Introduction to The Street and Steel Mission Motorcycle Pants

If you’ve spent any time on two wheels, you know that finding the right riding pants is a bit like searching for the Holy Grail. You want protection, comfort, and enough pockets to stash your phone, wallet, and maybe a granola bar for those longer rides. Enter the Street & Steel Mission Cargo Pants—a pair that promises to deliver all three, without making you look like you just stepped out of a sci-fi movie.

First Impressions

Out of the box, Mission Cargo Pants look like your favorite pair of cargo pants, but with a few hints that they mean business. The fit is athletic but not skinny, with a straight upper leg that tapers slightly from knee to cuff.

They’re made from a blend of 97% cotton and 3% spandex, which means you get the comfort and stretch you want for all-day rides, plus triple-stitched seams for durability.

The pants are available in black and tan. The overall construction feels robust, and the pants have a reassuring weight that signals quality without being overly heavy or restrictive.

Protection and Safety

Safety is where the Mission Cargo Pants really shine. They feature aramid (Kevlar) knit reinforcements at impact zones—specifically the seat, hips, and knees.

For impact protection, the pants come equipped with AXIAL AX2 CE Level 2 certified knee armor, which is vented for breathability and can be popped out easily via externally accessed armor pockets. There are also pockets for optional hip armor if you want to upgrade your protection.

The pants are tested to AA Rating on impact & abrasion resistance (EN 17092-3:2020), so you’re not just getting style, you’re getting real protection.

Comfort and Mobility

Street & Steel added a diamond gusset in the crotch for improved comfort and freedom of movement—no more awkward stretches when you swing a leg over your bike.

The moisture-wicking stretch spandex inner slip liner keeps things cool and dry, and precurved knees mean the pants feel natural in the riding position.

The pants are designed to be comfortable enough for all-day wear, whether you’re on the bike or grabbing lunch at your favorite roadside dinner.

Pocket Power

Cargo pants are all about pockets, and the Mission Cargos deliver: two hand warmer pockets, a coin pocket, two thigh pockets, and two expandable cargo thigh pockets with hook-and-loop closure. That’s seven pockets in total—plenty of room for your essentials, and everything stays secure even at highway speeds.

The cargo pockets are generously sized and positioned for easy access, making it simple to grab your phone, wallet, or keys without fumbling. The hook-and-loop closures ensure that your items stay put, even during spirited riding or bumpy roads.

Style and Versatility

These pants don’t scream “motorcycle gear,” which is a plus if you want to blend in off the bike. Reinforced belt loops, flat rivets, YKK zippers, and a custom S&S button and leather patch add subtle style points.

The understated design means you can wear these pants to work, out to dinner, or on a casual day out without looking like you’re dressed for a track day. The versatility is a major selling point for riders who want gear that transitions seamlessly from the road to everyday life.

Other pants in this category may offer similar protection but often lack the pocket utility or comfort features like the diamond gusset and moisture-wicking liner. The Mission Cargo Pants are also competitively priced at around $150, making them accessible to most motorcycle riders without sacrificing quality. I bought mine on sale, at a Cycle Gear store, for $89.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent abrasion and impact protection for the price: Aramid reinforcements and CE Level 2 knee armor provide serious safety.
• Comfortable fit with stretch and gusseted crotch: The diamond gusset and spandex blend ensure freedom of movement and all-day comfort.
• CE Level 2 knee armor included, hip armor optional: Upgradeable protection for those who want more.
• Looks like casual cargo pants off the bike: Versatile design that blends in with everyday wear.
• Moisture-wicking liner and precurved knees: Keeps you cool and comfortable in various riding positions.

Cons

• Hip armor sold separately: Additional cost for full protection.
• Not waterproof—these are best for fair weather or layering: Riders in wet climates may need to layer with rain gear.
• No thermal liner: Not ideal for cold weather without additional layers.

Final Thoughts

I have used these pants for multiple rides including a few all-day trips. They’re a solid choice for riders who want gear that works on and off the bike, without breaking the bank. The combination of aramid/kevlar reinforcements, CE Level 2 knee armor, and practical cargo design make these pants a standout option in the motorcycle gear market.

I give these pants 5 Stars!