Singletrack's forums are sponsored by...

Forum sponsored by Saracen

Waterproof trousers...
 

Waterproof trousers - what’s out there?

44 Posts
28 Users
7 Reactions
389 Views
Free Member
Topic starter
 

My few year old nukeproof black line trousers are starting to give up the ghost never been waterproof per se but usually did a good job of keeping the most out

however the bum is now fairly worn and I’m just getting soaked after first descents in winter and then my ass is soaked for the rest of the ride

i haven’t had any waterproof trousers in a long time, im not bothered as long as the bum stays dry or mostly keep it at bay

So what’s out there that anyone can recommend?

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 1:35 pm
Free Member
 

I just looked at winter riding trousers.  Endura do ones with a waterproof arse, but that's no good to me because in winter I use mudguards as I don't want to get covered in crap.  I'm fed up of abrading through my expensive gear, and a rear Mudhugger is pretty damn good and no hassle to use.

I'm more interested in waterproof thighs and shins as these are the bits that get wet. So I've gone with Showers Pass Skyline trousers because these were the only ones I could find with waterproof thighs and shins but stretchy soft elsewhere. And a Mudhugger of course.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 1:40 pm
Full Member
 

I've gone with proviz had a pair from Hump excellent waterproofness but  no ankle zips or anything so a bastard to put on.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 2:19 pm
Full Member
 

I got a pair of these in medium, then returned them and got large because they were ridiculously tight.

Fit well in large (I'm medium in NP Blackline trews), but not used on the bike yet.

https://spadaclothing.com/products/spada-mtb-hydro-trousers-olive

They were also on eBay with free returns.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 2:26 pm
Full Member
 

I got given a pair of Leatt Enduro 3 Pants a couple of weeks ago.

They are fast becoming my favourites among several pairs of TroyLee, Royal Racing and Nukeproof troos.

Not a fan of waterproof trousers as I find them far too hot and sweaty.

The Leatts are pretty well vented but have a waterproof arse. Works really well for me.

I'll be replacing all the others with the Leatts when the arses wear through, which doesn't take very long.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 2:32 pm
Free Member
 

I've got some Alpinestars Tahoe Trousers.

They were only about 30quid from SportPursuit so wasn't expecting much but they've kept me perfectly dry on a few rides so far, the fabric is pretty soft too (not crispy like some strides can be) and the pockets stayed completely dry, which was nice. Breathability isn't the best so probs not ideal for sweaty types.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 2:49 pm
Free Member
 

I've just ordered some madison four seasons dwr trousers. Not got them yet, but they're half price, 50 quid at the moment. Worth a punt.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 2:50 pm
Full Member
 

chakapingFull Member
I got a pair of these in medium, then returned them and got large because they were ridiculously tight.

Fit well in large (I’m medium in NP Blackline trews), but not used on the bike yet.

MTB Hydro Olive Green Mountain Biking Trousers

They were also on eBay with free returns

Yeah, I took a punt on those, got the Small, but way too tight on the ankles and too tight on the thighs. Returned for a refund as the Medium would have been too loose around the waist. Odd sizing I felt, especially the ankles ... Shame as they seemed decently made.

I've just ordered a set of the Madison 4 season trousers from BikeParts UK. £29 if you can squeeze in a Small ...

https://www.bikeparts.co.uk/products/madison-zenith-mens-4-season-dwr-trouser-black-small

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 3:25 pm

Free Member
 

https://www.tredz.co.uk/.Troy-Lee-Designs-Resist-MTB-Cycling-Trousers_222341.htm

Not the cheapest but they're the best waterproofs I've used, far better than the Fox ones I had before

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 4:38 pm
Full Member
 

I have a pair of Fox Defends and what I think is a pair of Endura MT500 Sprays, both have been really good, the Enduras fit me a little better though, the Foxes like a lot of mtb trousers are a little bit short.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 4:49 pm
chambord and tall_martin reacted
Full Member
 

Second TLD Resist and Madison DTE , while on the trouser subject but not waterproof are the Decathlon Winter version a good choice on chilly but dry days or do they run too hot ?

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 5:07 pm
Full Member
 

They are great, I love mine, wear them on the mtb and gravel bike as they are slim fit

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 5:28 pm
Full Member
 

TLD Resist are the best

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 6:02 pm
Free Member
Topic starter
 

What’s the sizing like on the tld resist? I’m usually a small in most sizing with 32” waist - are they loose rustly type material or nice and close fitting?

I’ve looked ar some of the others on here too the resist seem to rank highly

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 6:08 pm
Full Member
 

RAF gortex trousers from army/ navy surplus place.

Massively outlasted all MTB waterproof trousers I've used. Flappy round the ankles.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 6:10 pm
Free Member
 

What’s the sizing like on the tld resist? I’m usually a small in most sizing with 32” waist – are they loose rustly type material or nice and close fitting?

I'm a 32 waist and they're a tighter fit than the TLD Ruckus shorts I've got (also a 32 waist), I'm using Sam Hill knee pads which fit ok but are pretty slim so chunkier knee pads may be an issue

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 6:12 pm

 jedi
Full Member
 

https://contour-cycles.myshopify.com/ Fox defend are awesome. Discount code too if wanted

UKBS2024Q4TD

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 7:05 pm
Free Member
 

My Endura ones are good. DWR so resistant rather than proof, but good range of sizes and well made.

I'd say a cut above most of their other fair.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 7:30 pm
Free Member
Topic starter
 

Which endura ones have you got ajt123? I’ve looked at a few of them but not sure which your on about - I’m not bothered about fully waterproof just something that keeps the wet off my ass more than anything

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 7:55 pm
Full Member
 

RAF gortex trousers from army/ navy surplus place.

Massively outlasted all MTB waterproof trousers I’ve used. Flappy round the ankles.

That's been the default answer on here for about 20 years. We don't have to live like this anymore!

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 8:01 pm
richwales reacted
 bens
Free Member
 

hijodeputa

I’ve just ordered some madison four seasons dwr trousers. Not got them yet, but they’re half price, 50 quid at the moment. Worth a punt.

I've got some of these and while they're nice trousers, they're not waterproof. The bum and inner thigh are waterproof material but the rest is just regular fabric. They're OK if it's just a bit cold and splashy but any length of time riding in the wet and they soak up water like a sponge. I also found them to be a slightly larger than expect size which means once they're wet, they fall off my waist. Good for cold, not for wet.

TLD Resist have been OK for me but they do let water through eventually. Pretty sure anything does if you spend enough time outside in the rain. I think the last properly wet ride I worm them on they kept me dry for about 5 hours which is pretty good going.

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 9:30 pm
oldfart reacted
Full Member
 

Some decent discounts on endura mt500 stuff at leisure lakes, including the waterproof trousers. Not sure what they're like as I've only used the spray version which aren't fully waterproof but have lasted me well and generally keep me comfortable through most of my winter riding.

https://www.leisurelakesbikes.com/clothing/trousers-tights/endura-mt500-waterproof-trouser-ii-black__345163

 
Posted : 19/11/2024 9:45 pm
 

Mentioned in a different thread, but I've recently got the Madison dungarees.

Nicely made, but only used them once so far on the ebike so can't really judge how hot they'll run on a normal ride. My suspicion is that they will be rather warm.

Nice not to have a cold back gap though

received_929682642332280

 
Posted : 20/11/2024 8:02 am
Full Member
 

I suspect - from using the outdoors version - the Rab Cinder Kinetic Pant will be very, very good in terms of wearabiity and breathability plus keeping most of the weather out, and it does get really good reviews, but I'd be wary of them from the durability point of view. Personal experience of waterproof legwear off-road in the Peak tells me that the combination of wet grit and friction between seat and saddle kills everything in short order.

Mudhuggers improve things massively as above, but I'd still be very wary of putting a crash-hole in a very expensive garment. Anyone here tried them on a mountain bike?

 
Posted : 20/11/2024 8:49 am

Full Member
 

I have the Spadas. The sizing is weird.

Mine are large. They're tight round the ankles, but they fit fine over SealSkinz (or possibly Aldi's own equivalent) and create a nice seal.

They're also snug around the calves and thighs, but seem to have just enough give. I managed a lap of Cut Gate in relative comfort.

Like others have said, I'd have been tempted to size up for the leg space, but the waist is already a bit big. With the ratchet done full up it's just about okay.

I wonder if they're not really designed for us mountain bikers with mighty legs. I think Spada are a motorcycle clothing company originally.

 
Posted : 20/11/2024 9:37 am
mrslice reacted
Free Member
 

Spada cut is even worse than Endura.

 
Posted : 20/11/2024 9:56 am
Full Member
 

The Holy Grail. Comfy dry legs and arse when the puddles are often and deep.

Rab Cinder Kinetic Pant Seemed a good idea but they look low at the back and perhaps lack room for kneepads?

Rapha? So expensive but amazing reviews Gucci brand puts me off & the arse will still wear through

How do you pee (male) wearing Endura dungarees - is it feasible without virtually taking them off? Is the arse waterproof beyond ride 1?

I saw the Craghoppers Stefan (cheap) recommended here a while back and did buy some for walking. Model I bought is a low at the back perhaps. They seem pretty waterproof but with the loose stretchy mesh lining my generation ones have, they can be a bugger to get on as feet get netted in the way in. Maybe the current ones don’t have the stretchy mesh liner so could be worth a punt as the price seems good.
No reinforced arse means oft seated riders will wear them through on the seat I guess.

My old model Madison DTR (with contrasting knee patches) are streets ahead of their new model I now have with tight ankles that sit 6” above my shoes when I get going. Thin stuff too  - wish I could get some more old model DTRs  in XL  anyone selling some? Bulky but ace  IMO

Generally DWR seems very poor now the forever chemicals are no more and to need reapplication every wash.

Maybe Military issue pants are robust and cheap so the best way.
Any particular recommendations please? Links?

If anyone needs a day jacket, my Genuine US Navy USN Digital GoreTex Working Parka Jacket Size Medium/X-Long from https://www.ebay.co.uk/str/gsarmysurplus?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=qbEdne_lTRe&sssrc=3418065&ssuid=k4xnnXE3QzK&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
is amazing quality and recommended for day wear. Great hood. But bulky so far from pack able and would be far too much for me for UK cycling. It’s also built for someone with a bit of more of a tum than me for sure.

thanks.

 
Posted : 01/02/2025 9:30 am
 

How do you pee (male) wearing Endura dungarees – is it feasible without virtually taking them off? Is the arse waterproof beyond ride 1?

No idea about Endura dungarees, but the Madison's have a fly

And the arse has stayed dry on two very wet and muddy rides this week.

They are a really nice piece of kit

However. I've still only worn them ebiking. I think they would be a bit much on a normal bike

 
Posted : 01/02/2025 8:38 pm
mudfish reacted
Free Member
 

First ride in my new rab kinetic pants this week, loads of room for knee pads underneath, what do you mean by low at the back? But either way they were utterly fantastic and wish I'd got them straight away instead of getting the fox 2.5L pants I got first.

 
Posted : 01/02/2025 8:48 pm
Full Member
 

Thanks

With the Madison dungarees how’s the inside leg length? Measure please.
The recent DTR trousers are flimsy and are about 5” short when I get pedalling. Even Sealskinz are cold when soaked.
Pads aren’t helping that, I guess (legs riding up)

Also unlike the 2019 version the arse is not reinforced on the newer ones. Nor the knees.

Do the dungaree have a double layer of material for the seat? They need to last at that price.
thx for the feedback

 
Posted : 02/02/2025 10:44 am
Full Member
 

Hi GolfChick. That’s a good recommendation

The Rab web pic shows the waistband at the rear pulling down as the rider leans forward. Link below

Pants I’ve liked have a higher waist at the rear

https://rab.equipment/uk/men-s-cinder-kinetic-waterproof-pants?srsltid=AfmBOopYcEmW7Oq7MKIJkX_EtXQzh7l27Dn3gQfwAmcSc0cmlyK2esn_

is that pic misleading?

 
Posted : 02/02/2025 10:48 am
Free Member
 

With the Madison dungarees how’s the inside leg length?

They do 3 leg lengths - short, regular and long. I’m 6ft 1 and normally need a 32/33 inch leg length and the regulars fit fine, although the ankle cuffs do tend to ride up, but no worse than any other riding trouser I’ve had and caused by knee pads. Not an issue is you’ve got decent length socks.

another vote from me for the Maddison bib trousers / dungarees. Used them 4 times now in really crappy weather or when it sub 5 degrees and they’re great. Fully waterproof (so far), very wind resistant, comfortable fit and the bib part is great for extra warmth and no wet lower back. Bonus if you ride with a hip pack as your nit constantly have to pull your trousers up after they ridden down under the hip pack

 
Posted : 02/02/2025 11:02 am

Free Member
 

Ah yeah I see what you mean but he is on a drop bar bike so maybe more exaggerated, I wouldn't say I found them to fit particularly low down, just normal short waist height really. Not Simon Cowell high but then certainly not low on my hips, regular bike short height. I guess if you want a high cut for maximum winter coverage then a dungaree is going to be better but I'd say if you plan on getting warm you wont be able to compete with the breathability of the RAB pants. Depends what you want them for I think.

 
Posted : 02/02/2025 8:20 pm
Full Member
 

Golf Chick thx. Appreciate the detail

n

 
Posted : 03/02/2025 12:34 pm
Full Member
 

I like the madison ones.  Heavier than I usually like but if it's chilly and wet they're great.  Even dog walking but the water drains into my wellies.

Only complaint is the pocket zip being small and scratchy.  Unsure why madison trousers pockets are soo small.

Need to wash them though as they're fairly stained with mud and I'm unsure if the usual detergent will trash the waterproofing.

 
Posted : 03/02/2025 12:46 pm
 

With the Madison dungarees how’s the inside leg length? Measure please.

I went for the long medium I think (will check later)

I'm 5'11 with short torso, long legs - 33-34" jeans. See pic further up page. Was around 12-12.5st in that pic I think

Rode in them the other day with my 5-10 Trailcross GTX and the ankle cuffs stayed over them all ride

 
Posted : 03/02/2025 2:09 pm
Full Member
 

Joefm better use a kind wash like Grangers at Nikwax - detergent kills DWR.

 
Posted : 04/02/2025 11:19 am
Full Member
 

TheArtistFormerlyKnownAsSTR Thanks. My jeans are 34 too so that’s good. My 5-10s are low as sadly my flipper wide feet don’t go into Adidas takeover 5-10s. Booties would be lovely.
they look kneepad friendly too.
Reinforced saddle area? The later DTR pants I have dont have that.

 
Posted : 04/02/2025 11:23 am
 

they look kneepad friendly too.
Reinforced saddle area?

I've had slimline (IXS Flow??) pads under no problem.

I don't think it's reinforced (forgot to look and away from home now, sorry) but the material does seem quite tough

 
Posted : 04/02/2025 2:11 pm
Full Member
 

TheArtistFormerlyKnownAsSTR thanks I'll have a look

I saw the Madison DTE pants (not bibs) today in shop and they are not double layer on the arse.

Lucky to get through one winter like that I'd say.

Gore have a sale but only std slim trousers which are plainly roadie gear.

I've some old DTE trousers with worn membrane in parts (like the arse) and plan to look into getting them fixed.

 
Posted : 05/02/2025 6:55 pm

Full Member
 

@sofaboy73 What size did you go for? Medium or Large? I'm the same height and not sure which to get! 

 

I've noticed some sites have the trousers at £150 now, down from the initial £200.

 
Posted : 10/02/2025 9:35 am
Free Member
 

@sofaboy73 What size did you go for? Medium or Large? I'm the same height and not sure which to get!

 

do you mean the leg lengths? if so, the regular. the length is right for me, they do ride up a little though (to bottom of the shin) as the they get a boit bunched above my knee pads. not an issue when using with decent length sock though

 

 
Posted : 10/02/2025 11:31 am
Free Member
 

@oikeith - if you mean leg length, then the regulars. right length in terms of fit, i do get a bot of an ankle / lower shin gap as they ride up above my knee pads a little. not an issue with decent length seal-skins or the like

 
Posted : 10/02/2025 11:34 am
Full Member
 

Posted by: sofaboy73

@oikeith - if you mean leg length, then the regulars. right length in terms of fit, i do get a bot of an ankle / lower shin gap as they ride up above my knee pads a little. not an issue with decent length seal-skins or the like

No not leg length (short, reg or Long) actual size as in Medium, Large or XL?

 

 
Posted : 10/02/2025 11:46 am

Secret Diary Of Benjamin Haworth Age 47 3/4

Last Minute Tuscany

Digital Detox

singletrack issue 159 cover image

Issue 159