Pando Moto vs Bowtex: Best Choice for Summer Commuting

Summer’s here, and you’re probably asking the same thing a lot of us do before a hot ride: what do I wear that won’t cook me but still keeps me safe if I go down?

Two names usually pop up in those conversations—Pando Moto and Bowtex. Both claim they’ve got the balance between protection, comfort, and airflow figured out, but the truth is, each one shines in slightly different ways. Think of this less like a lab test and more like swapping notes with a friend who’s tried both on the road.

Before we get into the weeds, here’s the quick version so you can see which one might suit you best.

Quick Take Before You Gear Up

Who should buy Pando Moto

• You ride in very high heat or humidity and prioritize airflow over maximum abrasion coverage. Pando uses single‑layer Balistex fabric in low‑risk zones and meshes the chest and sleeves for excellent ventilation.
• You want a softer, more flexible feel. Riders report the Pando leggings feel like yoga pants and the jacket stretches easily, making them comfortable for long hours and unrestrictive when off the bike.
• You value low‑profile armor and a lower entry price. Pando’s leggings include SAS‑TEC Level 2 knee and hip armor and cost roughly $250–$330. The Commando jacket includes D3O Level 2 shoulder and elbow armor but costs less than most AAA armoured shirts.

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket	Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings
CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. Full review here. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.	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. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.
Material 15x stronger than steel Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket Excellent airflow CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders	Super flexible and breathable Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor
Back protector sold separately	None
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla
Check Price on Pando Moto	Check Price on Pando Moto

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket

CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. Full review here.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.

• Material 15x stronger than steel
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Excellent airflow
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders

• Back protector sold separately

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Pando Moto

Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings

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.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.

• Super flexible and breathable
• Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
• Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor

• None

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Pando Moto

Who should buy Bowtex

• You require maximum abrasion protection and are willing to pay for it. Bowtex uses full‑Dyneema fabric throughout its Elite range and achieves a AAA rating even in low‑risk zones, comparable to race suits. The leggings and shirt cost about $370–$400 and $420–$460 respectively.
• You prefer consistent feel and cold‑touch cooling. Dyneema fibres are thermally conductive and feel cool on the skin. Riders find the Bowtex suit comfortable when moving at speed and slightly cooler than Pando under a jacket.
• You want the option to wear armour externally. Bowtex armour pockets are roomy and the included SAS‑TEC Level 2 protectors for hips, knees, shoulders and elbows can be swapped out. The Elite shirt also accepts optional chest and back protectors.

Bowtex Elite Shirt and Pants

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!

Pros:

• 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

Cons:

• Meant to be layered with casual jacket / pants

Shirt (5% off!) Pants (5% off!)

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Bowtex’s full‑Dyneema construction costs about $60 more than Pando’s leggings. The upgrade buys more widespread abrasion coverage and slightly cooler feel at speed, but adds heat retention when stationary and slightly reduced stretch. Riders in extremely hot climates or seeking maximum flexibility may prefer Pando, while those wanting top‑tier abrasion resistance and a “set‑and‑forget” base layer may find Bowtex worth the premium.

At‑a‑Glance: Specs & Price

Which Rider Are You? (Pando vs Bowtex)

Choose Pando Moto if…

• Hot urban commuting: You ride through stop‑and‑go traffic in 30–40 °C (86–104 °F) temperatures. Pando’s mesh panels and single‑layer construction let sweat evaporate and air flow across your torso, while the leggings breathe like athletic tights. When stationary the fabric doesn’t trap heat like full‑Dyneema garments.
• Flexibility and comfort matter: The leggings feel like stretchy yoga pants and the jacket moves with you. Riders report that Pando gear is comfortable enough to wear all day, even under casual jeans and a hoodie.
• Budget is a concern: Pando’s underlayers cost roughly 20 % less than Bowtex equivalents. You still get AAA abrasion certification and Level 2 armour at knees/hips/shoulders/elbows.
• You don’t need all‑round abrasion: Pando reinforces only high‑risk zones with Balistex. If you’re mainly riding in town or at moderate speeds, this trade‑off improves airflow without significantly reducing protection where it counts.

Check out our review of the Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket, where we cover how well it works under a second jacket and stays breathable—particularly useful if you plan to layer up in variable temps.

Choose Bowtex if…

• You want race‑grade coverage: Bowtex’s Elite leggings and shirt use Dyneema fabric throughout. This provides AAA abrasion resistance on every panel, not just the knees/hips/shoulders. It’s the closest thing to race‑suit protection in a base layer.
• You often ride at highway speeds: The added Dyneema layers improve slide protection and may be reassuring for touring or spirited weekend rides. Independent tests show the Bowtex suit can survive high‑speed slides up to ~75 mph.
• You prefer a cooler feel at speed: Dyneema fibres dissipate heat quickly. Riders say the fabric feels cool against the skin when the wind hits it, although it can get warm at stop lights.
• You value modular armour: Bowtex provides generous SAS‑TEC Level 2 armour and allows optional chest/back upgrades. The drawstring waist and stirrups help fine‑tune fit.
• Price isn’t your primary concern: Expect to pay roughly $60 more for the leggings and around $20–$30 more for the armoured shirt. In return you get full‑coverage abrasion protection and premium materials.

For a deeper dive into how the Bowtex Elite performs in hot weather, check out our Bowtex Elite review.

What Riders Are Saying

Riders who own Pando Moto underlayers frequently praise the breathability and comfort. Commuters in tropical climates note that the Skin leggings wick sweat like athletic wear and remain comfortable in 90 °F (32 °C) heat. The Commando jacket’s wide mesh panels flow so much air that some testers wear it over only a T‑shirt. Owners appreciate the soft feel of the Balistex fabric and the secure fit of the SAS‑TEC armour. Downsides raised by owners include the absence of back armour (it’s sold separately) and limited abrasion coverage on the back of the legs.

Bowtex users like the peace of mind that comes from full Dyneema coverage. Many call it “the most protective underlayer available” and note that it feels reassuringly substantial without being bulky. Some describe a cooling sensation while riding due to the thermo‑conductive fibres. However, there are common complaints: the leggings are less stretchy than Pando’s, making them trickier to put on and slightly restrictive around the knees when walking. A few riders mention that the fabric retains heat when stationary. Some also point out that the armour pockets are tight, making it difficult to swap or adjust pads on the fly.

Face-Off: How They Stack Up

Protection & Certification

Both Pando and Bowtex underlayers achieve CE Level AAA, the highest abrasion rating under EN 17092‑2:2020. Pando achieves this by double‑layering Balistex panels over the hips, knees, elbows and shoulders, while using lighter fabric elsewhere. Bowtex spreads Dyneema across every panel, including low‑risk zones. Armour differs only slightly: Pando includes SAS‑TEC TripleFlex Level 2 pads in knees, hips, shoulders and elbows; Bowtex uses SAS‑TEC Level 2 pads of similar quality and offers optional chest/back protectors. In independent crash tests, Bowtex’s full‑Dyneema shell held up slightly longer before wearing through.

Materials & Construction

Pando’s Balistex (UHMWPE and spandex blend) is 15 times stronger than steel by weight. The leggings combine it with soft spandex on the inner thigh and seat for flexibility. Double‑layer patches at hips and knees add extra slide resistance. The Commando jacket pairs Balistex sleeves with CORDURA® mesh across the chest and back, providing airflow without compromising abrasion zones. Stitching is robust but not rated by the manufacturer.

Bowtex’s Dyneema/nylon knit offers 360° protection and a cool‑to‑the‑touch feel. Flatlock seams rated 12.9 N/mm ensure the seams resist tearing during a slide. The drawstring waist on the leggings and thumb loops on the shirt keep everything in place. Because the fabric doesn’t rely on mesh, there are fewer weak points, though ventilation suffers when stationary.

Ventilation & Heat Management

Ventilation is where the two brands diverge.

Pando Moto prioritizes airflow: the Commando jacket features large mesh panels and the leggings incorporate a mesh fly and single‑layer fabric behind the knees. Balistex’s high heat‑conducting properties help move heat away from the body. Many riders wear the jacket over a T‑shirt on 100 °F days without overheating. The trade‑off is less abrasion coverage on the inner legs and torso.

Bowtex uses a denser knit with no mesh panels. The Dyneema fibres conduct heat away from the skin and feel cool when moving, but there’s limited airflow when stationary. Riders find the leggings comfortable on the highway but noticeably warmer at stop lights. For extended stop‑and‑go traffic in tropical climates, Bowtex may feel oppressive.

Comfort & Mobility

Pando’s leggings and jacket have a bi‑stretch construction that moves with the body. Riders often forget they’re wearing armour. The high waist and ankle loops prevent the leggings from sliding down, and the silicone hem on the jacket stops it riding up when leaning forward. Pando’s design accommodates a wide range of body types; if you’re between sizes, consider going up for comfort. The only complaint is the snug fit around the ankle loops, which can be tight over bulkier boots.

Bowtex’s suit fits more like compression gear. Early versions were extremely stretchy, but the V2 leggings have reduced stretch to improve fit and durability. The drawstring waist helps but some riders still struggle to pull them over calves. The shirt’s slim cut and thumb loops keep armour in place, but you can’t layer much underneath. Off the bike, the Dyneema fabric feels slightly stiff compared to Pando.

Usability & Features

Pando adds MOLLE webbing on the Commando jacket to attach small pouches or hydration packs. The jacket also features raglan sleeves for unrestricted arm movement. Armour pockets are adjustable for height and the removable SAS‑TEC pads make washing easier. However, there are no external pockets and the jacket requires an additional back protector.

Bowtex focuses on simplicity: there are no pockets on the shirt and no external webbing. The leggings have deep armour pockets that accommodate larger pads if you choose to upgrade. Because Dyneema doesn’t stretch as much, the pads stay firmly in place. The absence of extra features makes the Bowtex suit lighter and more packable, ideal for travellers who need to stow gear in a pannier.

Fit with Other Gear

Both underlayer systems are designed to be worn under regular clothing. Pando’s lighter construction makes it easier to pair with slim‑fit jeans or chinos. The Commando jacket can be worn under a loose casual jacket or even as the outer layer on hot days. Bowtex’s thicker fabric may require slightly looser outerwear; many riders pair the leggings with motocross‑style over‑trousers or adventure pants. The Elite shirt is slim enough to wear under a leather or textile jacket but may feel snug under a fitted hoodie.

Value for Money: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

Pando Moto’s Skin UH AAA leggings retail around US$250–$330, while the Commando jacket runs US$400–$440. At this price you get AAA‑rated protection in key zones, Level 2 armour included and exceptional ventilation. The value proposition is strong for riders who primarily commute or tour in hot climates. You sacrifice some full‑coverage abrasion, but the increased comfort makes you more likely to wear the gear every ride.

Bowtex’s Elite leggings cost US$370–$400, and the Elite shirt adds US$420–$460 to your kit. That $60–$80 premium buys full‑body Dyneema coverage, longer slide times and the option of adding chest/back armour. For riders who prioritise maximum protection and cool feel at speed—such as those who regularly ride highways or do spirited weekend runs—the extra cost may be justified. However, if your riding is mostly below highway speeds or in extreme heat, Pando may offer better value because its breathability increases comfort and therefore reduces the temptation to ride unprotected.

Other Underlayers Worth a Look

Knox Urbane Pro Armored Shirt – A CE-AA rated armored shirt built with abrasion-resistant fabric and fitted with impact protectors at the shoulders, elbows, and back. Designed to be worn on its own in hot weather or as a protective base under another jacket, it’s a versatile upper-body alternative for riders who don’t want to compromise on protection when the temps climb.

Knox Urbane Pro Mk3 Armored Shirt

Light, breathable armor layer that stays snug and secure—keeps protectors in place while offering cool comfort in warmer weather.

Pros:

• Well-positioned Level 2 armor stays put for excellent impact alignment
• High-ventilation mesh keeps airflow strong for ideal summer riding
• Slim stretch fit works under or over other gear for high versatility
• Large breathable back protector enhances both protection and cooling

Cons:

• Shoulder armor may fold when hung which can make it awkward to put on
• Wrist or collar fabric may fray or rub causing minor comfort wear over time

Check Price on Revzilla

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Klim Tactical Pants – Single-layer abrasion-resistant pants designed for hot weather. Worn as outerwear rather than underlayers, they deliver good airflow and CE-rated protection in a casual style.

Klim Tactical Pants

A breathable, compression-style base layer with articulated Poron XRD impact padding in key zones—designed for ventilated protection that virtually disappears under your shell gear.

Pros:

• Fits true to size and stretches comfortably
• Breathable mesh keeps you cool all ride
• Perforated Poron XRD pads absorb impacts well
• Soft seat chamois adds low-profile comfort

Cons:

• Needs to be air-dried after washing
• Only protects above the knee

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Klim Marrakesh Jacket – A lightweight textile jacket built for warm climates. It combines abrasion resistance with integrated armor and excellent ventilation, making it a popular outerwear choice for riders who want comfort in summer.

KLIM Marrakesh Jacket

$419.99

The best lightweight motorcycle jacket on the market. With an all-mesh construction and D3O Ghost armor, it feels and looks like a casual light hiking jacket. Except it packs the CE AAA protection, rated for highway speed slides.

Pros:

• Offers exceptional all-season breathability via fully porous fabric
• Stretch-woven Cordura provides abrasion resistance and flexibility
• Lightweight Ghost-Pad armor balances protection with freedom of movement
• CE AA-rated for strong slide protection in a summer-ready package

Cons:

• Minimal water resistance—only DWR coating, not full waterproofing
• Material may feel scratchy or less comfortable above ~85°F for some riders

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Forcefield Pro X‑V2 Armoured Shirt & Pants: CE Level 2 armour built into breathable shirts and leggings that can be worn under any clothing. Rated to Level B rather than AAA, but significantly cheaper.

Forcefield Pro X-V 2 Air

A super-light, full CE Level 2 armored base layer that molds seamlessly to your body and pumps airflow through seamless mesh—designed for barely-there comfort with top-tier protection.

Pros:

• Excellent airflow keeps you cool in warm weather
• Body-heat-activated armor molds for custom fit
• Removable armor makes washing simple and practical
• Ultra-light mesh layer stays invisible under outerwear

Cons:

• Tailbone pad can feel oddly positioned when sitting
• Mesh may wear faster than thicker fabric in high-abrasion areas

Armored Shirt Armored Pants

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear regular jeans or chinos over these underlayers?

Yes. That’s the whole point. Both Pando and Bowtex underlayers are thin enough to fit under most non‑motorcycle pants. You should still choose outer pants made of sturdy denim or canvas because slide time depends on both layers.

Do these base layers replace a proper jacket or pants?

They provide abrasion and impact protection equivalent to some dedicated riding gear, but they lack pockets, weatherproofing and style features. You may still want an outer layer for rain, wind or storage.

How do I care for Dyneema or Balistex garments?

Remove the armour, machine‑wash cold on a gentle cycle and hang dry. Avoid fabric softeners and high heat, which can damage UHMWPE fibres. Follow manufacturer instructions for best results.

Are there women‑specific versions?

Yes. Both brands offer women’s cuts of their leggings and shirts. Pando Moto Skin UH and Bowtex Elite Ladies use the same materials and certifications but are tailored for women’s hips and thighs.

How long does the armour last?

SAS‑TEC armour can last for years if not subjected to a crash. After any significant impact or slide you should replace both the armour and the underlayer, as micro‑damage can reduce performance.

Is the Bowtex suit suitable for track days?

No. While AAA‑rated, Bowtex emphasizes comfort and breathability. Track organizers usually require leather suits or two‑piece outfits with connection zips. Use Bowtex for street riding and touring, not high‑speed track use.

Wrapping Up…

So, should you go Pando or Bowtex?

Honestly, it depends on what matters most when you’re out there—cooler airflow, or that extra margin of protection if things go sideways. The good news is that with either, you’re not compromising on comfort or safety—you’re just choosing the flavor of peace of mind that fits your ride.

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket	Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings	Bowtex Elite Shirt and Pants
CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. Full review here. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.	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. Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.	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!
Material 15x stronger than steel Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket Excellent airflow CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders	Super flexible and breathable Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor	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
Back protector sold separately	None	Meant to be layered with casual jacket / pants
Check Price on Revzilla	Check Price on Revzilla	Shirt (5% off!)
Check Price on Pando Moto	Check Price on Pando Moto	Pants (5% off!)

Pando Moto Commando UH AAA Jacket

CE AAA jacket built to survive highway slides. Can be worn alone over a simple t-shirt or base-layer, or under another casual jacket to assume any style. Full review here.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.

• Material 15x stronger than steel
• Wear over a t-shirt, under a jacket
• Excellent airflow
• CE Level 2 armor at elbows, shoulders

• Back protector sold separately

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Pando Moto

Pando Moto Skin UH AAA Leggings

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.

Buy from Pando Moto with code ROAD for 10% off.

• Super flexible and breathable
• Zippers and loops at ankles for secure fit
• Included CE Level 2 hip and knee armor

• None

Check Price on Revzilla

Check Price on Pando Moto

Bowtex Elite Shirt and Pants

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

Shirt (5% off!)

Pants (5% off!)