What to look for…

In a pair of single-layer jeans

Material

This will inevitably be a mixture of cotton denim and a protective thread, most likely aramid-fibre based. Some may use actual Kevlar (a brand manufactured by Dupont) while others may use their own version. Some material will have a stretch component to allow for movement on the bike.

CE rating

Advances in material manufacturer now mean it is possible to get single-layer jeans with the highest-quoted protective level, as defined by EN17092, the standard for motorcycle protective clothing. It offers the following classifications for clothing: B, A, AA and AAA; AAA is the highest rating for protection.

Armour rating

Hip and knee armour are mandatory for jeans that are rated AA or AAA. Like other trousers and jackets, this is also CE rated; Level-1 or the more impact-absorbent Level-2.

Accessories

Some jeans may come with stirrups on them to hold down and prevent the ankle from riding up in use on the bike, for example. Others may come with a belt-zip attachment to join to jackets from the same manufacturer to prevent gaping in the small of the back.

Lining

The point of single-layer jeans is that protection is built in to the main material so you probably won’t find a lining other than a simple mesh to improve airflow and comfort.

Waterproofing

You wouldn’t expect a pair of single-layer jeans to hold up in the rain though some might get a water-repellent treatment on the outside.

Cut

Most motorcycling jeans are either a straight cut or a slim or skinny fit. Which you choose is personal preference though riders with chunkier legs may struggle with slimmer cuts.

Footwear

Some riders may find it tricky to get slim or skinny jeans over sports or even touring boots, with their chunky armour and high-leg design. Other riders may prefer to use shorter, more casual or urban boots but these may not offer the same protection as taller boots.