Best Motorcycle Pants for Summer: Top 5 Picks

Summer is upon us. The weather is getting warmer, flowers are blooming, and we’re all dusting off our motorcycles and preparing to ride.

But before you do, you must make sure to have the best motorcycle pants for summer. “Why,” you may ask.

Well, when the sun rises over Miami or the afternoons throughout Texas and California turn brown with heat, skin-tight pants are not what you’d want to wear on your ride.

Even the most carefree motorcyclists need pants made for hot weather to feel relaxed and dry in the summer.

The long summer days can be a difficult time of year for riders. The last thing you want is to be stuck on your bike in 100-degree weather with no protection from the sun, wearing heavy leathers that make you sweat even more.

Coping with heat and humidity can be a workout in itself. So all rider guys should pick out their ideal pair of riding pants to ensure comfort under the scorching sun.

The Best Motorcycle Pants for Summer: Top 5 Picks

The best motorcycle riding pants are made from soft, breathable materials that allow air to circulate and keep you cool as well as dry.

Many of today’s popular brands offer styles for both men and women so you can find your perfect fit.

If ultimate comfort is your goal when riding under the summer heat, put on a pair of these babies and ride on.

Summer Motorcycle Pants Comparison Table

Feature	Alpinestars Missile V2	Joe Rocket Atomic	Wicked Stock PT09	Alpinestars Track V2	Summer Mesh Jeans
Material	Leather	Textile	Polyester	Leather	Denim
Breathability	Perforated panels and mesh liner	Removable vent panels	Mesh panels	Perforated panels and zippered ventilation	Mesh panels
Abrasion Resistance	Leather chassis and CE-certified knee protectors	500D Hitena outer shell	600D polyester shell and CE padding	Premium bovine leather and ballistic poly-fabric	Flexible spandex fabric and removable armors
Protection	CE-certified knee and hip protectors	Knee pads, hip and tailbone padding	CE padding at knees, tailbone, and hips	CE Level 1 knee and hip protectors	Removable CE knee protectors and hip armors
Comfort	Stretch panels	Adjustable features	Adjustable waist and legs	Accordion stretch panels	Flexible spandex fabric
Weight	Medium	Lightweight	Lightweight	Medium	Lightweight
Style	Sporty	Casual	Casual	Sporty	Stylish
Price	Expensive	Moderately priced	Moderately priced	Expensive	Moderately priced
Best for:	Sporty riders	All-day comfort	Hot weather comfort	Performance and safety	Stylish summer rides

---

Ready, Set, Missiles!

The Missile V2 takes its design cues from Alpinestars’ race-proven Supertech R and best-selling GP Pro suits, but with a different construction that provides greater flexibility above the knee, around the waist, and down the ankle.

Updated for summer riding, the pants take advantage of strategically placed perforated panels with an exclusive liner to maximize airflow and cooling throughout.

The hotter the weather gets, the better your gear needs to perform.

At your discretion, there is zippered ventilation above the knee for internal air cooling.

Leather chassis construction offers improved flexibility. The credit goes to the CE-certified knee armors and KR-H hip protectors for an added layer of protection.

The D-ring waist adjustment ensures a customized fit irrespective of your body shape.

Armors at the shins provide abrasion resistance, and stretch panels above the knee minimize material bunching when bending your leg. The complete seat seam construction prevents seam bursting for extra durability.

Conquer the asphalt in style with the Alpinestars Missile V2 motorcycle pants!

What Makes It Tick?

Style and protection go together in the Missile V2 leather pants from Alpinestars.

The premium leather main chassis is ergonomically pre-curved to reduce riding fatigue, and strategically placed stretch panels improve mobility and fit.

Mesh liner and ventilation panels keep your skin cool while you’re blazing down the asphalt at 100 miles per hour. This classic design is ideal for any motorcyclist who appreciates safety, comfort, and style.

---

The Joe Rocket Atomic textile pants are super lightweight, yet the heavy-duty 500D Hitena outer shell is durable enough to take on even the most strenuous ride.

The temperature-controlling pants are unique in its removable thigh vent panels that reveal FreeAir mesh.

Joe Rocket also incorporated plenty of nice touches, including a snap closure, adjustable waistband, and leg adjustments at the lower calf area.

Not only that, but you’ll get peace of mind from the added safety features, like the knee pads and padding around your hip and tailbone. However, you may need to replace the knee pads because they slide a little.

The pants are sized to be worn over street clothes, so you may have to order up one size to fit over your jeans, for example.

The Atomic gets back to the basics of what makes motorcycle pants great to wear in hot weather: lightweight design, breathability, and available protection packages.

What Makes It Tick?

The Atomic textile pants are the perfect solution for when you need the protection of reinforced textile and leather, but not all the bulk.

Not just lightweight, these pants are super-versatile with removable vent panels. Plus, they have a simple, clean look that looks great with your riding outfit.

---

Made to take you on a ride across the country, Wicked Stock’s summer riding pants have your back when you’re rambling down the highway.

If you are looking for the perfect motorcycle riding pants to wear during the notorious Texas summer, your search should end here!

The pants are full of quality, reliability, and functionality, making riding in the summer an absolute pleasure.

From the 600D Polyester shell to the heavy mesh and CE level padding placed at strategic points made to provide you with lasting protection against abrasion while wicking away moisture as well as heat.

Extra thick padding on knees and tailbone offers added protection during a fall. A highly adjustable waist system uses belts and elasticated waist inserts to fit most waist sizes.

The size runs smaller, so don’t forget to check the size chart before ordering.

The Wicked Stock motorcycle pants were designed to perform in all elements when paired with quality riding boots and a motorcycle jacket.

What Makes It Tick?

Designed to withstand the harshest climates that Texas can throw at you, these pants bring all premium bells and whistles at a fraction of cost.

They are lightweight and ultra-durable without sacrificing comfort and safety features. You will get a pair of pants with a 600D polyester shell and excellent protection.

---

Stunningly beautiful in black with discreet A-star branding, these leather motorcycle pants are designed to take abuse in the saddle.

Reinforced knee and hip armors give confidence when you’re ripping into corners and other stunts that make street bike riders quiver with excitement.

You can even adjust the hip armors with Velcro straps. The only complaint is the quality of these armors. They are rated CE Level 1 but should be at least Level 2 at this price point.

With premium bovine leather and mesh panels, the Track V2s are some of the coolest riding leathers imaginable.

Perforations on the thighs and chassis and zippered ventilation on the calves allow excellent airflow.

The pants provide superior protection, ventilation, and fit as you zip through traffic. Durable leather resists scratches and tears with a combination of ballistic poly-fabric in the knees and crotch area for added abrasion protection.

Accordion stretch patches above the knees and hip allow greater flexibility on the bike, while long stretch panels covering the calf area ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

You pay for a premium product and get premium performance and safety.

What Makes It Tick?

With the evolution of Alpinestars’ class-leading race pants, the Track V2 incorporates a host of refined details, including an improved fit while maintaining its race functionality.

Stretch panels allow the rider to obtain a snug fit and security while the multiple ventilation panels ensure efficient cooling performance.

Plus, it offers top-notch safety features that are rare to find even in the best of the best motorcycle pants for summer.

---

Summer is biking season, and there’s nothing worse than a stiff pair of jeans on a hot summer day. Don’t worry. This biker jeans is here to your rescue.

A clever combo of summer biker jeans and stylish streetwear, these are the perfect jeans for feeling cool on your motorcycle, even on the hottest days.

Not only are these denim pants a stylish choice for hot weather, but they are also equipped with top-class features for your safety.

The flexible spandex fabric outer shell and front, knee, and shin pockets make these the perfect biker jeans to wear daily.

There are air vent mesh panels on the thighs, behind the knees, and shin areas that will keep you cool.

Last but not least are the removable and adjustable CE-approved knee protectors and hip armors. Removing the armors will allow you to use the pants like any regular jeans.

Sizing could be an issue with these jeans since the company follows the South Korean standards of body measurements. So, check the sizing chart carefully before making the purchase.

Off-gassing is another problem with these jeans. They exude a chemical smell, but it’s supposed to go away after aerating and a couple of washes.

The summer biker jeans are stylish and cool, and practical for all-day, comfortable rides.

What Makes It Tick?

Looking good has never been so safe and comfortable! The jeans have protective features for your motorcycle rides, and their stylish look makes them great for daily use.

Also, adjustable knee and hip protectors make these jeans safer than your average pair.

---

The Best Motorcycle Pants for Summer: Buying Guide

It’s essential to have the right gear for summer riding, and pants are a vital piece of that outfit. You need summer motorcycle pants to save your lower body from boiling up in extreme heat.

Let’s dive into a detailed buying guide, so you have no confusion over picking up the right one for you.

Feature	Mesh Pants	Textile Pants	Leather Pants
Material	Mesh fabric (often with nylon or polyester blend)	Textile (nylon, polyester, cotton blend)	Leather (cowhide or buffalo)
Breathability	Excellent	Good	Poor
Abrasion Resistance	Moderate	Good	Excellent
Sun Protection	Limited (UPF 20-30)	Varies (UPF 30-50)	Good (blocks most UV rays)
Water Resistance	Limited (may have a waterproof liner)	Varies (may have a waterproof liner)	Good (naturally water resistant)
Comfort	Very comfortable in hot weather	Comfortable in a wider range of temperatures	Can be hot in very hot weather
Weight	Lightweight	Light to medium weight	Heaviest option
Price	Generally less expensive	Moderately priced	Most expensive
Best for:	Hot weather riding	All-season riding (with appropriate layering)	Cool weather riding

Why Do You Need Summer Pants for Riding Motorcycles?

What does the word “summer” bring to your mind? For me, it’s the sun, feeling the warmth on my skin, and the beach.

And if you ride a motorcycle, summer is about riding under the same sun and feeling that warmth… for hours on end.

I know what you’re thinking — why not wear something light and breezy? Well, I’m sure some of you do (and more power to you), but “light and breezy” won’t protect you in the event of an accident.

However, wearing regular jeans or leather pants while riding can get hot pretty quickly, so it’s only natural if you’re looking for something lighter to wear.

This is where motorcycle pants for summer come in. They’re made to maximize venting performance to enhance riding comfort.

Regular clothes and non-breathable materials are a recipe for discomfort and potential risk:

• Heatstroke: When you’re trapped in non-breathable clothing on a hot day, your body can’t cool down effectively. This can lead to heatstroke, a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and even seizures.
• Dehydration: Sweating is your body’s natural way to cool down. But when your clothes don’t wick away moisture, you’ll sweat excessively, leading to dehydration. This can cause fatigue, headaches, and muscle cramps, all of which can impair your riding ability.
• Sunburn: Exposed skin is vulnerable to sunburn, which can be painful and increase your risk of skin cancer. Regular clothes typically don’t offer enough sun protection, especially for long rides.
• Abrasion: Even a minor accident can cause serious injuries if you’re not wearing proper gear. Regular clothes offer little to no protection against scrapes and road rash.

Summer motorcycle pants are designed to combat these risks:

• Breathable materials: Mesh panels and lightweight fabrics allow air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable.
• Moisture-wicking properties: These pants wick away sweat from your skin, preventing dehydration and discomfort.
• Sun protection: Many summer motorcycle pants offer UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Abrasion resistance: They’re made from abrasion-resistant materials like Kevlar or reinforced nylon to protect you in case of an accident.

Caring for your summer motorcycle companions:

Just like any other piece of gear, your summer motorcycle pants need proper care to ensure they last. Here are some quick tips:

• Washing: Check the care label on your pants! Most manufacturers recommend gentle washing with a mild detergent (avoid harsh chemicals) and air drying in the shade. Avoid using the dryer, as high heat can damage the fabric and compromise its protective qualities.
• Drying: Never hang your pants directly in the sun, as this can fade the colors and damage the material. Hang them in a cool, well-ventilated area instead.
• Storage: When not in use, store your pants in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging them on sharp hooks, as this can cause snags and tears.

Investing in a good pair of summer motorcycle pants is an investment in your safety and comfort. They’ll allow you to enjoy your ride to the fullest without worrying about the harsh summer elements.

---

Features to Look for in the Best Motorcycle Pants for Summer

So what are the features to look for in the best motorcycle pants for summer? We’re glad you asked!

Design

Your pants’ design is crucial because it affects how they’ll fit. The last thing you want is pants that are too loose or too tight—either way, they’ll compromise your comfort and ability to stay safe out there.

When shopping for summer pants, look for holes with ventilation in strategic places such as behind knees or around thighs where sweat might often collect.

Nothing ruins a beautiful summer ride like sandpaper-like chafing.

SEE MORE: Motorcycle Visibility Products for Better Road Safety

Comfortability

Top-quality summer motorcycle pants should have features that allow them to blend seamlessly into the shape of your body.

Their fit and design are carefully crafted to provide the highest comfort level while riding.

Some of them may feature stretch panels on the knees and waist. These panels allow for better motion, and they help keep you cool even on hot days.

Stretch panels on the knees are handy because they assist with bending while sitting down or getting up from a low-to-the-ground position (like when you’re wearing jeans).

They also help reduce chafing by circulating air into your lower body.

The quality of these pants will give maximum saddle comfort over long riding periods.

Fabric

The fabric of your pants is also essential, especially if it’s a warmer time of year. You don’t want something heavy or constricting—instead, look for a lightweight material that breathes well.

Leather is not the best choice, but you can get the ones with ventilation options like mesh panels.

However, synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester are the best options for hot weather.

Mesh for Ventilation

Another vital feature to look out for is excellent venting; this will allow proper air circulation within the pant’s frame, keeping your skin cool.

The ventilation system should allow more than enough airflow yet still retain the pants’ durability and weatherproofing qualities against excess heat and moisture.

Impact Zone Protection

The reality is that when it comes to pants, injury potential is just higher. You have to worry about impact zones like knees and hips. These are also the areas with high tear-risk.

Hot weather motorcycle pants are not geared toward protective features, but the high-quality ones are likely to have zonal protection for high-impact areas.

Pants that come with an extra layer of solid fabric on the impact zones might cost a little extra, but safety should always be your priority.

Armor with CE-Certification

All riders want their gear to look good and fit well while they’re out on the road. But what matters is how much protection your pants offer.

If possible, choose a pair that includes CE-approved armor at the knees and hips.

An independent European body issues CE certification, ensuring a certified level of protection at high-impact areas like your knees and hips.

In the case of a slide or other accident on your bike, this armor plays a crucial role in protecting you from serious injury.

But if your summer motorcycle pants don’t come with armor, don’t worry—it’s easy to buy aftermarket armor for insertion into any pant style.

SEE MORE: Best Motorcycle Pants With Armor: Top 7 Picks

---

Why Are Fabric Pants Better than Leather in Hot Weather?

Good old cowhide is excellent for riding during the colder months, but it becomes a major liability when temperatures start rising.

When the weather turns hot and humid, there are a couple of reasons why fabric pants are more desirable than leather.

Why leather pants suck in hot weather

Leather is robust, resistant to abrasion, and offers solid protection against the elements. Leather pants work great in winter because of their thermal insulation qualities.

Thanks to their waterproofing capabilities, they are also more protective than textile ones in rainy weather.

However, leather is less comfortable to wear on a sweltering day because it doesn’t breathe very well. It tends to absorb sweat and moisture that can make your pants heavy and uncomfortable.

The best way to avoid this is to wear a pair of long johns underneath your leather pants — but that might still be too hot for some riders.

For all these reasons, manufacturers started looking for alternatives to leather for summer-riding pants and found them in polyester and nylon.

Some motorcycle leather pants are designed with hot weather in mind. These pants have extensive perforation areas and stretch panels for better airflow and fitment.

Why fabric pants rock in hot weather

Most summer riding pants are made of polyester or nylon (or both) since these synthetic fabrics are lightweight and pliable.

These attributes make them ideal for warmer temperatures. Unlike leather, polyester and nylon can be densely perforated with air-letting holes without destroying the strength of the fabric.

Textiles are generally lighter and more breathable than leather. They offer excellent ventilation, which is perfect for hot weather riding.

---

Which Protective Gear Should You Use with Summer Motorcycle Pants?

Summer motorcycle pants are not made to protect a rider who ends up sliding across the street or crashing into the asphalt at high speeds. Most of them are weaved of thinner material than other types of pants.

So, wearing these pants means you’d better invest in some aftermarket protective gear as well.

The best motorcycle pants for summer come with CE-certified armors on the knees and hips already sewn in. But we still suggest adding premium aftermarket knee pads and hip armor for better protection.

Also, be careful when buying summer pants with mesh panels on the knees and across the hips and buttock area.

The mesh panels are more vulnerable to tearing in an accident than other materials like leather or Kevlar.

---

Conclusion

You wouldn’t go to the gym in a bikini, would you? Or hike up a mountain in flip-flops? That’s kind of what it’s like to ride your motorcycle on a hot summer day without wearing proper pants.

The best motorcycle pants for summer will keep you cool and comfortable so that you can focus on the journey ahead.

Alpinestars Missile V2 is our Editor’s Pick, but all pants on this list will provide the ultimate riding comfort during hot weather.

Have fun choosing your new favorite pants, and put them to good use. If you have any experience with the summer pants we recommended, please feel free to share your thoughts.

---

FAQs about Best Motorcycle Pants for Hot Weather