TESTED: Norman Ultra-stretch Downhill MTB Pants

Words: Hayden Wright

Nearly 12 months ago, we here at AMB were first introduced to Norman MTB and their ethically sourced mountain bike clothing range. Initial impressions were positive, with particular praise given to their choice of materials, environmentally conscious business model, and subdued styling void of any big logos or brash patterns. Since then, the Snowy Mountains based apparel brand have expanded their product line to include the full length Ultra-Stretch Downhill Pants you can see in the photos below.

Features

The Norman Ultra-Stretch Downhill Pants come in 8 sizes from 28-42 – I had a 32 on test. These beige coloured pants are packed full of features, but let’s start with the 3 pockets which are located at the front left, front right, and mid right. They all have zippers, with the front right one specifically also being waterproof.

Materials wise, these pants are constructed from a stretch fabric which is some of the lightest and most breathable I’ve ever used. At the ankles, the material changes to a lightweight mesh, which allows extra breathability in an area where UV protection and water resistance isn’t as critical. It also makes pulling on and pulling off fitted pants a lot easier – kudos on thinking about this Norman!

The waist is secured with a combination button fly and drawstring – allowing a tailored fit without the annoyance of velcro or the weight of buckles. Interestingly, these pants have inbuilt neoprene knee padding, something rarely seen in any high-end clothing product.

At $229.95, the RRP is consistent with what we expect to pay for a high end set of riding pants in 2023, as can be seen in our trail pants group test completed last year.

On the Trail

Initial impressions of these pants were based entirely around the material and fit. The amount of stretch and general comfort is second to none, with the panel articulation being spot on to give as much stretch in the material as required no matter the body position. Fit wise, I’d say these pants are fairly middle of the road both around the waist and in the leg. The addition of a drawstring in the waist is a welcome touch, making it quick and easy to get these pants comfortably snug regardless of how much I had for breakfast.

The colour is pretty eye-catching, and did garner a few comments from my riding buddies… “Are you headed to the boat house after this?” was murmured once or twice. Objective opinions aside, I always enjoy wearing something that is plain with solid colours so these pants are a winner in that department to me. The colour is very light and easily marked, so best leave these ones in the cupboard for all but the most instagram worthy riding conditions.

Any stains I did get from mud or water were easily removed with a quick soak before machine washing. My only issue with these pants is the inclusion of in-built knee protection. The pad, which is built into the knee panel of the pants, isn’t articulated in any way and doesn’t form very well when your leg is bent. It’s also made of a much thicker material than the rest of the pants, leading to it feeling like a bit of a sweat sponge during testing.

The entire reason that protective equipment is tight fitting and designed to bend is so that it morphs to your body shape and stays in place in the event of a crash – padding built into baggy clothing doesn’t do this and is in my opinion a waste of time. If I want to wear knee pads, I will slip them under the pants myself. If I don’t want to wear knee pads, I won’t.

Verdict

The Norman MTB Ultra-stretch Downhill pants provide a comfortable fit with styling that is unique and consistent within their products. While the inclusion of built-in knee padding is unnecessary in my opinion, when you look past that what you have here is a great set of pants which really stand out in an already flooded market. If you’re someone who is environmentally conscious, and are looking for a casual set of pants which are as well suited to your weekend ride as they are your post-ride refreshments look no further. And if you love the idea of some inbuilt knee protection – these could be pants for you.

RRP: $229.95
From: Norman MTB Clothing

HIT – Casual styling
HIT – Lightweight, stretchy materials
HIT – Environmentally conscious
MISS – Inbuilt knee protection