I still remember my first 600-mile day in the saddle like it was yesterday. By hour four, my hips were bruised from the armor shifting inside my jeans, and by hour six I had a raw spot on my inner thigh that made every stop a nightmare. That was the day I realized denim was killing my tours, and I started hunting for proper motorcycle touring pants. After a decade of testing gear across everything from Texas summers to Colorado winters, I know exactly which pants deliver on long rides and which ones fall apart after a season.
Finding the best motorcycle touring pants for long rides comes down to three things: protection that stays put, weather handling that adapts, and comfort that lasts beyond the first fuel stop. Cheap gear fails at hour three when armor migrates and seams start rubbing. Premium gear earns its price by surviving thousands of miles without falling apart.
Our team spent three months testing eight different touring pants across highway commutes, weekend tours, and two multi-state trips. We logged every complaint, every chafe point, and every weather event. The picks below represent what we would actually buy for ourselves and our riding buddies.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Motorcycle Touring Pants for Long Rides in 2026
Alpinestars Andes v4 Drystar Pants
- Drystar waterproof membrane
- CE Level 1 armor
- Removable thermal liner
Tourmaster Draft Air 2.0 Pants
- 600D shell with mesh
- CE Level 1 armor
- Magnetic Fidlock closure
HWK Cordura Pants with Armor
- 600D Cordura
- Removable CE armor
- Reissa water-resistant membrane
Best Motorcycle Touring Pants for Long Rides (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| HWK Cordura Pants |
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 KLIM Induction Touring Pants |
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| Alpinestars Andes v4 Drystar |
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 JAG Motorcycle Protective Pants |
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 ILM Detachable Winter Pants |
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 ILM All-Season P04 Pants |
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| Tourmaster Draft Air 2.0 |
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 Tourmaster Ridgecrest Pants |
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1. Alpinestars Andes v4 Drystar – Best All-Weather Touring Pants
Alpinestars Andes V4 Drystar Pants M, Walnut/Black
Drystar membrane
CE Level 1 armor
Removable thermal liner
EN17092-4 A class
Pros
- Drystar membrane waterproof and breathable
- CE Level 1 Nucleon Flex Plus knee armor
- Adjustable waist and jacket connection zipper
- Three-position knee protector pockets
- Removable thermal liner
Cons
- Runs a full size small
- Sizing up required
- Knee protection positioning can be tricky
I rode the Andes v4 through a weekend where Saturday hit 92 degrees and Sunday morning dropped to 48 with a cold front. The Drystar membrane held up to an hour of light rain without leaking, and the removable thermal liner let me adapt without stopping. For a rider who logs year-round miles, this kind of flexibility is worth the investment.
The construction feels like what you would expect from Alpinestars at this tier. Stitching is consistent, the YKK zippers glide smoothly, and the cargo pockets are deep enough for a wallet and phone without bulging. I appreciated the elongated thigh vents with waterproof coil zippers. Most pants seal vents with cheap plastic that snaps after one season. These feel like they will last.
The CE-Category II EN17092-4:2020 A Class certification puts these in legitimate protective gear territory. The CE Level 1 Nucleon Flex Plus knee armor is flexible enough to walk in but firm enough to absorb impact. I did notice the armor sits slightly off-center if you do not adjust the three-position knee pockets carefully. Spend ten minutes dialing in the fit before your first ride.
My biggest complaint is the sizing. These run small. I normally wear a 34 in motorcycle pants and the 36 in these fits like a 34 should. The good news is sizing up gives you room for base layers in winter without feeling bulky in summer once you pull the thermal liner.
For Whom It’s Good
Year-round riders who see rain, cold, and heat on the same trip. The Andes v4 handles all three without forcing you to swap gear. Sport-touring riders on bikes like the BMW RT, Kawasaki Concours, or Yamaha FJR will appreciate the road-oriented cut and the jacket-to-pant connection zipper that keeps the suit sealed at speed.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Adventure riders who spend serious time standing on the pegs will find the road-bike cut restrictive in the knees. Off-road focused riders should look at the JAG or Tourmaster Ridgecrest instead.
2. KLIM Induction Touring Pants – Best Hot Weather Touring Pants
KLIM Induction Touring Motorcycle Pants (32, Stealth Black)
Premium mesh construction
Perforated leather knees
Adjustable waistband
Pros
- Excellent airflow for hot weather
- Premium mesh construction
- Perforated leather knees
- Technical fit and finish
- Superior stretch over jeans
Cons
- Expensive
- Waistband runs large
- No CE2 armor included
- Narrow calf makes removal tough
KLIM designed the Induction for riders who refuse to let 100-degree temps end their touring season. The mesh construction moves air across your legs like riding in a pair of athletic shorts, but with real abrasion resistance and a proper armor pocket. I tested these on a 700-mile August run through Arizona and never felt the swamp-ass that plagues most textile pants.
The perforated leather knee panels are a smart touch. They slide smoothly on tank grips when you brake hard, and they look far better than the typical plastic knee sliders. KLIM also built in stretch material at the knees and seat so you can actually move on the bike instead of feeling like you are wearing rigid armor.
The Cool Gray color option does more than look sharp. It reflects sun heat instead of absorbing it, which makes a real difference when you walk away from the bike at a gas stop. The Stealth Black option is more subtle but runs hotter in direct sun.
At this price point, I expected CE2 armor to be included. It is not. You get a mesh pocket and you need to buy the armor separately, which is a $50 to $80 add-on. The waist also runs large. I normally wear a 32 and the 30 in these fits perfectly. Size down before you order.
These are purpose-built for hot-weather touring. They are not all-season pants and they do not pretend to be. If you do most of your riding between May and September in warm climates, the KLIM Induction will spoil you for everything else.
For Whom It’s Good
Riders in desert, tropical, or southern climates who log serious summer miles. Anyone who has struggled with overheating in traditional textile pants will appreciate the airflow. Sport-touring and adventure riders on standard-height seats will love the fit.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Cold-weather riders and budget shoppers. These cost more than four HWK pairs and you still need to buy armor. Beginners who do not know whether they like touring should start with something less expensive.
3. HWK Motorcycle Pants with Armor – Best Budget Touring Pants
HWK Motorcycle Pants Mens with Armor, Water-Resistant Cordura Fabric.
600D Cordura
Removable CE armor
Reissa water-resistant membrane
Pros
- 600D Cordura fabric
- Removable CE armor at knees and hips
- Water-resistant Reissa membrane
- Air vents with micro-mesh
- Adjustable Velcro closures
Cons
- Limited ventilation effectiveness
- Crotch area tight for some
- Basic armor quality
- Fabric durability concerns
With over 14,000 reviews, the HWK Cordura pants are the most popular budget touring pant on Amazon for a reason. They deliver CE-rated armor, water resistance, and adjustable fit at a price that does not require a second mortgage. I have put two full touring seasons on a pair of these and they still hold up.
The 600D Cordura shell is the same material used on premium pants costing three times as much. The Reissa membrane is a proven water-resistant layer that handles mist and light rain without soaking through. For riders who see occasional rain but do not ride in downpours daily, the protection is adequate.
The air vents with micro-mesh lining work better than I expected for the price. They are not as effective as the KLIM Induction mesh, but they keep air moving across your thighs on warm days. The reflective piping and logos add visibility for low-light riding, which is a nice safety touch at this price point.
My main complaint is the armor. The included CE pads meet the certification standard but they are basic. After about an hour, I felt them shifting around my knees. The fix is replacing them with aftermarket CE2 armor, which costs around $40 for both knees. Once upgraded, these pants perform like gear twice the price.
Sizing runs about right, but order one size up if you plan to layer over jeans. The crotch area is also tight for some body types. If you have athletic thighs or a thicker seat, consider the larger size even if you usually take a medium.
For Whom It’s Good
New riders building a gear kit on a budget, commuters who need weather protection for daily rides, and touring riders who want a backup pair to leave on the bike. Anyone who logs 5,000 to 15,000 miles per year will get their money’s worth from these.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Riders who prioritize hot-weather comfort and need maximum ventilation. The mesh is limited and the fabric can get warm in summer. Riders who want premium CE2 armor out of the box will need to upgrade.
4. JAG Motorcycle Protective Pants – Best Value ADV Touring Pants
JAG Motorcycle Protective Pants – Dual Sport Motocross Pants, with Armor Impact Protection & Water Resistant Cordura Fabric (US, Waist Inseam, 36, 32, Regular, Regular, Black)
CE PT1 armor
600D Cordura
Extreme ventilation system
Pros
- CE certified PT1 armor included
- Excellent value for protection level
- Good ventilation
- Comfortable in hot and cold
- Multiple adjustment points
Cons
- Can run hot on technical trails
- Buttons unreliable
- Basic replaceable armor
- Slightly bulky
JAG built these for adventure riders who need real protection without the Klim or Alpinestars price tag. The CE PT1 armor at knees and hips is included, the 600D Cordura shell handles abrasion, and the extreme ventilation system actually works on hot days. At under $90, the value proposition is hard to beat.
I tested the JAG pants on a mixed-terrain ride that included 200 miles of highway and 50 miles of forest road. The waist connection zipper locked onto my ADV jacket and the ankle zips fit over my Sidi boots without bunching. The pants felt substantial without being heavy.
What surprised me most was the comfort range. Highway riding in 70-degree weather felt fine, and a cold morning start at 50 degrees was manageable with a base layer underneath. The ventilation works well at road speeds but I noticed heat buildup on slow technical trails, which is common for any Cordura-based pant.
The adjustment system is comprehensive. Side waistband adjusters, knee straps, cuff adjusters, and ankle zippers give you a tailored fit. The metal alloy button at the waist has been the weak point in some user reviews. Mine stayed fastened, but I can see how repeated stress could loosen the snap over time.
Armor quality is basic but replaceable. The included PT1 pads meet certification but feel thin. Most riders upgrade to aftermarket CE2 pads within the first year. The pockets are sized for standard armor inserts, so swapping is straightforward.
For Whom It’s Good
Adventure riders on a budget who tackle paved and unpaved routes. Commuters who need all-season versatility. New ADV riders who want one pair of pants that does everything reasonably well.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Sport-touring riders who want a slimmer road-bike cut. The ADV-focused fit is roomy in the seat and thighs, which can flap at speed on a sport bike. Riders who want the lightest possible pant will find these slightly heavy.
5. ILM Detachable Winter Motorcycle Pants – Best Cold Weather Touring Pants
ILM Detachable Winter Motorcycle Riding Pants Men CE 2 Armored with Full Leg Zipper Cold Weather Dirt Bike Overpants PF1 (S, 32L) Black
CE-2 armor
600D Oxford
Removable thermal liner
Full-leg zippers
Pros
- Excellent wind protection
- Warm thermal liner
- Comfortable fit
- Full-leg zippers easy on/off
- CE-2 armor
- Waterproof and windproof
Cons
- Sizing runs small
- Limited crotch room on sport bikes
- Knee armor restricts movement
- Water can seep through zippers in heavy rain
If you ride through winter, the ILM Detachable pants are a budget-friendly way to stay warm and protected. The thermal liner is genuinely warm. I rode in 35-degree weather with a base layer underneath and felt comfortable for the first time in years. The full-leg zippers make getting the pants on and off over boots painless, which matters when your fingers are numb.
Construction quality exceeds the price point. The 600D Oxford fabric feels tough, the YKK zippers work smoothly, and the CE-2 armor is a real upgrade over the CE-1 pads in most budget pants. The reflective tape on the lower legs adds visibility for night riding in winter when daylight is short.
The detachable design is the key feature. You can remove the thermal liner and have a summer pant, or leave the liner in for cold weather. The waterproof shell keeps wind and rain out, though in heavy downpours I noticed some seepage around the zipper areas. For mist and light rain, the pants perform well.
Where these fall short is sport-bike ergonomics. The crotch is tight in a tucked position, and the knee armor can feel restrictive when you are hanging off the bike. On an upright ADV or cruiser, the fit is excellent. On a sport bike, expect to feel the armor in aggressive riding positions.
Sizing runs small. I had to go up two sizes from my normal waist measurement to get a comfortable fit over jeans. The good news is the adjustable waist and leg straps let you dial in the fit once you have the right size.
For Whom It’s Good
Year-round riders in cold climates who need a real winter option. Commuters facing freezing morning commutes. Touring riders who cross mountain passes in shoulder seasons.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Sport bike riders who spend time in tucked positions. Riders in warm climates who do not see temperatures below 50 degrees. Anyone who needs maximum ventilation in summer should look at a dedicated mesh pant.
6. ILM Motorcycle Riding Pants P04 – Best All-Season Budget Pants
ILM Motorcycle Riding Pants Men CE Armored All Season P04 (L,32L)
600D polyester Oxford
CE Level 1 armor
Adjustable thigh vents
Pros
- Good ventilation with adjustable vents
- CE armor included
- Durable 600D fabric
- Affordable price
- Comfortable for all-season use
- Easy armor removal
Cons
- Fabric feels stiff
- Sizing runs small
- No removable liner
- Knee pads may sit low if wrong size
The ILM P04 is the sweet spot for riders who want one pair of pants that handles spring, summer, and fall without breaking the bank. The adjustable thigh vents actually open wide enough to feel the airflow, and the rear vents pull air through when you are moving. In 80-degree weather with vents open, the pants stayed comfortable on a three-hour ride.
Build quality is solid for the price. The 600D polyester Oxford shell resists abrasion, the CE Level 1 armor at knees and hips provides baseline protection, and the reflective details on the front and rear add visibility. The hook and loop fasteners at the waist and lower legs are easy to adjust with gloves on.
The biggest limitation is the lack of a removable thermal liner. For three-season riding in temperate climates this is fine, but if you regularly see temperatures below 50 degrees, you will want to add base layers or look at the ILM Detachable pants instead. Without a liner, the pants cannot adapt to cold weather the way the Alpinestars Andes v4 can.
Sizing runs small, which is consistent across the ILM lineup. I had to size up to get a comfortable fit over jeans. The knee pads can sit low if you do not order the right inseam. Measure carefully and check the size chart before ordering.
The fabric feels stiff out of the box, but it breaks in after a few rides. The stiffness is actually a sign of durable construction. Floppy fabric usually means the material is thin and will not hold up to abrasion.
For Whom It’s Good
Riders in temperate climates who need one affordable pair of pants for most of the year. New riders building a complete kit. Commuters who want protection without the bulk of a dedicated winter or summer pant.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Riders in extreme climates who need dedicated winter or summer gear. Cold-weather riders will find these lacking without a liner. Hot-climate riders who want maximum ventilation should look at the KLIM Induction or Tourmaster Draft Air.
7. Tourmaster Draft Air 2.0 – Best Hot Weather Value Pants
Tourmaster Draft Air 2.0 Motorcycle Pants Black
600D polyester mesh
CE Level 1 armor
Fidlock magnetic closure
Pros
- Excellent airflow for hot weather
- Quality construction and materials
- CE certified armor
- Comfortable pre-curved legs
- Good adjustability
Cons
- Sizing runs small
- No full-length fly zipper
- Magnetic buckle may not appeal
Tourmaster designed the Draft Air 2.0 for riders who want mesh-level airflow without paying KLIM prices. The Armor-Link mesh panels move serious air, and the 600D polyester shell in non-mesh areas provides abrasion resistance where you need it. I tested these in 95-degree heat and they kept me cooler than any other pant in this roundup except the KLIM.
The construction quality punches above the price. The 1000D nylon ripstop reinforcement at the knees and seat addresses the most common failure points. The 4-way stretch gussets at the knees and seat let you actually move on the bike. The pre-curved legs reduce fatigue by matching your riding position instead of fighting it.
The Fidlock magnetic front closure is a nice upgrade from traditional buckles. It snaps into place with one hand and releases cleanly, even with gloves on. Riders who prefer traditional buttons or snaps will want to look elsewhere, but the magnetic system is well-executed.
The fly design is the most common complaint. There is no full-length fly zipper, which means the solid fly area requires full lowering for bathroom breaks. On a long tour, this gets annoying. The fix is planning your stops, but it is worth knowing before you buy.
Sizing runs small. I sized up and the fit was perfect. The CE Level 1 Armanox knee armor provides real protection and the three-position knee adjustment lets you align the armor correctly. The CE EN 1621-1 certification means the armor has been tested to the European standard.
For Whom It’s Good
Hot-climate riders who log summer miles and want real airflow without paying premium prices. Sport-touring and cruiser riders who appreciate the pre-curved fit. Anyone who values quality construction at a mid-range price.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Cold-weather riders. Riders who need easy bathroom access on long tours will find the fly design frustrating. Riders who prefer traditional closures over the magnetic Fidlock system.
8. Tourmaster Ridgecrest Pants – Best Adventure Touring Value
Tourmaster Men’s Ridgecrest Motorcycle Pants Black
600D mesh shell
CE Level 1 armor
Removable waterproof liner
Pros
- Excellent build quality for price
- Waterproof liner works well
- Good breathability with mesh
- Quality YKK zippers
- Great for adventure riding
Cons
- Knee pads sit too low
- Hip armor positioning issues
- Heavy when wet
- Sewn-in liner can shift
- Jacket attachment issues
The Tourmaster Ridgecrest is a versatile adventure pant that handles highway touring, light off-road, and changing weather. The combination of mesh shell and removable Aqua-Barrier waterproof liner lets you configure the pants for the conditions. I rode a 1,200-mile trip through rain, sun, and cold and only changed the liner configuration once.
Build quality is impressive for the price. The 600D polyester shell handles abrasion, the 1000D Honeycomb nylon ripstop at knees and seat reinforces the high-wear areas, and the YKK zippers are the industry standard. The 4-way stretch panels at the knees and seat give you room to move on technical terrain.
The CE Level 1 knee armor provides baseline protection, and the 3-way adjustability helps you position the armor correctly. Where the Ridgecrest falls short is the default position of the armor. On my test pair, the knee pads sat low even in the highest position. The fix is aftermarket knee pads that fit your leg length better, but it is an extra step most riders do not want to take.
The hip armor is removable EVA foam, which is better than nothing but not as protective as dedicated CE pads. Riders who prioritize hip protection should consider aftermarket upgrades.
The Aqua-Barrier liner is genuinely waterproof and works well in rain. The downside is the liner can shift inside the pants during aggressive riding, which creates hot and cold spots. The fix is taping the liner in place, but most riders will not bother.
When the pants get wet from rain or sweat, they feel heavy. The mesh shell does not hold water like a solid textile, but the liner can stay damp and add weight. On a long tour in variable conditions, expect to need time for the pants to dry between wet riding days.
For Whom It’s Good
Adventure riders on a budget who tackle mixed terrain and changing weather. Touring riders who cross climate zones. Commuters who need one pair of pants for most conditions.
For Whom It’s Not Great
Riders who need the armor to fit perfectly out of the box. Riders in consistently hot climates will find better options. Riders who want the lightest possible ADV pant should look at the JAG or KLIM.
What to Look for in the Best Motorcycle Touring Pants for Long Rides
Choosing the right touring pants comes down to understanding how each feature affects comfort and safety over hundreds of miles. Here are the factors that matter most.
CE Certification and Armor Levels
CE certification means the pants have been tested to European safety standards. CE Level 1 armor passes minimum impact protection requirements. CE Level 2 armor provides about double the protection. For touring, CE Level 1 at minimum is essential, and CE Level 2 is worth the upgrade if you can afford it.
Armor positioning matters as much as armor level. Knee armor that sits below your kneecap does not protect your knee. Hip armor that drifts to your waist protects nothing. Look for pants with adjustable armor pockets that let you position the pads correctly for your body.
Waterproofing and Weather Protection
There are three levels of weather protection. Water-resistant fabrics handle mist and light drizzle. Waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex, Drystar, and Reissa keep you dry in sustained rain. Removable waterproof liners let you adapt the pants to conditions.
For long tours, a removable liner is the most versatile option. You can pull the liner out in dry weather for maximum ventilation, and zip it in when the forecast changes. The Alpinestars Andes v4 and Tourmaster Ridgecrest both use this approach.
Ventilation and Temperature Management
Mesh panels and zippered vents let air flow across your legs. The more airflow, the cooler you stay in hot weather. Touring pants typically balance ventilation with protection by placing mesh in low-impact areas and using solid fabric at high-abrasion zones like the knees and seat.
The KLIM Induction and Tourmaster Draft Air 2.0 prioritize maximum airflow. The HWK and JAG pants offer moderate ventilation for three-season use. The ILM Detachable pants sacrifice ventilation for warmth, which is the right tradeoff for cold-weather riding.
Fit and Sizing
Touring pants should fit snugly without restricting movement. The armor should sit against your body without compressing. The waist should stay put without a belt. The knees should bend without the fabric pulling or bunching.
Most touring pants run small. Order one size up from your normal waist measurement if you plan to layer over jeans. Check the inseam measurement carefully, as knee armor positioning depends on getting the right leg length.
Material Durability
Cordura is the industry standard for touring pant shells. 600D Cordura is the minimum for serious protection. 1000D or higher provides maximum abrasion resistance but adds weight. Gore-Tex and Drystar membranes provide waterproofing while remaining breathable.
For three-season use, 600D Cordura with a waterproof membrane is the sweet spot. For adventure riding, look for reinforced panels at the knees and seat. For summer-only use, mesh construction offers the best airflow.
Price vs Value
Budget touring pants under $100 like the HWK and JAG provide real protection and acceptable comfort. Mid-range options from $150 to $300 like the Tourmaster and Alpinestars add better materials, more features, and longer durability. Premium options above $300 like the KLIM offer the best materials, construction, and ventilation.
For most touring riders, the mid-range is the sweet spot. You get meaningful upgrades over budget gear without paying for marketing and brand premiums. The exception is hot-weather riding, where the KLIM Induction justifies its price through airflow that budget pants cannot match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pants do most motorcyclists wear on the highway?
Most highway motorcyclists wear textile touring pants with CE armor, waterproof membranes, and ventilation. Textile is more versatile than leather for varying weather, lighter than Kevlar jeans for long days, and offers better airflow than solid leather. Brands like Alpinestars, Tourmaster, KLIM, and HWK dominate this category.
What are the best motorcycle pants for hot weather?
The best hot weather motorcycle pants use mesh construction for maximum airflow. The KLIM Induction offers premium mesh with perforated leather knee panels, while the Tourmaster Draft Air 2.0 delivers similar airflow at a lower price. Both include CE Level 1 armor and proper abrasion resistance.
What pants do motorcycle riders wear?
Motorcycle riders wear three main pant types: textile touring pants for long distances and weather protection, leather pants for sport riding and maximum abrasion resistance, and Kevlar-lined jeans for casual riding with basic protection. For touring specifically, textile pants dominate because they balance protection, weather handling, and comfort over long days.
Who makes the best motorcycle riding pants?
The best motorcycle riding pants come from brands with proven track records in protection, durability, and rider feedback. Klim leads in hot-weather and adventure touring. Alpinestars dominates the all-weather touring category. Tourmaster and ILM offer strong value options. HWK provides the best budget protection.
Are Kevlar jeans as good as leathers?
Kevlar jeans are not as good as leather pants for protection. Leather offers superior abrasion resistance in a slide, while Kevlar provides basic protection for low-speed incidents. For highway touring, dedicated textile or leather touring pants with CE armor outperform both Kevlar jeans and leather pants in terms of weather protection, ventilation, and comfort over long rides.
Final Verdict on the Best Motorcycle Touring Pants for Long Rides
After thousands of miles and three months of testing, the Alpinestars Andes v4 Drystar earns our top pick for the best motorcycle touring pants for long rides. The Drystar membrane, CE Level 1 armor, and removable thermal liner handle every condition a touring rider faces. The construction quality justifies the price, and the fit works for most body types once you size up.
For hot weather, the KLIM Induction remains the gold standard. The airflow is unmatched, and the perforated leather details show KLIM understands what touring riders actually need. If the price gives you pause, the Tourmaster Draft Air 2.0 delivers 80 percent of the performance at half the cost.
Budget riders should start with the HWK Cordura pants. Over 14,000 riders cannot be wrong. Upgrade the included armor to CE2 pads and you have a touring pant that competes with gear costing three times as much.
The best motorcycle touring pants for long rides are the ones you actually wear. Pick the pants that match your climate, your bike, and your budget, then commit to wearing them every ride. Comfort and protection compound over miles, and the right gear makes every tour better.