Find the best motorcycle jeans: read about CE ratings, lined vs single-layer, waterproofing and more

If you’re honest, you’ve probably ridden a motorbike in normal denim jeans before (I certainly have). The ease and comfort of chucking on your favourite leather jacket, gloves and a helmet and heading out the door is very tempting.

But in our heart of hearts we know that if something goes wrong we are leaving ourselves vulnerable to injury and that’s where armoured motorcycle jeans like the ones in this page come in.

Best jeans at a glance

There are several different types to consider, ranging from A-AAA rated and with a single layer of reinforced denim or a liner, depending on your budget and the level of comfort/protection you’re after.

Jump to:

What to look for when buying riding jeans

“Riding jeans” is a catch-all term that covers a large range of products constructed from denim reinforced with various super materials depending on the product. These include Kevlar, Covec, Aramid, Pekev, and others being trademarked all the time.

Jeans will typically also include armour at the knees and/or hips, which is made of the same sorts of materials as the armour in your riding jacket and can be rated to CE Level 1 or Level 2. Level 1 gives less protection but is normally less bulky while Level 2 is safer but can take up more space.

Safety ratings

You, and only you, can decide what level of protection is right for you. My advice is always to buy the highest level you can afford (as denoted by the CE certification) BUT if you only ever ride a moped through town, is it really necessary to have AAA jeans with CE Level 2 hip and knee armour? I’d argue not, but similarly you need to feel confident and comfy, so it’s entirely up to you.

Riding jeans are tested against lots of different criteria designed to replicate what happens to them in a crash and a slide. Find a full list of denim CE testing here. A passing garment will receive a rating under the EN 17092 testing standard.

Any level of reinforcement in your jeans will offer better protection than a normal cotton garment, however, and so please consider buying a pair before you throw a leg over your bike for a Sunday scratch in national speed limits.

There are a few pitfalls to watch out for, some garments carry a CE rating for the fabric they are made from rather than the garment as a whole. Others mention the CE Level 2 armour included but have no garment rating at all.

Single layer or lined?

Once you’ve picked the safety rating you need, now it’s time to think about the structure of the jeans. Some use a standard denim outer shell with a lining that does the work of protecting you. These are generally bulkier and hotter, but also cheaper on the whole than comparable single-layer options.

Single-layer jeans use a fabric impregnated with their super fabric of choice for a lighter and cooler garment, more akin to everyday jeans. These are often more comfortable and cooler to wear in summer. Between the two there are all kinds of variations of partial linings available.

If you want riding jeans because you intend to stay in them at your destination – a day at work or the BSB, a drink down the pub etc, then single-layer will probably work better. If you want something cooler than leathers that give the illusion of jeans but you’ll mostly just be staying on the bike, then lined jeans might be an option.


AAA-rated motorbike jeans

Triple A jeans offer the top CE rating for bike jeans and not too many years ago was reserved for just the most protective leather garments. Advancements in textile tech (and a slight change in the testing process) means that there are plenty of denim options that meet the criteria now, too.

Find our top AAA-rated jeans

Expert rating:

5.0
Tested by Ben Clarke for 12 months, 3000 miles

"When it comes to this kind of summer and casual kit I’ve always aired on the side of comfort – using the theory that if I’m comfortable I’ll be able to focus on the ride better. But the Roadskin Taranis jeans let me keep that level of comfort with the added peace of mind that they won’t fall to bits in a slide.

"No, they’re not the cheapest, but they look great on and off the bike and achieving a AAA rating for a denim garment should be applauded.

"I would certainly spend my own money on a pair without thinking twice."

Read our full and in-depth Roadskin Taranis review

Pros

  • Comfortable on and off the bike
  • Look like normal jeans
  • Peace of mind from AAA rating

Cons

  • Not the cheapest but in line with similar spec alternatives
  • Partial liner a the top
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    3.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    5.0
  • Value
    4.0
  • Overall
    5.0
Construction Cotton, Kevlar, PE, Cordura, Lycra
Type Denim riding jeans
CE rating garment AAA
Armour CE-level 2 hip and knee
  • Available in three lengths
  • High and low knee armour positions
  • Stretch fabric
  • Single layer (partial mesh lining)

Expert rating:

5.0
Tested by Ben Clarke for 2000 miles

“Riding jeans are a must-have piece of summer bike kit for me and so I’ve tested plenty, including a few generations of Oxford AA and AAA options. These are certainly up there with the best in terms of comfort, I can wear them in the office all day and forget they’re not normal jeans.

“The single layer design is unrestrictive but also keeps you cool, particularly walking around off the bike, but retains a AAA CE certification for peace of mind. It also has a slight stretch to it, which is great for swinging your leg over taller bikes.

“The Level 2 Dynamic armour is a little stiff at first but soon adapts to your contours and becomes extremely comfortable and subtle. I don’t use the hip armour as I prefer the jeans without it.

“It’s important for me that a riding jean can pass for a normal garment away from the bike and these pass that test. I like the look of them, and apart from a few subtle, tell-tale bits of stitching you wouldn’t guess they were riding jeans at all.

"My only criticism is that I could do with a couple more belt loops as I get some gaping of the waistband."

Pros

  • Comfortable on and off the motorbike
  • Meet the testing criteria for the highest AAA CE certification
  • Look just like normal jeans

Cons

  • Not cheap but a fair price in line with the market
  • I'd prefer a couple more belt loops to prevent gaping
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    4.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    5.0
  • Value
    4.0
  • Verdict
    5.0
Construction Single layer Armourlite
CE certification AAA
Knee armour Level 2
Hip armour Level 2
  • Reinforced impact abrasion zones.
  • Fully lined inside seat panel.
  • Internal overlock stitching reinforces all critical seams for improved seam strength.
  • Rivet reinforced side pockets.
  • Twin needle reinforced side seams.
  • Bar tack reinforced belt loops.

Expert rating:

5.0
Price: £276.95 (converted from €)
Tested by Robin Kirkley for six months, 6000 miles:

"I’ve been riding with these jeans for just over six months in all kinds of weather and over long and short distances. They are comfortable and practical, and look good both on and off the bike. Obviously in rain I wear my waterproofs and in winter I wear base layers, but the Pando Moto jeans are now part of my standard riding gear.

"When it’s time to get another pair of riding jeans they will either be another pair of Pandos, or a pair that measures up to this standard. Nothing less."

Read Robin's full Pando Moto Boss Dyn 01 Jeans review

Pros

  • AAA certified for safety
  • Stylish enough to wear about the place
  • Comfortable for long days in the saddle

Cons

  • Not cheap, but worth the investment
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    5.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    5.0
  • Value
    4.0
  • Verdict
    5.0
Construction 12oz CORDURA® comfort-stretch denim combined with COOLMAX® technology
Protection Protective black knitted BALISTEX® fabric (15 times stronger than steel) lining in high-risk abrasion and impact zones
CE rating Fully CE approved – performance level AAA+ in accordance with the EN 17092-2:2020 standard
Knee armour Knee armor pockets (adjustable to two levels) come with SAS-TEC TripleFlex CE level 1 (EN1621-1:2012) armor INCLUDED
Hip armour SAS-TEC TripleFlex CE level 1 (EN1621-1:2012) armor INCLUDED
  • Regular waist, classic five-pocket design double-layer jeans
  • Highly heat-conducting fabric (cools down)
  • Unique hand-made aging (washed down)
  • Reflective tape on the turn-up hem for safety
  • Reinforced with chain stitches

Expert rating:

5.0
Price: £99.99 (was £189.99)
Tested by Michael Neeves for two years, 10,000 miles:

"Bull-it’s latest jeans have new pockets to keep knee armour more snugly in place and denim that retains its stretchiness for longer through wash cycles. They still offer the highest level of abrasion protection (AAA), like the old Coverts, and have CE knee and hip armour, so it feels like riding in more than ‘just’ jeans. Reassuringly thick, robust, and showerproof."

Read Michael's full Bull-it Covert Evo jeans review

Pros

  • They're showerproof
  • They look great
  • Have not faded after several washes

Cons

  • None I cant think of
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Value
    5.0
Construction Covec high-performance AA stretch denim
Type Jeans
CE rating AAA
Armour Level 2 hip and knee
  • Covec "LITE" Reinforcement panels at High impact zones giving AAA rating
  • CE hip and knee armour included as standard
  • Water resistant finish
  • Adjustable protector pockets

AA-rated motorbike jeans

If AAA rated jeans are out of budget and you mostly ride around in town or city centres, then a AA rated pair could be just the ticket. These won’t perform so well in a faster slide but can still be fitted with level 2 armour and do a better job than standard trousers.

Find our top AA-rated jeans

Expert rating:

4.0
Tried and tested by Adam Oldfield for three months, 2400 miles:

"Budget is always a consideration when buying riding gear. If I had to spend my own money on the Tyrian jeans, I think it would be money well spent. The jeans are set to serve your riding career well and will be the perfect a compliment to your riding adventures. Sometimes, spending a little more for a great fit and quality product is worth it, and these definitely are."

Read our full Roadskin Tyrian Jeans review

Pros

  • Great length and cut, figure fitting but roomy
  • Enough leg room to get them over a boot, but not too much that you couldn’t tuck them in if you wanted too
  • Good amount of elastic comfort and manoeuvrability
  • Decent pocket depth for modern phones
  • Hard wearing – thick denim and reinforced stitching
  • Stealth look – not easily recognisable as riding jeans
  • Luxury premium feel, from the point of receiving them, opening them up, and trying them on for the first time
  • Decent overlaps on the armour pocket holders so you don’t get a foot caught as you are pulling them on
  • CE level armour is highly malleable and is supply enough to move with you and leave in, without being intrusive, abrasing or annoying when off the bike

Cons

  • When pulling the jeans over the boot you may find the inside liner gets stuck as it hangs and isn’t stitched in
  • Lighter colours do tend to mark easier, but that can be said for any jean or item of clothing
  • Any exposed Velcro of boots that are placed inside the trouser quickly deteriorate the inner when caught, as threads start to get pulled due to the Velcro’s abrasiveness
  • Comfort
    4.0
  • Practicality
    4.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    4.0
  • Value
    4.0
  • Verdict
    4.0
Construction Reinforced stitching, with a blend of 75% CORDURA denim, polyester, nylon and Lycra
Type Single layer riding jeans
CE Rating AA
Armour Hip and Knee Level 2 armour
  • Triple stitched seams
  • Cool mesh lining
  • Adjustable length, shorter mesh lining so they can be turned up
  • Double belt loops to attach top layers
  • Classic five pocket design

Expert rating:

4.0
Tested by Justin Hayzelden for eight months, 4100 miles:

"The Trilobite Parado jeans are something a little different to the mainstream, and in terms of functionality and comfort score full marks. The look won’t be to everyone’s taste, but if you think of them as an alternative to textile or leather jeans, rather than bike kit in disguise, they can certainly hold their own.

"Having worn them for thousands of miles I would happily spend my own money on them, or better still throw in a few extra quid and trade up to the new CE AAA version, offering a higher level of protection."

Read our full Trilobite Parado Jeans review

Pros

  • Flexible panels offer great comfort
  • Good ventilation and highly breathable
  • Technical hybrid styling

Cons

  • Kevlar reinforcement only at impact points
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    5.0
  • Looks
    4.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    4.0
  • Value
    5.0
  • Verdict
    4.0
Construction 11.5 oz Elastic Denim (98% Cotton, 2% Elastane) with Kevlar lining in knees and seat
Type Single layer with protection in key impact areas
CE rating AA
Armour Level 2 hip and knee
  • Stretch panels in knees, back waist, and crotch
  • Adjustable height of knee protectors
  • Double belt loops in front, and raised waist belt at the back
  • Thighs air vent pockets
  • Breathable crotch panel

Expert rating:

4.0
Tested by Justin Hayzelden for one year, 2300 miles:

"With regular high street looks and a good level of protection, these Richa Original 2 jeans are
a great example of what a practical riding jean should be. If I’m going casual, be it to the office, a social gathering or relaxed rideout with mates, I want something comfortable that won’t stand out as motorcycle kit, and these absolutely fit the bill.

"I do love these jeans, and although they may not get a full five stars, for a compromise between comfort, protection and low profile looks they’re something that I’ll keep wearing and would have no qualms about spending my own money on."

Read our full Richa Original 2 Jeans review

Pros

  • Just as comfortable as a pair of Levi's
  • Well cut
  • The faded, aged style really does look great
  • Armour is lightweight

Cons

  • You could get AAA rated jeans for the same price or less
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    5.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    4.0
  • Protection
    4.0
  • Value
    4.0
  • Overall
    4.0
Construction Single layer, 69% cotton, 30% Cordura, 1% Elastane
Type Jeans
CE rating garment AA
Armour CE Level 1 D30 Ghost, hip and knee
  • Single layer
  • Five pockets
  • Slim cut
  • Adjustable knee armour

Expert rating:

3.5
Price: £89.99 (was £149.99)
Tried and tested by Simon Brown for three months and 500 miles

"Casual but protective is the name of the game with these slim-fit Bull-it jeans. The single-layer fabric meets the CE AA standard for abrasion resistance and there is hip and knee armour included.

Naturally it makes sense to stick the armour in – it does alter the look slightly but doesn’t wreck the styling (and you’ll feel like a twit if you crash without the armour in place). Plus, the stretchy fabric does a decent job of keeping the armour in position.

As with other jeans in the range, these are shower-resistant and the zip is a quality YKK item. The waist is higher than on fashion jeans, but that does prevent gaps between the jeans and your jacket. Sizes are 28- 40 in three leg lengths – the website has a handy measuring guide. The jet black colour looks great when they are squeaky clean, but be aware that they show up insect splats more than blue jeans."

Pros

  • Casual feel and look 
  • Armour fits in place as it should
  • Shower resistant 
  • Quality
    4.0
  • Value
    4.0
Construction Tactical Oneskin outer shell with premium Covec stretch recovery yarns
Type Jeans
CE rating AA
Armour Level 2 hip and knee
  • Water resistant finish
  • Adjustable pockets for armour
  • Stretch denim
  • AA rated

A rated motorbike jeans

The lowest protection level with abrasion and impact resistance (there is a B rating for abrasion only and C for impact only but that’s more for off-road kit). This is for the lightest of use at slow speed, maybe moped riding around town.

With the price and options available on the market today with AA ratings and above, there’s not really a need to drop down to a single A pair of riding jeans. A quick glance at Sportsbike Shop shows that A rated jeans start from an RRP of £99.99, just £20-30 less than a superior AA rated pair at full price and more than some of the offers to be found.


Waterproof motorbike jeans

Denim is mostly a fair weather material, but there are some options out there that claim a water resistant coating or even to be fully waterproof. Fully waterproof materials will never be as comfortable as porous denim when the weather is good, though, and sometimes a reliable set of waterproofs in a backpack are the better option. And hopefully, you won’t need them!

Find our top waterproof jeans

Expert rating:

5.0
Price: £89.99 (was £149.99)
Tested by Rich Newland for three months, 1200 miles:

"The trade-off between protection, comfort, style and versatility is one that rages almost every time we get on a bike. I’ve tried to get the options down to two set choices over the years: Jacket and jeans, or a textile suit. Even I can usually make a fast decision between only two options. 

"My absolute default – even in winter when it’s dry – is riding jeans and a jacket, so having highly protective but comfortable jeans is crucial, especially as I often spend all day in them, either in the saddle or while wandering about having ridden to a destination. I’ve tested a large number over the years, and these Bull-It jobbies are definitely in my top three (Draggin and Spidi make the other two on my podium). 

"These Tactical Icon IIs were superbly comfortable from the moment I put them on. Much of that is thanks to the construction and stretchy feel of the material, and the fact that they’re single-layer, meaning they’re almost indistinguishable from normal jeans in terms of weight, flexibility and comfort. Where they differ, is that they’re certified AA rated for protection and, if you want to, they can be fitted with knee and hip armour as well. Personally, that’s one of my trade-off items, and I don’t have the armour fitted, but I have ridden with it fitted, and the armour is comfortable in position. The supplied protectors slot into sewn-in pockets within the jeans which fasten with Velcro closures.

"The armour doesn’t move, sculps well, and doesn’t look cumbersome beneath the material. The armour is CE161 Level 2 at both knee and hip. And while the jeans are single layer, there is a mesh liner to knee height on the front and the aforementioned pockets for armour, but all the extra bits are integrated without rough seams or scratchy panels – so they don’t detract from the feeling of a lightweight jean. On the bike they offer a good connection to the seat – they’re not overly sticky or slippy – and are stretchy enough to offer some give. In hot weather they stay appreciably cool, and they’re just like a normal jean to walk around in.

"They come in sizes 30-44 for men, with different leg lengths available. In my size, they’re ever so slightly large, so try them first. A ladies’ cut is also available (see Tactical Icona II below) in sizes 4-16. 

"After 1200 miles and four washes they still look new, and I really like the detailing in terms of the 5-pocket design, branded button – and the use of a proper YKK zip. They look and feel (and perform) like a quality high-end garment, for a price that feels like exceptionally good value."

Pros

  • Soft to the touch
  • Pliable material
  • Comfortable and protective to a high standard

Cons

  • Try before you buy to ensure a good fit – mine came up large
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    4.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    4.0
  • Value
    5.0
  • Overall
    5.0
Construction Lined Covec
CE rating AA with level 2 armour at hips and knees
  • Tactical Oneskin outer shell with premium Covec stretch recovery yarns
  • Covec high-performance AA stretch denim CE Level II hip and knee armour included
  • Water resistant finish
  • Adjustable protector pockets

Ladies’ jeans and leggings

Some bike kit is more unisex than others, but jeans are a garment that lends itself to a female-specific cut. There are also popular CE-rated leggings to consider if you prefer the comfort and freedom and you’re likely to ride in mostly warm conditions.

Find our top ladies’ jeans and leggings

Expert rating:

5.0
Tested by Charlotte King for three months, 1200 miles:

"These Bull-it jeans appealed to me for their AA rating and short leg option. I opted for a size 10 as I'm usually between an 8 and a 10 in trousers, they fit well, if not a tiny bit loose. From the first wear they have been really comfortable thanks to the wider waist band which site nicely across your lower belly just below the navel. The fabric has a small amount of stretch and they fit pretty much exactly like regular jeans do with the low profile hip and knee protection being barely noticeable as it's really flexible. They have been comfortable enough that on occasion I have worn these jeans all day in the office to save on space in my bag."

"They are a nice balance of warm and cool so I have worn them in weather ranging from 33 degrees to 12 degrees, performing well throughout and I think with a thermal base layer they could be worn on milder winter days too. They still look new after being worn for pretty much every ride that i've been on this season with all stitching remaining strong."

Pros

  • Comfortable enough to wear all day
  • Look like regular jeans
  • Knee and hip armour is pretty discreet
  • Really nicely cut for ladies curves with mid rise wide waistband

Cons

  • Not AAA rated and only Level 1 armour
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    5.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    4.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Value
    5.0
  • Verdict
    5.0
Construction Covec® Oneskin Grey blue denim
Type Ladies motorcycle jeans
CE rating AA
Armour Level 1 RE ZERO armour to knee and hip
  • Mid-rise with wider waist band
  • Twin silver shank, rivets and YKK zip
  • Classic five pocket design
  • Available in short, regular and long

Expert rating:

5.0
Price: £89.99 (was £139.99)
Tested by Emma Franklin for two months, 1000 miles:

"These AA-rated single-layer jeans have become my go-to pair because they fit so well and also are comfortable, even on warm days. Styled like slim-fit fashion jeans, I like how the Icona IIs (like all Bull-it jeans) feature a high waist to prevent your lower back from becoming exposed (low waist riding jeans are a pet hate).

"Abrasion-resistant stretchy denim ensures a good fit and has the bonus of holding the included Level-2 hip and knee armour perfectly in place. It’s a pretty clever trick Bull-it have pulled off here, as the jeans fit just as well with the armour as they do without, so I’ve got no reason not to wear the extra protection.

"As an added bonus, the jeans are also shower resistant. Bull-it were the first to make a product to pass the old, tougher (and largely ignored) CE abrasion standard, so making good protective product is at the core of their ideals."

Pros

  • AA-rated for safety
  • Comfortable fit, suitable for warm weather
  • High waist design prevents lower back exposure
  • Abrasion-resistant stretchy denim ensures a snug fit
  • Level-2 hip and knee armour fits perfectly and does not alter fit
  • Shower resistant fabric

Cons

  • 'Only' AA rated not AAA
  • Comfort
    5.0
  • Practicality
    5.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Protection
    5.0
  • Value
    5.0
  • Overall
    5.0
Construction Tactical Oneskin outer shell with premium Covec stretch recovery yarns
Type Denim riding jeans
CE rating garment AA
Armour CE Level II hip and knee armour included
  • Stretchy
  • Water-resistant finish
  • Adjustable protector pockets

Expert rating:

4.0
Tested by Saffron Wilson for 11 months, 2343 miles:

"I think a lot of us have that pair of jeans which require a little bit of wearing after they’ve been washed to get them comfortable again, and as long as I made sure to pull them up to my waist rather than my stomach then they fit great – but every shape is different and many reviews say that they fit them perfectly no matter what. But once you’ve worn them in a touch, the slightly stretchy material makes you forget that you’re wearing a pair of motorcycle jeans, on and off the bike, and the single layer means they aren’t hot or heavy."

"Compared to the standard armour, the Rheon knee armour isn’t bulky or infringing, so you don’t look ridiculous walking around at your destination either."

"Boasted as AAA rated, you can’t get any more protective motorcycling kit by official standards. With Kevlar fibres woven into the fabric, they’ve got you covered for abrasion, and come with level 2 armour in the knees and hips."

Pros

  • Just as comfortable as regular jeans
  • Look just like regular jeans, so great for both on and off the bike
  • Deep pockets
  • Flattering fit
  • Sturdy construction

Cons

  • Fit wasn’t amazing for my body shape
  • Slightly more pricey
  • Comfort
    3.0
  • Practicality
    5.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    4.0
  • Protection
    5.0
  • Value
    4.0
  • Verdict
    4.0
Construction 48% Cotton, 26.8% Kevlar®, 19.4% PE, 3.2% Cordura, 2.6% Lycra
Type Denim riding jeans
CE Rating AAA
Armour CE level 2 knee and hip
  • Triple-stitched on main seams
  • High and low pockets for knee armour to create the correct fit
  • Higher rear waistband for draft-free comfort and discretion!
  • Whole garment AAA rated - not just the material
  • Single-layer
  • Super-light mesh lining
  • Roadskin® angel wing motif detailing to both rear pockets
  • Double belt loops for attaching top layers – eg our Maximite hoodie
  • Zip fastening
  • Designed to fit over motorcycle boots
  • Available in 3 different leg lengths: 27" (PETITE) 29" (REGULAR) 31" (LONG)
  • Sizes 8-16

Ladies’ leggings

Expert rating:

4.0
Price: £119.99 (was £145.99)
Tested by Alison Silcox for three months, 1000 miles:

"Over recent years I’ve taken to wearing riding leggings or jeggings, being made from Aramid or Kevlar lined stretch fabrics, they are more forgiving and far easier to size than a traditional riding jean. And being a lady of a certain age, I find nothing beats an elasticated waist to hide an ever-increasing muffin top. I’ve been impressed with the quality and styling of these Roadskin Bronte leggings and
over the three months of use, they’ve proved comfortable and easy to wear."

"Fully Kevlar lined and AA-rated, they are super stretchy. They have CE Level 2 knee and hip armour; the knee armour pockets are height adjustable, so they sit in the correct position. With a short connecting zip, sewn into the waistband, you can attach to most jackets, avoiding any nasty draughts. I found the body size came up slightly smaller than my normal jeans and I opted for one size up, in contrast the leg length is over generous. It’s not a complaint by any means, as I regularly have the opposite issue"

Pros

  • Wide elasticated waist band is comfortable and flattering
  • Handy deep front pockets
  • Comfortable and easy to wear

Cons

  • Do come up quite long
  • Quality
    5.0
  • Value
    4.0
Construction Fully lined kevlar
Type Leggings
CE rating AA
Armour Level 2 knee and hip
  • Knee armour pockets with height adjustment feature
  • Elasticated foot stirrup to stop the leggings riding up
  • Two front pockets and two rear pockets
  • Connecting zip at the rear 
  • High rise waist
  • Stretch panel on knees for comfort while on the bike 

Expert rating:

4.0
Price: £180.49 (was £189.99)
Tested by Saffron Wilson for 1,800 miles

"Alpinestars Banshee leggings are excellent quality and fit extremely well. They are thick, so are suitable for riding in typically cool British weather, but they might leave you too warm on summer days and when you are walking around off the bike."

They are a tight fit, which makes them look spectacular, but you will have to wrestle to get them on, but once they are on they’re as comfy as can be."

"With a CE rating of A they only claim to provide crash protection during low-speed urban riding, so bear this in mind as more protective (AA) leggings are available. That said, Level 1 knee armour is included, and there are pockets if you wanted to add additional hip armour, but the fabric itself is so thick, it manages to withstand exhaust scalding without too much bother, so the leggings feel very reassuring. All in all," a great alternative to jeans for women, and I’ve really become a motorcycle leggings fan since."

Read the full Alpinestars Banshee Leggings review

Pros

  • Keeps you warm in cooler weather
  • There's no denying that they look great
  • There are pockets both on the front and back
  • Comfortable to walk around in when off the bike

Cons

  • Can be a mission to get on
  • Gets hot when the weather warms up
  • Not really a negative, but CE certified level A crash protection is suitable for low-speed urban riding, not high speeds on a motorway
  • Comfort
    3.0
  • Practicality
    3.0
  • Looks
    4.0
  • Quality
    4.0
  • Protection
    3.0
  • Value
    3.0
  • Overall Verdict
    4.0
Construction Stretch fabric shell construction for close anatomical fit
Type Stretch accordion on knee area to increase comfort on the bike
CE Rating Garment Replaceable foam hip pad inserts for comfort (Alpinestars Level 1 CE-certified Nucleon hip protector available as accessory upgrade)
Armour Level 1 CE-certified knee protectors for class-leading protection
  • Optimized for women riders, the Banshee Leggings offer a figure-hugging
    fit thanks to an anatomical stretch fabric main shell, as well as
    incorporating a full aramid fiber lining and slim-profiled CE-certified knee
    protection

Expert rating:

4.0
Tested by Alison Silcox for three months, 1500 miles:

"Getting riding jeans to fit has always been a nightmare because sizing is so out of step with non-riding gear. In ‘normal’ clothes I’m a size 12 with long leg length but over the years I’ve ended up with jeans ranging from 12 to 18, which does a lady’s ego no good! It was like a breath of fresh air trying on these super-stretchy leggings because the sizing is accurate.

"With aramid reinforcements, knee protectors and pockets for hip armour, they are CE approved but only to the lowest level (A) so they’re best used for lower-speed urban riding. However, being made from stretchy material means they fit perfectly. There’s a high waistband, so no awkward gap between jacket and jeans, plus no fear of a muffin top.

"You can also purchase a belt connector so that you can zip them to your riding jacket. Front pockets are large enough to stow keys or a phone when you’re off the bike. The leggings look stylish and can be worn with either short baseball-style riding boots or touring boots. They’ve been through the wash a few times and they haven’t lost shape or colour.

"They don’t claim to be waterproof and I can absolutely confirm this is true. When I got caught in a shower, they absorbed water like a sponge. They come in a full range of sizes and three leg lengths, I opted for long and, for once, they’re slightly too long. Also available in khaki, grey and burgundy."

Pros

  • Accurate sizing matches non-riding apparel
  • Made with super-stretchy material for a perfect fit
  • Features aramid reinforcements and knee protectors
  • Optional pockets for hip armour
  • High waistband prevents gaps between jacket and jeans
  • Front pockets are functional for keys or phone
  • Stylish design compatible with various riding boots
  • Maintains shape and colour after washing
  • Available in multiple colours and three leg lengths

Cons

  • Only CE approved to the lowest level (A), suitable for lower-speed urban riding
  • Not waterproof; absorbs water heavily in rain
  • Length may be too long, even in the correct size choice
  • Comfort
    4.0
  • Practicality
    3.0
  • Looks
    5.0
  • Quality
    4.0
  • Protection
    3.0
  • Value
    4.0
  • Overall
    4.0
Construction Denim with aramid liner
Type Denim leggings
CE rating garment A
Armour CE Level 2
  • Designed for women
  • Casual-looking
  • Reinforced belt loops

FAQs


How we test jeans

Riding motorbikes in protective jeans

At MCN, our team of expert journalists have decades of experience gained over hundreds of thousands of miles. We don’t test our kit to destruction, we use it exactly how you do; in the real world and in all conditions. That means we can deliver impartial buying advice you can rely on.

Each of our writers has an in-depth understanding of the needs of today’s biker… because they are one.

All of the jeans in this page have been tested in the real world by a member of the team and scored at least four stars overall.

Motorcycle jeans are tested against comfort, practicality, looks, quality, protection and value before being awarded an overall score out of five.

1 star – Poor performance in this category or overall. Jeans with a single star rating have fallen below the expected standard and should be avoided.
2 stars – Basic performance in this area or overall. Jeans with a two-star rating have managed to perform to a barely acceptable level, and there is much room for improvement.
3 stars – An average performance in this area or overall. Jeans with a three-star rating have achieved a basic level of performance and is deemed adequate.
4 stars – Jeans have performed over and above the accepted averaged in this category or overall. Jeans with a four-star rating have surpassed expectation and delivered in a particularly impressive way.
5 stars – Jeans have performed at the highest possible level in a particular category or overall. Jeans with a five-star rating have delivered to the highest possible level, impressing the tester with its performance. We would happily spend our own money on it.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products


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