6 Best Cycling Pants for Rain for 2023

By Rachel Lee
Published on
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With the onset of Winter and Spring, going on a bike ride calls for preparing yourself well for an unexpected shower. The regular wind breaking pants may be able to keep you dry in a light shower but when it starts to pour, you really need something that can hold up.

Whether you use your bike for a recreational ride, mountain biking, or everyday commute to the office, who likes to arrive with soppy and drenched clothes. Equipped with the right outfit and equipment, you will not have any rainy day excuse to stay at home, but riding becomes more fun.

The best cycling pants for rain are ones that strike a perfect balance between keeping the rainwater out while ensuring that you don’t break into a sweat. They are made of breathable material that allows sweat to evaporate without letting your clothes get wet.

Pairing good-quality cycling pants with a waterproof jacket and rain cape ensures that your entire body is well-defended from the rain. It prevents the water from running from the jacket to soak your legs and also helps in keeping your torso dry and warm.

What Do We Recommend? Our Top Pick

While cycling pants are definitely useful for your comfort, they do not come cheap. Thus, you must do your homework well before choosing one. With so many products online, we know it’s not an easy process hence we have handpicked some of the top-rated products for you.

We have selected these products after evaluating the design, build, performance, customer reviews, and compare them with competitor products. Read on to find our unbiased and detailed reviews. If you don’t have the time to go through all reviews, we recommend the – Trailside Supply Men’s Snow Rain Pants for its ability to withstand higher rain pressure and still keep your dry within.

For women, we suggest the Pakka Womens by Mountain Warehouse. Made from fully waterproof yet breathable fabric that gives you protection and comfort rolled into one. They are also much easier to wear and gives you a perfect fit.

1. 4ucycling Windproof Athletic Pants for Outdoor and Multi Sports

Made from dual-layered synthetic material, this cycling pant from the house of 4ucycling is a professional athletic pant designed for the outdoor activities. It comprises of 75% polyester material for more comfort and water-repelling qualities. It keeps rain away without being too tight or clingy to your body. It also gives more flexibility and mobility to the riders. At the back, the material is composed of 85% polyester and 15% spandex. The pants are specifically engineered to provide extra cushioning and padding, with enhanced breathability to ensure that you don’t feel uncomfortably hot during your ride.

The inside of the cycling pant comprises of a thermo-lined fleece interior, which helps prevent the body temperature from falling even in very cold weather. The unique draping design in the knee area also further enhances the thermal retention capabilities of the cycling pant. They come with zippered pockets having sturdy zips on each side that adjust to the leg openings. This much-needed flexibility enables cyclists to pedal with ease and comfort. We are also impressed with the reflective logo design on the left that improves the visibility of riders when riding on a low lighter area.

Product features and specifications

  • Inner fleece lining for warmth
  • Spandex and polyester knitting
  • 10 centimeters wide
  • Water repellant high-quality polymer
  • Zippered side pockets
  • Knee protection and flexibility
  • Reflective logo for visibility

User/ Customer reviews

Most users have said that the pants fit great and they are extremely useful when commuting to work or casual rides in winter and fall. People love the design, comfort, and the inner lining that also keeps the rider warm in colder months. Athletes find it useful not only for cycling but various other outdoor activities like snow skiing, and so on. A few users have said that it is not suitable when the temperature is warm because you will sweat despite the ventilation and breathable material.

Conclusion

The 4ucycling windproof cycling pant (shop now) is well designed to keep the rain away and ensure that you stay warm and comfortable. It also does not compromise with your flexibility or movability, so your performance is not hampered. In fact, these pants are so comfortable that you can not only use them outdoors while riding cycle but also wear them indoors in chilly weather. Overall, it’s money well spent.


#2. Trailside Supply Co. Men’s Snow Rain Pants Over Pants

These snow rain pants by Trailside are specially designed for men who love outdoor sports and don’t want bad weather to stop them from going outside. Made from 100% polyester shell and polyester lining, this pant is waterproof and comfortable to wear. The pant includes a soft mesh lining in the interior to keep your skin dry and comfortable even if it pours outside. Polyester also helps in maintaining heat so that you don’t feel too hot or sweaty inside. Besides cycling, it is also good for hiking, mountain climbing, fishing, and other outdoor sports.

These cycling pants come with Velcro cuffs adjustments at the bottom to ensure that water does not get into your socks or shoes. There are two front pockets along with flaps, hook and loop to ensure that there is enough space to store items without worrying about them getting wet. It comes with a pull-on elasticized waistband for convenience and a one-hand drawstring for quicker adjustment and better fit. Taking care of the cycling pants is easy because as they are machine washable.

Product features and specifications

  • 100% Polyester Shell and Polyester Lining
  • Two front waterproof pockets
  • Pull-on elasticized waistband
  • Velcro-adjustment on bottom cuffs
  • Machine wash
  • Hook and loop closure

User/ Customer reviews

People find the elastic waistband comfortable and perfectly fitting to help them perform various outdoor activities with ease. Users love how this waterproof pant keeps moisture away and the unique design ensure that water does not seep inside in any way. Those living in colder climates are all praise for how comfortable and warm this pant makes them feel and at this price. A few customers have said that they were able to ride for over 20 minutes in rain without getting wet.

Conclusion

If you live in a place with a rainy and wet climate most of the year, it makes sense to invest in something that helps you stay dry and comfortable. The perfect fitting of these pants, comfort of material, careful stitching makes it one of the best waterproof cycling pants money can buy.


#3. 5Oaks Men’s Waterproof Comfort-Fit Rain Over Pants

When you are seeking a waterproof garment for cycling, this comfort-fit rain pants by 5Oaks Men appears to be a great fit. It is made from 100% polyester ripstop that is lightweight, easily packable, and keeps moisture away. The careful design gives you a great fit and the pull-on elasticized waistband ensures that it stays securely on your waist. The one-hand drawstring allows you to adjust the fitting as conveniently as possible. Even when worn over your shorts, they are super comfortable and do not hinder performance.

The cycling pant has a security pocket on the left thigh side with a waterproof zipper. It not only gives you space to store your essential things but the zipper keeps them safe in adverse weather conditions. We love the snap button adjustments on the bottom cuffs which not only make it easier to get a good fit but also keep you waterproof. Fully taped seams also ensure that water does not get through the stitches. Maintaining these cycling pants is also very easy as you just need to machine wash using cold water without any softener and tumble dry low.

Product features and specifications

  • Elastic pull-on waist
  • Left thigh security pocket
  • Snap button adjustment
  • 100% Polyester Ripstop
  • Fully taped seams and DWR function
  • Machine wash
  • Size S to XXL

User/ Customer reviews

People have used these rain pants for everything ranging from keeping the morning dew and rain away to ensuring that a rider stays warm in cold and wet regions. Users find the fit very snug and comfortable during outdoor activities. The superior quality material is also highly appreciated. A few customers have suggested that you order one size up if you wish to wear these rain pants over your cycling shorts or trousers.

Conclusion

When you want to stay both dry and warm when riding a cycle on a rainy day, the 5Oaks Men’s waterproof snug fit rain pants are a great choice. Although they fit snugly, you don’t find it difficult to move your legs while pedaling. Overall, it’s a good investment that will stay with you for several seasons.


#4. Columbia Women’s Storm Surge Waterproof Rain Pant

For our female cyclists, we have shortlisted this waterproof rain pant from the family of Columbia, a brand known for its amazing selection of sportswear, winterwear, and shoes. Made of 100% nylon and polyester materials, these pants are durable, sturdy, flexible, yet breathable. The proprietary technology offers air-permeable protection which is both waterproof and breathable at the same time to keep you both comfortable and dry. The fully seam-sealed pants are perfect for outdoor activities, particularly in wet and sloppy conditions. They help you stay warm and dry even when it pours in the middle of your bike ride.

Built with a unique Omni-TECH nylon, this waterproof rain pant creates a protective shield against moisture but allows air to escape so that you don’t feel too sweaty in a humid environment. The inner built-in mesh lining keeps you comfortable when your energy levels soar high. The adjustable leg cuffs and drawstring waist ensure that you stay dry all day. We love the fact that it comes in two attractive colors and numerous sizes to help you choose the one that fits you well. Don’t forget to refer to the size chart available online to know which size is perfect for you.

Product features and specifications

  • Measures 10.3 x 6.7 x 1.6 inches
  • Weighs only 2 pounds
  • 100% nylon shell
  • Lining made from 100% polyester
  • Air-permeable protection
  • Elastic closure
  • Adjustable elements
  • Internal pockets for easy storage
  • Machine Wash
  • Omni-Tech waterproof and breathable technology

User/ Customer reviews

These rain pants have been used by women cyclists, backpackers, trekking enthusiasts, and other sports persons with full satisfaction. Users have said that these comfortable and sporty-looking pants not only shield rain water but also keeps them warm without suffocating. The adjustable elastic waistband is also highly appreciated as it helps women wear rain pants over other layers.  

Conclusion

If you are planning a trip to Iceland or wish to go cycling in rainy weather, we suggest that you get this Columbia Women’s waterproof rain pant. They are wind resistant, water repellent, warm, comfortable, well-fitting, and have inner pockets for storage. We find this pant extremely stylish, comfortable, and highly functional.


#5. Mountain Warehouse Pakka Womens Waterproof Rain Over Pants

Women who are raring to go road cycling or mountain biking even in adverse weather conditions can stay dry and comfortable with Mountain Warehouse’s Pakka women waterproof rain pants. It is made from fully waterproof, IsoDry fabric that keeps precipitation outside and still keeps you cool and comfortable. The manufacturer claims that the pants are tested to withstand 1,500mm rain, suitable for both light to moderate downpours.

The Velcro openings also help in keeping the wet elements out and give you a comfortable fit over the walking boots. The seams are also taped to ensure that this garment is completely waterproof and you can easily wear it over your regular trousers. We also love the design that has convenient slits to let you access the trouser pockets for essential keys, mobile phone, etc. The product comes with a packaway bag to help you carry the rain pants when it’s not raining yet but you can see it coming.

Product features and specification

  • Breathable fabric
  • Half-Leg Zips / Poppers
  • Mesh Lining
  • Adjustable waist
  • Rated at 1,500mm
  • Packaway Bag
  • Taped seams

User/ Customer reviews

People love the fact that these are so lightweight, easily foldable and waterproof to keep you both dry and comfortable when it pours. Customers have praised how well these pants fit over their regular trousers, keep them stylish while shielding them from wind and rainwater. A few users have mentioned that these pants are true to size so you don’t have to get a size bigger.

Conclusion

If you compare these waterproof cycling pants with other pants in the market, you can tell that they are both functional and comfortable. Unlike the thick and rigid rain pants that hardly keep you dry, these are specially designed to not only keep the moisture out but also ensure that you don’t get sweaty while riding. Overall, it gets a thumbs up from us.


#6. Tofern Womens Winter Softshell Pants

When you want waterproof cycling bottom wear that keeps you dry and comfortable without hindering your flexibility, trust the Tofern Womens Winter Softshell Pants (learn more). The outer shell is made from 94 percent Polyester material and 6 percent spandex. It has polar fleece lining inside which keeps shielded from rain, dew, and wind. It provides extra warmth, comfort, and softness even at -10°C. The material is elastic, scratch-resistant, and also moisture-wicking, which means you don’t feel sweaty and stay dry and comfortable inside.  

With the TPU membrane, these cycling rain pants provide a breathable and waterproof performance. It can withstand a water pressure of 10000mm. The elastic waistband gives a snug fit and there’s also a webbing belt on top of that to make adjustments. We like the high-density pocket zippers design that prevents wind or rainwater from entering. Besides its use for cycling, these cycling pants are also perfect for camping, climbing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Product features and specifications

  • 100% Polyester
  • 94% Polyester and 6% Spandex
  • Lined with thick polar fleece
  • 10000mm and Scratch-resistant
  • Elastic waist band for customized fit
  • High-density side pocket zippers design

User/ Customer reviews

Women who prefer function over style find this pair of pants extremely useful in a wet and cold weather. People like the belt which provides a customized fit to women of all sizes.  A few users have said that the outside material is slightly rough but does a good job at shielding you from the rain water out and keeping you warm.

Conclusion

When you don’t want the rain outside to stop you from going to work or indulging in your favorite outdoor sport, we suggest that you try out the Tofern Womens Winter Softshell Pants. These pants are perfectly designed to give you a good fit and keep you dry on a wet day.


Things To Look For In Cycling Pants For Rain

Material used

When looking for rain pants, it’s obvious to seek something that is waterproof however the real waterproof materials like Gore-Tex don’t come cheap. As an alternative, you may use materials like nylon or polyester as a good water-repelling layer.

Comfort

The rain pants don’t have to be uncomfortable to wear or ugly looking. In fact, some of the best rain cycling pants can be easily slipped on over your cycling shorts and even shoes. There should be some type of elastic and strings on the waist to help you get a good fit.

Freedom of movement

A pair of good quality rain cycling pants will give you a better freedom of movement to let you pedal quickly to reach office or home. We suggest that you look for pants with articulated knees for more flexibility while cycling.

Durable Water Repellent (DWR)

If you live in an area that gets a lot of downpours then we would suggest that you look for cycling pants made of two and three-layer materials treated with a durable water repellent or DWR coating. This allows water to bead up, preventing it from getting soaked by the outer material.

Proper ventilation

When you present high exertion in the bike saddle, this can overwhelm the best of waterproof rain pants’ ability to release vapor. As a result of which the rider becomes all clammy and soggy inside. Thus, some good quality pants come with extra vents to allow better breathability without letting moisture to enter.

Welded and taped seams

When two fabric are sewed together, there will be stitching holes that should be sealed and this is more important in a garment that is created to shield rainwater. Manufacturers typically use glue and heat to seal the edges of the fabric to make it watertight without adding to the weight of the garment.

Slits on the sides

Some rain pants come with slits on the sides to let you reach the phone or other essentials kept in your trouser’s pocket with ease. However, you must ensure that the slits are designed in a way that rainwater never gets inside the pockets.

Related Questions

How to machine wash muddy cycling pants?

Before putting the cycling pants into the washing machine, make sure you remove any loose dirt or mud. Make sure that there is no detergent in the detergent compartment and add some cleaner to it. Pur your rain pants in the drum and run a full wash and rinse cycle, with the water temperature at 30 degrees.

How can make my expensive cycling waterproof pants last longer?

We suggest that you buy multiple pairs of cycling pants. A cheaper one for daily commute to work or casual rides, and a more expensive one when you plan to go for mountain biking or cover long distances in Winter or Spring. By not using your best quality rain pants frequently for short trips, you will be able to add more years to it.

How to keep your belongings dry while cycling?

If you have a backpack, bag, or other belonging with you while riding a bike, there needs to be some way to protect them from getting wet too. You may consider installing a waterproof bicycle pannier like this on your bike rack. They are like a huge pocket that rollup and clip. Other alternatives may be a bike basket liner, backpack rain cover, or just a waterproof bag.

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