By Paul Norman

Published: Tuesday, 18 October 2022 at 12:00 am


Waterproof mountain bike shorts will help keep you protected from foul weather when you’re out riding.

Although the best mountain bike shorts often include some protection from damp conditions, such as a DWR coating, sometimes you need a full-on pair of properly waterproof shorts.

They’ll make things a lot more comfortable than riding on a wet, dirty seat pad and you’re much more likely to want to stay the course rather than bailing and heading home for a warm shower.

We’ve also tested the best waterproof MTB trousers for riders who prefer full-leg coverage, but shorts remain a good option for many riders through winter – and through the rest of the year – particularly if you wear knee pads.

Here’s our pick of the best waterproof mountain bike shorts, based on a five-way test, that we’ve put through their paces in the worst weather we could find.

Further into the article, we’ve got a buyer’s guide explaining what to look for in the best waterproof mountain bike shorts, to help you choose the best option for your riding.

The best waterproof mountain bike shorts, as rated by our expert testers

Troy Lee Designs Resist shorts

4.5 out of 5 star rating
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The Troy Lee Designs Resist waterproof mountain bike shorts have loads of features for wet-weather riding.
Andy Lloyd / Immediate Media
  • Sizes: 30, 32, 34, 36, 38
  • Colours: Black
  • Fit: Men’s
  • Price: £130 as tested

Being based in California, wet-weather shorts might not appear to be a priority for Troy Lee Designs, but the Resist shorts, based on its popular Moto shorts, work well to fend off foul weather.

They have high waterproofing and breathability ratings with internally taped seams and a reinforced seat, while the stretchy fabric is comfortable when pedalling.

Other features include a waterproof fly and three waterproof zipped pockets in addition to another three open pockets and zipped mesh thigh vents. Although they’re not long, the legs stretch to the tops of knee pads. The Resist shorts are Bluesign-approved too.