Removable liner

There are three common methods used in the construction of waterproof motorcycle trousers: drop-liner, laminated, and removable membrane.

Trousers with a removable waterproof membrane offer the highest level of versatility. Unlike drop-liner or laminated trousers, the waterproof layer can be completely removed, leaving a garment that is far more breathable and significantly more comfortable to wear in hot weather, similar to a mesh trouser.

When the waterproof membrane is fitted inside the trousers, performance is broadly similar to that of a drop-liner design. In some respects it can be slightly better, as water is less likely to become trapped between the outer fabric and the membrane, and can instead drain away more easily.

With the best ‘removable-liner’ trousers, the waterproof liner can also be worn over the top of the trousers as well as inside them. When worn externally, the trousers behave more like a laminated garment, with the outer fabric prevented from absorbing water. It is worth noting, however, that only membranes with sufficient stretch can be worn comfortably in this way, such as the Rukka Trek-R trousers.

This raises the question of why a rider would ever wear the membrane on the inside. There are three clear reasons. In typical rain showers, the trousers are unlikely to wet out. More importantly, an internally worn membrane acts as an effective wind barrier, helping the rider stay warmer. And, of course, it also looks considerably better.

A removable membrane trouser therefore has the potential to work in almost all conditions. It can be fully waterproof and windproof when required, yet highly breathable when the liner is removed. This is perfect for an adventure rider who may be doing a long stint on the road in the rain one day, but a challenging off-road ride the next. In very hot weather, it can offer a level of comfort that neither laminated nor drop-liner trousers can match, much more similar to a mesh trouser.