The o in the Hekla Absoluteshell is actually an ‘Ø’, which has everything to do with the fact that DAINESE developed these laminated, adventurous motorbike trousers for long on- and off-road trips in harsh conditions. Less harsh too.
The Hekla is an Icelandic volcano and not coincidentally, DAINESE used an adventurous 5-day trip on the Northern-European island to extensively test this top-of-the-bill motorcycle clothing set (there is a motorbike jacket too that perfectly complements these motorcycle trousers).
The Hekla Absøluteshell PRO 20K has a laminated outer layer in textile. The QuickDry, Ripstop and the membrane (Absøluteshell PRO 20K) result in a sturdy, wear-resistant, waterproof and windproof, and – we must add – a very light exterior. The 20K refers to the 20.000mm of water the laminated membrane can withstand on a limited surface. The average motorbike rider won’t really bother with this and just wants to know: are the Hekla Absøluteshell PRO 20K motorbike pants waterproof? The answer is ‘yes, they are’. As watertight as motorbike pants could get.
The challenge for laminated motorbike trousers is not really in keeping things dry, it’s in ventilation. Waterproof and ventilated, it’s a tough combination. Unless you – like DAINESE did here – equip the ventilation openings on the upper legs with watertight closures. This definitely inspires confidence, that’s for sure. The Hekla Absøluteshell PRO 20K will probably never be able to feel summery but then again, that’s not its purpose: the presence of an extra, removable thermal lining suggests quite the opposite. Although we knew that when we started discussing the Scandinavian ‘Ø’.
So, wintery, with an excellent ventilation option – the Nanofeel®-lining with silver ions has a breathing and wind-guiding effect – and all the protection against the elements you can think of. The impact protection is impressive as well: Pro Armor knee protectors are standard level 2 and there’s the option to lift the hip protectors to that same high standard. Reflective inserts perform their duty without being too conspicuous during the day.
We could tell you about the storage pockets: two outer pockets claim to be 100% waterproof. We always take this with a grain of road salt but there’s definitely a chance this is true and that’s more than we usually claim.
Getting in and out of them is easy, even with a pair of motorbike boots on your feet. Definitely when you leave the thermal lining at home. The calves offer some adjustment options, which reduces flapping and fluttering. In the waist, you can also have a little play with the width of these premium motorcycle trousers. Two Velcro straps-with-loop are ideal to obtain the perfect fit.
These versatile and especially very waterproof motorbike trousers are supplied with a long connecting zipper, which turns the combination with the Hekla Absøluteshell PRO 20K motorbike jacket into an obvious choice.
There is maintenance clothing and then there is clothing maintenance. Good, solid motorcycle clothing is an investment in comfort and personal safety. So invest in its maintenance after your purchase and enjoy your gear for longer.
We put the best tips & tricks on this maintenance page.
