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Whether you're a mountain biker or love a two-wheeled commute this one's for you

Cycling trousers are a useful bit of kit. Something you'll know if you've ever attempted to speed your way through the rain and wind on the ride to work wearing a decidedly nonwaterproof pair of pants, or you've ever tackled the trails with only the skin of your lower legs as protection against the great outdoors.

Yes, soggy bottoms and branch-battered calves are a possibility when exploring the world with your beloved two-wheeled steed, but they can also be a thing of the past. All it takes is the right pair of cycling trousers.

But what exactly is the right pair? Well, that depends on what you'll be doing with them.

In order to find the best cycling trousers for you, you'll want to consider what type of cycling you'll be using your trousers for and what season it is.

In winter, you won't just want a pair of cycling trousers that are wind and waterproof (hello, grim weather, we see you). You'll also want ones that are as breathable and sweat-wicking as they are insulating. That way, you'll be able to keep warm without having to deal with increasing amounts of sweat accumulating beneath your clothes the longer you're on your bike.

In summer, you may be able to get away with trousers treated with a DWR (durable water resistant) finish. You'll also want ones with lighter, breathable fabrics that are good at wicking away sweat and quick-drying with added vents in the areas where heat builds up the fastest.

Many cycling trousers have been made with mountain biking in mind and, as a result, are incredibly durable to keep up with the intense demands of off-roading. Durable, water-resistant fabric protects you from low-hanging branches, gravel and spray, while most are knee-pad friendly and have reflective detailing to keep you safe on the trails in low light.

If you happen to live in the UK and use a bike to get to and from work, chances are you've had your fair share of wet and windy rides where a windproof and waterproof layer would have made all the difference. If the sun is out, you may want to set off in a pair of cycling shorts but have a packable pair of waterproof overtrousers stashed somewhere close by that you can slip on when things start to go south weatherwise.

Commuters going to work in the wee hours and heading home after dark should also look for bottoms with reflective detailing that will help them stand out from all angles when visibility is poor.

As for why you can't just wear regular pants on days where there's no chance of rain? You could, but most cycling trousers have been designed especially for comfort and freedom of movement and include a seamless crotch, adjustable waistband, articulated knees and stretchy fabric. Not to mention a slim fit that will prevent you from fighting against the wind and keep your cuffs from snagging on your bike or the environment you're speeding through.

Ready to see just how handy having a set of cycling trousers in your life can be? Continue on for our pick of the best pairs on the market. Whether you're an avid mountain biker, make the cycle to and from work on the daily or just enjoy a spin every now and then, there's a pair for you. So, best get on your bicycle before you miss out.

On some days, you're in the mood for mountain biking regardless of the weather, and on those days, these MTB trousers will really shine.

With a DWR finish on the front and a triple-layer waterproof finish on the back panels, you won't have to worry about drizzle getting the best of you from the fore or mud spraying up from the rear.

Bad weather aside, they don't disappoint on the comfort front either. 4-way stretch allows you to move as you please, while a seamless crotch ensures things remain as comfy as can be on the saddle.

Thigh vents, an adjustable waist and two zippered hand pockets put the final touches on an already great pair of cycling trousers.

If you prefer to stick to your shorts until the weather forces you to layer up, these are the perfect pants for you.

They can be packed away into the smallest of cycling backpacks for when you feel the need to shelter under their windproof and waterproof fabric. But you also won't have to stress about becoming a sweaty mess once they're on, thanks to their extreme breathability.

As for cycling trousers that make more noise than they're worth? These aren't those (relief). Made from Gore's renowned Gore-Tex® Active fabric, they're super soft and more silent than the average pair.

Casual enough to pass for everyday trousers yet specific enough to meet all your cycling needs, you won't want to miss out on these hot bottoms.

A lack of front seam, an elasticated rear portion and inner mesh; all work to provide a comfortable moisture-wicking waistband, so you'll have little trouble turning your ride to the coffee shop into something longer.

Thigh pockets on the trousers provide storage and ample ventilation, the cuffs can be folded up for added visibility, and articulated knees make for easy riding.

Told ya you'd want to get involved.

3-time UCI DH World Champion Greg Minnaar designed these unisex cycling trousers, so you can bet your legs will be in good bottoms.

Made from lightweight, quick-dry and breathable 4-way stretch fabric with a padded waistband, you won't have to worry about discomfort distracting you when it matters most. And stretch panels along the thigh, ankles and waist will give you the freedom to move as you see fit.

Speaking of: no shortcuts have been taken when it comes to fit. Preshaped legs, a high waistband, slim cut and velcro waist closure are there to ensure you're secure and streamlined.

Trust Decathlon to take cycling overtrousers and make them even more practical and reasonably priced.

Yes, you heard us, these overtrousers are waterproof with sealed zips and seams, have reflective features for those nighttime rides and are windproof like all good cycling trousers. But, they've also been designed with females in mind. Plus, they cover your cycling shoes for extra rain protection.

Better yet, if the sun shows up mid-commute, you can stash your pants in the pocket on the inside of the waist. Easy.

Tried and tested by 6x World Champion mountain biker Rachel Atherton and loved by users for their comfortable and lightweight feel, you definitely want these babies in your MTB arsenal. Even more so if downhill racing is your thing.

Made from Nylon, they're tough enough to withstand the stresses of regular wear and have a slim fit so that you won't find yourself battling the wind as well as the trails.

As for getting hot and sweaty as things start to speed up? Not an issue. Ample ventilation has been placed just where you want it to keep you cool and dry.

Psst. They're also available in black if you're not into a colourful kit.

We love it when gear has been explicitly handcrafted for women to excel in their chosen sport, and that's exactly what SCOTT did with the Contessa Signature Collection.

A narrow fit will keep you streamlined in the attack position, durable CORDURA® fabric protects against vegetation and debris, DUROxpand technology allows for freedom of movement, and a body-hugging fit at the lower leg will prevent any drag or chain mishaps.

In other words? Once you've slipped into your sleek black bottoms and mounted your bike, you'll be ready to race. Just don't forget your bike helmet.

Did you know Adidas has a whole cycling section dedicated to those who love a two-wheeled adventure? If not, you're in for a treat, especially if you happen to be on the prowl for cycling-specific products that also happen to be stylish.

These simple black bottoms have ankle snaps, reflective details and a DWR finish–all in a style that could easily pass as your everyday track pants with Adidas' signature 3-stripes down the sides.

They'll keep you easy to spot on the road, your cuffs clear of your chain and your legs dry should there be spray, but you'll also look pretty darn hip cruising around the streets in them.

Ok, so Proviz isn't necessarily the place you'd go to blend in, but it is the place you'd go for highly reflective gear that is as cool as it is visible.

The fabric is waterproof, breathable, lightweight and durable. If that isn't enough, it has also been explicitly cut for cyclists so that there is space in all the right places.

In terms of that legendary hi-viz we mentioned earlier: the brighter-than-bright yellow colourway and reflective trims and logos will ensure you're easy to spot at any time of the day.

Those who turn to Endura time and again to meet their mountain biking needs will be happy to hear that their everyday road cycling trousers are just as reliable.

Being weather-ready is equally as important as road safety in the UK, so you'll be pleased to know that these pants don't just have 360-degree visibility but are also waterproof with fully sealed seams and a DWR finish.

Also, is it just us, or are these pretty stylish when it comes to the world of cycling trousers?

You're probably familiar with bib shorts and bib tights, but have you seen their cycling trouser counterpart?

These bad boys will make cycling in cold weather seem more "good for the soul" and less "could be mistaken for a mild form of torture". Polartec® Alpha® insulation and added coverage are there to keep you toasty whilst remaining lightweight and streamlined.

No fear, though. You won't be a hot body in a pool of sweat at the end of it all, as the bottoms are notoriously good at regulating your temperature and wicking away sweat.

Did we mention the water bottle storage spot? Our advice? Get 'em for winter before they're gone.

We know. We know. We're biased when it comes to all things Rapha, but can you blame us?

These trousers are ready to ensure you stay as light and breezy as can be, taking on the toughest of trails.

The abrasion-resistant fabric is durable yet comfortable thanks to its four-way stretch and ergonomic fit. But the comfort doesn't stop there. The waist has a low profile with added stretch, and the material has a DWR finish to keep you dry so that you can focus on the path ahead and not your pants below.

They also come in a colour other than black, so naturally, you can understand our excitement.

Calling all adventurers. These comfortable trail trousers need not be confined to your bike, so if you're into the idea of cycling your way to and from a hike, they won't get in your way.

They're not only versatile but boast all the features you'd want in a pair of cycling pants. A DWR coating protects you from sudden showers, elasticated cuffs keep out rain and road spray, articulated knees allow for leg flexibility, and zippered thigh pockets keep your go-tos securely on hand.

We were sold at versatile.