Best Rain Pants for Bikepacking: Top Seven Options Compared

For most of my bikepacking trips over the last decade, I’ve gotten by with a lightweight rain jacket. In nearly all cases, it’s enough to hold back Mother Nature when things turn. If the rain intensifies, I’ll seek shelter and wait it out. There’s something about putting on rain pants that elevates the seriousness of a ride, and many of us try to avoid it. However, rain pants are a key component of a proper defense against inclement weather, and they’re essential when riding anywhere where heavy rain is common, even if it’s not in the forecast. They’re also useful for fending off mosquitos in super-buggy areas and as an extra layer when the temperature drops.

A dependable rain jacket and pants are crucial if you plan to keep pedaling in less-than-ideal conditions, get out in the off-season (like here on the coast of British Columbia), or even commute by bike full-time. In fact, it’s the latter that got me started on this whole rain gear test to begin with. At the time, I was commuting around 50 kilometers round-trip most days, through one of the wettest winters I’ve experienced. It turns out riding a bike loaded with work materials, a change of clothes, fresh shoes, and a lunch isn’t so different from bikepacking.

Following the rain jacket roundup I published last winter, I’m excited to be back with a collection of top-rated cycling-specific rain pants that meet the unique demands of bikepackers. Like the jackets we tested, the following roundup focuses on lightweight, fully waterproof, packable pants. These aren’t the absolute lightest rain pants out there, but they’re all designed with cycling in mind and are sturdy enough to depend on. Some offer better breathability for humid conditions, and some pack down and weigh less than others, but they’re all safe bets for wet-weather riding. Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list of all rain pants available, and plenty of non-cycling-specific options that serve cyclists and bikepackers well aren’t included here.

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We put together a list of seven of our favorite bikepacking-friendly rain pants from a variety of brands. Find our thoughts on each below, including key specs, material, sizing, weight, and a short review.

Albion Zoa Rain Trousers

Waterproof Rating: 20,000mm / Breathability: 13,000g/m²

Albion’s Zoa lineup is designed to be multi-functional and suitable for on- and off-bike adventures, making it well-suited for bikepacking. After seeing Albion’s kit find a place in ultra-endurance races all over the world, I was eager to get my hands on the Zoa Rain Trousers. They are made from a PFAS-free Pertex Shield 3-Layer waterproof fabric with a PFC-free C0 DWR water-repellent finish. The pants have fully taped seams, two webbing waist adjusters, and elastic grippers at the ankles and waist to help keep them in place. For ventilation, the Zoa Rain Trousers have two options, accessed using YKK Aquaguard water-resistant zippers. The first are side vents along the hip, with the added benefit of mesh pockets inside. The second is a knee-to-ankle opening that also makes it easy to throw them on while wearing shoes or over other layers.

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The Albion Zoa Rain Trousers are designed for “maximum comfort and articulation when pedaling,” and for me, that looks like a slightly roomy fit without feeling like there’s too much excess fabric. They have a comfortable, loose fit that easily layers over light shorts or pants, and the various zippers make it easy to vent or remove them completely when it gets too warm. The seat panel is made from reinforced ballistic nylon that has proven to be exceptionally durable. In fact, the bum is one of my favorite parts of the pants, because the seat panel is always the first to wear out for anyone riding through mud, dirt, and grime due to the amount of abrasion this area sees. Their 13,000g/m² breathability rating isn’t exceptionally high, but I’ve been impressed with their ability to keep me dry and prevent overheating on long, wet rides.

The $450 price tag is the highest in this roundup, but all the little details make them one of my favorite rain pants for bikepacking. I like to avoid stopping to layer up or down often, so having large thigh vents is a real plus, and I think ankle zips are a no-brainer for bikepackers. It’s a small detail, but I also like the stretchy/grippy rear waist fabric and how it’s paired with two webbing straps for a secure, consistent fit. There’s a good chance you’ll catch me wearing the Albion Zoa pants on future wet-weather rides.

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• Lightness:
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• Size Range: Unisex: XS – XXL
• Material: Pertex Shield, 60% recycled nylon/40% nylon, 3-layer
• Weight: 245 grams (men’s large)
• Place of Manufacture: China
• Price: $450 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: Albion Cycling

PEdALED Odyssey Waterproof Pants

Waterproof Rating: 10,000mm / Breathability: 20,000g/m²

The PEdALED Odyssey Waterproof Pants are new for 2025. They are made from a two-layer waterproof Windtex fabric, constructed from 85% polyamide and 15% elastane. They have a 10,000mm waterproof rating, which means they can withstand light to moderate rain but might not hold up to heavy downpours. The fit is designed for cycling, featuring a curved-leg construction that makes the highest point of the pedal stroke feel natural without fabric bunching.

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The fit, at least for Emily, was rather slim, which she loved at first, but after spending multiple hours in the rain, she noticed the pants tended to stretch out considerably. For anyone in between sizes, it might be worth considering sizing down. Otherwise, the minimal design, elastic waistband, and zippered ankles have been functional and comfortable. The 20,000g/m² breathability rating has proven useful on warmer or humid days, and despite any additional ventilation, they do an excellent job at dumping excess heat. If the goal is to keep the pack size low, the PEdALED Odyssey Waterproof Pants are a solid choice.

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• Size Range: Unisex: XXS – XXL
• Material: Windtex, 85% polyamide/15% elastane, 2-layer
• Weight: 200 grams (small)
• Place of Manufacture: Croatia
• Price: $265 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: PEdALED

Rab Cinder Kinetic Waterproof Biking Pants

Waterproof Rating: 10,000mm / Breathability: 35,000g/m²

If you’ve read through our rain jacket test, then you might recall that the Rab Cinder Kinetic Jacket was high on my list to test due to its incredibly high 35,000g/m² breathability rating. The Cinder Kinetic Waterproof Biking Pants share a similar construction, made from the same super-stretchy and surprisingly soft fabric Rab calls Proflex, which is a stretchy, breathable, and waterproof material with a durable nylon face. Like the jacket, they are incredibly comfortable, but the outer fabric tends to absorb water more quickly than jackets with higher waterproof ratings. For folks seeking rain pants for shorter rides or anyone who wants the most breathable option, it’s a realistic option, but for multiple hours of riding in heavy rain, it’s not my first choice.

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The Cinder Kinetic Waterproof Biking Pants feature ankle zippers, a raised center back for better coverage while riding, a shock-cord waist adjustment, two zippered pockets, and two small zippered thigh vents. Those considering the environment will be pleased to know that it’s made from Fluorocarbon (PFAS)- free fabrics and contains over 27% recycled materials, with the face and backer fabric being 100% recycled. Some clever details, like offset seams and hem reinforcements, should add to the pants’ lifespan, and so far, they show no signs of early wear. If you’re wondering why they don’t look very wet in these photos, it’s because their impressive breathability and less-than-ideal waterproof rating make them ideal as a cold-weather soft-shell pant, rather than a go-to rain pant. They’d probably make a fantastic fat-biking or winter-cycling pant in a climate that sees more snow and less rain than the Pacific Northwest.

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• Size Range: Men’s: XS – XL, Women’s: XS – XL
• Material: Proflex, polyester/nylon, 3-layer
• Weight: 300 grams (large)
• Place of Manufacture: China
• Price: $240 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: Rab: Women’s Men’s

Rapha Trail Gore-Tex Pants

Waterproof Rating: ~28,000mm / Breathability: ~15,000g/m²

The Rapha Trail Gore-Tex Pants are some of the burliest pants I tested. They are mountain-biking pants through and through, with extra room around the knees for pads, more reinforcements, a generously sized waistband, webbing waist cinch straps, and a fly zipper and a nifty sliding fly button. They have a reinforced seat panel, legs, and in-step. Some details, including rivets around the front pockets, make them appear more casual than the other pants we tested. There are two front pockets and elasticized ankles, but they are otherwise quite minimal. Unlike most of the other pants, the Rapha Trail GORE-TEX Pants don’t have ankle zippers for easy removal, so they are best reserved for conditions where they’ll be on for long periods.

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What stood out are the pants’ complex and well-tailored pattern, which makes for one of the best-fitting pants in this roundup. Having a roomier knee made for a comfortable fit, whether pedaling or walking off the bike. They really do feel like mountain bike pants, rather than an uncomfortable waterproof layer. The raised center back provides additional coverage and hugs the lower back nicely while riding, and although the elasticized ankles have no additional zippers or adjustments, they fit slim and help keep the elements out. On really mucky or cold rides, I’d sub in my Rab Vapour Barrier socks or shoe covers for additional protection.

The Rapha Trail Gore-Tex Pants might be the most surprising pants I tested. I wasn’t expecting them to be so comfortable to ride in, and they’ve quickly become my go-to rain pants for wet-weather day rides and mountain bike rides. Their lack of an ankle zipper and larger pack size makes them slightly harder to recommend for bikepacking, but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t work. At $390 USD, they aren’t cheap, but they’re often on sale, and so far they seem built to last.

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• Size Range: Men’s: XS – XXL, Women’s: XXS – XL
• Material: GORE-TEX, nylon/elastane, 3-layer
• Weight: 363 grams (large)
• Place of Manufacture: Vietnam
• Price: $390 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: Rapha: Men’s Women’s

Patagonia Dirt Roamer Storm Pants

Waterproof Rating: 10,000-20,000mm / Breathability: 10,000-20,000g/m²

The Patagonia Dirt Roamer Storm Pants are fully waterproof, MTB-specific riding pants available in both men’s and women’s sizes. They are made from a 3-layer H2No Performance Standard shell fabric that doesn’t have an exact waterproofing or breathability rating but regularly falls between 10,000 and 20,000 (for both metrics) in lab testing. They have two waterproof, zippered thigh pockets, a zippered ankle opening, and a nifty low-profile waist adjustment to dial in the fit. A durable, abrasion-resistant fabric is used on the knees, seat, and crotch, and after nearly two years of use, Emily’s Storm Pants are still holding up well.

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As far as fit, the Dirt Roamer Storm Pants hit a sweet spot that’s roomy enough to fit a light layer underneath without feeling cumbersome while pedaling. They are tailored to suit on-bike posture and just fit like a nice pair of roomy pants. Maybe it’s because they are made with mountain biking in mind, but the fabric feels more durable, and thus heavier, than most of the other pants we tested. This isn’t a bad thing for folks who are hard on their gear or are looking for waterproof pants for day rides, but if you’re looking to stash them inside a saddle bag, they might feel a touch bulky.

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• Lightness:
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• Size Range: Unisex: XXS – XXL
• Material: H2No Performance Standard, 85% polyamide/15% elastane, 2-layer
• Weight: 295 grams (small)
• Place of Manufacture: Vietnam
• Price: $299 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: Patagonia: Women’s Men’s

7mesh Guardian Apex Pants

Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm+ / Breathability: TBD

The 7mesh Guardian Apex Pants are the result of 7mesh’s transition to PFAS-free waterproof apparel and mark the end of my beloved 7mesh Thunder Pants, which are probably among my all-time favorite rain pants. The Guardian Apex Pants share some similarities with the Thunder Pants, but they are an entirely different beast, with a fresh construction, fewer features, and a far more minimal design, which could make them ideal for bikepacking. The biggest change is moving from the hyper-articulated fit of the Thunder Pants to a generalized fit, which was fantastic while riding but took some getting used to.

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The Guardian Apex Pants are lighter, more packable, and generally more supple than the Thunder Pants. They have a two-position zippered ankle for easy on/off, adjustable waist webbing straps, a slightly raised back, and a single waterproof zippered pocket. The seat panel is reinforced with 70-denier fabric, compared to the 40-denier fabric used elsewhere. All materials used are PFC and PFAS-free and Bluesign and Oeko-Tex 100 certified.

Unfortunately, identifying an exact breathability or waterproof rating for GORE-TEX ePE apparel isn’t as easy as one might think. Currently, GORE-TEX offers only one ePE membrane, so brands like 7mesh can select from varying backer and face fabrics. The various fabrics and construction techniques affect the garment’s breathability, so not all ePE apparel has the same ratings. As 7mesh explained, “We’ve intentionally selected narrow seam tape and kept the designs streamlined to maintain as much of the membrane uninterrupted as possible. Adding pockets, zippers, reflectivity, logos all detracts from the membranes inherent breathability.”

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At $400, the 7mesh Guardian Apex Pants are some of the priciest out there. It might be easier to accept if you’re using the pants for multiple activities, like skiing or mountaineering, as 7mesh is marketing the new Guardian collection, but if you’re just planning to use them for cycling, there are more affordable options. Having used several of 7mesh’s jackets, Emily and I have come to trust the 7mesh name and generally believe it’s worth the extra cost. The Guardian Apex Pants align with the brand’s mission of producing the “highest performing, most durable, and innovative apparel.” The real downside, and this isn’t specific to 7mesh, is that GORE-TEX ePE apparel requires more care to maintain its performance. Users will have to be more conscious of contamination from things like chain lube and even more innocent-seeming things like petting a dog and then rubbing your hands with the oil from their fur on the jacket. Regular washes are key to maintaining the DWR’s performance, and this can be done hundreds of times without it degrading.

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• Size Range: Men’s: XS – XXL, Women’s: XS – XXL
• Material: GORE-TEX ePE, nylon
• Weight: 249 grams (large)
• Place of Manufacture: China
• Price: $400 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: 7mesh: Men’s Women’s

Gore Wear Lupra Gore-Tex Pants

Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm+ / Breathability: TBD

I’ve tested the last two versions of the Gore Wear Lupra Gore-Tex Pants. The entire Lupra lineup was updated earlier this year to a PFAS-free GORE-TEX ePE laminate construction, likely in response to new regulations on PFAS use in outdoor gear. Unfortunately, this fall, Gore announced that the Gorewear cycling apparel brand would shut down, citing “no realistic possibility of sustainably achieving our business and financial goals.” Despite this, I’ve been testing the Lupra pants for multiple years now, so I figured I’d share my thoughts, as they’ll likely be on sale soon.

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The Lupra collection is designed to be lightweight, packable, and suitable for any type of activity, on or off the bike. The latest Lupra items are all made from GORE-TEX ePE. The Lupra Gore-Tex Pants are among the lightest and most packable pants in this roundup, an impressive feat given they don’t skimp on features. There is a single zippered mesh thigh pocket/stow pocket for small items, zippered ankles for easy on/off, and a two-position snap ankle closure with a slim fit option that’s great for when you’re on the bike. One of my favorite features is the ultra-stretchy waistband, which replaces a zipper or any type of buckle/closure. There’s a small drawstring inside the waist to cinch things up.

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I really appreciate the simplicity of the Lupra pants. They are a good example of how lightweight the new GORE-TEX ePE garments can be, without sacrificing waterproofness and durability. Despite being so minimal, they still have a shaped knee and comfortable fit that’s designed with cycling in mind, and the seat area is reinforced to prevent premature wear. I have winters of riding logged in the 1.0 version, and I’ve been wearing the 2.0 version this year. Both aren’t showing any signs of early wear and have kept me bone dry in some seriously wet weather, but as we know, GORE-TEX ePE does require regular care and maintenance, so that’s something to keep in mind. Plus, at $200 (currently on sale for $150 USD), they are a steal for what you’re getting.

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• Size Range: Men’s: S – XXL, Women’s: XS – XL
• Material: GORE-TEX ePE, nylon
• Weight: 208 grams (large)
• Place of Manufacture: Vietnam
• Price: $150 USD
• Manufacturer’s Details: Gore Wear: Men’s Women’s

More Rain Pants for Bikepacking

We obviously didn’t test all the options on the market, only the top-rated products that we thought would represent the best rain pants for bikepacking and off-road touring. Here’s a list of others that are on our radar:

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  Rab Cinder Downpour Light Waterproof Biking Pants

  We had the Rab Cinder Downpour Light Waterproof Biking Pants in for testing as well, but found the fit far too roomy for our needs, so we decided to leave them out of our roundup. However, if you’re on the hunt for a spacious pant with lots of room for layers, they’re not a bad option.

  Made in China / $150 at Rab Men’s Women’s

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  Alpkit Parallax Pants

  The Alpkit Parallax pants feature a lightweight 2.5-layer waterproof construction, half-length leg zips, and an articulated fit for any outdoor activity. They have a 20k waterproof and breathability rating and are treated with a PFC-Free C0 durable water-repellent coating.

  Made in China / $150 at Alpkit Men’s Women’s

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  Endura Humvee Transit Waterproof Pants

  The Endura Humvee Transit Waterproof Pants have a waterproof and breathability rating of 10k and are made using a two-layer construction. The seat panel is reinforced, the lower legs have velcro adjusters, and the waistband is elasticized to help dial in the fit.

  Made in China / $130 at Endura

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  Showers Pass Timberline Pant

  The Showers Pass Timberline Pants are the brand’s best-selling rain pants, featuring a 15k waterproof rating, high 30k breathability rating, and a three-layer construction. The pants have ankle zips, reflective details, and an articulated fit for on and off-bike comfort.

  Made in China / $189 at Showers Pass Men’s Women’s

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  Pearl Izumi Summit 3L Rain Pants

  The Pearl Izumi Summit 3L Rain Pants are fully waterproof, feature a nifty ratcheting waistband, and offer an articulated fit that allows kneepad use. They are finished with PFAS-free PI Dry water-repellent coating, built with recycled content, and feature two zippered leg pockets to keep your phone or wallet at hand.

  Made in China / $205 at Pearl Izumi

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  100 City Cycling Rain Overtrousers

  For those on the hunt for a budget option, the Decathlon 100 City Cycling Rain Overtrousers are worth looking into. They have neat built-in overshoes, solving the wet feet issue that comes with riding in the rain. They waterproof rating is only 5,000mm before washing, and 2,000mm after, so they likely won’t hold up in serious, long-term weather, but for they price they might do the trick.

  Made in China / £19.99 at Decathlon

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  Vaude Drop II Rain Pants

  The Vaude Drop II Rain Pants are another popular budget option that some readers have had good luck with. They are made without environmentally harmful fluorocarbons (PFC), the polyester is constructed from recycled PET bottles, the have a reinforced bottom and velcro tabs to cinch in the ankles.

  Made in China / €100 at Vaude Men’s Women’s

We want to hear from you! Have you tried any of the rain pants in this roundup? If so, let us know how they worked for you. If you’ve used and loved something else, please share them in the conversation below, and we’ll get them added to the list.

Further Reading

Make sure to dig into these related articles for more info...