Choosing between mountain bike pants vs shorts is one of the most common questions riders ask when deciding what to wear on the trail. So, should you wear pants or shorts mountain biking? The answer depends on the weather, your riding style, and how much protection you want. Shorts are lightweight, breathable, and ideal for warm summer rides, while mountain bike pants offer extra coverage, protection, and comfort in muddy or cooler UK conditions.
Whether you’re looking for lightweight shorts for trail riding, durable trousers for enduro and downhill, or affordable options for year-round UK riding, this guide will help you choose the right fit, whilst also delving into our main brands, that tick all the boxes.
Should you Ride Mountain Bikes in Pants or Shorts?
When comparing mountain bike pants and shorts, there is no single right answer for every rider. So should you wear pants or shorts mountain biking? The best choice depends on the weather, your riding style, and how much protection you want. Shorts are lighter and cooler, making them ideal for summer trail rides and long climbs, while mountain bike pants provide more coverage and are better suited to more technical, colder conditions. For most riders in the UK, owning both is the best solution.
Do Most Mountain Bikers Wear Pants or Shorts?
Most mountain bikers still wear shorts, but with new designs offering maximum breatheability with lighter and more stretchy fabrics, pants have become increasingly popular. Many experienced riders now choose pants for all but the hottest summer days.
So are MTB pants better than shorts? they are better if you want more protection from crashes and trail debris, to have improved comfort in colder weather, and to have less mud on your legs. However; shorts are better for other reasons. Shorts provide you with maximum airflow and ventilation, giving you better comfort for those longer rides. Both work better for different conditions, whilst still enhancing your performance.
What Do Downhill and Enduro Riders Wear?
Downhill and enduro riders often prefer pants because they offer extra absorption and protection, without restricting movement. However, shorts still remain best for trail and XC riding, especially in warmer weather.
Best Mountain Bike Pants & Shorts
So who makes the best MTB shorts and pants? The best mountain bike shorts and pants come down to finding the right balance of fit, durability, weather protection, and value.
Fox is a top choice for riders who want premium performance and race-proven designs.
The waist adjusters make it easy to adjust the fit on the fly and while the inner waistband features TruDri® technology to move moisture away from your skin and keep you cooler and drier.
£74.99 £44.99
40% off
The slim silhouette of these pants and tapered legs means you’re less likely to get caught up on things as you fly by. The stretch fabric is lightweight and durable, and won’t weigh you down as you pedal your way along the trail.
£109.99 £64.99
41% off
Troy Lee Designs is a favourite among downhill and gravity riders thanks to its athletic fit and highly durable construction.
Troy Lee Designs Sprint Ultra MTB Pants
They are premium MTB trousers designed for serious racers and anyone seeking the very best.
£199.99 £79.99
60% off
Endura is especially popular with UK riders, offering practical all weather performance at an excellent value.
Endura Hummvee MTB Lite Shorts with Liner Black
The new Hummvee Lite Short keeps the key features of the classic Hummvee, in terms of durability and outstanding functionality, but brings extra breathability and lighter weight to suit it more to hotter climates, while of course still coming with a padded liner short.
£80.00 £72.00
10% off
Endura MT500 Spray MTB Trousers
Volcom combines casual styling with technical riding features, making it ideal for riders who want a more relaxed look.
Volcom Trail Ripper Mountain Bike Pants
This technically crafted V.Co-Tech™ piece was designed in partnership with Volcom’s mountain bike team to give them the versatility and comfort they wanted for the trails.
£95.00 £85.50
10% off
Push your limits in these slim trail shorts, packing 4-way stretch mobility and laser-perforated venting for breathable performance.
£85.00 £76.50
10% off
For a more affordable option, you may find yourself looking at Madison. They deliver dependable mountain bike shorts and trousers with great comfort and fit at an affordable price point.
Madison Freewheel MTB Trousers Black
Comfort at its finest, made from 90% recycled stretch yarn and featuring a gusseted crotch and a relaxed fit, these shorts were designed for optimal comfort.
£69.99 £62.99
10% off
Madison Freewheel MTB Trousers Black
Constructed from a stretch fabric for unrestricted mobility, these Madison Mountain bike trousers are perfect for leisure, commute or adventure riding.
£49.99 £44.99
10% off
Whether you’re after lightweight shorts for summer trail rides or durable mountain bike pants for wet, winter conditions, these brands offer some of the best MTB clothing for every riding style and budget.
How Should Mountain Bike Shorts & Pants Fit
Getting the right fit is one of the most important factors when choosing mountain bike clothing. For all day comfort on the trails, pants and shorts need to be sized correctly, giving you all the room to perform. The best MTB pants and mountain bike shorts should feel secure around the waist, allow full freedom of movement, and leave enough room for knee pads without feeling bulky.
If your kit is too tight, it can restrict pedalling, leaving you to ride uncomfortably on longer trail days. If it is too loose, it may snag on the saddle or shift around while riding. Mountain bike pants should have a slim but flexible fit, to allow full movement for climbs and descents. A good pair of MTB shorts will feel comfortable on the bike and offer enough stretch to move freely on technical terrain.
