7mesh Grit Pants

Canadian brand 7mesh’s Grit Pants are part of its new Airmap line that’s claimed to “control air movement to optimise water resistance, breathability and air permeability for different zones within the same garment”.

That means separate two- and three-layer fabrics are used in their construction, with the thickest layers using a waterproof membrane sandwiched inside to keep moisture out.

At £280, they’re incredibly expensive, but does the brand’s great reputation for style, attention to detail and eco credentials put the Grit Pants ahead of the competition?

7mesh Grit Pants details and specifications

The big headline here has to be the hefty price tag, so what exactly is all that cash buying?

The Grit Pants use a woven-face fabric that’s laminated to a recycled polyester knit intended to block most wind and splashes. The complex fabric zones see 'fully waterproof’ triple-layer panels that embed a PU waterproof/breathable membrane (and forgo some ventilation) alongside double-layer panels.

The 2L panels are water-resistant, but also offer more air permeability to vent excess heat and moisture. And while all of 7mesh’s materials look similar on the outside, turn the Grit Pants inside out and complex shapes, thicknesses and zones are revealed.

There is 12 per cent elastane for four-way comfort, with even the super-neat, internally sealed seams stretching for extra freedom of movement.

7mesh’s fit is nicely tapered without clinging anywhere and there’s an exceptionally airy and well-ventilated feel that gives these winter trousers more of an all-year round feel.

The overall finish is as good as you’d expect from 7mesh. Details include slightly offset and perfectly positioned hip pockets with soft sleeves inside to protect your phone. There's also a neat elasticated ankle cuff that grips just enough to keep splashes out.

The waist fastens with a lightweight, low-profile suedette hook-and-ladder closure and a single popper that doesn't get in the way when riding. The shin zone isn’t as tapered as some drainpipe-fit riding trousers from the likes of Fox and Specialized, if that’s your bag.

7mesh Grit Pants performance

7mesh’s multi-zonal fabric design is similar to some other brands that give up a fully waterproof approach for better heat management. However, it’s executed much more cleanly here than most rival mountain bike trousers, providing superb comfort when pedalling and excellent internal ventilation.

7mesh doesn’t claim the Grit Pants to be fully waterproof. During heavy downpours, the thigh panels in particular can get saturated quickly and water eventually seeps inside.

This happened mainly when I was riding in heavy rain, though, and the pants beaded and resisted water pretty well in lighter drizzle.

7mesh’s internal seams also feel much better sealed than some brands, where moisture can penetrate at panel joints on similar trousers.

The pants dry quickly too, and never get overly heavy or droopy, even when splattered with crud.

Seen as more durable regular-riding trousers with extra warmth and protection, it’s hard not to be impressed by the performance of the Grit Pants. However, considering they're not fully waterproof, it may be hard to justify 7mesh’s high asking price.

7mesh Grit Pants bottom line

The 7mesh Grit Pants aren't entirely waterproof and would be better described as beautifully cut adaptable riding trousers for colder conditions.

The fit, adjusters and construction are all top-notch, but it’s a lot of cash for riding trousers that can handle damp weather but begin to falter in storm conditions.