Motorcycle pants come in a wide range of styles and materials. You can find motorcycle pants made from leather, textiles, or denim. Out of these three options, many riders prefer the casual look of denim jeans.
Yet, denim alone does not provide adequate impact and abrasion protection. If you want to wear motorcycle jeans, you need to know what to look for.
- What Do I Need to Pay Attention to When Choosing Motorcycle Jeans?
- What Kind of Jeans Are Good for Motorcycle Riders?
- Choose Motorcycle Jeans with Armor
- Motorcycle Jeans Sizing Recommendations
- Are Regular Jeans Okay for Motorcycle Riding?
- Do Kevlar Motorcycle Jeans Work?
- Are there differences for Women and Men hwne it comes to Motorcycle Jeans?
- Best Motorcycle Jeans
- #1 My Personal Choice – Best Motorcycle Jeans JohnDoe
- My 2000+ Miles Kevlar Jean Review JohnDoe
- What I liked
- What I didn’t like
- #2 ILM Motorcycle Jeans
- #3 Scorpion EXO Covert Pro Jeans
- #4 Alpinestars Mens Copper 2 Denim Pants
- #5 KLIM K Fifty 2 Straight Denim Pants
- #6 Dainese Motorcycle Jeans
- Best Motorcycle Jeans for Women
- #1 Fly Racing Women’s Fortress Jeans
- #2 Bull-It SR6 Woman Denim Jeans
- #3 Alpinestars Women Iria Motorcycle Leggings
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 11:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What Do I Need to Pay Attention to When Choosing Motorcycle Jeans?
Some of the main features of motorcycle jeans include:
- Lining
- Armor
- Fit
- Size
Here is a closer look at each of these details.
What Kind of Jeans Are Good for Motorcycle Riders?
As denim offers less protection compared to leather and textiles, motorcycle jeans often include a liner. The first riding jeans were made of denim lined with Kevlar, but jeans are now available with a variety of lining options:
- Kevlar
- Aramid
- Cordura
- Armalith
- “XTM Fiber”
Kevlar is a brand of synthetic fiber owned by DuPont. It was originally used as a liner in motorcycle jeans to protect against abrasion damage. However, the material is heavy and thick, which made the pants uncomfortable.
Advances in technology have allowed DuPont to develop new material featuring a weave of Kevlar and denim. The blend of materials is lighter and easier to wear compared to a separate Kevlar liner. Yet, it offers less protection compared to denim with a removable liner.
Aramid is another strong synthetic fiber and a common alternative to Kevlar. In fact, Kevlar is made from aramid. Aramid liners are comparable to Kevlar but tend to cost less.
Armalith is a newer material made by blending aramid with denim. As with the Kevlar-denim blends, the Armalith fabric has the appearance and feel of denim but with increased protection.
Cordura is a durable nylon-based fabric. It was originally used as a tire liner in military vehicles and offers increased protection against abrasion damage compared to Kevlar and aramid. It also has more stretch, which can make it a little more comfortable.
XTM-Fiber is a John Doe specially developed fiber with an ideal balance between protection and wearing experience. The outer layer is designed for maximum protection in a fall. The skin touching the inner lining is a breathable mixture with a coolmax technology to keep you cool and fresh. Most of the time the fabrics are heavy and stiff. Here they added a stretch component to accommodate every movement you make for a comfortable wearing experience in any position you might take. I have been using this technology for years now. Find my 2000+ miles review here. The basic material which the XTM FIber is made out of is Kevlar.
You will never, never feel jeans with a special layer. But you can there are different qualities with different characteristics. Did you know, they use the same materials for jackets! We covered that part in our guide.
Choose Motorcycle Jeans with Armor
Along with lining, many motorcycle jeans are available with padding called armor. The armor is often included to protect the knees, calves, and ankles from impact.
You can also find motorcycle jeans with removable armor. The jeans include pockets for easily removing and inserting the armor pads.
The armor is also rated based on the effectiveness of the material for absorbing impacts. In Europe, motorcycle pants need to include a CE rating. CE is the abbreviation of a French phrase for “European Conformity.”
The armor may include one of the following CE marks:
- CE Tested – the material was tested by the manufacturer to meet industry standards
- CE Certified – the material was tested at a certified testing facility
- CE Approved – the material was tested at a certified testing facility and accredited to meet or exceed standards
The CE mark also indicates whether the armor provides level 1 or level 2 protection. Level 2 armor is intended for high-speed motorcycle tracks and is likely to be more than the typical rider needs.
Along with the testing process and level of protection, the CE label lists the area of protection, such as:
- H – Hip
- K – Knee
- L – Front of leg
- K + L – Knee and upper and middle tibia
The CE mark has been used since 1993 and complies with European standards. However, most authorities and organizations in the United States follow the same guidelines instead of relying on a separate set of standards.
Finding the Right Fit for Motorcycle Jeans
The “fit” describes the shape of a pair of jeans. Motorcycle jeans often include the same types of fits found in regular jeans, including:
- Regular fit
- Relaxed fit (loose fit)
- Tapered fit
- Slim fit
- Skinny fit
Regular fit jeans typically have a little extra room around the thighs. They are also typically available in straight-leg styles. The fit is a little tighter compared to a relaxed fit, but looser around the thighs compared to the other styles.
Relaxed-fit jeans also tend to have straight legs. Yet, the relaxed fit offers more room around the waist and thighs compared to regular-fit jeans.
Tapered-fit jeans are relaxed around the waist and thighs but start to taper at the knees. Instead of a straight leg, the legs become narrower as they reach the bottom.
Slim-fit jeans offer a regular fit around the waist and a narrow fit around the thighs and lower legs. The fit is a little narrower compared to the tapered fit.
Individuals who want to show off their figure may prefer a skinny fit. Skinny-fit jeans are the narrowest option. The legs are not tapered. The design hugs your body with a tight fit around the waist, hips, thighs, calves, and ankles.
Motorcycle Jeans Sizing Recommendations
After determining which fit you want, choose the right size. Manufacturers typically list the waist size and inseam length in inches or centimeters.
As most motorcycle jeans are made with lining or thicker material compared to standard denim jeans, you may want to go up a waist size. If you typically wear 32-inch jeans, try a pair of 33-inch or 34-inch jeans.
Slightly roomy jeans are better than a pair of jeans that are too tight. You do not want to restrict your movement. Tight jeans also become more uncomfortable in a seated position, which could be an issue for long rides.
You may also want to add an inch or two to the length. Your pants ride up a little bit when you sit, which may expose part of your ankle. As you will likely wear boots or thick shoes, the pants should not drag under your heels or get caught on any parts of the motorcycle.
Are Regular Jeans Okay for Motorcycle Riding?
Regular jeans do not offer adequate protection for motorcycle riders. Denim is a relatively tough material but does not offer protection against impacts and offers minimal shielding from abrasion injuries.
Motorcycle jeans are designed specifically for riding. You gain more protection and increased durability compared to a regular pair of jeans. You can find motorcycle jeans lined with Kevlar and other liners or made with a combination of denim and abrasion-resistant material.
Do Kevlar Motorcycle Jeans Work?
Yes! Kevlar protects against abrasion. But, it’s heavy and thick material which made the pants uncomfortable.
Advances in technology have allowed DuPont to develop new material featuring a weave of Kevlar and denim. The blend of materials is lighter and easier to wear compared to a separate Kevlar liner. Yet, it offers less protection compared to denim with a removable liner.
Are there differences for Women and Men hwne it comes to Motorcycle Jeans?
Looking at the grade of protection, basically no. There are different protections grades but that depends more on the “style” or brand.
Most companies offer the same models just with another fit/cut but the same protections. For guys is the Straight fit the most wanted out there and women prefer the skinny tight fit. Which discussed more a bit above: Finding the Right Fit for Motorcycle Jeans
Best Motorcycle Jeans
Number One is my favorite choice, nevertheless, there are many other jeans out there. So I took a look at a few famous companies and check out what they got to offer.
Additionally, I added 3 Options for women, it’s ain’t easy for the ladies. I found two possible pairs of jeans and a pair of leggings all with protection.
#1 My Personal Choice – Best Motorcycle Jeans JohnDoe
JohnDoe Original Jenas in Light Blue Used
I’m pretty sure, I found the best “jean” for riding my motorcycle which also protects me.
Checking the john doe website, I found out that the jeans are AA Certified. Straight-cut Original Jeans XTM. I could find them available right now.
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 11:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Details:
Manufacturer: John Doe
Item model number: MJDD2007
Material: XTM-Fiber / Kevlar
Water-repellent and breathable
CE certification: AAA
stretch denim
Five-pocket denim style
Strap for gloves and keys
YKK Zipper
Straight fit, standard leg – straight cut
I found a pretty good description for the product, written by John Doe:
Abrasion Protection – Enhanced with our XTM Fiber, our Taylor Monolayer Jeans are explicitly designed for motorcycling. The Taylor Jeans come in a monolayer design consisting of XTM-Fiber-stretch-denim-twill blend and thus achieve the perfect balance between protection and comfort.
Perfect Wearing Comfort – Our Taylor Jeans ensure optimal rider PROTECTION from wind even at higher speeds. At the same time, remaining BREATHABLE and therefore always comfortable to wear.
Water Repellent – A small rain shower and some dirt will no longer ruin the whole tour. These products are specially coated against dirt and water.
After Washing – Machine wash cold with like colors. To renew the WATER repellent protection after washing, iron after drying from the outside.
XTM Protector Ready – Level 1 knee and hip protectors included – CE certification, AAA (EN17092-2:2020)
My 2000+ Miles Kevlar Jean Review JohnDoe
I finished my second season with my JohnDoe Jeans and a third one will follow for sure. Short spoiler, I like them and will keep them.
They got a straight fit, I didn’t go with the Slim-Fit because I have been looking for more comfortable jeans.
The end of the pants are a bit wide, but since I stuff them inside my boots, it is not a problem.
What I liked
The Jean is not only equipped with knee pads but also has hip pads. I really like how they “hug” my hips.
- CE Certification – not only is my favorite jean tested and certified according to the most recent CE standard, no all all John Doe products are. They send each product through a multi-stage qualtiy assurance preocess. And whats the most important stage? Of course, they cover the most important part, the abrasion and tear resistance as well as seam strength in protective gear.
- Protectors – they use pockets on the inside for a easy positioning of the protection pads, which you can add for impact protection. Which I use.
- textile but still a water-repellent – You can’t always prevent contact with rain. The jean has a water-repellent coating to keep the odd rainy spell from spoiling your trip.
- Stretch – for maximum protection and comfort you need some stretch. The interwoven Lycra keeps the XTM Fiber especially elastic.
What I didn’t like
Like I said before, I like the hip pads. But the knee pads, I haven’t found the perfect placement.
I took a picture while sitting on my bike. I marked my issue with a white arrow pointing the direction the pads slide.
Well, that’s the only issue I found which only appears while using the extra pads for more impact protection.
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 11:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#2 ILM Motorcycle Jeans
Price-Performance Ratio Winner
The jeans come with detachable CE armored knee and hip pads/paddings.
Better Fit – Elasticated panels at the knees and waist provides a rider with more flexibility and comfort, very ergonomic high-tech fabric of the telescopic function.
- Material - 10.5oz Stretch Denim Cloth, 98% Cotton + 2% Spandex (Soft and Comfortable, Wear Resistant, Windproof, Breathable, Anti-tearing). Additional lining in buttocks is made with KEVLAR to make these motorcycle jeans wear and scratch resistant.
- Protection - These motocross pants come with detachable CE armored knee pads and hip paddings, made with heavy duty impact protection material. It can also be worn and provide protection when you are engaged in heavy duty work. When you remove the pads, the jeans can be worn casually in daily life.
- Better Fit - Elasticated panels at the knees and waist provides rider with more flexibility and comfort, very ergonomic high-tech fabric of the telescopic function.
- Durable - Original YKK zippers & double safety rust free buttons will let these men’s motorcycle riding pants last for a lifetime. The double placket also gives the jeans another layer of protection.
- Use Widely - This windproof and anti-fall motorcycle riding jeans can provide protection for outdoor sports such as motocross, mountain bikes, snowmobiles, ATV, bicycles, moped, adventuring and touring. The hip and knee CE pads are further enhanced for crucial protection.
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 11:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#3 Scorpion EXO Covert Pro Jeans
- Fashionable, durable jeans with features specific for motorcycling
- Traditional five pocket design
- Cordura 373 GSM (85percent cotton/15percent Nylon (T420)) abrasion resistant exterior
- 250 GSM DuPont Kevlar lining from knee to waist for excellent tear resistance
- Infinitely adjustable Hook and Loop knee armor pocket for Sas-Tec armor (Armor sold separately)
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 12:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#4 Alpinestars Mens Copper 2 Denim Pants
- CE-certified to CE Category II, PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425. Regular fit with stretch denim layer and Kevlar panels.
- Bio Flex knee armor allows high levels of movement and has a slim design to ensure the protector is discreet off the bike.
- Triple stitched seams.
- Classic five pocket detailing. Stitched rivets.
- Reflective turn up hem to make the rider more visible to other road users.
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 12:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#5 KLIM K Fifty 2 Straight Denim Pants
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 12:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#6 Dainese Motorcycle Jeans
- Predisposition for straps under the foot
- Reflective inserts
- Stone wash treatment
- Belt loops
- Slim/regular fit
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 12:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Motorcycle Jeans for Women
It ain’t easy to find
#1 Fly Racing Women’s Fortress Jeans
The Fly Jeans just look like a pair of new denim jeans. You can often recognize the motorcycle pants at first glance. Coarse and Thick look. Not with the Fly Pants.
- Durable 12oz denim
- Plaid pockets and interior trim detail
- Key chain attachment in front pocket
Fly Racing is a company we all know in the motorcycle industry. They started as a manufacturer of motorcycle handlebars and helmets. (I still got some awesome goggles which I been using for years! Love them) The price-performance ratio is absolutely right.
- Aramid Fiber lining with 70% coverage
- CE Level 1 knee armor: Conforms to EN1621-1 standards
- Removable hip armor pockets – compatible with FLY Barricade CE armor
- Adjustable knee armor pockets accommodates different heights
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 12:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Did you know that the brand is one of the fastest-growing Powersports apparel brands on the market?
#2 Bull-It SR6 Woman Denim Jeans
Straight fit jeans which allow inside or outside boot wear. They snug your waist and hips and get a bit looser at the bottom.
No products found.
#3 Alpinestars Women Iria Motorcycle Leggings
Not the typical motorcycle pants you would think of. But Leggings have become indispensable in our society, just like jogging pants. So it’s no wonder that these pants are now also available with protection.
- very figure-hugging – Anatomically profiled for a fully optimized female fit.
- high mobility – Chassis constructed from premium cotton and polyester with elastane for rider comfort. Elasticatred for a close, perfomance fit.
- thin fabric -> breathable
- abrasion Resistance – Kevlar lining for high levels of abrasion resistance. The Iria motorcycle leggins are equipped with Bio Flex Plus armor on knees for effective protection against impacts.
- Urban Riding – Two cargo pockets for real-world practicality
Last update on 2022-10-19 at 12:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Made for Riding
