Rainstoppers: Best waterproof riding jeans and trousers

When we talk about waterproof jeans, we don’t necessarily mean they are made from denim. Riding jeans are trousers that are more jeans-like in their cut and fit rather than larger and more adjustable touring-style trousers, for example.

They are intended to be worn a little snugger than touring-style trousers and from a distance, look like a pair of regular jeans, especially if they are single layer.

Many riders prefer the fit of snugger jeans and pair them with a more spacious jacket, for example, enjoying the better feel for the bike they get through the tighter trousers that don’t move so much between them and the seat or tank.

Waterproof jeans can be made from denim, textile material or even leather. While leather is rarely full waterproof, it can be paired with textile material and membranes to achieve decent water repellence.

Both denim and textile jeans can be made to shed water, either with surface treatments, membranes or both.

Here is a selection of waterproof jeans that will keep you dry if the weather turns.

There is a removable thermal liner for chilly rides and two pockets on the front of the trousers. They are CE A-rated and come with Level-1 armour in the knees that can be adjusted to suit different leg lengths. There is also a zip to join them to matching Richa jackets.

CE Rating: A

Armour rating: L1

They are CE A-rated and come with Level-1 armour in the knees. There’s a removable thermal liner as well as the company’s own SinAqua breathable and waterproof membrane.

CE rating: A

Armour rating: L1

They also feature a full Reissa waterproof and breathable lining that is removable in case things get warm and the rider wants additional cooling airflow thanks to the waterproof-zip protected thigh vents. There are two external pockets, two zips to join to Weise jackets and reflective piping to improve visibility at night.

CE rating: AA

Armour rating: Level-1

Unfortunately, on my last trip out the heavens opened more than expected, and I was caught in a severe downpour that the trousers couldn’t quite cope with, leaving me with a damp seat-area (at least I was on my way home.) But, during short wet spells or light showers the taped seams have kept the water out of the normal places and have worked a treat. To prolong their life, I think I’ll give them a go over with some waterproof spray and see how that affects them.

In terms of fit, the elasticated waistband means you can throw them over most trousers, but unfortunately even with the ankle gussets open I had to take my boots off to get the waterproofs on. They come in four sizes, XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL, 3XL+ and the waistband has a lot of give so no worries there. Also, while being worn, I would have liked a few more inches on the leg length. When seated and wearing ankle boots, there is a definite risk of water going into the top of the boot – something I experienced first-hand. But if you’re a long-boot wearer then this isn’t a problem.

Away from the rain, I’ve found these a handy layer when the wind picks up. As a result, they kept me very warm when needed and I’ve used them as a layer even when there was nothing but blue skies.

In addition, there is aramid lining in each of the impact zones and an all-over mesh lining for airflow for ventilation. There is Level-2 armour in the knees and pockets for optional hip armour and there are pockets front and rear.

CE rating: Unknown

Armour rating: L2

They also have a removable thermal liner for chilly rides and have pre-curved knees for extra comfort when sat on the bike. They also feature a short zip to join with matching Merlin jackets and come with CE approved knee and hip armour.

CE rating: Unknown

Armour rating: Unknown (CE approved)

They feature a waterproof and breathable laminate membrane to keep the water out and the rider comfortable and side and rear seams are triple-stitched for strength.

CE rating: Unknown

Armour rating: L1

As with all motorcycle clothing, look for the CE certification to show that the waterproof jeans you’re considering have been approved as PPE (personal protective equipment). The highest level is AAA, offering the greatest resistance to abrasion and impacts, which drops to AA, then A. Knee and hip protectors should also be CE approved, and come in either Level 1 or the higher Level 2.

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