
AAA Motorcycle Jeans Plus a Hack to Ride in Any Pants

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You’ve probably looked at your regular jeans and thought, “It’s just a short ride.” Every rider has. But standard denim offers no real protection. It tears instantly in a crash. For years, the only alternatives were bulky textiles or leather, effective but hot, stiff, and overbuilt for everyday use. That left riders stuck choosing comfort over safety.
That trade-off no longer makes sense. CE AAA-rated motorcycle jeans now meet the highest abrasion standards in consumer gear, rivaling leather race suits. They look like casual denim but perform like purpose-built protection. This isn’t fashion with armor, it’s gear that fits your life.

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This guide covers the best options available today, from lightweight single-layer AAA jeans to a game-changing alternative: armored base layers from brands like Bowtex and Pando Moto. These let you wear the jeans you already own, while still giving you serious protection underneath.
If you’re ready to ride without compromise, start here. Looking for other pants? Check out our guide to the best motorcycle pants for every riding style.
Top Picks: Best AAA Rated Motorcycle Jeans
No endless scrolling. These are the top choices for riders who demand the best in abrasion resistance and impact protection, right up front.
A single-layer Armalith® jean that looks and feels like premium streetwear but packs top-tier CE AAA protection. Comfortable, stylish, and incredibly tough. | Brings moto-specific comfort to AAA protection with accordion stretch panels for flexibility and convenient external knee armor pockets. | A rugged, no-nonsense jean that delivers a CE AAA rating and includes Level 2 armor for both knees and hips at a highly competitive price point. |
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A single-layer Armalith® jean that looks and feels like premium streetwear but packs top-tier CE AAA protection. Comfortable, stylish, and incredibly tough.
- CE AAA-rated single-layer ARMALITH® denim for superior abrasion resistance.
- Includes SAS-TEC TripleFlex CE Level 1 knee and hip armor.
- Slim fit with a clean, everyday appearance.
- Higher price point compared to some alternatives.
- Armor may feel less substantial to some riders.
- Limited ventilation, which may affect comfort in hot weather.
Brings moto-specific comfort to AAA protection with accordion stretch panels for flexibility and convenient external knee armor pockets.
- Cordura stretch for superb all-day comfort
- AAA-rated Balistex lining offers top abrasion defense
- Removable D3O armor adds versatile impact protection
- Coolmax denim keeps you cool on warm rides
- Lifetime crash warranty gives long-term peace of mind
- Armor is CE Level 1, some may want Level 2 protection
- Slim fit may feel tighter for bulkier builds
A rugged, no-nonsense jean that delivers a CE AAA rating and includes Level 2 armor for both knees and hips at a highly competitive price point.
- AAA-rated protection exceeds standard denim
- Level 2 knee & hip armor boosts impact safety
- Stretch panels enhance flexibility on the bike
- Soft, breathable lining improves all‑day comfort
- High rear waistband keeps drafts and jacket lift at bay
- Thicker armor may feel bulky when walking
- Heavier than single-layer jeans in warm weather
The Ultimate Hack: Turn Any Pants into AAA Protection
This is a system I’m relying on more and more: armored base layers. They let you wear what you want, selvage denim, canvas work pants, even everyday chinos, while still getting AAA-rated slide protection underneath. No compromise on style, no sacrifice on safety.
Brands like Bowtex and Pando Moto have created leggings made from materials like Dyneema® and other UHMWPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) blends. These are not your standard thermal base layers; they are technical pieces of CE AAA-rated protective gear designed to be worn under any regular pair of pants.
Perfect leggings for casual riding and summer heat without sacrificing protection. CE AAA rated up to 75mph highway slide on asphalt. Wear jeans, hiking pants, pajamas on top - I don't care, it's your style not mine. Full review here. Get 15% off when you buy direct on Pando Moto's site with code ROAD15. | The Bowtex Elite is a strong, abrasion resistant and slim-fitting armored underlayer that's also breathable and lightweight. The best in its category that I've tried. CE AAA rated for slide and impact resistance - same as a MotoGP race suit. And you get 5% off with the buttons below! That's dinner on us! |
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Perfect leggings for casual riding and summer heat without sacrificing protection. CE AAA rated up to 75mph highway slide on asphalt.
Wear jeans, hiking pants, pajamas on top - I don't care, it's your style not mine. Full review here.
Get 15% off when you buy direct on Pando Moto's site with code ROAD15.
- Super flexible and breathable
- Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
- Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor
- None
The Bowtex Elite is a strong, abrasion resistant and slim-fitting armored underlayer that's also breathable and lightweight. The best in its category that I've tried. CE AAA rated for slide and impact resistance - same as a MotoGP race suit. And you get 5% off with the buttons below! That's dinner on us!
- CE AAA safety rated - same as MotoGP race suit
- CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders, knees, hips
- Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
- Mesh all around for airflow
- Belt loops to hold the shirt down
- Meant to be layered with casual jacket / pants
Here’s how it works:
- The Protection Layer: You wear the AAA-rated leggings as your base layer, directly against your skin. They are fitted with pockets for CE-rated hip and knee armor, so the protection is always correctly positioned on your body.
- The Style Layer: On top, you wear any regular pair of pants you want. The base layers are thin and breathable enough to be worn comfortably underneath.
- The Result: You get the best of both worlds: top-tier, race-level slide and impact protection that’s completely invisible, combined with the style and comfort of your everyday pants. For urban riders, commuters, or anyone who doesn’t want to look “geared up” when they get off the bike, this system is a game-changer. It offers ultimate versatility and uncompromising safety.
Looking for boots that match that all-day comfort? See our list of the most comfortable motorcycle boots.
Best AAA Rated Motorcycle Jeans
These are the specific products that deliver on the promise of AAA-rated protection, from dedicated single-layer jeans to the versatile base layers that are changing the game.
Pando Moto Arnie Slim
Been putting miles on the Arnie Slims, and so far, they’re doing the job. These are single-layer jeans made from 14oz Armalith® denim. It’s tough stuff that feels like real, premium denim, not a stiff or plastic-y textile. And, most importantly, they’re CE AAA rated, the highest level of slide protection you can get.
The fit is slim without being skinny, and the style is perfectly low-key for wearing off the bike. Classic five-pocket layout, almost no branding, and no rivets on the back pockets to scratch your seat. They come with SAS-TEC Level 1 armor in the knees and hips, and it’s some of the most flexible, comfortable armor I’ve worn. I honestly forget it’s there once I’m riding. As I’ll cover in my upcoming full review, their balance of top-tier safety and everyday comfort is hard to beat.

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The catch: This is leading-edge tech, and it comes with a premium price tag. They’re also heavier than standard fashion jeans due to the dense, protective weave.
Silver lining: You’re getting protection comparable to leather race pants in a package that looks and feels like stylish denim. The single-layer construction is far more breathable than older, lined Kevlar jeans.
Alternative option: The REV’IT! Micah TF Jeans are another excellent AAA-rated choice, offering a tapered fit, subtle style, and strong abrasion resistance with SEESMART Level 1 armor.
Slim-fit jeans made with CE AAA-rated Armalith® denim and low-profile armor for serious protection that looks like everyday wear.
- CE AAA-rated single-layer ARMALITH® denim for superior abrasion resistance.
- Includes SAS-TEC TripleFlex CE Level 1 knee and hip armor.
- Slim fit with a clean, everyday appearance.
- Higher price point compared to some alternatives.
- Armor may feel less substantial to some riders.
- Limited ventilation, which may affect comfort in hot weather.
Our Rating: 4.9/5 – The Pando Moto Arnie Slim is one of the safest, best-feeling, and most stylish riding jeans you can buy. Uncompromising protection that you’ll actually want to wear.
Pando Moto Karl Devil AAA Jeans
If you want riding jeans that actually feel built for the bike and not just stitched together to look the part, the Pando Moto Karl Devil AAA is where it’s at. These aren’t your basic “denim with pads” setup. Compared to something like the Arnie Slim, which keeps things simple, the Karl Devil brings in true rider features—like stretch panels above the knees and on the back—that make a huge difference when you’re crouched over or moving around on the bike.
They’re made from 12oz Cordura® stretch denim, so they’ve got a solid, quality feel without being stiff, and the COOLMAX® tech helps keep things breathable on warmer rides. What really sets them apart is the BALISTEX® lining in high-risk zones, which is how they hit that AAA safety rating without looking or feeling like overbuilt armor. It’s the kind of jean that just looks like casual wear but gives you serious protection if things go sideways.
The external knee armor pockets are one of my favorite touches. If you’re heading into a shop, a bar, or just want to walk around without the pads, you can pop them out without taking the whole thing off. Super handy. All in all, these are the kind of riding jeans you can wear all day and not feel like you’re stuck in gear. Tough where it counts, comfortable everywhere else.

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The catch: The lined construction and stretch panels make them look more like “motorcycle jeans” than the Arnie Slim or other single-layer options. Some riders find the fit of the back can look a little saggy.
Silver lining: Excellent combination of AAA protection, on-bike comfort thanks to the stretch panels, and the convenience of external armor pockets.
Alternative option: The RST Moto Tech Pro CE Jeans offer a different take on a lined AAA jean with a focus on value and including Level 2 armor.
Slim, Cordura-stretch motorcycle jeans with Balistex protection, Coolmax comfort, and AAA safety; built-in CE-rated armor and lifetime crash warranty for real-world riding confidence.
- Cordura stretch for superb all-day comfort
- AAA-rated Balistex lining offers top abrasion defense
- Removable D3O armor adds versatile impact protection
- Coolmax denim keeps you cool on warm rides
- Lifetime crash warranty gives long-term peace of mind
- Armor is CE Level 1, some may want Level 2 protection
- Slim fit may feel tighter for bulkier builds
Our Rating 4.6/5: The Pando Moto Karl Devil AAA Jeans deliver a slim, tailored fit with impressive stretch and comfort. The Cordura denim with Coolmax technology ensures durability and breathability, while the Balistex lining provides top-tier abrasion resistance.
RST Moto Tech Pro CE Jeans
Riding gear that actually blends protection, comfort, and value isn’t easy to find, but the RST Moto Tech Pro CE Jeans make it look effortless. RST has a solid track record for delivering high-spec safety without premium price tags, and these jeans follow that formula perfectly. Built from heavy-duty Cordura® denim woven with Kevlar®, they meet the top-tier AAA CE certification, giving you serious abrasion resistance.
They come fully loaded with CE Level 2 armor in both the knees and hips, which is rare at this price point and saves you the hassle of upgrading later. The straight leg fit works well for both on-bike and casual wear, and the external knee armor pockets are a nice bonus for quickly removing pads when you’re off the bike.
Whether you’re racking up commuter miles or heading out for weekend rides, the Tech Pro feels built for riders who take gear seriously but don’t want to overpay. Tough, practical, and ready for daily abuse, it’s everything a solid pair of riding jeans should be.

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The catch: These are heavy, substantial jeans due to their rugged materials and lining. They won’t be as cool or breathable as single-layer options in hot weather. The style is functional rather than fashion-forward.
Silver lining: You get a full AAA-rated garment with Level 2 armor included at a price that undercuts premium single-layer jeans. It’s an incredible amount of protection for the money.
Alternative option: If you want AAA protection but in a more breathable single-layer fabric for warmer weather, the Pando Moto Arnie Slim is a top-tier choice, though at a higher price and with Level 1 armor.
AAA-rated Cordura‑Kevlar motorcycle jeans with Level 2 armor, stretch panels, and soft lining—offering top-tier abrasion and impact protection in a casual, comfortable fit.
- AAA-rated protection exceeds standard denim
- Level 2 knee & hip armor boosts impact safety
- Stretch panels enhance flexibility on the bike
- Soft, breathable lining improves all‑day comfort
- High rear waistband keeps drafts and jacket lift at bay
- Thicker armor may feel bulky when walking
- Heavier than single-layer jeans in warm weather
Our Rating 4.6/5: The RST Moto Tech Pro delivers serious protection in a package that fits like a well-worn pair of jeans. Sizing runs true with a close fit through the waist and hips, offering confidence without bulk. Breathability is limited, but the trade-off is clear: top-tier slide protection that feels ready for anything.
Pando Moto Mark AAA Jeans
The Pando Moto Mark AAA Jeans are built for riders who want the protection of a serious riding pant with the everyday utility of cargos. Instead of the usual five-pocket setup, you get roomy thigh cargo pockets with snap closures and zippered vents right where you need them—up top on the thighs—so they actually catch airflow when you’re in the saddle. It’s a smart layout that makes these pants way more functional for longer rides or commuting in warmer weather.
Protection is no afterthought either. These jeans are made from 12oz Cordura® stretch denim and reinforced with a BALISTEX® liner, giving them a full CE AAA rating for abrasion resistance. The fit is tapered, but thanks to the elastic, adjustable hems, they’ll sit comfortably over most riding boots without bunching or flapping around. The included D3O Ghost Level 1 armor in the knees and hips is low-profile and flexible—you barely feel it when you’re off the bike, but it’s right there when it counts.
With their mix of comfort, airflow, and practicality, the Mark AAA jeans are a great pick for riders who need more than just good looks from their gear. They’re protective, well-ventilated, and loaded with features that make a difference when you’re actually out riding.

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The catch: As a lined pant, they can be warmer than single-layer options despite the vents. The cargo style, while functional, is specific and may not be what every rider is looking for.
Silver lining: The perfect blend of utility, style, and safety. The zippered vents are a genuinely useful feature for managing heat on warmer days.
Alternative option: If you like the utility but want a more traditional jean, the Pando Moto Karl Devil AAA Jeans offer similar protection with moto-specific stretch panels instead of cargo pockets.
The Pando Moto Mark AAA Jeans offer CE AAA-rated protection in a slim, cargo-style fit. Built with stretch Cordura and Coolmax for comfort on and off the bike.
- CE AAA-rated abrasion protection
- Comfortable stretch fabric
- Functional cargo pockets
- Warm in hot weather
- Color may fade over time
- Higher price point
Our Rating 4.5/5: The Mark AAA jeans are purpose-built for impact, with proven slide protection and CE-rated armor that stays comfortable in the saddle. The fit accommodates taller riders with a full 36″ inseam, and ventilation zips provide meaningful airflow at speed. Construction is solid throughout, ready for daily use and high-stakes riding alike.
Bowtex Elite Leggings
The Bowtex Elite Leggings (2024) are the kind of gear that quietly become your default. Not because they’re flashy or hyped up, but because they work—ride after ride, layer after layer. I’ve put serious miles on these, from Bangkok traffic to overnight tours, and they’ve become the base layer I trust when I know I’ll be on the bike all day. With a CE AAA rating and a body made from abrasion-resistant woven Dyneema®, these aren’t just comfortable—they’re built to slide if it comes to that.
What makes them stand out isn’t just the protection. It’s the way flex and breathability are baked into the design. The woven Dyneema fabric gives you stretch and strength in equal measure, while targeted mesh zones keep things cool even in hot, humid riding. The included D3O Ghost armor in the knees and hips is slim, stays in place, and disappears while you ride. Whether I’m wearing them under mesh pants, cargos, or just solo for a quick spin, they move naturally and stay breathable.
As I wrote in the full review, “If I had to pick one base layer to wear all season, it’d be these.” And that still sums it up. They’ve outlasted and outperformed everything else I’ve tested in this category. If you want protection without bulk, and a base layer that holds up under pressure—literally—this is the one to beat. Check out the full write-up here: Bowtex Elite 2024 Review.

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The catch: They are a base layer, meaning they offer no impact or abrasion protection on their own. You must wear a durable outer layer (like regular jeans) over them. Armor is an additional purchase.
Silver lining: The ultimate in versatility. You get top-tier AAA protection that can be paired with any style of pants, making every pair you own “rider-ready.” They are also highly breathable and comfortable in various temperatures.
Alternative option: The Pando Moto Skin UH Leggings offer a very similar concept with a slightly different fit and feel, and they come with Level 1 armor included.
High-protection base layer pants rated CE AAA, built with Dyneema and designed to wear under any outerwear for maximum abrasion and impact resistance.
- AAA-rated Dyneema fabric shields against high-speed slides
- Level 2 knee & hip armor enhances crash safety
- Drawstring waist and belt loops keep them securely in place
- Ultra-breathable and thermo‑cool, ideal for hot weather
- Lightweight and slim—comfort of a second skin
- Tight fit may feel restrictive for some riders
- No external pockets for on-the-go convenience
Our Rating 4.8/5: The Bowtex Elite Leggings offer race-grade abrasion resistance in a discreet, low-bulk form. The Dyneema-blend shell is both flexible and tough, and CE Level 2 armor coverage is excellent out of the box. Comfortable enough for all-day wear and slim enough to layer under any outer pant. A standout in stealth protection.
Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings
The Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings aren’t just something I’ve reviewed—I own them, ride in them, and rely on them. Lab-tested protection is great, but wear is where gear proves itself, so I ran these through what I call the trifecta: daily commutes, overnight trips, and brutally hot midday errands in Thailand. And the verdict? These things work. They offer AAA-rated slide protection, built from a 65% Dyneema® UHMWPE fabric, and come standard with SAS-TEC TripleFlex CE Level 1 armor in the knees and hips.
What I love is how they almost disappear when you wear them. The bi-stretch construction makes them feel more like athletic wear than armored motorcycle gear, and the mesh ventilation zones keep them breathable—even under a second layer. If you’ve ever cooked inside bulky Kevlar-lined jeans or dreaded pulling on heavy pants just to run a quick errand, these solve that problem. They’re tight but not restrictive, strong but not stiff, and built with serious attention to how riders actually move and sweat.
These aren’t just some cool-looking underlayer. They’re gear you forget you’re wearing, until you remember how much protection you’re getting. For a full rundown on how they held up through all three phases of testing, check out my detailed review here: Pando Moto Skin UH Review.

The catch: Like all base layers, they require an outer pant for both style and to ensure the garment stays intact in a crash scenario. They are a premium-priced item.
Silver lining: Supreme comfort and flexibility combined with a full CE AAA rating. Comes with super-flexible SAS-TEC armor included. A perfect solution for turning any pant into proper riding gear.
Alternative option: The Bowtex Elite Leggings are the most direct competitor, with the main difference coming down to fit preference.
Perfect leggings for casual riding and summer heat without sacrificing protection. CE AAA rated up to 75mph highway slide on asphalt.
Wear jeans, hiking pants, pajamas on top - I don't care, it's your style not mine. Full review here.
Get 15% off when you buy direct on Pando Moto's site with code ROAD15.
- Super flexible and breathable
- Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
- Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor
- None
Our Rating 4.7/5: The Pando Moto Skin UH leggings deliver AAA-rated protection in a lightweight, breathable base layer that doesn’t restrict movement. Comfort is exceptional, with a secure, stay-put fit and armor that stays low-profile. Ideal under regular riding pants or jeans. A smart, no-compromise solution for safety-focused riders.
Comparison Table: Best AAA Rated Motorcycle Jeans
Feature | Pando Moto Arnie Slim | RST Moto Tech Pro CE Jeans | Bowtex Elite Leggings | Pando Moto Skin UH | Pando Moto Karl Devil AAA | Pando Moto Mark AAA |
Garment Type | Single-Layer Jean | Lined Jean | Protective Base Layer | Protective Base Layer | Lined Jean | Lined Cargo Jean |
CE Rating | AAA | AAA | AAA | AAA | AAA | AAA |
Material | 14oz Armalith® Denim | Cordura® Denim + Kevlar® | Dyneema® & Elastane | Dyneema® & Bi-Stretch | Cordura® + BALISTEX liner | Cordura® + BALISTEX liner |
Armor Included | SAS-TEC L1 (Knees & Hips) | CE Level 2 (Knees & Hips) | Pockets Only (Armor separate) | SAS-TEC L1 (Knees & Hips) | D3O Ghost L1 (Knees & Hips) | D3O Ghost L1 (Knees & Hips) |
Best For | All-Around Style & Safety | Maximum Protection Value | Ultimate Versatility | Comfort Under Any Pant | Feature-Rich Moto Use | Utility & Ventilation |
Fit | Slim | Straight | Next-to-skin | Next-to-skin | Slim | Tapered Cargo |
Est. Price | $$$$ | $$$ | $$$ | $$$$ | $$$ | $$$ |
Get one | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Buying Guide: Choosing Your AAA Rated Gear
Investing in AAA-rated gear means you’re prioritizing safety. Here’s how to choose the right option for you.
Understand the CE AAA Rating: This isn’t just a marketing term. The EN 17092 standard rates a garment’s ability to withstand abrasion, seam strength, and tear resistance.
- Class AA: Solid protection for most street and touring.
- Class AAA: The highest level, offering protection comparable to leather race suits. It’s designed to withstand high-speed slides.

The Big Choice: Dedicated Jeans vs. Base Layer System
- Dedicated AAA Jeans: (e.g., Pando Moto Arnie Slim). This is an all-in-one solution. Simple, effective, and ready to go. The downside is you have one pair of riding pants.
- AAA Base Layers: (e.g., Bowtex Elite). This offers incredible versatility. You can make any pair of durable pants you own much safer. It’s more breathable than lined jeans and keeps armor perfectly in place. The downside is it’s an extra step, and you need to ensure your outer pants are sturdy.
Material Matters: Know Your Fibers
- Single-Layer (Armalith®, Dyneema®/UHMWPE): These are the stars. They offer massive abrasion resistance in a lightweight, breathable package that feels like normal fabric.
- Lined (Cordura® + Liner): A more traditional approach. A tough denim outer layer is reinforced with a protective knit like BALISTEX® or Kevlar®. Very durable but can be warmer and heavier.
Fit and Armor are Crucial: Even with AAA-rated fabric, the gear is useless if the armor isn’t in the right place. The same logic applies to your footwear. Explore the best motorcycle shoes to ensure you’re not leaving your ankles and soles exposed.
- Fit: Jeans should be snug enough that the armor pockets don’t shift. Base layers should be next-to-skin for the same reason.
- Armor: Look for flexible, low-profile Level 1 or Level 2 armor (SAS-TEC, SeeSmart, D3O Ghost). Adjustable knee armor pockets are a huge plus to dial in the placement for your riding position.

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FAQs: AAA Rated Jeans Questions Answered
Still have questions about CE AAA-rated motorcycle jeans? Whether you’re wondering how AAA compares to AA, how single-layer jeans actually work, or what trade-offs to expect, this is where you get answers backed by miles of testing and lab-proven standards.
Are AAA rated jeans as protective as leather pants?
In terms of abrasion resistance in CE tests, yes. They are tested to the same high standard. Leathers may still offer slightly better performance in very high-speed, multiple-impact scenarios on a track, but for street riding, AAA denim is at the top of the textile food chain.
Are AAA jeans hot to wear?
Single-layer AAA jeans made with materials like Armalith® or Dyneema® are significantly more breathable and comfortable in the heat than older style Kevlar-lined jeans. Lined jeans, even AAA-rated ones, will be warmer.

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How do I wash AAA rated jeans or base layers?
Always remove the armor first! Most can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid fabric softeners and high heat drying. Hang them to dry. Always check the manufacturer’s care label.
Is the extra cost for AAA really worth it over AA?
This depends on your risk tolerance and riding style. AA is very good protection for most street riding. AAA offers that next level of assurance, tested for higher speeds. If you frequently ride on the highway or want the absolute best abrasion resistance without wearing leathers, the peace of mind from AAA is worth the investment.
Wrapping Up…
You no longer have to choose between looking good and being protected. Modern gear technology has made it possible to wear comfortable, stylish jeans that offer the highest level of certified protection.
Whether you choose a dedicated pair of single-layer AAA jeans or opt for the incredible versatility of an armored base layer system, you’re making a smart investment in your own safety. Prioritize the CE rating, dial in the fit so your armor stays put, and ride with the confidence that comes from wearing gear that’s truly built for the slide.

Want more style-driven options? Explore our best motorcycle jeans for every rider roundup.
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