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What makes a good pair of trail trousers
If you only pay attention to how they look, you’ll quickly end up making the wrong choice when it comes to cycling trousers. Styles that look great in the mirror often don’t fit very well on the bike. The key factor is the Fit on the bike. Stretch fabric gives way when pedalling and whilst in an active riding position. An adjustable waistband – ideally slightly higher at the back – keeps the trousers in place. Pre-shaped knees provide space for protectors, whilst tapered legs prevent flapping in the wind. Zipped pockets are practical, as their contents bounce around as little as possible whilst pedalling. If you also cycle on mild autumn days, you should also look out for ventilation. And before buying, it’s worth trying them on in your riding position: do your legs ride up, or does a seam rub against your knee? If so, it’s best to leave the trousers on the rack and look for an alternative.
In this article, we’ve put together a round-up of what we consider to be the three best pairs of trail trousers.
1. Fox Ranger: The versatile all-rounder
The Fox Ranger Combines robust ripstop fabric with stretch and a close-fitting cut. In the BIKE test, the narrow leg cuffs were particularly well received: they barely flap and keep their distance from the cranks. Pre-shaped knees provide space for knee pads, a ratchet adjusts the waistband, and two zipped pockets hold small items. A longer version was also tested for sizes 32, 34 and 36.
This makes the Ranger a good choice for anyone who switches between trail rides, enduro laps and bike parks in the autumn. It’s not without its compromises, though: the waistband could be a bit higher at the back, and there’s no additional ventilation option. Anyone with long legs should consider the long version instead.
- Price: 109.99 euros >> Available here at a reduced price
- Weight: 281 grams (32)
- Available in two lengths (sizes 32, 34, 36)
- pre-shaped knee section
- adjustable waistband
- 2 zipped pockets
Advantages
+ durable and stretchy fabric + easy width adjustment + close-fitting leg cuffs + pre-shaped knee area for knee pads
Disadvantages
- The waistband could be higher at the back - The pockets are rather impractically positioned - The leg openings are a bit tight when taking them off
2. Monserat Trailpants TP3: Comfort and a wide range of sizes
The Monserat TP3 They really stand out when it comes to comfort. Their soft, stretchy fabric moves with you on the bike; the legs fit snugly without constantly riding up whilst pedalling. The waistband, which is slightly higher at the back, stays securely in place. They also feature space for knee pads, two zipped pockets and a simple ratchet-style waist adjustment. Intermediate sizes and two leg lengths make it easier to find the right fit. The trousers are made from 88 per cent Econyl and are manufactured in Europe.
It’s particularly appealing for autumn trail and enduro rides when Fit and comfort at the very top. However, anyone cycling without knee pads should be aware of the cross-seam below the knee: it can chafe whilst pedalling. On warm days, a bit more ventilation would also be welcome.
- Price: 134.95 euros
- Weight: 302 grams (size 34)
- Made from 88 per cent Econyl and manufactured in Europe
- more room in the knee area for protective pads
- two zipped pockets
- Width adjustment via ratchet mechanism
- Available in half sizes and two lengths
Advantages
+ lots of size options + great fit at the waist and legs + comfortable, stretchy fabric
Disadvantages
- a bit pricey - the cross-seam below the knees can chafe
3. Endura MT500 Burner Lite: The lightweight option
Anyone who finds themselves breaking a sweat quickly on uphill stretches, even in autumn, should take a look at the Endura MT500 Burner Lite Take a look. Thin stretch fabric, mesh inserts and ventilation openings in the leg area ensure a breathable fit. The waistband, which is cut higher at the back, can be adjusted with Velcro; silicone prints improve grip. During testing, the comfortably long trouser legs stood out as a positive feature. They hardly ride up at all, even whilst pedalling. Two zipped pockets and a fastening option for a matching pair of inner shorts complete the features.
Their strength lies in the freedom of movement they offer on intense trail and enduro rides. However, the lightweight fabric also has its drawbacks: it rustles audibly, and heavy items such as a smartphone can bounce around in the pockets whilst cycling. The trousers ran a bit large in the test. As a particularly breathable model, they are also not the first choice if warmth is the main priority in cold weather.
- Price: 114.99 euros >> Available here at a reduced price
- Weight: 277 grams (size L)
- Made in: China
- 4-way stretch for maximum freedom of movement
- Waist size adjustable with Velcro
- Silicone prints on the rear for a better grip
- Mesh and laser-cut panels for ventilation behind the knees
- 2 zipped pockets
- Clickfast system for attaching inner trousers
Advantages
+ very light and airy + a good fit thanks to the high waistband and wide adjustment range + a comfortable length; the trouser legs don’t ride up
Disadvantages
- The material is a bit rustly - Heavy items rattle around in the pockets - The zip isn’t very smooth
Which of the three suits you best?
Fox is the versatile choice with a sturdy, slim-fitting design. Monserat ideal when a comfortable seat and a choice of lengths are particularly important. Endura They really come into their own when breathability and light weight are the top priorities. All three are lightweight trail trousers for the transitional seasons; they are not specifically designed as rain or winter trousers. When deciding which pair to buy, therefore, as well as considering the intended use, it’s particularly important to try them on with the knee pads you actually use whilst cycling.
Stefan Frey
Editor