Best summer motorcycle trousers

While here in weather-blighted Britain we’re more usually concerned about finding the right warm biking gear to keep us snug in cold temperatures and in winter, getting the right gear to help us keep cool in the heat of summer is also important.

And while multi-season textile jackets, with various detachable linings and waterproof membranes are now commonplace, finding a pair of trousers with plenty of ventilation options isn’t always as easy.

Yes, you can go the whole hog and opt for some all-season trousers but if you only want something for summer use you’ll likely be paying over the odds for features you don’t need.

So if you want summer-specific textile motorcycle pants there are basically two ways you can go – for lightweight designs with plenty of ventilation or for those with easily breathable mesh liners – or both!

Related: Best summer motorcycle gloves

A more limited choice doesn't mean you’re restricted in style. You can get lightweight summer pants in a traditional touring style, more fitted sports style, ‘adventure’ style or more leisure-looking traditional jean or cargo-pant style - there are also ones in both men’s and women’s cuts.

With all, you should check out the ventilation and type of design carefully, suss out the level of protection offered – being cool and stylish shouldn’t mean skimping on safety – work out how practical they are for the type of riding you do (some are more multi-season by offering detachable thermal liners) as well as assessing their style and value. Here’s our pick of the best. The rest, if you want to stay cool – is up to you!

While protective peace of mind is provided by CE approved armour at the knees with additional protection at the hips. They also have Frank Thomas branding, reflective piping for added night-time visibility and a short zip to attach to the matching Frank Thomas Desert Mesh waterproof motorcycle jacket.

Armour rating: CE

For protection, there’s removable CE approved protectors at the knees along with padded hips. For a snug fit, there’s an adjustable waist combined with stretch inserts along with zipper and Velcro ankle adjustment.

There’s an antiseptic mesh lining along with a waterproof membrane and removable and washable thermal lining, for those chillier days. And although black, there’s also a reflective insert to heighten visibility. There are also two front pockets with securing zipper and a zipper attachment to a matching jacket.

Armour rating: CE

The outer is in 600D water-resistant nylon with a PVC coating for maximum waterproofing – ideal for a British summer. There’s a detachable quilted lining for warmth, CE approved protectors at the knees and enhanced fit via stretch panels in the crotch and an adjustable waist.

Armour rating: CE

The outer is heavy-duty Cordura with double stitching, the discrete knee pads are CE-approved, there’s two front, two rear and of course two side ‘cargo pockets.

Armour rating: CE L1

They feature a multi-fabric construction, mesh panels for maximum airflow, stretch inserts throughout for optimum fit and comfort, an extended rear waist to prevent draughts, CE-certified knee protectors and pockets for hip armour. They’re also currently discounted at the Sports Bike Shop making this desirable brand more affordable than ever.

Armour rating: CE L1

You also get special ‘Schoeller-dynatec’ mesh panels, aero cool 3D mesh panels and ventilation panels to ensure you remain comfortable however hot it gets. They come in eight sizes and four different colour options with three leg lengths.

Armour rating: CE L1 & L2

They're made from elasticated Cordura comfort fabric for the perfect fit, have a zip jacket attachment, side adjusters, calf zips and, crucially, closable air inlets on the thighs to offer optimum summer ventilation even in the hottest weather. There are also CE-approved knee and shin protectors and soft hip inserts plus two front and one rear pocket.

Armour rating: CE

There are stretch panels above the knee for comfort, adjustable CE knee protectors for added safety, hip protector pockets, a lower back stretch panel insert, two outside pockets and an adjustable hem and leg. They also come in eight sizes and two different colour options.

Armour rating: CE L1

What to read next:

Best sporty textile motorcycle jackets

Best motorbike leathers

Top motorbike kit for the new riding season