I’ve owned a pair of Joe Rocket Anthem motorcycle jeans for about a year now. Of the various types of motorcycle jeans I’ve worn, these are my favorite by far because they check all the right boxes: comfort, protection, and style.
The Anthem jeans are constructed of 12-ounce heavy-duty stretch denim. They have a comfortable fit, and I like that the bottoms flare enough to fit over motorcycle boots without interference, so there’s no tightness or tugging when moving my legs around.
Protection comes from panels of aramid fiber that line the front and back down past knee level, as well as CE Level 2 knee and hip armor with two-stage adjustable height for the knee armor via hook-and-loop closures. The knee armor pockets are one of my favorite features of the Anthems. I don’t mind wearing a pair of jeans a few times before washing them, but when it comes time, I don’t want to fight to get the knee armor out or back in.
See all of Rider‘s apparel reviews here.
Most motorcycle jeans have knee pocket access inside the pant legs, which typically requires pulling the pants inside out to deal with the armor. The Anthem jeans take the prize, with zipper pockets running down the outside seam that make removal and reinsertion a simple affair, not only for washing but also for taking the armor out when walking around off the bike. For those worried about the armor pockets ruining the jeans aesthetic, they blend right in with the seam, and the zipper is small and subtle enough that you don’t notice it unless you’re looking for it.
The only thing that cramps the style a bit is the Full Flex stretch panel at the back yoke (the area above the back pockets and below the belt line). This does what it’s supposed to do – provide greater flexibility while in the riding position without exposing your butt crack to travelers behind you – but it looks a little funny when you’re off the bike. Fortunately, there is a simple solution: Just don’t be “that guy” who tucks his black T-shirt into his jeans, and the stretch panel will be hidden.
Considering their comfort, protection, style, and convenient knee-armor removal, plus a reasonable price of $149.95, Joe Rocket Anthem jeans are worthy of consideration. They’re available in classic blue denim with both regular (30- to 40-inch waist) and short inseams (30- to 38-inch waist).
