Endura’s MT500 Waterproof Trousers are a full three-layer winter riding option using ExoShell40DR material with excellent waterproof and breathable abilities. The cut has been carefully considered to complement the riding position with plenty of room for knee pads. The elastic waistband lacks manual adjustment which may cause issues for some and the pockets are a little fiddly but these are nit-picking against a longer list of great features. They’re not cheap but I’d argue the performance and quality on offer warrants the price tag.
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Endura MT500 Waterproof Trousers II – Technical details
The material is key to any waterproof garment is the material, Endura have used a three-layer offering called ExoShell40DR. It features a tough, durable outer layer laminated with a soft touch, high-wicking mesh inner layer that efficiently moves moisture away from your skin and through the super fine fluorine-free membrane sandwiched in the middle.
The pants then get extra panels on the seat and inner ankles added to boost durability in high-wear areas.
The coating is PFC-free (the perfluorinated compound is a toxic material used in the durable water-repellent treatments of fabrics) so environmentally these are a little more friendly than other DWR coatings.
The pre-shaped fit is designed around pedalling with an articulated fit, stretch panels for unrestricted movement and room incorporated for knee pads.
Two traditional top-of-thigh pockets with waterproof zips, belt loops and a zipped fly with a button popper finish off the features. Sizes range from XS to XXL and are only available in a black colourway
Endura MT500 Waterproof Trousers II – Performance
The sticking point for any waterproof trousers is the balance between breathability, waterproofing and flexibility.
The waterproof qualities have been impressive on these trousers and certainly helped with the seat area having an extra thick layer which has upped longevity. They’ve proven to stay on the dry side through some very wintery conditions and although the breathability has not been as great as claimed the inner surface is still comfortable against the skin. The zipped vents do massively help with airflow and I found I used these to great effect on the climbs to get some fresh air moving.
The cut is a little strange off the bike with a baggy bum and baggy knees however it makes perfect sense when you’re pedalling. There’s room for knee pads and the articulation around the knee leaves little restriction when on the bike. I’d say I’m fairly average in the leg department at 6ft tall and 32in inseam and I’m happy to report the length on these trousers was spot on especially when hunched in the riding position.
The elasticated waist with fly and a single popper keep the trousers up, I’ve not had any issues with the trousers falling, however, there is no manual adjustment in the waistband. Belt loops are included although I can’t say I’d consider wearing a belt in the soggy winter slop.
Getting in and out is easy with long zips on either leg giving plenty of space to pull the trousers on and off even while wearing bulky shoes.
The two zipped pockets are included which are just about big enough for a phone (iPhone 11 tested) although I did find it fiddly to get the phone in and out.
Endura MT500 Waterproof Trousers II – Verdict
Retailing at £190, the MT500 Waterproof trousers are at the top end of the market, by no means a cheap pair of trousers but they do offer great performance for the money. Another option for similar money is the Albion Zoa Rain Trousers which our friends at road.cc tested. These were highly rated with excellent waterproof abilities and breathability and retail at £200. For £60 less, Scott offers the Trail Storm WP Pant at £130. These have a good leg length and comfortable fit, however, they are not completely waterproof and run a little hot.
The Endura MT500 Waterproof Trousers II are an excellent option to stay dry whilst riding this winter. The ExoShell40DR material offers a great balance of waterproof and breathable qualities while being cut to complement the riding position. The leg length is great and the full-length zips make access easy. The pockets are a little fiddly and the lack of waistband adjustment could be a problem for some. However, these are a well-thought-out pair of waterproof riding trousers.
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Product purpose:
Build extra:
PFC-Free, non-toxic durable water repellent finish
Pre-shaped for great on bike articulated fit and stretch panels for unrestricted movement
Water resistant hand pockets
Extra Durable seat and inner ankle panel
Long, thigh height 2 way water repellent side zips make the trousers easy to get on and off, with top half of zips doubling up as thigh vents with mesh gussets
Belt loops and zipped fly with popper closure
Reflective details for night time visibility
Clickfast™ compatible
90 Day satisfaction guarantee
Product construction
Product construction extra:
Product performance
Product performance extra:
Waterproof qualities are excellent
Cut is generous and material is non-restrictive
Product durability
Product durability extra:
Product comfort
Product comfort extra:
product value
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Product value extra:
Overall performance:
Product likes:
Easy access with long leg zips
Generous leg length
Product dislikes:
Fiddly pockets
Lack of manual waistband adjustment
