I’m not trying to look like a young wheelie-poppin’ stunter, honest. I just want some comfortable riding pants. And while walking around in these Icon Recon pants may get some stares from the locals, it’s not as bad as some of the things I’ve seen bikers consider “fashionable.”

All that matters is that a true motorcyclist who knows the limitations and drawbacks of conventional pants will appreciate the special features built into these. Mounting and sitting on a bike can put your body in some awkward positions, and conventional jeans just aren’t built for that; they’ll often bind or restrict your movements. The Recon pants have articulated flex panels above the knee and in the crotch for extreme stretching — the panels reach to almost twice their relaxed measurement. That means that no matter what position you’re in, the pants won’t get in your way.

That black stretchy stuff also provides ventilation to keep you cool in areas that are usually, ahem, confined. In addition, the 14-ounce denim is soft and prewashed, and was comfy from the first time I slipped the pants on. The tailoring is a traditional loose-fit/straight-leg design, but the styling is more motocross inspired.

If protection is your first priority, however, keep one thing in mind: With the Recons, you’re wearing jeans, not turtle-shell-hard Kevlar cloaked in denim. While there are other brands of internally reinforced riding pants available, the Recons aren’t exactly stiff competition for those. The only reinforcement is a layer of abrasion-resistant Aramid fabric sewed into the knees.

While I might choose more protective gear for long-distance trips, I’ll definitely be wearing the Recons at motorcycle events this summer. The pants are casual, comfortable, and, to top it off, I’ll look good poppin’ my next wheelie. RB

SOURCES

Recon Denim Pant $80

Icon
2040 Gillespie Way, Dept. RB
El Cajon, CA 92020

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