Volcom Ripper Pants: The $110 Trail Gamble That Actually Pays Off

Robert Wilson · 2026-09-11

### The Newcomer That's Turning Heads When you think of Volcom, you probably picture skaters and surfers, not mountain bikers. But the brand's Ripper pants are making a splash on the trails, and for good reason. At just $110, they're a steal compared to high-end options. But do they hold up when the going gets rough? We spent six weeks testing them on everything from mellow cruisers to gnarly enduro tracks to find out. ### From Halfpipe to Singletrack Volcom has been rooted in board sports since 1991, so jumping into mountain biking feels like a natural progression. The Ripper pants bring that same casual style to the trail without breaking the bank. Compared to something like the 7mesh Flightpath, which we've also tested, the Rippers are way more affordable. But does the lower price mean lower performance? Let's dig in. ### What You Get for Your Money - **Sizes:** 26–38 (10 sizes) – so most riders will find a fit. - **Weight:** 11.1 oz (size 34) – mid-pack, not featherlight but not heavy. - **Price:** $110 – easy on the wallet. - **Colors:** Squadron Green (tested), Black, and Khaki. - **Features:** Stretch fabric, DWR treatment, laser-perforated vents, two zippered pockets, key pocket, Velcro waist adjusters. The design is understated, with subtle Volcom branding like the Stone logo on the left knee. The fabric is abrasion-resistant, wicks sweat, and dries fast. Plus, the DWR coating helps repel water and mud. ### On the Trail: Comfort and Performance Slipping into the Rippers, the first thing you notice is the cut. The fabric hugs your thighs comfortably, with enough room at the knees for pads. The legs taper toward the ankles, so there's no chance of snagging the chain. The length is spot-on for taller riders, and shorter folks can roll them up for extra airflow. You can even wear bib shorts underneath without feeling restricted. But there's a catch: the waistband. It has very little stretch and runs large. Our testers had to crank the Velcro adjusters all the way to keep them up. Sizing down wasn't an option because the leg length was perfect. The adjusters held up fine during testing, but we're curious about long-term durability. On climbs, the flexible material shines—no rubbing, just comfort. Point downhill, and the Rippers stay solid. The lightweight fabric and laser-cut vents keep you cool without letting dirt in. The two zippered pockets and key pocket are perfect for your phone, cash, and essentials. ### The Verdict For $110, the Volcom Ripper pants are a solid choice for riders who want style and performance without spending a fortune. They're not perfect—the waistband is a bit finicky—but the comfort, ventilation, and durability make them a great value. If you're in the market for versatile trail pants that can handle everything from casual spins to enduro laps, these are worth a look. > "The Rippers surprised us with their trail-ready performance at a price that won't make you wince." Just be prepared to fiddle with the waist adjusters. And if you're between sizes, consider trying both to nail the fit.