clean will be important, especially if you want to wear your trousers in social situations, not only when you're out and about on your bike.

Choosing the Best Motorcycle Trousers

In summary, here's what you need to consider when choosing motorcycle pants in 2026:

Top 9 Motorcycle Pants in 2026

Whether you are choosing a motorcycle intercom [Motorcycle Intercom Link] or any other type of accessory for your motorbike, it is a good idea to stay informed about the latest product developments. Many of the best motorcycle pants brands offer garment updates for their trousers and jackets, so even though you might've looked into pants relatively recently, there's always something more to learn.

Below, we outline the top 9 motorcycle pants available in 2026, split into three distinct categories—trousers, motorcycle cargo pants, and denim motorcycle jeans—to help you find the perfect pair. Although any of these motorcycle pants would constitute a fine purchase, make sure the riding gear you're considering buying meets your priorities as a rider, as outlined above.

Best Motorcycle Trousers

The best motorcycle trousers are designed to provide a considerable degree of protection against abrasion and impacts while riding. These sorts of motorcycle pants often feature weatherproof materials. As such, they're designed to keep riders comfortable in various settings and weather conditions. Unlike casual pants, motorcycle trousers are specifically tailored for the rigors of biking, with the best examples in this category offering a good balance between safety and functionality. Here are our 3 top picks:

1) Course Two Seasons 3.0 Motorcycle Trousers Black

Only available in black, Course Two Seasons 3.0 Motorcycle Trousers come with a waterproof inner membrane and a detachable thermal layer. They're not suited to winter riding in cold temperatures, as their two-season name suggests, however. Designed for sporty riders, these motorcycle pants for men and women combine well with Course's matching jacket with a zipper connection. Made with a textile construction, these armored motorcycle pants have knee and hip protectors, which meet CE EN 1621-1 quality standards. There's a velcro closure at the leg ends and adjusters on the waistband, so these are highly adjustable and practical. These waterproof riding pants are ideal for tourers who want something comfortable and can cope well in wet conditions. They are available in sizes from XS to 3XL.

• Price
  From - £85, $110, €105

• Upsides:

  • Handy reflective patches

  • 600D Polyester shell

  • A CE EN 17092 Class A garment

  • Waterproof layer

• Potential Downsides:

  • Not suited to very cold conditions

2) Richa Phantom Motorcycle Trousers Black

With D3O knee protectors, certified to meet CE EN 1621-1:2011 Level 1 specifications, Richa Phantom Motorcycle Trousers are primarily designed as touring motorcycle pants. They benefit from a high-density 600D polyester outer shell for protection, as well as a breathable membrane, to ensure rider comfort in most conditions. Fully waterproof, these trousers are available in sizes ranging from S to 3XL. Note that these waterproof motorcycle pants benefit from Richa Contra Glide® technology, which enhances grip in the seating area.

• Price
  From - £85, $110, €105

• Upsides:

  • A CE EN 17092-4 Class A motorcycle garment

  • Adjustable waistband

  • A handy waterproof pocket, which can be zipped shut

  • Reflective strips for enhanced visibility

• Potential Downsides:

  • Only available in black

3) GMS Trento Motorcycle Trousers Black

Made with GERMADURA® 600D fabric, GMS Trento Motorcycle Trousers are designed for flexibility, with plenty of adjustments you can make to find the perfect fit. Available in sizes from 2XL to 3XL, these motorcycle pants are certified to meet CE EN 17092-3 Class AA standards. Like the other armored motorcycle pants in our top three, these are suited to tourers, but they'd also be a very practical choice for casual riders. With a mesh lining and numerous vents you can take advantage of, these waterproof motorcycle pants have a thermal lining for colder days and a waterproof/windproof REISSA® membrane to keep you dry in the wet.

• Price
  From - £115, $150, €140

• Upsides:

  • Knee and hip protectors you can remove

  • Four pockets – two of which are waterproof

  • Stretch inserts over the knee

  • Waterproof/windproof

• Potential Downsides:

  • Only available in black

Best Motorcycle Cargo Pants

Often more practical than other types of motorcycle pants, this category looks stylish in many informal social situations. In fact, for many, their preference for motorcycle cargo pants lies in the fact that they don't look like regular motorbike trousers at all. They're typically designed for comfort on and off the bike—but come with protective elements—so they don't compromise on safety. Here are our top 3 motorcycle cargo pants for 2026.

1) Course Wasteland Aramid Reinforced Tapered Fit MC Cargo Pants Olive Green

To begin with, Course Wasteland Aramid Reinforced Tapered Fit MC Cargo Pants benefit from a slim fit, something many riders are looking for off the bike. However, these particular motorcycle riding pants allow wearers to move freely, thanks to some strategically located accordion panels, so you won't feel uncomfortable on the bike. CE EN 1621-1:2012 knee protectors are supplied as standard. These riding pants also have an internal abrasion-resistant aramid lining, which offers plenty of protection. Waist sizes for these motorcycle cargo pants run from 30” to 42”, and the available leg measurements are 32” to 36”, so most riders will find a pair to suit them.

• Price
  From - £70, $90, €85

• Upsides:

  • Interior pockets for the knee protector mean you can remove them easily when off the bike

  • Stylish, practical, and comfortable

  • Suits all types of riders, including casual ones

• Potential Downsides:

  • Only available in olive green

2) West Coast Choppers M 65 Cargo Trousers Vintage-Black

Affordably priced, West Coast Choppers M 65 Vintage Cargo Trousers pack a punch in terms of style with plenty of urban attitude. These motorcycle pants are only available in black and come in sizes from 2XS through to 3XL, so there's something to suit everyone. The material is primarily cotton, with 3% Spandex for some additional comfort. In terms of practicality, these motorcycle cargo pants have six pockets on each leg, including two at the front, two at the back, and two on the sides.

• Price
  From - £55, $75, €65

• Upsides:

  • A soft inner lining, offering comfort on or off the bike

  • A very stylish choice for discerning bikers

  • The adjustable waist is very forgiving for all body shapes

• Potential Downsides:

  • A loose fit, which might not suit all riders

3) Alpinestars Cargo Riding Pants Blue Distressed

With a casual appearance that will appeal to many riders, Alpinestars Distressed Cargo Riding Pants have a vintage look but benefit from very modern protection. These CE – Category II prEN17092 A class certified motorcycle pants are triple stitched along the entire leg for superior strength. For additional protection, these cargo riding jeans are compatible with Alpinestars Bio-Flex hip armor. There's a reinforced seat area for improved rider comfort, and they're made from a blend of elastane, cotton, and polyamide. However, it is the distressed styling and blue look of these pants that makes them stand out the most.

• Price
  From - £125, $160, €150

• Upsides:

  • Cargo pockets on each thigh

  • The knitted fabric construction provides abrasion resistance

  • The comfy inner liner avoids contact with knee reinforcement stitching

• Potential Downsides:

  • Only available in three sizes: 32”, 34”, and 36”

Best Motorcycle Jeans

Motorcycle jeans are made from denim and have the look—as well as the feel—of regular jeans. This makes them popular among many riders who use their motorcycle to attend social events or get to work where formal attire won't be necessary. Unlike traditional jeans, however, this type of motorcycle pants is reinforced and adapted to meet the rigors of the road. For some, their visual appearance is what's most important, but for others, it is their versatility. Here are our top 3 motorcycle jeans:

1) Course Jones Motorcycle Straight/Regular MC Jeans Dark Blue

These Course Jones Motorcycle MC Jeans provide great strength and abrasion resistance without compromising on comfort. The outer is made from cotton and elastane (2%), while the inner material is a blend of polyester and aramid. Available in blue only, these CE EN 17092-3 Class AA motorcycle pants are available in waist sizes ranging from 32” to 42”. They look like regular jeans and are designed to be indistinguishable from them when worn off the bike.

• Price
  From - £55, $75, €65

• Upsides:

  • Five pockets for practicality

  • Hip and knee protectors (CE EN 1621-1)

  • Aramid lining is light and thin

• Potential Downsides:

  • The regular waist and straight fit won't suit everyone

2) Rev'It! Philly 3 LF Motorcycle Jeans Medium Blue Used

Made to look like a normal pair of jeans that you've worn and washed repeatedly, Rev'It! Philly 3 LF Motorcycle Jeans offer plenty of style with a looser fit than many other denim motorcycle pants. With some subtle reflective details, these abrasion-resistant pants suit many different sorts of riders, especially urban ones. These Cordura® denim riding jeans are CE EN 17092-3 Class AA certificated.

• Price
  From - £190, $245, €230

• Upsides:

  • Triple needle stitching

  • Adjustable knee protector pocket heights

• Potential Downsides:

  • Not available in waist sizes over W38

  • Pricier than some other motorcycle jeans

3) Ride&Sons Cordura Single Layer Straight/Regular MC Jeans Dark Denim

Made from 73% cotton, 7% CORDURA®, 8% polyester, and 2% elastane for their outer, these Ride&Sons Cordura Single Layer MC Jeans would suit all riders, especially urban ones. These riding jeans benefit from a polyester inner, so they look and feel like regular jeans while providing great abrasion protection. The included hip and knee protectors are certified to meet CE EN 1621-1:2012 standards. They're only available in dark blue, but there are plenty of sizing options, ranging from 30” waists through to 42”.

• Price
  From - £55, $75, €65

• Upsides:

  • Zipper closure at the waist button

  • A fabric that stretches to provide on-bike comfort

  • A CE EN 17092-3 Class AA garment

• Potential Downsides:

  • A retro look that won't suit all riders

How Should Motorcycle Pants Fit

Motorcycle pants of all types should be snug enough to ensure that the protective elements—primarily at the hip and knee—don't shift around while riding. They should not be so tight that they restrict your movement or blood flow, however. Motorbike pants should reach your boots, slightly covering them when you're seated to prevent exposure of the lower leg to the elements. A slightly looser fit around the thighs can improve comfort, but they should not be baggy, which would mean a loss of control at high speeds or when riding in windy conditions. Most good motorcycle pants are adjustable to help you fine-tune your fit.

What to Wear Under Motorcycle Pants

If it is hot, moisture-wicking base layers are a good idea to prevent feeling sweaty after a ride. They can also make it easier to take close-fitting motorcycle pants on and off. If you ride in the cold, then choose pants with thermal linings. You can always augment these with a pair of long johns or similar lower garments to help trap even more warmth in. Anything that is form-fitting and made from a breathable fabric tends to be best.

How to Choose Motorcycle Pants in Summary

When selecting a new pair of motorcycle pants, work out what your priorities are in terms of looks and practicality. With those factors in mind, choose pants accordingly, but don't compromise on safety. At XLMoto, you'll surely find a pair of motorcycle pants that meet all of your requirements but still offer protection on the road. Keep in mind that it's usually worth spending a little more to get high-quality pants that meet all of your needs. They'll not only last longer but, more importantly, could save you from injury in case you have to lay her down.