Header banner
Revain logoHome Page
Adam Hardy photo
1 Level
1329 Review
41 Karma

Review on Enhanced SEO: Joe Rocket 1518-3016 Phoenix Ion Men's Mesh Motorcycle Pants in Black, XX-Large Short by Adam Hardy

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Comfortable pants with adequate protection. Could be improved.

This review is a first impression after several trips and I will update it as needed. First of all, I'm 6" tall, 190 lbs, 33" inseam and bought size XL. I usually ride in fishnets over jeans or work pants and wanted something casual. These fit me perfectly. These mesh pants appear to have the same build quality as the TourMaster pants I am currently replacing due to faulty zippers. The zippers on these pants are made of plastic and have a smooth feel. They have larger teeth and should resist snagging and splitting. The main leg zippers run along the inseam from the crotch to the foot. The last centimeters of the sole are secured with strong Velcro fasteners. The zippers have large pull tabs that allow working with gloves. However, the zippers are not YKK and time will tell how they hold up. There is also a zip at the crotch with a pull tab; This zipper has thinner teeth for smoother operation. There are adjustable waist hooks and loops on the side to adjust the fit at the waist. The waist fastens with a metal hook and clasp and button. People have complained about the metal tab and I can see where it can come loose as the metal hook is a little flimsy and easily bends by pinching between your fingers. Here it would be better if there was a more powerful design here. However, my previous pants had plastic buckles (like lace straps) and they tend to loosen when pressure is applied, unlike this metal hook and buckle design. My Tourmasters had Velcro along the zips for added security. These Joe Rockets rely solely on lightning; I don't know if this has a significant impact on collision protection, but redundancy is good for me. I don't think that's a problem as the zippers are on the inseam and can't be directly loaded or dragged across the pavement in a fall. Knee pads are standard and removable. I believe that they can be replaced with better ones if necessary. There are no adjustment straps to fix them at the knees. Therefore, you may find that they do not protect your knees depending on your body type. There is also no protection for the thighs and buttocks. Other mesh breeches I've had at this price point also had padding to protect the thighs and buttocks. These pants have a standard zip to zip the jacket together; I don't use this feature and can't comment on that. All in all, these pants are value for money and should offer decent protection from road rashes in low-speed crashes. The product is made in China and according to the label it can be hand washed. I like: 1. These are my first mesh pants with zips in the crotch. I like that better as my riding boots also have zips on the inside of the seam. I've noticed that with this arrangement, I only have to unzip the zipper a few inches to get my boots on or off. 2. Large zip allows for gloved operation3. Reflective piping on the outside of the leg and additional reflective chevrons on the ankle for added safety4. Accordion expansion joints in the right places for a comfortable fit and ride.5. Airy and comfortable to walk in warm weather. What I don't like: 1. Thin closures at the waist2. No padding for thighs and buttocks3. The zippers are not YKK.

Pros
  • Easy installation
Cons
  • There are other interesting options.