I’ve logged tens of thousands of miles on motorcycles, from rainy Pacific Northwest passes to dusty Baja trails. The one piece of gear I refuse to skimp on? My touring pants. They keep me dry, comfortable, and protected for 10-hour days in the saddle.
Over the years, I’ve burned through cheap pairs that leaked and expensive ones that didn’t fit. These eight are the real deal. I’ve tested each one on actual tours, not just around the block.
- Best overall: REV’IT! Sand 4 H2O Pants — versatile, waterproof, CE Level 2 armor.
- Best premium: Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pants — Gore-Tex and D3O for extreme conditions.
- Best budget: Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar Pants — solid protection for around $250.
- Best for hot weather: Olympia Ranger 3 Pants — massive ventilation panels.
- Always prioritize CE Level 2 knee and hip armor.
1. REV’IT! Sand 4 H2O Pants — Best All-Round Touring Pants
Why I Ride In These
I’ve worn the REV’IT! Sand 4 H2O Pants on a 3,000-mile trip through Colorado and Utah. They use a hydratex|Laminated membrane, so rain never soaks through. The removable thermal liner handles cold mornings, and when it hits 90°F, I open the thigh vents.
The SEEFLEX CE-level 2 knee armor and SEESMART hip protectors give me confidence without feeling bulky. I also love the adjustable waist and calf straps.
Key Specs
- Material: hydratex|Laminated waterproof membrane, 600D polyester.
- Armor: SEEFLEX CE-level 2 knee, SEESMART CE-level 1 hip.
- Vents: Two large thigh vents.
- Price: Around $400.
Who It’s For
If you want one pair that does everything well, this is my top pick. The fit is adjustable at the waist and calves. I sized up for layering.
2. Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pants — Best Premium Adventure Touring Pants
Why I Ride In These
When I’m heading into serious weather or remote backcountry, I grab the Klim Badlands Pro A3 Pants. The Gore-Tex 3-layer laminate is bombproof. I’ve ridden through hours of freezing rain and stayed completely dry.
The D3O CE Level 2 armor at knees and hips is top-tier. I also appreciate the SuperFabric and Kevlar reinforcements in high-wear areas.
Key Specs
- Material: Gore-Tex 3L laminate, SuperFabric, Kevlar.
- Armor: D3O CE Level 2 knee and hip.
- Vents: Two thigh vents, two calf vents.
- Price: Around $900.
Who It’s For
This is for the rider who wants maximum durability and doesn’t mind the price. I find them a bit stiff at first, but they break in after a few rides.
3. Rukka Nivala Pants — Best Weather Protection
Why I Ride In These
Rukka’s Nivala pants are what I wear when I know it’s going to pour. The Gore-Tex Pro 3-layer laminate is the gold standard. I’ve done 500-mile days in relentless rain, and my legs stayed dry.
The D3O armor is comfortable and stays in place. The removable thermal liner with Outlast helps regulate temperature when the mercury drops.
Key Specs
- Material: Gore-Tex Pro 3-layer laminate.
- Armor: D3O CE Level 2 knee and hip.
- Liner: Removable thermal liner with Outlast.
- Price: Around $1,100.
Who It’s For
If you ride in wet climates and want the best, these are worth the investment. I appreciate the adjustable waist and leg openings.
4. Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar Pants — Best Budget Touring Pants
Why I Ride In These
Not everyone can drop $1,000 on pants. The Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar Pants are my go-to recommendation for budget-conscious touring. The Drystar membrane keeps rain out, and the CE Level 1 knee armor is decent.
I’ve used them for weekend trips and commutes. The two thigh vents help in warm weather, and the removable thermal liner adds versatility.
Key Specs
- Material: 600D polyester with Drystar waterproof membrane.
- Armor: CE Level 1 knee, pockets for hip armor.
- Vents: Two thigh vents.
- Price: Around $250.
Who It’s For
New riders or those on a tight budget. I do wish the hip armor was included, but you can add it. For the price, they’re hard to beat.
5. Dainese Carve Master 3 Gore-Tex Pants — Best Sport-Touring Pants
Why I Ride In These
If I’m riding a sport-tourer and want a more athletic fit, the Dainese Carve Master 3 Gore-Tex Pants are my pick. The Gore-Tex laminate is waterproof and breathable.
The Pro-Armor at the knees is soft and flexible but CE Level 2 certified. I’ve worn them on twisty mountain passes and long highways without discomfort.
Key Specs
- Material: Gore-Tex laminate, D-Stone fabric.
- Armor: Pro-Armor CE Level 2 knee, Pro-Armor hip.
- Vents: Two thigh vents.
- Price: Around $500.
Who It’s For
Riders who want a slimmer cut without sacrificing protection. I found them true to size.
6. Olympia Ranger 3 Pants — Best Ventilation for Hot Weather
Why I Ride In These
When I’m touring in summer heat, I want airflow. The Olympia Ranger 3 Pants have massive mesh panels and a removable waterproof liner. I’ve worn them in 100°F heat and stayed comfortable.
The CE Level 2 knee armor is a nice bonus at this price. I also like that they work as overpants, so I can wear shorts underneath on scorching days.
Key Specs
- Material: Cordura with mesh panels, waterproof/breathable liner.
- Armor: CE Level 2 knee, CE Level 1 hip.
- Vents: Large mesh panels.
- Price: Around $300.
Who It’s For
Hot-climate tourers. I use them as overpants over shorts or jeans. The liner keeps you dry when it rains.
7. Spidi 4Season H2Out Pants — Best Four-Season Pants
Why I Ride In These
The name says it all. I’ve worn the Spidi 4Season H2Out Pants in winter, spring, summer, and fall. The H2Out membrane is waterproof and windproof.
The removable thermal liner keeps me warm in cold months. In summer, I remove the liner and open the vents. The CE Level 2 knee armor stays put.
Key Specs
- Material: Tenax polyamide, H2Out membrane.
- Armor: CE Level 2 knee, CE Level 1 hip.
- Liner: Removable thermal.
- Price: Around $350.
Who It’s For
Riders who want one pair for all seasons. I appreciate the adjustable knee height.
8. BMW Motorrad Rallye Pants — Best for Adventure Touring
Why I Ride In These
I’ve taken the BMW Motorrad Rallye Pants on gravel roads and long highway slogs. The Gore-Tex liner is removable, so you can wear the outer pants as a vented shell in hot weather.
The NP armor is CE Level 2 at knees and hips. The stretch panels make them comfortable when standing on the pegs. I also love the cargo pockets for maps and snacks.
Key Specs
- Material: Polyamide with Gore-Tex liner, stretch panels.
- Armor: NP CE Level 2 knee and hip.
- Vents: Large ventilation panels.
- Price: Around $800.
Who It’s For
Adventure riders who stand on the pegs and need freedom of movement. I love the cargo pockets.
Final Thoughts on Touring Pants
After thousands of miles, I’ve learned that fit and armor placement matter as much as brand names. Always try pants on with your riding boots and seated on your bike if possible.
My advice? Spend what you can afford on the best waterproofing and CE Level 2 armor you can find. Your comfort and safety on a long tour depend on it. Any of these eight will serve you well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are textile pants better than leather for touring?
Yes, for most touring riders. Textile pants like the REV’IT! Sand 4 H2O offer waterproofing, ventilation, and comfort that leather can’t match over long days.
What armor level should I look for in touring pants?
I always recommend CE Level 2 knee and hip armor. It absorbs more impact energy than Level 1, and many premium pants now include it as standard.
How much should I spend on motorcycle touring pants?
You can get solid protection for around $250 with the Alpinestars Andes V3 Drystar. Premium Gore-Tex options like the Klim Badlands Pro A3 cost $900 or more, but they last for years.
Can I wear touring pants over regular jeans?
Absolutely. Many touring pants, including the Olympia Ranger 3, are designed as overpants. Just make sure you adjust the fit so the armor stays in place.
Related Articles
8 Best Motorcycle Pants for Street Riding (Tested & Reviewed)
After years of street riding, I've tested the top motorcycle pants for comfort, protection, and style. Here are my 8…
Jake Miller
6 min read
8 Best Motorcycle Overpants for Commuting in a Suit: Ride to Work Without Wrinkles
I tested the best motorcycle overpants for commuting in suits. From waterproof shells to mesh summer options, these picks keep…
Jake Miller
8 min read
8 Best Motorcycle Pants for Women Who Wear a US Size 18
After years of squeezing into gear that never fit, I rounded up the 8 best motorcycle pants for women in…
Jake Miller
9 min read