The Best Motocross (Dirtbike) Pants for 2024
We'd know - we've reviewed 110+ pairs of motorcycle pants since 2000!
Our picks are based on waterproof pants that offer the best blend of safety/performance, function/features, and price.
Last updated October 2023 by Devan Martel.
About Our Motocross Pants Recommendations
What separates our recommendations from others? Well, for starters, we've hands-on reviewed more than 110 pairs of riding pants. That's a lot of butts in seats!
Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, intercoms, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves.
wBW is funded by our audience. Our recommendations and reviews may contain affiliate links that earn us a small comission if you make a purchase after clicking them. This is the primary way we fund our website and pay our review team (and comes at no additional cost to you). We disclose our relationship with brands or manufacturers for transparency. For more information about our extensive review process, see our review policies.
Best Entry-Level Motocross Pants
Priced under $100.
BILT Velocity Air
Price: Up to $70
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
What’s cheap and gets the job done? BILT’s Velocity Air Pants.
The Velocity Air MX Pants are made out of a heavy-duty 600D polyester chassis for long-lasting use and abrasion protection. BILT puts your comfort first with stretch knit panels on the crotch, inner thighs, rear yoke, back of knees, and calves.
Key Specs
Construction:
Heavy duty 600D polyester chassis
Ventilation:
100% airflow mesh throughout for max airflow in hot or humid conditions
Laser perforations in polyester chassis
Comfort:
Stretch knit panels at crotch, inner thighs, rear yoke, back of knees/calves
Quick release ratchet waist closure
Silicone inner waistband maintains placement
Other Features:
YKK zippers
Protection & Safety
Pre-curved padded knees
Triple stitching in impact areas
Fly Racing Dirt F-16
Why?
The F-16 pants bring much of Fly Racing’s knowledge and expertise down to an entry-level bit of kit that is hard to label as budget.
Featuring full 600D abrasion and ripstop construction and double or triple sewn seams, these pants are designed to be both comfortable, with a mesh liner, as well as handle the nastiest of bumps and wipeouts without shredding themselves to pieces.
TPR badging and adjustable fit through a ratcheting fly closure and stretch-fit panels ensure the pants stay where they need to be to help protect you as well as possible.
Key Specs
600D construction for strong and outstanding durability
Single adjustable belt for maximum fit and comfort
Ratcheting Fly closure allows for additional adjustability and a secure fit
YKK main zipper for maximum durability
Stretch ribbing strategically used where pant flexibility is most important
Mesh comfort liner helps keep you cool and comfortable
Fully integrated TPR (Thermoplastic rubber) badges
Ergonomically pre-shaped knee contoured to accommodate most knee braces and guards
600D inside knee panels protect from hot exhaust systems
Low profile stretch leg cuffs
Protection & Safety
TPR sections for light impact protection and grip
Pants are designed to fit over kneepads and tall motocross boots
BILT Lux Race
Price: $90
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Lux Race pants are built to do one thing, and that is compete. Made of 600D polyester, they feature a high-airflow design including rubberized intake scoops on the outside of the TPR knee pads to push air up the thighs for cooling.
Cowhide leather on the inner knee provides a high grip as well as heat protection.
The pants can be used on their own, or with external armor, and are tapered to fit easily inside race boots.
Key Specs
Heavy duty 600D polyester construction
Strategically placed laser perforation for maximum airflow
Molded TPR air scoops at the knees
Open weave stretch mesh along the lower leg
Full mesh comfort lining
Double layer, pre-curved padded knees
Full-grain cowhide leather panels at the inner knee
Full circumference silicon jersey-to-pants gripper at waist
Triple stitching in impact areas
Reduced bulk at lower leg for improved in-the-boot comfort
Race fit with tailoring to clear knee braces and impact armor
Included ventilated hip pads
Protection & Safety
TPR knee pads with external air scoop for cooling
600D polyester is highly abrasion-resistant
Triple stitching in impact areas keeps the pants together
Includes ventilated hip pads
Best Mid-Range Motocross Pants
Priced between $100 and $200.
Alpinestars Fluid Lurv
Why?
Alpinestars never fails to impress and the same holds true for their newest MX release - the Fluid Lurv Pants.
These pants are made for riders looking for maximum comfort and performance whilst riding. The lightweight chassis, lower waist stretch panels, and pre-curved leg design all contribute to a surreal riding experience.
Key Specs
600D poly-fabric main chassis construction that is PU coated for strength with a technical yearn for durability
Stretch fabric panels on crotch, knees and rear waist for enhanced rider comfort
3D pattern construction for additional rider comfort and unparalled freedom of movement
Ratchet closure for a secure, personalized fit
Comfort mesh lining for superior breathability
Protection & Safety
High performance synthetic leather on knees for heat resistance, grip and comfort
600D poly-fabric main chassis
Klim XC Lite
Why?
The entire Olympia Moto Sports brand was developed by riders for riders, and their designs always convey that in the finished garments. What do I mean? Well, the Airglide 6 pants use the best Cordura fabric with Ballistic Airflow mesh panels for the outer shell. The zippers are all top-spec Metaluxe® YKK zippers.
The pants have great ventilation thanks to the mesh but have a unique waterproof liner that can be worn under or over the trousers. A perfect solution when you are set for warm weather and a storm comes up.
There are 3M Scotchlite™ reflective details and full length zippers down the legs. Overall this is a pair of pants that can handle anything you want to ride through.
Key Specs
Lightweight mesh main body
Low bulk materials inside the boot
Genuine leather at inside of knees for grip, durability, and protection
Vented TPU at knees
TPU at fly and waist adjustment tabs
Moisture-wicking mesh liner
Side waist adjustment for a fine-tuned fit
Easy-access, zippered thigh pocket
Silicone inside the waist helps keep your pants up and your jersey down
Anchored liner at knee area reduces bunching
Protection & Safety
Vented TPU at knees and fly
Leather on inside of knees for grip and protection
Lightweight mesh liner keeps pants in place, so it does not ride around on your legs, while also allowing airflow and backing the Cordura external shell
Alpinestars Venture R Pants
Price: $160
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Alpinestars Venture R Pants feature a rip-stop nylon and polyester main fabric construction that is both heavy duty and lightweight. Strategically located stretch areas (inner thighs, knees and yoke) make it easy to get into position on the bike, and also make walking around very comfortable. Zippered air intake vents draw air into the pant and enable quick adjustments on the fly as temperature or weather conditions change.
Key Specs
Rip-stop nylon and polyester fabric construction for excellent abrasion resistance
Main shell incorporates a water resistant treatment for improved weather performance
Extended stretch area on inner thighs, knees and rear yoke
Zippered air intake vents
Lightweight ventilated mesh liner
Protection & Safety
Knee PU reinforcement for additional abrasion resistance
Stretch panel on calf
Pre-curved knee construction reduces riding fatigue
Best High-End Motocross Pants
Priced over $200.
Leatt Moto 5.5 IKS
Why?
Leatt are no strangers to the Motocross world and their expertise is on full display with the release of their new Moto 5.5 I.K.S. Pants.
These ultra-lightweight, flexible and durable pants are made out of more than 95% Ripstop 360-degree stretch material. The pants have a pre-curved, tailored fit with 3D fully floating knee cap reinforcement for superior comfort and protection.
I.K.S. stands for Internal Knee Brace System which refers to Leatt’s solution for knee brace wear and tear. It is compatible with Leatt knee braces, as well as other leading knee brace brands.
Key Specs
Pre-curved, 360* race stretch fit
Over 95% of construction is ultra-light, durable Ripstop stretch material
I.K.S - Internal Knee Brace System prevents knee brace wear and tear
Light and breathable construction
Laser-cut ventilation
3D molded, fully floating knee cap reinforcement
Full grain leather inner leg for grip
YKK zipper and multi-row safety stitching
Four-point knee ventilation
Waist with micro adjuster, side straps and 360 ̊ silicone grip
Anti-odor MoistureCool mesh lining
Protection & Safety
3D molded, fully floating knee cap reinforcement
I.K.S - Internal Knee Brace System prevents knee brace wear and tear
Ripstop stretch material
FXR Helium MX
Price: $220
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Helium MX pants are, at the very core, all about mobility. Perforated 600D polyester creates a lightweight chassis that stretches and breathes with you as you ride.
Leather on the inner knee provides protection from heat and rubbing against the bike’s body.
Lightweight, breathable mesh inserts for the knees provide some protection and extra airflow.
Note: These pants are designed to be used with external knee and shin armor, as they are tapered to fit into a race boot.
Key Specs
Chassis design for improved fit and comfort
Durable perforated 4-way stretch fabric provides class-leading fit and mobility
600D polyester perforated fabric for improved airflow
Knee design provides a slim fit
Rib-knit stretch insert above the knee for extra mobility
Lightweight breathable mesh inserts for added ventilation, and flexibility
Leather panel at the inner knee for heat and abrasion protection
Triple topstitching in critical areas for extra strength and durability
Hook and loop adjustable waist
Silicone-printed inner elastic waist for extra grip and security
TPR knee logos
Fade-free sublimation print
Protection & Safety
600D polyester is highly abrasion and impact resistant
Triple stitching on critical areas ensures that if you do get thrown, the pants will stay intact.
Klim Dakar Pants
Price: Up to $270
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Klim Dakar Pants have long been a proven partner for dual-sport, light adventure and trail riding around the globe. While not strictly motocross pants, Klim keeps pushing the envelope with the Dakar and the latest iteration has more intuitive features, better mud-resistant pant closures and stronger fabrics. Add in breathable stretch panels that offer excellent mobility, and large zippered vents to regulate temperature and you have a pant that is not out of place on any MX course. Whether you want to conquer a Dakar Rally stage or roost your buddies on an all-day local ride the Klim Dakar has you covered.
Key Specs
Durable, controlled ventilation over-the-boot off-road pant
Two large adjustable YKK-zippered thigh vents for custom airflow
Engineered stretch material in flex zones (back of waist, above knees, back of legs and in the crotch)
Two zippered/billoweed cargo pockets
Adjustable waist via dual VELCRO® brand closures brand fastener cinch straps
Glove friendly zipper pullers w/ different zipper heads to easily differentiate vents from storage
Silicone waistband helps keep your pants up and your jersey down
Moisture wicking breathable liner with stretch zones
Protection & Safety
TPU vented accents on knees
Abrasion-resistant upgraded 630D Cordura main body construction with durable water resistant (DWR) coating to deflect more water and mud
Heavy-duty 840D Cordura knee and seat for durability
D3O compatible hip and knee armor pockets (armor sold separately)
3M Scotchlite reflective material on back of leg
Frequently Asked Questions About Motocross Pants
What distinguishes motocross pants from regular riding pants?
Motocross pants are specifically designed to be used off-road, for dirt biking, trail riding, and, of course, motocross and supercross. They are typically extremely lightweight, with lots of stretch and flex panels while also being resilient enough to handle the wear and tear of motocross riding.
Do motocross pants come with armor?
Motocross pants do not come with full armor, per se, but they do sometimes have “armor reinforcement” areas at the knees and hips. These reinforcement areas are usually double layered for extra abrasion resistance, and have thin impact foam or thin TPU that work with knee armor, armored base layers, and the like.
Can or should I wear motocross pants for regular street riding?
You can wear motocross pants for street riding if you also have armor such as an armored base layer and armored knee pads or knee braces. On their own, motocross pants only provide abrasion resistance, so in general, if you want pants for street riding, it is often better to go with leather, textile, or mesh pants instead.
What kind of fitment should motocross pants have?
Motocross pants should fit on the looser side of snug. You want them to be able to fit over armor, but also not flap about like a flag in the wind and allow you maximum freedom of movement. If you fit two different sizes, such as L and XL, it is better to go with the larger one to give a little more room for armor and armored base layers
Are motocross pants adjustable at all?
Most motocross pants are adjustable to some degree. Most will have either an elastic waistband or adjustable velcro tabs to tighten or loosen the waist as needed. They are also adjustable at the base of the leg, so that they can be held tight to the leg to fit into motocross boots.
What materials are used in motocross pants?
The most popular material is polyester, usually 450D or better abrasion resistance. Some of the more premium pants will have spandura, Cordura, or leather panels in key areas to allow for maximum mobility and ventilation, while most of the time leather is used as a heat insulator on the inner leg so you don’t get too hot from the engine.
What To Look For In A Motocross Pants
Motocross pants differ from all other motorcycle specific pants in several distinct ways. While they are made of resilient materials that are able to handle the rough and tough riding that is done off-road and on motocross tracks, they rarely, if ever, have armor built in. They also have a variety of stretch zones because of the need for a motocross rider to be able to stick out their legs and stand on the pegs, among other things.
Almost all motocross and dirt specific pants are designed to be worn tucked into motocross boots, so they are meant to be snug around the ankles and calves. From just below the knees to the waist the pants will often feel a little baggy, as there is room given for underlayer armor or independent armor such as knee pads. The waist will very often be either adjustable with straps or be elasticated to ensure a good fit.
With all that in mind, there really are only two major points of concern when searching for a good pair of motocross pants, those being materials and sizing.
Materials: 99% of motocross pants will have 600D polyester material as the primary chassis for the pants, and quite often it will be perforated for high air flow. This polyester is either combined with spandex, or abrasion resistant spandura is used for many of the stretch areas. The inside of the knees on almost all pants will also have a double layer of material, both to pad against the tank and frame of the bike chafing against the leg and prevent the heat from the engine seeping through to heat up or burn your leg.
Sizing/Fitment: Because of the unique way that these pants are designed, you might need to try on a few pairs to get a good feel for them. You want to feel the pants snug to your calves, but on the looser side of snug over the knees and thighs to allow for armor being worn underneath. If you are between sizes, it’s a fairly safe bet to go for the larger of the sizes.
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We’re objective—Good gear is good gear, regardless of who made it.
We’re value-focused—Why pay $500 if something for $250 is just as good? Our review scores and recommendations reflect best value. Brand only goes so far—the gear has to stand on its own.
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