ABOUT THE RIPTON SUPERLITE UTILITY JEANS
Ripton uses their Superlite high-performance denim fabric for the Superlite Utility Jeans. This thin 8.7oz denim is capable of 33% stretch thanks to its construction, with 3% spandex content. Combined with the relaxed fit and straight leg, there is little resistance to movement, whether on or off the bike.
Designed for an active yet practical lifestyle, Ripton has given the Superlite Utility Jeans the full array of carpenter pockets and a double-knee construction. While the majority of pockets are open, one leg is given a zip pocket for safely storing valuables. If a simpler aesthetic is desired, Ripton makes the Superlite pant in a non-utility version that foregoes most of the pockets. And if you’re looking for a baggier style, there’s also a Wide version on offer.
The Ripton Superlite Utility Jeans are available in a 30” or 32” inseam, with waist sizes from 26” to 40”. Belt loops allow for the fit to be cinched in as desired. Depending on the colorway selected and your market, pricing is around $115 / £85.
THE DIRT
I’m still clinging on to my inner BMX rider, even if it doesn’t get the use it deserves these days. This bleeds into my desire to take mountain biking less seriously from time to time, cruising laps in the bike park instead of trying to push a bike and my abilities to their limits. Whether I was trying to fit in with the cool kids, stand out from the usual MTB crowd, or simply wear an item that felt to align with my intentions for these freestyle-inspired rides, I’m not sure. But I loved most of my time spent wearing the Ripton Superlite Utility Jeans.
Jean styles have been evolving and diversifying in recent years, and with their Wide fit variant Ripton has catered to the ultra-baggy crowd. I’m yet to subscribe to that approach, though, so I was thankful to have a straight cut in the Superlite Utility Jeans that suited my preferences to a T. With a 33” waist and thick thighs, Ripton still made the call to size down to a 32” in my now-discontinued “nuts” colorway jeans. This call worked out great for me, with these jeans coming up large enough to still avoid being tight, especially when the stretch was factored in. I have read conflicting statements from both Ripton and their customers as to the fit of the different variants of their jeans, so it’s worth paying close attention to ensure you obtain the fit you’re seeking.
Early in testing the Superlite Utility Jeans, I made the mistake of wearing them for a spirited pedal on a fairly warm day. Though the material was thin, stretchy, and fairly lightweight, the performance aspect of this denim didn’t transpire to include excellent ventilation. Once I had sweated profusely, I was relieved to find no major change in the feel of the jeans and no notable sagging in the material. But even so, I would not be choosing these for your next endurance-based adventure. Especially when you consider the loose, chain-catching cuffs.
For more casual athletic pursuits – where durability and style matters more – Ripton’s stretchy Superlite jeans really came into their own. In the skatepark, I never wished for anything else on my legs, striking a perfect balance of temperature, toughness and flexibility. For flowy laps in the bikepark, they inspired playful and stylish riding to match, creating no restriction. Most of the pockets were underutilized when on the bike, with my phone sitting in one hand pocket and my keys in the zip pocket. But when off-bike, especially when performing some bike maintenance, the array of carpenter pockets really came into their own.
Their durability proved to be stellar, holding up to a couple of tumbles in the dirt and numerous encounters with pedal pins with little signs of abuse. And I’m desperately hoping that this continues, as I’d love to keep on rocking Ripton’s excellent Superlite Denim for the less serious riding days. It’s truly a pleasure to use until your body temperature climbs too high, and I’m a huge fan of how they look.
The Wolf’s Last Word
Provided you obtain the desired fit, the Ripton Superlite Utility Jeans are an excellent offering for less serious times on the bike and for accompanying an active and practical lifestyle. 
Price: $115 / £85
Website: Riptonco.com
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ABOUT THE WOLF
Robert’s habitat is the Tweed Valley, Scotland, which is renowned for its root-littered enduro mountain bike trails. Robert has been developing his bike handling skills for the last 16 years. Since he was a pup, he’s been riding everything from BMX through to enduro and downhill bikes. Combining a playful style with occasional speed-focused aggression, he favors supportive bikes, and does his best to push them hard.
Rank: European Tech Editor
Size: 6’2” / 189cm | 220lbs / 100kg
Social: @robert_johnston
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