off-road.cc

Touted as suitable for all kinds of off-road riding, the Leatt Pant MTB 4.0s are exceptionally comfortable, fit excellently and have some clever features. However, the abrasion-resistant seat isn’t that abrasion-resistant and the stain-resistant coating isn’t that stain-resistant. Oh, and if you're from the UK, they're not pants either...

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The 2021 model of the Leatt Pant MTB 4.0 is made from a ventilated four-way stretch material. The knees are pre-curved and seams have been kept to a minimum, to give you fewer places to break.

There’s a soft-touch 500D seat panel, a dirt/water/stain-resistant coating and three pockets – two at the sides (one with a key loop) and one at the rear. That one is perfectly phone sized.

You’ll also find laser-cut ventilation at the inner thigh and the back of the knees. There’s a soft-touch lining around the waist and a gripper to help keep the trousers in place.

The Pant MTB 4.0s fit seriously well, and leave plenty of room for kneepads too. A small niggle though is that they're quite tight around the ankle, so it can be a bit of a pain trying to drag them back over your feet.

These trousers have a ratchet closure paired with a zip, and it’s really easy to use with or without gloves. I’ve even been happy messing with it in thick winter gloves.

Running from the inside of the knee right up to the top of the seat is the 500D panel, which has, unfortunately, worn away (but not through) in some areas. The outer black layer of fabric has rubbed away and hopefully, this will be as far as it goes. It hasn't affected the waterproofing or comfort, and could just be cosmetic damage. Time will tell.

The coating does an excellent job of repelling water. I’ve taken these trousers through some pretty horrible weather and remained impressively dry... but not, sadly, unstained. The whites turned a shade of brown after just a few mucky rides.

Speaking of the colour, it has quickly run from the seat area, which is unimpressive given the price.

It might go without saying, but I'm a big fan of the Leatt Pant MTB 4.0. They fit incredibly well and the perform amazingly in not-so-nice conditions. Conveniently, they come in seven sizes and there’s a women’s version too – assuming the rapid wear and quick leaching of colour don't put you off, you'll find them a comfortable and effective choice.

• leatt.com

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