The POC Rhythm Resistance Trousers are a cold-weather option designed to be lightweight and comfortable, with added durability for protection against general riding mishaps. However, while the fit and comfort are excellent, they fall short in terms of offering meaningful protection against colder weather.
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POC Rhythm Resistance Pants – Technical details
The Rhythm Resistance Trousers are made with a blend of Cordura stretch fabric, designed to provide additional durability and protection. While the fabric isn’t waterproof, it is treated with a fluorocarbon-free DWR coating to repel light rain and trail spray.
The knee areas are articulated to accommodate knee pads while minimising excess fabric, and they’re reinforced for added durability in this high-wear area.
Features such as a seamless gusset, an elasticised waistband, and lightweight construction (weighing just 283g in size XS) aim to ensure comfort during longer rides.
The sizing is accurate to POC’s size guide, with the elasticised waistband offering some flexibility in fit. The leg inseam increases with each waist size, which could pose issues for shorter riders with a larger waist or taller riders with a slimmer waist. For example, size XS accommodates a 70-75cm (28-30in) waist with a 78.5-79.5cm (30-32in) inseam, while size L fits an 88-93cm (35-37in) waist with an 83-84cm (32-34in) inseam. Size XXL extends to a 111-116cm (44-46in) waist and an 86-87cm (33-35in) inseam.
POC Rhythm Resistance Pants – Performance
The trousers offer a slim fit with sufficient room around the knees for lightweight knee pads. This makes them ideal for trail riders who might not want the bulk of a full downhill option. I didn’t wear knee pads for most of my rides, and I appreciated the lack of excess material around the knees. The fabric is highly flexible, and I was not uncomfortable while pedalling.
However, for trousers marketed as suitable for cooler weather, they provide very little in terms of warmth. Wind cuts through the fabric easily, making it feel cold in single-figure temperatures. If you’re riding in such conditions, thermal layers underneath are essential. Despite the lightweight material allowing some airflow, breathability is limited, and the fabric can feel clammy during higher-intensity efforts on milder days.
The DWR coating initially does a good job of repelling light rain and spray, but it wears off quickly, particularly after muddy rides. Regular reapplication of a fabric-specific DWR replenisher will be necessary to maintain water resistance.
There are two well-sized main pockets and one small pocket for a card, key, or perhaps a lift pass. The zip pullers are thin, but the lace puller makes them easy to grab while wearing gloves. The lightweight design eliminates any flapping and ensures that they remain unobtrusive while riding.
POC Rhythm Resistance Pants – Verdict
While these trousers excel in comfort and fit, their claim of being suitable for cooler and changeable weather doesn’t hold up. They provide minimal warmth and lack windproofing, which makes them unsuitable for genuinely cold conditions without layering.
At £190, they are significantly more expensive than other options on the market. For instance, the YT Industries Gravity Cordura trousers (£110) impressed Liam with their value and performance, and the Endura MT500 Freezing Point trousers (£150), which Mike described as “the last word in cold-weather trousers,” both offer better protection at a lower cost.
If comfort, fit, and durability are your priorities, the POC Rhythm Resistance Pants are excellent for long rides. However, for cooler weather, they fall short of expectations, leaving much to be desired when it comes to warmth and weather resistance.
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Product purpose:
Full leg coverage, cut to fit with knee pads and featuring highly durable materials: the Rhythm Resistance Pants keep you riding when the seasons turn.
Developed for riding in cooler conditions, the Rhythm Resistance Pants give full leg coverage for extra warmth and protection. Highly durable materials with a lightweight feel give protection and freedom of movement.
Constructed from a stretch fabric blended with Cordura® for extra durability, and with Ripstop reinforced fabric around the knees, the pants are designed to cope with the inevitable falls when riding in cold, slippery conditions.
Shaped to fit with knee pads, the trail pants feature a tapered leg to minimize excess fabric and give maximum space around the ankles to ensure no interference while pedalling.
A seam-free gusset and an elasticated waist are included to ensure comfort.
Zipped hand pockets and a zipped card pocket keep belongings secure while on the trails.
Build extra:
• Highly durable trail pants with a lightweight feel
• Ideal for riding in cooler, changeable conditions
• Cordura® blended stretch fabric
• Reinforced around the knees with Ripstop fabric for extra durability
• Fluorocarbon-free DWR treatment
• Durable
• Pants with a durability that belies their weight and feel.
• Cordura®
• Cordura® blended stretch fabric gives comfort and durability
• Ripstop
• Reinforced zones around the knee with Ripstop for extra protection
• Works with body armor
• Cut with extra space at the knee to fit with POC VPD knee pads.
• Tapered leg
• Adjustable tapered legs reduce excess fabric giving more space for pedalling.
• Elasticated waist
• Gives a secure and comfortable fit.
• Secure pockets
• Zipped hand pockets and a smaller zipped card pocket to the rear give secure storage.
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