The next generation of versatile motorcycle pants
We’ve long been fans of REV’IT!, whether it be their backpacks, riding jackets, gloves, or pants. I’ve personally never owned a piece of gear from them that failed me, yet. So when REV’IT! USA reached out to us about their new Sand 5 H2O line of adventure gear, I jumped at the chance to sample a pair of their riding pants.
Last year, while on the press ride for Royal Enfield’s Himalayan 450 in Utah, my Sedici ADV pants were destroyed beyond repair while we negotiated a stretch of the Utah BDR. So needing a more reliable set of britches for on/off road riding, I figured REV’IT!’s new Sand 5 H2O line would be a considerable upgrade. Thus far, having just recently received them, I’m quite impressed. Here’s a few notable observations I’ve already made about these remarkable pants. More to come, of course, as I put them to use this fall and winter.
REV’IT! Sand 5 H2O pants. Versatility and solid construction.
Versatile Climate Control & Waterproofing
The Sand 5 H₂O continues REV’IT!’s proven “over‑and‑under” internal detachable liner system, with a 3L Hydratex waterproof liner plus a thermal liner- both removable and wearable separately or together. It’s like you get three pants in one. This flexibility allows you to tailor the pants for a wide variety of conditions. Drop‑down ventilation panels on the thighs (and calf-adjustable straps) offer improved airflow over the prior Sand 4 gen pants, making it more capable in more weather.
High‑Quality Materials & Protection
Crafted from durable 600D polyester ripstop 600HD shell, stretch panels, air mesh, and reinforced cowhide inserts, the whole garment just feels premium and rugged, ready for whatever nature will throw at you. Protective gear includes SEEFLEX CE‑level 2 knee armor and SEESMART CE‑level 1 hip armor, with soft mesh pockets for better comfort and fit. The whole set is CE AA certified to EN 17092‑3:2020 Euro ratings.
A great fit and feel, with superb features. And they look pretty damn good too.
Fit, Ergonomics & Adjustability
The pant set offers a regular “tour” fit with waist adjuster straps, ankle tabs, and 3-position adjustable knee armor for personalized fit and comfort while riding. But be mindful, sizing can be a bit tricky. Some users we looked up recommended going up one size, particularly to accommodate the two inner liners more comfortably. REV’IT!’s European-style fit can feel kind of, how shall we say, “precise”- riders with lean or athletic builds should find the fit suits them best. Those with “broader” or shorter builds may have some difficulty getting proper sizing. Just an observation.
Comfort & Ventilation in Use
Vent zippers on the thighs (again, a cool drop-down design) and calf venting offer noticeable airflow while riding, although they’re not as effective when seated behind taller/wider windscreens and fairings that block airflow. I experienced this somewhat while riding a Triumph Tiger Sport 800 wearing them. The thermal liner adds considerable warmth (ask me how I know, in July), while grip fabric on the seat (another cool idea) provides stability during seated riding, which is me, mostly. While wearable in all seasons, the venting works best in mild to moderately warm weather rather than extreme heat and humidity. Which is why, here in late July-early August in the Deep South, I’ve not yet ridden extensively wearing them.
Cool features- literally. Roll-down panels on each leg for ventilation, with adjustability around and below the knees.
Brand Reputation & Expectations
REV’IT! is widely regarded as a premium gear brand, comparable to the likes of Alpinestars and Dainese, but there’s been some variability in buyer experiences we’ve read. Many I’ve seen praise their durability and quality, while others call out occasional manufacturing flaws and a challenging fit for some body types. Specifically, riders with larger builds have noted fit challenges with Sand pants, like we noted above. But for tall or slim users it often fits well right out of the box/off the rack. Case in point, I’m 5’8”, and a (somewhat) slim 155 lbs, and the size Medium setup fits me nearly perfect. No complaints, so far.
Strengths
+Excellent multi-season versatility with modular liners
+High-end materials and CE-certified armor
+Adjustable fit and improved ventilation
+Durable construction with reflective accents
+Solid brand reputation within premium gear space
Weaknesses
-May feel too warm in very hot and humid climates if all liners are used
-Sizing leans Euro‑slim; so size up, especially with the liners
-Vent airflow might feel less effective behind larger fairings
-May not suit broader or shorter body types
-A few reports of defects; so inspect upon receipt
Comfortable fit on a bike, at the waist, knees, and in the crotch.
My Initial Impressions & Observations
The REV’IT! Sand 5 H2O pants are a fine evolution in the brand’s adventure gear lineup, blending improved ventilation, adjustable protection, and incredible smart layering in a tough, sturdy-built package. The pant system shines in touring and mixed weather use- rainy days, cool mornings, or brisk rides thanks to so much liner adjustability- and offers some peace of mind with high-standard armor. Just be sure to size up, especially if you’ll use the liners, and try it all on or allow returns if you’re outside average sizing.
Let me know your thoughts and impressions, if you’ve purchased and already made good use of the Sand 5 H2O pants. I’d like to hear your input, as I’ll be doing more in-depth content with these britches, once we get into cooler and less-humid temps here in the South.
Rob
For more on the full REV’IT! Sand 5 H2O line, click here:
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