Riding a motorcycle isn’t just about staying safe; comfort matters too. Motorcycle trousers play a key role in both – they protect you in case of a fall and keep you comfortable on the road. Once you’ve got your helmet and a great motorbike jacket, it’s time to think about the rest of your gear. While not legally required, motorbike trousers are essential for comfort and safety on UK roads. In this blog, we’ll explore different styles, from jeans to waterproof overtrousers, to help you choose what works best for you.
Are motorcycle trousers necessary for safety?
Motorcycle trousers aren’t legally required for riding in the UK, but think back to scraping your knee as a kid, and it’s easy to see why they’re worth it. The durable material can protect your skin, and your hips and knees, being the most vulnerable parts of your legs, are at risk. A heavy impact on either could affect your mobility for life.
Motorbike trousers aren’t just about offering protection in case of a fall. They also keep you warm and dry while riding – two major perks for UK riders. Staying comfortable on your bike boosts safety, as you’ll spend less time worrying about the cold and more time concentrating on your ride and spotting potential hazards.
Luckily, there are plenty of styles of motorbike trousers to choose from. Finding the right ones is all about balancing your personal taste with the level of protection and comfort you need. Here’s a quick look at the options out there.
Different styles of motorbike trousers
Motorcycle gear has made great strides in recent years, allowing riders to enjoy both safety and style. Many brands now offer motorcycle trousers and other gear that resemble streetwear, blending fashion with function. Thanks to advancements in textile technology, motorbike gear is not only safer but also more stylish than ever.
Motorcycle trousers generally fall into four main categories, and it’s a good idea to pick one or more pairs that match your riding style, safety requirements, and comfort preferences.
Choosing motorcycle trousers
No matter what style you prefer, always check for safety certifications when picking motorcycle trousers. In the UK, this means looking for the CE marking inside the trousers or in the product description and checking the A rating. A-rated jeans or trousers are less abrasion-resistant than AAA-rated ones, with AA being a middle ground. All ratings ensure the trousers meet the minimum standards for European Personal Protective Equipment guidelines.
When shopping online, you might find trousers tested by Motocap, an Australian motorcycle safety gear association. They rate clothing based on safety, breathability, and value. While their ratings are similar to CE standards, they’re not identical, so be sure you understand the differences before making a purchase.
In addition to abrasion ratings, look for padding or extra protection in key areas. Motorcycle jeans with added layers at the knees and hips offer more safety than those without. Padding and armor don’t have to be obvious to provide effective protection.
How to wear motorcycle trousers
When wearing any type of motorcycle trousers, make sure it fits securely but comfortably around your waistline. The length should fall just above your ankles so that it provides complete coverage when sitting down on the bike seat or standing up when stopped at traffic lights etc.
Fasten all adjustable straps and Velcro closures properly before hitting the road; this will ensure that your trousers snug throughout your ride without any chance of them coming undone or riding up and becoming uncomfortable.
Should motorcycle trousers be worn inside or outside boots?
The most honest answer is, it depends. It depends on the style of trousers and the boots you ride with. Some trousers are tapered and fit neatly into motorcycle boots. However, in most cases, it’s better not to tuck them in. It can be uncomfortable, let rain into your boots and inhibits ventilation in warmer weather.
With so many different types of motorcycle trousers available today, it can be difficult to choose the right pair. Keep factors like material type, comfort and size in mind along with additional protective knee and hip padding to ensure maximum comfort and safety. Whichever you settle for, they’re an essential part of your safety kit. Remember to wear them on every ride. A pair of motorcycle trousers can’t protect you from the wardrobe.
Leather motorcycle trousers
Leather has always been the go-to material for motorcycle trousers due to its incredible durability and top-notch abrasion resistance. Just like with motorcycle jackets, full-grain leather gives you the best protection. Adding extra padding or insertable armor at the knees and hips can significantly enhance your safety.
Leather is often showerproof and breathable, making it comfortable for riding without getting too hot or cold. However, it can be heavy and tough to break in at first, feeling stiff and bulky. After about a month of wear, the leather molds to the shape of your legs, becoming much more comfortable over time.
When it comes to leather gear, there are plenty of options like full suits, separate trousers and jackets, or combos that zip together. However, leather can be pricey and doesn’t always align with everyone’s personal style. Luckily, there’s an extensive variety of textile alternatives that offer similar levels of safety.
Textile motorbike trousers
Textile materials have become increasingly popular for motorcycle trousers in recent years, offering great durability and comfort. Synthetic fibers like Kevlar, Cordura, and UHMWP are highly abrasion-resistant. When picking textile trousers, check for extra padding or armor in key areas like the knees and hips, as these spots need the most protection during a fall.
Textile materials are usually lighter than leather, making them more comfortable in warm weather. They’re often treated to be waterproof, providing extra protection against rain and road spray. However, some textiles may not offer the same level of protection as leather in an accident, so it’s important to choose wisely.
Motorbike jeans
Motorcycle jeans are a great choice if you’re after a streetwear vibe. These jeans feature materials like Kevlar, UHMWP, or Cordura blended into the denim. Many also include lining and abrasion-resistant panels for extra protection, offering a sleek, low-profile look that’s perfect for daily wear.
Don’t mistake regular denim jeans for motorcycle jeans. Standard denim can tear quickly in an accident, but heavier denim reinforced with materials like Kevlar offers better protection without sacrificing style. To most people, motorcycle jeans just look like stylish jeans. However, like regular jeans, their water resistance might not be the best.
Motorcycle over-trousers
If you ride your motorcycle to work or need something safe and comfortable that fits easily in a backpack or bike storage, overtrousers are an excellent option. Motorcycle overtrousers come in a range of styles, from simple to advanced. If you already have motorcycle jeans, waterproof overtrousers are a great addition for wet weather, offering extra protection and comfort.
If you’re after motorcycle trousers that offer protection and can be worn over office trousers, you’ll need something with extra durability. Waterproof overtrousers with padding or armor are an excellent option.
Article written by Nige.
Last update: September 2025
Nige has toured most of the UK and Europe, he also commutes to work daily on a motorbike.
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