When it comes to motorcycle gear, safety should always be a top priority. While helmets, jackets, and gloves are often emphasized, one crucial piece of protective equipment that should not be overlooked is motorcycle riding jeans. These specialized pants offer a stylish and practical solution, providing both comfort and protection for riders. In this article, we will explore the benefits of motorcycle riding jeans, and their key features, and offer tips on choosing the right pair to enhance your riding experience.
What to consider when choosing the best motorcycle riding jeans?
When choosing the best motorcycle-riding jeans, there are several factors you should consider to ensure your safety, comfort, and durability. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Material: Look for jeans made from high-quality and durable materials such as denim with added abrasion resistance or specialized motorcycle-specific fabrics like Kevlar or Cordura. These materials provide better protection against road rash in case of an accident.
- Protective Features: Check if the jeans have additional protective features such as reinforced stitching, impact-absorbing armor, or removable knee and hip protectors. These elements can significantly enhance your safety on the road.
- Fit and Comfort: Consider the fit and comfort of the jeans. They should have a snug fit to avoid excess material flapping in the wind, which can be distracting while riding. Look for jeans with ergonomic designs that allow for freedom of movement and flexibility, especially in the knees and hips.
- Ventilation: Riding jeans with proper ventilation are crucial, especially in warmer climates. Look for jeans with breathable mesh panels or vents to help regulate airflow and keep you cool during long rides.
- Weather Resistance: Consider the weather conditions you’ll be riding in. Some riding jeans come with waterproof or water-resistant coatings, which can be beneficial if you frequently ride in rainy or wet conditions.
- Visibility: Opt for jeans with reflective elements or high-visibility accents, especially if you often ride at night or in low-light conditions. These features enhance your visibility to other road users, improving overall safety.
- Durability and Construction: Check for reinforced stitching and double or triple seams, as these contribute to the durability and longevity of the jeans. Reinforced areas such as the seat, knees, and hips are also important since they are prone to wear and tear.
- Style and Versatility: While safety is paramount, it’s also worth considering your personal style preferences. Look for jeans that blend well with your everyday wardrobe, allowing you to use them both on and off the bike without sacrificing protection.
- Brand Reputation: Research and choose reputable brands known for producing high-quality motorcycle gear. Read reviews from other riders to gauge the overall satisfaction and reliability of the jeans you’re considering.
Remember, wearing proper motorcycle gear extends beyond just riding jeans. Always complement your jeans with a well-fitting helmet, protective jacket, gloves, boots, and other safety equipment to ensure comprehensive protection while riding.
Top 10 Best Motorcycle Riding Jeans
Alpinestars Copper Out Jeans: The Alpinestars Copper Out Jeans offer a blend of comfort and protection. Made from a stretch denim fabric, these jeans provide excellent flexibility while incorporating aramid fiber reinforcements in critical areas. They also include removable CE-certified knee armor and a slim-fit design for a sleek look.
Dainese D6 Kevlar Jeans: The Dainese D6 Kevlar Jeans are designed for riders seeking maximum protection. Constructed with a blend of denim and aramid fibers, these jeans offer outstanding abrasion resistance. They feature Pro-Shape CE-certified knee armor, reflective inserts for added visibility, and a regular fit for all-day comfort.
ScorpionExo Covert Jeans: The ScorpionExo Covert Jeans provide a unique design that seamlessly blends motorcycle functionality with casual style. These jeans offer Cordura denim construction, reinforced panels in impact areas, and adjustable knee armor. With their covert appearance, they easily transition from riding gear to everyday wear.
Bull-it SR6 Carbon Jeans: The Bull-it SR6 Carbon Jeans are engineered to deliver exceptional strength and flexibility. These jeans utilize Covec SR6 liner technology, providing high abrasion resistance while remaining lightweight. They come with CE Level 2 knee armor, a slim fit design, and a water-repellent finish for added functionality.
Rokker Iron Selvage Jeans: The Rokker Iron Selvage Jeans are meticulously crafted using raw selvedge denim for a vintage aesthetic. With an innovative blend of cotton, polyester, and Schoeller-Dynatec fibers, these jeans offer excellent protection against abrasion. They feature a straight cut, removable knee protectors, and a reinforced seat for added durability.
Klim K Fifty 1 Jeans: The Klim K Fifty 1 Jeans combine style and substance. Made from a heavy-duty Cordura denim blend, these jeans offer superior durability and abrasion resistance. They incorporate D3O CE Level 1 knee and hip armor, and the relaxed fit ensures all-day comfort on and off the bike.
Knox Shield Spectra Jeans: For riders seeking a straight-fit jean that offers unparalleled protection, the Spectra jeans are the ideal choice. These jeans utilize a revolutionary compound made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber (UHMWP), providing an astounding 40% increase in abrasion resistance compared to Kevlar. In fact, they boast a tensile strength fifteen times greater than equivalent steel thread. Not only are they incredibly strong, but they are also lightweight and water-resistant. To further enhance safety, the Spectra jeans come equipped with built-in microlock knee and hip armor. With their combination of strength, comfort, and advanced protective features, these jeans are the ultimate companion for riders who prioritize safety without compromising style.
Pando Moto Karl Desert Jeans: The Pando Moto Karl Desert Jeans are designed for riders who appreciate both style and safety. Made from a combination of Cordura denim and Coolmax fibers, these jeans provide excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties. They feature Knox CE knee armor, a slim fit, and a vintage-inspired look that stands out from the crowd.
STREET & STEEL Oakland Jeans: These jeans feature a classic straight-cut design and are constructed from durable 12-ounce denim, offering a blend of comfort and protection. The reinforced Kevlar lining provides excellent abrasion resistance in critical areas, while the removable CE-approved knee armor enhances safety. With their casual appearance, the Oakland Jeans seamlessly transition from riding gear to everyday wear, making them a versatile choice for riders seeking both style and functionality. Whether you’re cruising through the city streets or hitting the open road, the STREET & STEEL Oakland Jeans are designed to keep you protected and looking great.
REV’IT! Lombard 3 Jeans: These jeans feature a modern slim fit design and are constructed with a combination of denim and Cordura stretch material, ensuring flexibility and comfort on and off the bike. The Lombard 3 Jeans come equipped with PWR|shield panels for outstanding abrasion resistance, while the SEESMART CE-level 1 knee protectors provide reliable impact protection. With their versatile and fashionable appearance, the REV’IT! Lombard 3 Jeans are the perfect companion for riders who prioritize safety without sacrificing their personal style.
| Best Motorcycle Riding Jeans | ||
 Alpinestars Copper Out Jeans | – With its pre-shaped leg construction and quality denim fabric the Copper Denim v2 gets more comfortable and personalized with every ride. – Copper 2 Denim pants with knitted Aramidic lining. – CE Certified to CE Category II, PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425. Fit: Regular with stretch denim layer and DuPont™ Kevlar® panels. | $239 on Amazon |
| Yourmotobro’s Choice | ||
 Dainese D6 Kevlar Jeans | – Belt closure – Denim fabric woven with Kevlar yarn – Internal reinforcements with Kevlar jersey by knees – Belt loops – 5 outer pockets – Reflective details on the rear of jeans and under the back of the cuffs | $200 On Amazon |
 ScorpionExo Covert Jeans | – Hook and Loop closure – 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) | $159.90 on Amazon |
| Cheapest | ||
 Bull-it SR6 Carbon Jeans | – 12 oz. Black twill, 100% cotton outer – Traditional 5-pocket design – Black leather belt patch with embroidered Bull-it logo – Covec sew-in label in the rear right-hand pocket – Brushed metal Matt finish button and front pocket Rivets | $95 On Amazon |
 Rokker Iron Selvage Jeans | – Straight-fit (slim leg, tapered fit) with button fly – Outer material made of the finest 11.5 oz stonewashed Red Selvage denim – Inner material made of 100% Schoeller-Dynatec abrasion-resistant, wind-resistant and water repellent – Protector pockets on knees and hips made of 100% Schoeller®-Dynatec (knee protectors adjustable with VELCRO® brand fastener, armor sold separately) – Constructed without rivets which could scratch the bike – Easy care (washable at 40°C, ironing after wash increases the water repellency) – Jeans ship in a black canvas bag with Rokker T-shirt | $250 on Revzilla |
| Users’ Choice | ||
 Klim K Fifty 1 Jeans | – YKK Fly Zipper – Reinforced Kevlar Panel In Slide Zones – Integrated Armor System – D30 Evo Hip And Knee Armor – Poron XRD Impact Foam Tailbone Piece – Adjustable Knee Armor Positioning 5 Exterior Pockets [2 Front Hand, 1 – Front Coin, 2 Rear] – Flat-Felled Seams For Max Comfort – Waist Belt Loops – Full Mesh Comfort Liner W/Wicking Polyester | $300 on Amazon |
 Knox Shield Spectra Jeans | – Spectra single-layer stretch Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWP) construction – Straight fit with tapered leg – Medium rise – Naturally water repellent – Invisible armor pockets with external knee access for easy knee armor removal – Leather Knox patch on waist – Knox branded rivets, key ring, and waist button YKK zips – Four deep pockets – Included CE-certified Knox Micro-Lock knee and hip protectors – 5-year guarantee on Micro-Lock protectors when registered – CE approved EN17092-2 as a Class AAA garment | $329.90 on Revzilla |
 Pando Moto Karl Desert Jeans | – Made of 12.5oz Cordura stretch denim. Lining: thick interlock-knit made of DuPont Kevlar. – CE officially approved PPE under EN 17092, level AA (speed 70 km/h). – Featuring Kevlar-reinforced stitches. Equipped with stretch panels on knees and back. Reflective cuffs for a safe ride. – Knee armor and inner Hip armor slots. SAS-TEC CE approved (EN1621-1:2012) knee armor (included). – Optional: SAS-TEC Hips – EN1621-2 approved (not included). | $200 On Amazon |
 STREET & STEEL Oakland Jeans | – Heat and Tear Resistant Aramid-Reinforced Layer in Seat, Hips, and Knees – Removable and Adjustable C.E. Knee Pads – 12oz Blue Stretch Denim with 5 Pockets – Seamless Knee Design for a Clean Look – Boot Cut Leg with a Long Inseam for Riding | $150 On Amazon |
 REV’IT! Lombard 3 Jeans | Outer Shell: Cordura denim Composition: 64% Cotton, 22% Polyethylene, 12% Polyamide, 2% Elastane Protection: See smart CE level 1 protection at the knee and hip Certified AA rating, EN 17092 Standard Visibility: Reflection Fit: Regular Features: Triple needle stitching Pockets: Five pockets | $229.99 On Revzila |
Importance of Motorcycle Riding Jeans
Safety Features
Motorcycle riding jeans are designed to offer a higher level of protection compared to regular jeans. They are typically made from high-quality materials such as Kevlar, Cordura, or a blend of denim and synthetic fibers. These fabrics provide abrasion resistance, which is essential in case of a fall or slide on the road. Reinforced stitching and double or triple layers in critical areas like the knees, hips, and seat add extra durability.
Some riding jeans also come equipped with CE-certified armor inserts for impact protection, particularly in vulnerable areas like the knees and hips. These protective elements can significantly reduce the risk of injuries in case of an accident. Additionally, some models incorporate reflective panels or piping to enhance visibility during nighttime rides, increasing overall safety on the road.
Motorcycle Airbag Jeans
Recently there have been developing some motorcycle riding jeans that provide an even safer riding experience. Motorcycle Airbag Jeans employ an intricate system of sensors, accelerometers, and inflators that detect and respond to sudden changes in motion and impact. The sensors continuously monitor the rider’s movements, and in the event of a potential crash, they activate the airbag mechanism. The jeans’ airbags inflate rapidly, covering critical areas such as the hips, thighs, and lower back, providing an additional layer of protection in case of an accident.
The airbag jeans consist of two parts: a stretchy and ventilated denim portion that looks and feels like regular jeans, and a flat, comfortable airbag module that remains hidden until deployment. The jeans also feature removable CE-rated knee protectors for added safety.
These motorcycle airbag jeans not only ensure elevated protection of the lower body but are sometimes fun to use:
Practical Features:
Motorcycle-riding jeans often come with practical features designed specifically for riders. These features include deep pockets for secure storage of personal items, such as wallets or keys. Some models even include hidden pockets for storing valuables discreetly. Reinforced belt loops and heavy-duty zippers add durability and ensure the jeans stay securely in place.
In recent years, many manufacturers have also started incorporating specially designed loops or attachment points for connecting the jeans to a rider’s jacket, creating a more unified and secure riding experience. These attachment systems prevent the jacket from riding up during a fall, keeping the rider’s back and torso protected.
Comfort and Style:
One of the advantages of motorcycle-riding jeans is that they combine safety with comfort and style. Unlike traditional riding gear, riding jeans resemble regular jeans in appearance and fit. They are available in various styles, from slim-fit to relaxed, catering to different preferences.
Modern riding jeans feature stretch panels strategically placed in areas like the knees and waist to ensure ease of movement while riding. This flexibility allows riders to enjoy their journeys without feeling restricted. Furthermore, many brands offer jeans with moisture-wicking properties, ensuring riders stay cool and dry even during long rides.
What I love most about motorcycle riding jeans is that not only is that a safety feature but at the same time it can be a design piece. You can style your favorite pair of motorcycle riding jeans with other motorcycle accessories: a motorcycle jacket or motorcycle boots and feel stylish. If you would like to know why I always prefer motorcycle riding jeans to any other kind of motorcycle trousers, check some of these pins out: