Best Waterproof Motorcycle Pants: Ride Dry in Any Weather
Evan Rally
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Riding through a downpour with water dumping off your jacket straight into your lap is a special kind of misery.
One minute you’re dry up top, the next your crotch feels like it’s sitting in a puddle. Cold, wet, and stuck in the saddle with no way to fix it.
I’ve worn rain gear that ballooned like a parachute, jackets that gave up in minutes, and “waterproof” pants that soaked through the second I sat down.
Some gear holds up. Most doesn’t.
If you’re commuting, touring, or hitting trails in sketchy weather, the right waterproof pants aren’t a luxury. They’re the difference between a great ride and a soaked, shivering mess.
This guide breaks down the gear that actually keeps the water out whether you’re doing 10 minutes in city traffic or ten hours on the slab.
Before You Pick the Best Waterproof Motorcycle Pants
Let me share a few things I’ve picked up after riding through everything from mist to full-on monsoons. A good pair of waterproof pants does more than just say “waterproof” on the tag, and not all are built the same.
- “100% waterproof” is a bold claim. Some pants live up to the promise, some tap out after ten minutes of real rain. Don’t trust the tag. Check the zippers, seams, and what other riders are saying.
- Price doesn’t always equal performance. You don’t need to drop a fortune to stay dry. There’s solid waterproof gear out there that won’t clean out your wallet.
- Overpants aren’t the clunky mess they used to be. Modern designs are lighter, better fitting, and way easier to get on and off. Some are even stylish enough to wear off the bike.
Waterproofing is a system, not a single piece. Your pants only work as well as your jacket and boots do. Look for gear that seals together properly to keep water from sneaking in through the cracks.
Top Picks:
Best Overall 
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Best for Street 
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Best for Touring/ADV 
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The Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pants are top-tier adventure touring gear, featuring a CE AAA rating, 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro shell, and advanced SuperFabric® overlays, offering unmatched protection and durability for all-season riding. | The Rukka Armatou-R Pants are high-end touring pants built with a 3-layer waterproof A.W.S. PRO laminate and D3O Level 2 armor for serious all-weather protection and comfort. | The REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Pants are versatile adventure pants with a 3-layer system, offering comfort and protection across all seasons and terrains. |
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The Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pants are top-tier adventure touring gear, featuring a CE AAA rating, 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro shell, and advanced SuperFabric® overlays, offering unmatched protection and durability for all-season riding.
- Exceptional abrasion resistance with CE AAA certification
- Advanced ventilation system for all-weather comfort
- Comprehensive CE Level 2 D3O armor coverage
- High price point
- Heavier than standard models
- Hydration bladder not included
The Rukka Armatou-R Pants are high-end touring pants built with a 3-layer waterproof A.W.S. PRO laminate and D3O Level 2 armor for serious all-weather protection and comfort.
- D3O Level 2 knee and hip armor
- Waterproof and breathable laminate
- Comfort-focused seat design (AirCushion + Antiglide)
- Expensive price point
- Limited ventilation in hot weather
- Heavier than average touring pants
The REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Pants are versatile adventure pants with a 3-layer system, offering comfort and protection across all seasons and terrains.
- Adaptable for all-weather riding
- CE-rated armor for knees and hips
- Effective thigh ventilation panels
- High price point
- Layer changes can be tedious
- Not ideal for off-bike use
Other Great Options: Budget & One-Piece Picks
Budget Option 
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One-piece Suit 
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The Sedici Avventura Waterproof Pants are rugged, all-season adventure pants with removable waterproof and thermal liners plus CE Level 2 knee armor for protection in any weather. | The REV'IT! Paramount GTX is a premium one-piece adventure touring suit with a 3L GORE-TEX shell, advanced ventilation, and CE Level 2 armor for all-season protection and comfort. |
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The Sedici Avventura Waterproof Pants are rugged, all-season adventure pants with removable waterproof and thermal liners plus CE Level 2 knee armor for protection in any weather.
- All-season ready with removable liners
- CE Level 2 knee armor
- Adjustable fit for comfort
- Waterproofing depends on liner
- No hip armor included
- Limited tall size options
The REV'IT! Paramount GTX is a premium one-piece adventure touring suit with a 3L GORE-TEX shell, advanced ventilation, and CE Level 2 armor for all-season protection and comfort.
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX shell
- Excellent airflow with adjustable vents
- High-level CE armor throughout
- Very expensive
- Feels stiff at first
- Minimal external pockets
Which Pants for Which Ride?
Choosing the right waterproof pants depends a lot on what kind of riding you do. Are you a globetrotting adventurer, a daily commuter, or a weekend tourer? Each style has different demands.
- Adventure/Touring: You need something that can handle anything – relentless rain, mud, and long days in the saddle. Durability, top-tier waterproofing like Gore-Tex, and good ventilation for when the sun (eventually) comes out are key.
- Commuting/Street: You might be looking for something easy to slip on over your work clothes, or a dedicated riding pant that doesn’t scream “motorcycle gear” when you get to the office. Quick on/off and good visibility can be big pluses.
- Sport/Sport Touring: While a full race suit might be the ultimate for track days, for sporty road riding in iffy weather, you want pants that offer protection and waterproofing without bulk, allowing for a dynamic riding position.
Let’s look at some of the best options out there.
Top Waterproof Motorcycle Pants for 2025
I’ve scoured the latest offerings, focusing on pants that are truly storm-ready, rugged, and reasonably packable (where applicable). Every pick here is current, in stock for US riders, and the newest version in its lineup.
Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pants
Riding into black skies without flinching takes gear that’s built to match your mindset. The Klim Badlands Pro A3s deliver that. These pants are overbuilt in the best way: serious protection, weatherproofing that holds up under pressure, and a fit that works mile after mile. Our Senior Editor JM Staelens owns and rides in these pants – you can find his review on the entire Badlands suit here.
You get a Gore-Tex 3-layer Pro shell that stays dry no matter how hard it’s coming down. Superfabric on the knees and hips handles abrasion, while D3O Level 2 armor soaks up impact without locking you up. Zippers are waterproof and glove-friendly, and the vents are placed to move air when things heat up. Fit is adjustable without being fussy, giving you room to layer or tighten down depending on the day.
The CE AAA rating isn’t marketing fluff. It’s real-deal crash protection, the kind you usually only see in track gear. They also zip directly into the matching Badlands jacket, so you stay sealed from collar to cuff with no gaps and no leaks at speed.
They’re stiff right out of the box, but they settle in after a few hundred miles. Once they do, you’ve got a pair of pants built for big miles and bad weather. This is gear made for riders who spend more time on the road than in the garage.
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The catch? Price. At north of $900, these pants cost more than some bikes. And the stiffness is real at first. These aren’t lounge pants.
The silver lining: These are the waterproof pants you’ll actually want to ride in. They hold up when the weather turns and give you the coverage you need when things get rough.
Alternative option: If you’re after waterproof protection with a more relaxed fit and lower price tag, the Alpinestars Andes v3 Drystar Pants are a strong pick. They’re comfy, breathable, and ready for multi-season riding without breaking the bank.
The Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pants are top-tier adventure touring gear, featuring a CE AAA rating, 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro shell, and advanced SuperFabric® overlays, offering unmatched protection and durability for all-season riding.
- Exceptional abrasion resistance with CE AAA certification
- Advanced ventilation system for all-weather comfort
- Comprehensive CE Level 2 D3O armor coverage
- High price point
- Heavier than standard models
- Hydration bladder not included
Our rating: 4.8/5. Great protection, ventilation, and waterproofing, with hardware that’s built to survive the apocalypse. Here’s our full first-hand review on the Badlands suit.
Klim Carlsbad Pants
If the Badlands Pro is a tank, the Carlsbad is a rally car: lighter, quicker, and still tough enough to take a beating. Designed for ADV riders who want serious protection without the bulk, these pants hit the sweet spot between comfort and durability.
The Gore-Tex Performance Shell keeps you dry through hours of rain, while the 630D Cordura overlays and FPL400 main chassis fabric provide solid abrasion resistance. The D3O Level 2 armor at the knees and hips offers impact protection without restricting movement. Ventilation is handled by two thigh intake vents and two exhaust vents, keeping airflow steady when the ride heats up.
Storage is practical, with two billowed thigh cargo pockets that are easy to access even with gloves on. The YKK zippers are sturdy and glove-friendly, ensuring you can gear up or down without a hassle. The fit is articulated and adjustable, accommodating various body types and layering preferences.
These pants are built for riders who tackle both on-road and off-road adventures, offering a balance of mobility, protection, and weather resistance.
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The catch? They’re not cheap. At around $600, they’re an investment. And while they’re lighter than the Badlands, they still require a break-in period to reach peak comfort.
The silver lining: Once broken in, they offer a versatile, durable option for serious riders. They’re lighter than the Badlands but still provide excellent protection and waterproofing.
Alternative option: If you’re looking for something with similar features but at a slightly lower price point, consider the REV’IT! Sand 5 H2O Pants. They offer good protection and versatility for adventure touring.
The Klim Carlsbad Pants are durable adventure pants with a GORE-TEX shell, D3O armor, and efficient ventilation—ideal for serious on- and off-road touring.
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX shell
- Excellent airflow with dual vents
- CE Level 2 D3O armor included
- Pricey for mid-weight gear
- Only two cargo pockets
- Some sizing inconsistencies
Our rating: 4.7/5. A solid choice for adventure riders seeking a balance between protection, comfort, and mobility.
REV’IT! Dominator 3 GTX Pants
The REV’IT! Dominator 3 GTX Pants are made for riders stacking miles in rough conditions. This isn’t commuter gear or something you wear for a quick spin around the block. These are for long-haul trips through unpredictable weather and mixed terrain, where your gear needs to perform every time without excuses.
The outer shell is a 3L Gore-Tex Pro laminate bonded directly to the armor. No floating liners, no rain covers to wrestle with. Just throw them on and ride. Armacor covers high-impact zones at the knees, and Seeflex CE Level 2 armor protects both hips and knees. Aquadefence vents with magnetic Fidlock closures open and close easily, even with gloves, letting you stay cool when the temps climb.
Zippers are all YKK, waterproof, and smooth even when caked in trail grime. Full-length leg zippers make them easy to pull on and off, and the cargo pockets are glove-friendly and don’t jam when you’re in a hurry. The build quality shows through in every small detail, from the stitching to the feel of the fasteners.
The included bib and suspenders give extra coverage when needed and come off when they’re not. The fit is pre-curved for the riding position, so they stay comfortable on the bike without extra bulk where you don’t need it.
This isn’t just waterproof outerwear. It’s rider armor that works across climates, altitudes, and surfaces. Wet highway, rocky trail, cold mountain pass. These pants are ready to take it all on without slowing you down.
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The catch? They’re overbuilt for casual riding. If your longest ride is across town or you’re mostly sticking to pavement, they’ll feel like overkill.
The silver lining: You’re getting solid protection, dependable weather performance, and quality materials. They’re built to handle real riding conditions without falling apart.
Alternative option: If you’re looking for waterproof touring pants that don’t weigh you down, the Sedici Garda Waterproof Pants are a great pick. They offer solid weather protection, a comfortable fit, and four-season versatility without the bulk of full ADV gear.
The REV'IT! Dominator 3 GTX Pants are high-end adventure pants with a GORE-TEX Pro shell, CE Level 2 armor, and premium ventilation—built for serious all-weather touring.
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX Pro
- CE Level 2 armor with Armacor reinforcements
- Adjustable vents with FidLock fasteners
- Expensive
- Stiff out of the box
- No built-in insulation
Our rating: 4.7/5. Bombproof Gore-Tex Pro, top-tier armor, and great ventilation. The bib design and pocket layout make them feel truly expedition-ready.
REV’IT! Sand 5 H2O Pants
The REV’IT! Sand line has been a go-to for years. It’s one of those setups adventure and touring riders trust, and the Sand 5 H2O keeps that legacy alive. Same solid performance, just leveled up with better vents, smarter fit, and a modular system that handles just about anything the road throws at you.
The outer shell is a tough polyester ripstop that takes a beating without weighing you down. Inside, you’ve got a removable waterproof liner and a separate thermal liner. Cold morning? Layer up. Afternoon sun? Strip it back. The system works, and it works well.
Vents on the upper thighs actually do something, which isn’t always the case with adventure pants. You get real airflow when you need it. CE Level 2 armor at the knees, Level 1 at the hips, and a fit that’s cut to move—whether you’re standing on the pegs or stuck in traffic.
The zippers are YKK, smooth and tough, even when your gloves are soaked. Cargo pockets are solid, nothing flappy or awkward. And if you’re pairing with the Sand 5 jacket, they zip together clean, no weird gaps or fiddling around.
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The catch? Swapping liners mid-ride can be a pain. If the weather turns fast, you’ll need to stop and gear shuffle.
The silver lining: You get true four-season adaptability. Dial in the layers and you’re covered for just about anything short of a hurricane.
Alternative option: If you’re seeking waterproof protection without the complexity of removable liners, the Alpinestars Andes v3 Drystar Pants are a solid choice. These pants feature a fixed waterproof membrane, CE-approved armor at the knees and hips, and full-length side zippers for easy on and off over boots.
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Women 
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The REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Pants are versatile adventure pants with a 3-layer system, offering comfort and protection across all seasons and terrains. | The REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Women’s Pants are rugged, all-season adventure pants with waterproof liners, armor protection, and a women-specific fit. |
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The REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Pants are versatile adventure pants with a 3-layer system, offering comfort and protection across all seasons and terrains.
- Adaptable for all-weather riding
- CE-rated armor for knees and hips
- Effective thigh ventilation panels
- High price point
- Layer changes can be tedious
- Not ideal for off-bike use
The REV'IT! Sand 5 H2O Women’s Pants are rugged, all-season adventure pants with waterproof liners, armor protection, and a women-specific fit.
- Removable waterproof and thermal liners
- Adjustable fit for comfort
- Good ventilation for airflow
- On the pricey side
- Few color choices
- Fit may feel snug for some
Our rating: 4.6/5. True four-season performance with smart layering and legit airflow. Modular liners and CE Level 2 protection where it counts.
Rukka Armatou-R Pants
The Rukka Armatou-R Pants are built to keep you dry, locked in, and focused on the ride no matter what the weather decides to do. They’re made for riders who don’t pull over when things get wet.
Constructed with A.W.S. PRO Motorsport fabric, these pants offer a stretchy and durable polyamide shell with a breathable, wind- and waterproof 3-layer laminate. This means you get top-tier protection without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
Safety isn’t an afterthought here. The Armatou-R Pants come equipped with D3O® Air XTR hip and knee/shin protectors, meeting CE Norm EN 1621-1 2012, Level 2 standards. This ensures that you’re well-protected in case of any unexpected incidents on the road.
Ventilation is also a key feature. With vents on the front and back of the thighs, you can regulate your temperature during those warmer rides. The pants also include two water-resistant zippered pockets, providing convenient storage for your essentials.
Adjustability is made easy with a waist closure featuring double tightening and adjustable leg bottoms with zippers and Velcro. Plus, the Rukka AirCushion and Antiglide system in the seating area, made from Schoeller® Keprotec®, ensures you stay comfortable and in place during long rides.
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The catch? These pants don’t pack down small. If you’re tight on space or gear storage is a concern, their bulk can be a bit much.
The silver lining:
The investment pays off in the long run with exceptional durability, comfort, and protection, making them a worthwhile addition to your riding gear.
Alternative option: If you want waterproof protection with added stretch and airflow, the Alpinestars AMT-8 Stretch Drystar Pants are a solid choice. They feature a Drystar XF waterproof stretch liner and strategically placed hyperflow ventilation ports.
Men
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Women 
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Description: The Rukka Armatou-R Pants are high-end touring pants built with a 3-layer waterproof A.W.S. PRO laminate and D3O Level 2 armor for serious all-weather protection and comfort. | Description: The Rukka Armatou-R Women’s Pants are premium waterproof touring pants with a laminated shell, D3O armor, and comfort-focused features designed for all-weather rides. |
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Cons:
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The Rukka Armatou-R Pants are high-end touring pants built with a 3-layer waterproof A.W.S. PRO laminate and D3O Level 2 armor for serious all-weather protection and comfort.
- D3O Level 2 knee and hip armor
- Waterproof and breathable laminate
- Comfort-focused seat design (AirCushion + Antiglide)
- Expensive price point
- Limited ventilation in hot weather
- Heavier than average touring pants
The Rukka Armatou-R Women’s Pants are premium waterproof touring pants with a laminated shell, D3O armor, and comfort-focused features designed for all-weather rides.
- D3O Level 2 knee and hip armor
- Waterproof and breathable laminate
- Comfort-focused seat design (AirCushion + Antiglide)
- High price point
- No built-in insulation
- Limited pocket space
Our rating: 4.6/5. Premium materials, all-weather Gore-Tex, and serious long-haul comfort. Armor is top-notch and vents work well in changing temps.
Klim Artemis Women’s Pants
These are built for ladies who ride far, and ride hard. The Klim Artemis Women’s Pants are designed from the ground up for serious adventure riders who need gear that keeps up across weather, terrain, and seasons. Gore-Tex waterproofing, premium armor, and real airflow make them a legit touring companion, not just a matching set.
You get abrasion-resistant Superfabric overlays and burly Cordura where it counts. The outer shell holds up in rough terrain, while the fit stays comfortable thanks to smart tailoring, adjustable waist tabs, and flexible panels in all the right places. Storage is well thought-out with secure pockets and MOLLE-style webbing that’s actually usable on the bike.
Ventilation is solid too. Two intake vents on the thighs and two exhausts in the rear mean they won’t turn into swamp pants when the sun comes out. D3O Level 1 armor is included at the hips and knees, and it’s the breathable kind that moves with you instead of locking you into one position.
These are serious overland-ready pants for women who ride in every kind of weather and expect gear that delivers, not just looks good on the gram.
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The catch? The lower legs run tight. If you’re wearing bulky off-road boots, getting the cuffs over them can be a squeeze.
The Silver Lining: The tailored fit actually works in the riding position. No weird bunching, no bulk where you don’t need it.
Alternative option: If you want a lighter setup with modular layering and solid protection, the REV’IT! Sand 5 H2O Women’s Pants are a great pick. Waterproof, breathable, and adventure-ready with removable liners.
The Klim Artemis Women's Pants are premium adventure gear built for comfort and protection, featuring GORE-TEX® waterproofing and D3O® armor.
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- Great airflow with multiple vents
- Tailored women-specific fit
- Expensive
- Few color options
- Tight over bulky boots
Our rating: 4.6/5. Excellent fit and performance made specifically for female riders. Gore-Tex, armor, and airflow in one clean setup.
Sedici Avventura Waterproof Pants
If you’re tackling unpredictable weather and need gear that adapts, the Sedici Avventura Waterproof Pants are up for the challenge. Designed for versatility, these pants feature a 3-layer construction: a durable 450D Oxford fabric shell, a removable waterproof liner, and a detachable thermal liner. This setup allows you to adjust to varying conditions, whether you’re commuting or on an adventure ride.
Comfort is key, and the Avventura doesn’t disappoint. Stretch panels above the knees and at the lower back provide flexibility in the riding position. The airflow inner lining enhances climate control, keeping you comfortable during long rides.
For protection, these pants come equipped with CE Level 2 approved knee armor, offering peace of mind on the road. Reflective strips are strategically placed to increase visibility in low-light conditions. Cargo-style patch pockets on the legs are angled for convenience, ensuring your essentials are within easy reach.
Adjustability is straightforward with pull-through waist tab adjusters and zipper entry ankle closures with tab adjustments, allowing for a personalized fit. The inclusion of short connection zippers ensures compatibility with various jackets, enhancing the overall riding experience.
The catch? The ventilation zippers on the thighs don’t provide significant airflow, which can be noticeable during warmer rides.
The silver lining: The removable liners offer adaptability, making these pants suitable for a range of weather conditions, from chilly mornings to rainy afternoons.
Alternative option: The Thrashin Supply Mission Waterproof Rain Pants are a good option for riders who need quick and effective rain protection. These pants are lightweight, packable, and feature a fixed waterproof membrane. They are ideal for unexpected downpours.
The Sedici Avventura Waterproof Pants are rugged, all-season adventure pants with removable waterproof and thermal liners plus CE Level 2 knee armor for protection in any weather.
- All-season ready with removable liners
- CE Level 2 knee armor
- Adjustable fit for comfort
- Waterproofing depends on liner
- No hip armor included
- Limited tall size options
Our rating: 4.2/5. The Sedici Avventura Waterproof Pants offer a versatile solution for riders facing varying weather conditions. While the ventilation could be improved, the combination of removable liners, protective features, and comfort make them a reliable choice for many riders.
Special Mention: One-Piece Suit
REV’IT! Paramount GTX One-Piece Rain Suit
Okay, this isn’t pants, but if your main priority is staying bone-dry through a full-day downpour, you owe it to yourself to consider this. The REV’IT! Paramount GTX is a one-piece waterproof shell that turns your whole body into a sealed, mobile bunker. It’s not just for track use either. Tourers, commuters, and year-rounders who hate getting soaked should be paying attention.
The big win here is coverage. No jacket hem. No waistband gap. No place for water or wind to sneak in. It’s built with a 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro laminate, so rain beads up and runs right off. No soggy material, no sponge effect. And because it’s designed to go over your gear (textile or leather) it slides on fast and keeps your base layers totally dry.
Zippers are oversized, waterproof, and easy to use even with gloves. Entry and exit are surprisingly painless for a suit like this, and it packs down better than you’d expect for something that offers full-body storm protection. If you’re logging serious miles and the forecast turns evil, this is what you want in your pannier.
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The catch? It’s a full suit. That means no quick pit stops or partial coverage. Great for storms, not for casual around-town riding.
The silver lining: No two-piece setup comes close in weather sealing. If absolute dryness is your top priority, this is the best tool for the job.
Alternative option: If you’re seeking a fully waterproof one-piece suit with integrated armor, the Tourmaster Centurion Lite 1-Piece V2 Rain Suit is a solid choice. It features a waterproof and breathable construction, CE Level-1 armor, and strategically placed vents for airflow.
The REV'IT! Paramount GTX is a premium one-piece adventure touring suit with a 3L GORE-TEX shell, advanced ventilation, and CE Level 2 armor for all-season protection and comfort.
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX shell
- Excellent airflow with adjustable vents
- High-level CE armor throughout
- Very expensive
- Feels stiff at first
- Minimal external pockets
Our rating: 4.5/5. Total weatherproofing that’s race-track tough and tour-ready. Easy to pack, quick to deploy when the skies open up.
Comparison Table
👉 Slide table → to see more ➡️
| Feature | Klim Badlands Pro A3 | Klim Carlsbad | REV’IT! Dominator 3 GTX | REV’IT! Sand 5 H2O | Rukka Armatou-R | Sedici Avventura Waterproof | Klim Artemis | REV’IT! Paramount GTX (Suit) |
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| Waterproofing | 3L Gore-Tex Pro | Gore-Tex Performance shell | 3L 400D Gore-Tex Pro | 3L Hydratex (Detachable Liner) | 3-layer laminated | Removable 100% waterproof liner | Gore-Tex performance shell | 3L Gore-Tex |
| Primary Use | ADV/Touring | ADV/Touring | Premium Touring | Versatile, ADV/Touring | Street, Touring | Budget, ADV/Touring | ADV/Touring | Ultimate All-Weather |
| Armor Level | CE L2 (hips & knees) | CE L2 (hips & knees) | CE L2 (knees), L1 (hips) | CE L2 (knees), L1 (hips) | CE L2 (hips, knees, shins) | CE L2 Knees | CE L1 (hips & knees) | CE L2 (shoulders, elbows, knees, back), L1 (hips) |
| Ventilation | Excellent (Multiple) | Thigh In/Out | VCS Aquadefence (upper legs), upper back | Upper legs | Thighs (front & back) | Zippered vents on legs | 4 vents | Aquadefence panels (upper front, upper legs) |
| Price Tier | $$$$ | $$$ | $$$$ | $$ | $$$ | $ | $$$ | $$$$$ |
| Get one | Check price | Check price | Check price | Check price | Check price | Check price | Check price | Check price |
Buying Guide: Choosing Your Dry Haven
Alright, you’ve seen some great options. But how do you pick the right one for you? Here are a few things to chew on:
What Kind of Wet?
Occasional Showers vs. Biblical Deluges: If you mostly dodge rain or only get caught in light stuff, a good quality detachable liner or a well-treated shell might do. If you ride through storms because you have to, or because that’s where the adventure is, laminated Gore-Tex Pro is your best friend. Nothing beats it for sustained, heavy rain.
Commuting vs. Touring: Commuters might prioritize something that slips on easily over street clothes (overpants) or dries super fast. Tourers need something that can handle days of varied weather and remain comfortable.
Laminated vs. Liners: The Great Debate
Laminated (Gore-Tex Pro, etc.): These have the waterproof membrane bonded directly to the outer shell, which means the pants won’t get waterlogged, they stay lighter, dry faster, and breathe better. They’re usually more expensive, and if the membrane gets punctured, repairs are trickier.
Detachable Liners (Hydratex, etc.): These use a separate waterproof layer inside the outer shell, making them more affordable and great for airflow when the liner is out. But the outer layer can soak through and feel heavy, and all the layers together can feel a bit bulky.
Material World: Abrasion Resistance
Look for Cordura®, Kevlar®, Vectran™, Armacor®, or high-denier nylons. These materials are designed to withstand slides. Think about the type of riding you do. More aggressive riding or off-road adventures warrant tougher materials.
Fit and Comfort: The Long Haul
Adjustability: Waist adjusters, calf zippers, and ankle closures are crucial for a good fit, especially if you’re layering or tucking pants into boots.
Stretch Panels: Accordion stretch panels above the knees and in the seat add a ton of comfort, especially in a more aggressive riding position or when standing on the pegs.
Cut: Adventure pants often have a looser cut for mobility and layering. Touring pants might be a bit more tailored. Make sure there’s enough room to move freely without being baggy.
Ventilation: Because Rain Stops (Eventually)
Even the best waterproof pants can get warm. Look for zippered vents, preferably direct-to-body vents if you ride in warmer climates.
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Armor Up!
CE Level 2 armor is the current gold standard for impact protection. Ensure it’s in the knees and hips. Some pants offer adjustable armor pockets, which is great for dialing in the fit.
Pockets and Features
Waterproof pockets are a huge plus for keeping your essentials dry. Consider how many pockets you need and where they’re located for easy access. Connection zippers to attach to a jacket are also key for creating a weather-sealed system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between waterproof and water repellent pants?
Water-repellent pants shed light rain but will eventually soak through. Waterproof pants, like those with a membrane or laminate such as GORE-TEX or Drystar, are built to keep water out completely, even in a downpour.
Are leather motorcycle pants waterproof?
No. Leather isn’t naturally waterproof. It can be treated to resist water, but it still absorbs moisture and gets heavy, cold, and slow to dry once wet.
Is GORE-TEX waterproof or water repellent?
GORE-TEX is fully waterproof. It uses a breathable membrane that blocks water from the outside while letting sweat escape from the inside.
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What are the disadvantages of GORE-TEX?
The main downside is the price. It’s expensive. It also needs proper care because the membrane can be damaged by harsh detergents or heat. While breathable, it can still feel warm during low-speed riding.
Do you wear waterproof pants over jeans?
You can. Overpants are designed for that purpose. Just make sure they’re roomy enough to fit comfortably over your jeans. For standalone riding pants with armor, it’s better to wear base layers instead.
How do you wash waterproof motorcycle pants?
Use a gentle cycle and a cleaner made for technical gear, like Nikwax or Granger’s. Skip bleach and fabric softeners. Let them air dry or tumble dry on low to help reactivate the water-repellent coating if your pants have one. Always follow the label instructions.
Think about your worst-case weather scenario and what you’d need to be comfortable and safe. For me, being cold and wet is a major distraction, and that’s when mistakes happen. Investing in good waterproof pants isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety and being able to focus on the ride.
Stay dry out there!
