We review the year’s best MTB pants from Troy Lee Designs, Fox, Rapha, Pearl Izumi, and more. Ridden and rated by actual mountain bikers.
Author: Erik Nilson / Last Updated: December 22, 2024
If you’re looking to extend your riding season beyond summer, then a quality pair of mountain bike pants is the perfect companion. But with so many options on the market, choosing the best MTB pants for your needs can be a challenging task. Luckily, we bring more than 20 years of mountain bike experience to our top picks. Read on to learn more about the best mountain bike pants of 2025.
Best Mountain Bike Pants
- Best Overall MTB Pants: Troy Lee Designs Skyline
- Best Winter MTB Pants for Cold Weather: Pearl Izumi Summit AmFIB Alpha
- Best Waterproof MTB Pants: 7Mesh Thunder
- Best MTB Pants for Hot Weather: Rapha Trail Lightweight
- Best Downhill MTB Pants: POC Resistance Pro DH
Need to complete your kit? See our guide to the year’s best MTB helmets or best MTB shoes.
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Best Overall Mountain Bike Pants
Troy Lee Designs Skyline
Price: $139.99 MSRP
Temperature Range: 30 – 50°F
Material: 95% Coolmax polyester, 5% Lycra
Inseam: 32 in. (size 32)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
Weight: 14.2 oz.
Pros:
– Extremely well-suited to a wide range of weather conditions and riding types.
– Competitively priced.
Cons:
– A little on the heavy side.
– Not as breathable as other options.
Why it’s Great
When it comes to the best mountain bike pants on the market, the Troy Lee Designs Skyline is our top choice. There isn’t one single thing that sets the Skylines apart from the competition, but it’s their versatile build and smart set of features that separate them from the rest.
Starting with the fabric, the TLD Skyline’s combination of Coolmax polyester and Lycra strike a really nice middle ground between breathability, stretchiness, and protection from the elements. They’re an ideal choice for temperatures ranging from 35 degrees to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. In terms of fit, the TLD Skylines allow room for knee pads but aren’t so baggy that they get caught on the saddle or flap in the wind. In terms of storage, the TLD Skylines feature two zippered pockets that are plenty big enough for a phone or snacks.
We also really like the two Velcro waist adjusters on the Troy Lee Designs Skylines, which cinch down on both sides of the pants and offer ample adjustment for a perfect fit. In our experience this system is much better than a single adjuster, which has a tendency to bunch. Finally, the silicone grippers on the inner waistband help keep the pants in place whether you’re seated and pedaling or descending down steep trails. For the best overall MTB pants, it’s hard to beat the extremely versatile TLD Skyline.
How it Compares
The Troy Lee Designs Skyline pants work well for a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, making them the best choice for most mountain bikers. However, for riders who prioritize low weight and breathability above all else, then the aptly named Rapha Trail Lightweight is worth considering. The Raphas (listed below) use a much thinner fabric, allowing more air to escape and keeping you much cooler compared to the TLDs. The flip side is that the Raphas provide less protection from the elements and aren’t as durable.
The Skylines do a good job of shrugging off light moisture but if you’re looking for the ideal wet-weather riding companion, then the 7Mesh Thunder Pant (listed below) is what you seek. The 7Mesh pants use GORE-TEX Pro throughout and are the best waterproof MTB pants available. They provide loads of protection from rain, wind, and splashing through puddles. However, they don’t breathe nearly as well as the Skylines and should be reserved for the sloppiest of rides. In the end, it’s hard to beat the all out versatility of the TLD Skyline mountain bike pants.
Shop the Troy Lee Designs Skyline Pant at:
Best MTB Pants for Hot Weather
Rapha Trail Lightweight
Price: $150 MSRP
Temperature Range: 40 – 65°F
Material: 88% nylon, 12% elastane
Inseam: 32 in. (size medium)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: Unavailable
Weight: 8.8 oz.
Pros:
– Thin fabric breathes incredibly well.
– A great option for brushy trails during the summer.
Cons:
– Not as warm as others.
– Lightweight material isn’t especially robust.
Why it’s Great
The Rapha Trail Lightweight Pants stand out for their lightweight design and excellent breathability, making them the best mountain bike pants for hot weather. They excel in temperatures ranging from about 40 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Made from an abrasion-resistant 4-way stretch nylon, the Rapha Trail Lightweight Pants offer great next-to-skin feel, and the DWR coating easily sheds light moisture and mud. We also love the dual waistband closures, which ensure an even fit without any bunching, and the two side pockets easily hold a phone and snacks and position them out of the way while pedaling. Additionally, the articulated knees allow for excellent mobility on the bike, while the tapered cut prevents flapping in the wind or snagging on the saddle. Finally, the subtle branding and subdued colors look good on the trail or in the coffee shop, and the included repair kit certainly adds a little value to the overall package.
How it Compares
With their lightweight fabric and airy feel, the Rapha Trail Lightweight Pants are a top choice for taking on overgrown trails in hot weather. However, their above-average breathability makes them less than ideal for especially cold or windy days–we found ourselves opting for a warmer alternative when temperatures dipped into the low 40s. If you’re in search of a pant offering a bit more warmth or protection from the elements, then the Troy Lee Designs Skyline is worth considering.
Like the Raphas, the TLD Skyline (listed above) has all the features we look for in a quality pair of mountain bike pants. However, the Skylines utilize thicker material throughout, giving them the edge when the temperatures drop below 40. Nevertheless, the Rapha Trail Lightweight Pant is significantly lighter weight and is the preferred choice when it comes to ventilation and breathability.
Shop the Rapha Trail Lightweight Pant at:
Best Winter Mountain Bike Pants for Cold Weather
Pearl Izumi Summit AmFIB Alpha
Price: $190 MSRP
Temperature Range: 20 – 45°F
Material: 89% recycled nylon, 11% spandex
Inseam: 32 in. (size 32)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: Lifetime
Weight: 12.9 oz.
Pros:
– Warm and extremely comfortable.
– Well-rounded set of bike-specific features.
Cons:
– A little on the expensive side.
– So cozy you’ll want to wear them 24-7.
Why it’s Great
The Pearl Izumi Summit AmFIB Alpha pants feature a stretchy soft shell outer fabric and cozy insulation, making them the best winter mountain bike pants for cold weather. Positioned as their warmest mountain bike pant option, the Pearl Izumis utilize Polartec Alpha insulation, keeping riders warm even in the low 20s. The DWR-coated recycled nylon and spandex outer layer repels light moisture from puddle splashes, light rain, and snow, and provides ample stretch for easy pedaling. Other standout features include two side pockets that keep items out of the way while pedaling, and adjustable side zip leg openings that accommodate a wide range of footwear options.
We also appreciate the fit of the Summit AmFIB Alpha pants, which is slim enough to prevent hanging up on a bike seat and flapping in the wind, yet relaxed enough to offer full mobility and the option for a lightweight base layer underneath. A final bonus of the Pearl Izumi’s warm, protective, and breathable design is that they serve as an excellent option for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
How it Compares
Between the cozy insulation, protective soft shell outer, balanced fit, and smart features, the Pearl Izumi Summit AmFIB Alpha stand out as the best winter mountain bike pants for cold weather. However, there are a few downsides to the Pearl Izumis. We find them to be too warm when temperatures hit 45 degrees, and they’re also not as water resistant as other options.
For a more well-rounded pair of mountain bike pants, see the Troy Lee Designs Skyline (listed above), which work well in temperatures ranging from 35 to 55 degrees. And for those seeking a waterproof option, the 7Mesh Thunder Pant should be at the top of your list. The Thunder Pant (listed below) features GORE-TEX Pro fabric and watertight zippers, making them the preferred choice for riders who need a fully waterproof mountain bike pant above all else. The Pearl Izumi Summit AmFIB Alpha specialize in keeping you warm on cold-weather winter rides.
Shop the Pearl Izumi Summit AmFIB Alpha Pant at:
Best Waterproof Mountain Bike Pants
7Mesh Thunder
Price: $350 MSRP
Temperature Range: 25 – 45°F
Material: Nylon
Inseam: 31.5 – 34.5 in. (size medium)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: Lifetime
Weight: 10.6 oz.
Pros:
– Will keep you dry in the wettest conditions possible.
– Bike-specific build and set of features.
Cons:
– Very expensive.
– Hardshell pants don’t breathe well.
Why it’s Great
If you regularly ride in extremely wet conditions, then a pair of high-quality waterproof mountain bike pants should be on your shortlist. Enter the 7Mesh Thunder Pant, which includes everything we look for in a premium wet-weather model. Starting with the material, 7Mesh smartly decided to use GORE-TEX’s premium “Pro” fabric throughout, which features a 3-layer construction that skillfully balances waterproofness, durability, and breathability.
Enhancing the waterproof nature of the 7Mesh Thunder Pant is the use of a watertight zippered pocket, which is ideal for keeping essentials like a phone and keys dry. The side zips also use watertight zippers and feature a two-way design, allowing you to remove the pants without taking your shoes off. The side zippers also double as vents. Articulated legs provide a natural feel on the bike, and the neoprene cuffs with trim-to-length inseam marks offer a customizable fit. Overall, the Thunder Pants stand out as the best waterproof mountain bike pants on the market.
How it Compares
With its waterproof 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro construction, sealed seams, and watertight zippers, the 7Mesh Thunder Pant is a top choice for wet-weather rides. However, this excellence comes with a cost–$350, to be exact. If that’s too much to stomach and you’re willing to sacrifice some weather protection and durability, consider the Fox Ranger 2.5 L Water Pant.
Priced at a more manageable $150, the Fox pants (listed below) use a 2.5-layer construction and DWR finish to shed moisture, are seam-sealed to help keep water out, and feature two pockets for essentials. Really, they’re everything you need for shorter outings on wet trails. That said, the Rangers can’t match the Thunders when it comes to all out protection from the elements, falling short on longer rides and in more extreme weather conditions. For the best waterproof mountain bike pants, go with the 7Mesh Thunder Pant.
Shop the 7Mesh Thunder Pant at:
Best Downhill Mountain Bike Pants
POC Resistance Pro DH
Price: $200 MSRP
Temperature Range: 30 – 50°F
Material: Nylon, Cordura
Inseam: 30 in. (size medium)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
Pros:
– Heavy-duty build stands up to DH abuse.
– Very comfortable and loaded with features.
Cons:
– Too heavy and warm for long rides.
– Not the most versatile option.
Why it’s Great
If you’re searching for the best downhill mountain bike pants, look no further than the POC Resistance Pro DH Pants. The POCs have everything we look for in a quality DH pant. They’re tough, durable, well constructed, and comfortable.
Starting with the fabric, the POC Resistance Pro DH Pants use a nylon blend that’s both stretchy and robust, and features reinforced hip, knees, and seat areas for additional abrasion resistance (all common failure points with downhill pants). We also like the tapered fit, which allows plenty of room for kneepads but is slim enough to not get hung up on the saddle while riding technical trails. Other smart features include side zip pockets for a phone or snacks, and the lower leg zippers allow easy on and off. Finally, the dual Velcro waist adjusters are simple to use and low profile, and they allow for a nice adjustable fit.
How it Compares
The POC Resistance Pro DH Pants excels in durability, making them a top choice for the abuse that comes with downhill riding or bike park laps. However, their robust construction isn’t the best option for longer bike rides that involve a lot of pedaling because they’re a bit more restrictive and you’re more likely to overheat.
For something that’s less DH and a little more pedal friendly, we recommend the Troy Lee Designs Skyline Pant. The Skyline Pants use a thinner material–although it’s still quite durable–and they don’t have the additional abrasion-resistant panels in the knees and seat like the Resistance PRO DH Pants do. The trade off is a pair of MTB pants that breathe a little better and are lighter overall. Opt for the POCs for downhill use, but if you’re seeking something more versatile, the Troy Lee Designs Skyline Pant (listed above) is the better overall mountain bike pant.
Shop the POC Resistance PRO DH Pants at:
More Top Mountain Bike Pants
Fox Ranger
Price: $119.99 MSRP
Temperature Range: 35 – 55°F
Material: 97% polyamide nylon, 3% elastane
Inseam: 29.5 in. (size 32)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
Weight: 9.5 oz.
Pros:
– Lightweight and breathable with a comfortable fit.
– Least expensive option of the bunch.
Cons:
– Short inseam won’t work well for tall riders.
– Don’t provide much weather protection.
Why it’s Great
The Fox Ranger Pants are a simple and straightforward pair of MTB pants, making them a great match for the vast majority of riders. The fabric is soft to the touch and offers a pleasant next-to-skin feel, and the stretchy material allows for plenty of freedom of movement on the bike. We also like the slimmed down fit of the Rangers, which eliminates any issues like getting hung up on the saddle.
Other noteworthy features of the Fox Ranger Pants include two zippered pockets that are plenty big for a phone and snacks, articulated knees for comfortable pedaling, and a tapered lower leg to avoid interference with the chain. We also like how the cinch tightens around the entire waist, compared to some models like the Pearl Izumi Elevate, that only tighten on one side and tend to bunch up. Finally, the Ranger come in a handful of subdued colors with minimal branding, which most will appreciate.
How it Compares
The Fox Ranger MTB pants strike a really nice balance between protection and breathability, which make them great all-around mountain bike pants. One popular alternative to the Ranger is the Troy Lee Designs Skyline (listed above). Compared to the Ranger, the Skyline uses slightly heavier and more robust material throughout, which makes it the better choice for slightly cooler weather or more abrasion resistance.
And while the Fox Rangers are relatively lightweight, for something even more breathable, check out the appropriately named Rapha Trail Lightweight (listed above). The Raphas use thinner material than the Rangers that is also softer to the touch. We also prefer the side pockets found on the Raphas, compared to the Rangers’ front pockets, as items stored in the Rapha side pockets go unnoticed while pedaling. In the end, it simply comes down to your personal needs, and the Fox Ranger Pants are a great all-around choice.
Shop the Fox Ranger Pants at:
Pearl Izumi Elevate
Price: $170 MSRP
Temperature Range: 40 – 60°F
Material: 89% recycled nylon, 11% spandex
Inseam: 30.5 in. (size 32)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: Lifetime
Weight: 9.2 oz.
Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and breathable.
– Thigh vents allow lots of airflow.
Cons:
– One-sided waist adjuster tends to bunch up.
– Less expensive options with similar performance exist.
Why it’s Great
Thanks to their lightweight feel and smart set of features, the Pearl Izumi Elevate pants have quickly earned a spot in our regular mountain bike pant rotation. Despite being described as Pearl Izumi’s toughest mountain bike pants, the Elevate Pants pleasantly surprise with their lightweight and breathable design.
The recycled nylon is soft to the touch, stretchy, and breathes better than most other pants on our list–which makes them a great option for hotter rides that range from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Beyond the material, the pants have two nicely positioned side pockets that allow a phone to go unnoticed while riding. And perforated holes on the inside thighs and back of the waist move a noticeable amount of air. In terms of fit, they are slightly baggier than the Rapha Trail Lightweight Pants above, and work well for those with larger thighs or big rear ends.
How it Compares
The Pearl Izumi Elevate pants are a great option for a lightweight mountain bike pant, which puts them in direct competition with our top choice, the Rapha Trail Lightweight. Both models use lightweight and stretchy materials, feature well-positioned side pockets, and have articulated knees for excellent on-bike feel. So, why opt for the Rapha over the Pearl Izumi?
Really, it comes down to fit, with the Rapha (listed above) being the more streamline option. We find the Raphas less likely to get hung up on the saddle, and the lower leg is less baggy as well (while still allowing room for knee pads). Additionally, the Raphas are about $30 less than the Pearl Izumis. That said, we realize that individual body types vary, and if you prefer a slightly roomier fit, then the Pearl Izumi Elevate mountain bike pants are an excellent choice for you.
Shop the Pearl Izumi Elevate Pants at:
Fox Ranger 2.5L Water
Price: $149.95 MSRP
Temperature Range: 25 – 45 degrees Fahrenheit
Material: Polyester
Inseam: 31.5 in. (size 32)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
Weight: 8.8 oz.
Pros:
– Waterproof mountain bike pants at an affordable price.
– Lightweight and protective.
Cons:
– Not as waterproof as our top pick above.
– Lack vents to dump heat quickly.
Why it’s Great
The Fox Ranger 2.5L Water Pants offer waterproof protection at an affordable price. The 2.5-layer fabric effectively fends off rain and puddle splashes, yet at the same time they offer just enough breathability so you don’t get wet from the inside out (as long as you’re not pushing the pace too much). We also really like the bike-specific fit of the Rangers–the articulated knees allow for easy pedaling and don’t feel awkward on the bike.
Other important features include a thoughtfully designed ratchet waist strap for dialing in the perfect fit and two zippered pockets that are big enough to carry a phone or snacks. Additionally, the lower leg uses two snaps that help keep the pants from getting caught in your chain. In summary, the Fox Ranger 2.5L Water Pants stand out as a no frills waterproof option for wet-weather riding.
How it Compares
For its combination of low price, set of features, and performance on the bike, it’s hard to beat the Fox Ranger 2.5L Water Pants for wet weather rides. And for a lot of winter mountain biking, the Fox pants do just fine. However, if you’re looking for the best waterproof mountain bike pants that can keep you dry in the worst conditions possible, then the 7Mesh Thunder Pant is the better choice.
To put it bluntly, the Fox can’t match 7Mesh when it comes to all-out weather protection, durability, features, or comfort. The 7Mesh (listed above) are constructed out of a 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric, which is more waterproof, breathable, and durable than the 2.5-layer variant found on the Fox. Other premium features of the 7Mesh include a cut-to-fit inseam length, two-way leg zippers for dumping heat quickly, and watertight zippers used throughout. For shorter rides in inclement weather, the Fox Ranger 2.5L Water Pant works just fine, but for the ultimate in wet-weather protection go with the 7Mesh Thunder Pant.
Shop the Fox Ranger 2.5L Water Pants at:
Velocio Trail Access
Price: $199 MSRP
Temperature Range: 40 – 55°F
Material: 90% polyamide, 10% elastane
Inseam: 30.5 in. (size medium)
Kneepad Friendly: Yes
Warranty: 1 year
Weight: 10.5 oz.
Pros:
– Premium Italian materials.
– Smart set of bike-specific features.
Cons:
– Expensive compared to the competition.
– Big and bulky belt is not ideal.
Why it’s Great
Velocio may not be as widely recognized as companies like Fox or Troy Lee Designs, but the Italian brand boasts a number of impressive qualities in their Trail Access Pants. Utilizing premium Cordura throughout, the pants are stretchy and lightweight, yet feel very tough in hand and out on the trail. Furthermore, high wear areas like the knees and lower legs receive an extra tough version for better abrasion resistance and a longer life.
Other thoughtful features include articulated knees, nicely sized and smartly placed side pockets, and silicon grippers on the back of the inner waist. We also really like the fit of the Trail Access Pants, which is slim enough to avoid unwanted interference or snagging, but baggy enough to allow plenty of movement on the bike. Velocio also offers a 30-day ride guarantee as well as a repair program, which will be an incentive for some riders.
How it Compares
The Velocio Trail Access Pants are another great all-rounder, striking a nice balance between protection from the elements and breathability. So what keeps them further down the list?
For starters, they’re anywhere from $20 to $80 more than most other options with little to show for it. We’re also not a huge fan of the belt, which is pretty wide and challenging to thread through the belt loops. Finally, the PFCs- and PFAS-free DWR finish seems to have worn off after just a few weeks of riding, which means the pants now tend to absorb moisture instead of shedding it. For a similar all-rounder with better weather protection and a lower price, we recommend the Troy Lee Skyline (listed above).
Shop the Velocio Trail Access Pants at:
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