BQ Tests: Ground Effect Splashdowns Rain Pants

By Mike Blewitt

Ask most cyclists about wet weather gear and they’ll immediately start talking about jackets. Waterproof trousers rarely get the same attention, yet anyone who has spent hours riding through cold rain or standing water knows they can make just as much difference to comfort and enjoyment.

Ground Effect’s Splashdowns are a set of rain pants built around exactly that idea. Designed in New Zealand by a company that understands what persistent wet weather feels like, they aim to provide full lower-body protection for riders who need to keep moving regardless of conditions.

Like the Anti-Cyclone jacket, the Splashdowns use Ground Effect’s new HydroFoil Endure fabric. The PFAS-free material is waterproof, breathable and designed to maintain performance without requiring regular waterproofing treatments. This is done by using a material where each fibre is coated in silicone, so an external treatment isn’t required. The material delivers an impressive 20k hydrostatic head, and 18k permeability rating. If you’re not well-versed in waterproofing and breathability – these are good numbers. If you want to know more – there’s a great piece here to read.

As with the rest of the Ground Effect range, men’s and women’s options are available (Ground Effect Monsoons for women), the products are sold directly online to keep costs down, and the company continues to support grassroots cycling through its Slush Fund initiative. Ground Effect gear is made right in New Zealand and Bicycle Queensland members can also claim a free pair of merino socks with their order using the code available through the member portal.

Built for riding

The Splashdowns are clearly designed around life on a bike rather than simply being a pair of generic rain pants you might have kicking around from a multi-day hike.

The legs use a semi-tapered cut to reduce excess material around lower legs for pedalling comfort and drivetrain clearance, but ankle zips allow the cuffs to open wide enough to fit over cycling shoes when putting them on or taking them off. That’s a small detail that makes a big difference when the weather turns unexpectedly.

The articulated knee design helps maintain comfort while pedalling, avoiding the restrictive feeling that some waterproof trousers can create. At the waist there’s both a zip and dual press-stud closure system, allowing some adjustment depending on what you’re wearing underneath. Ground Effect have also got some reflective logos on the calves and reflective piping on the outside of the lower leg – the ideal spot for visibility as your legs are moving.

The back sits high enough to leave no exposed real estate when riding – an essential element compared to hiking overpants which can easily slide down at the rear when pedalling.

The rear pocket doubles as a stuff sack, making the Splashdowns easy to pack away when conditions improve. Although I found I can sneak them into the Anti-Cyclone bumbag pocket for an all-in-one waterproof panic room suit in a pouch. At just 226g the Splashdowns (size small) are not much extra to tote around for the protection on offer.

Understanding overpants

Some riders will look at full-length waterproof trousers and wonder if they’re overkill. But after spending time using waterproof shorts, three-quarter waterproof pants and a range of water-resistant winter riding gear over the years – along with getting really wet and cold plenty of times – I’m convinced they’re not.

When conditions are genuinely wet and cold, particularly during extended rain or when roads and paths are covered in standing water, full-length waterproof trousers provide a level of comfort that partial solutions simply do not match.

That’s especially true for riders using their bike as transport. You may not choose to ride in the rain, but sometimes the weather doesn’t give you much choice. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, travelling by bike or embarking on a multi-day tour, arriving with dry legs and bum makes a substantial difference to comfort and morale. So many riders are happy to cover up with layers on their torso but neglect the major muscle groups that get you from A to B by bike – those on your legs.

The Splashdowns create a reliable barrier against persistent rain and road spray while remaining comfortable enough to pedal in for extended periods. For those looking at extended trips off-road, they also look after your bib shorts or other gear. Wet grit penetrates clothing and tears it up pretty quickly, especially in a high wear area like where you sit on the saddle.

On the road (and trail)

During wet weather testing the Splashdowns delivered exactly what you’d want from a dedicated waterproof overpant. Part of this is thanks to the articulated fit that means the trousers stay put while pedalling, and the tapered lower leg avoided excessive flapping without feeling restrictive – best of all they stayed clear of my drivetrain. The ankle zip design made it easy to pull them on over cycling shoes when rain arrived unexpectedly, and they packed down neatly when not required.

Maintaining warmth and dryness through your legs can have a significant impact on overall comfort. That’s particularly true during winter riding, bikepacking trips or touring adventures where getting soaked through simply isn’t an option. Ventilation optios are not the same as with a jacket, so the Splashdowns won’t be the ticket for summer thunderstorms – but I found with some bike shorts underneath, riding in consistent rain on a day that barely nudged 18 degrees was still more comfortable with them on than it would be without.

Verdict

The Splashdowns won’t be for every rider or every ride. But for commuters, tourers, bikepackers and anyone who regularly rides through poor weather, they’re one of those pieces of equipment that quickly proves its worth. And they are an item you’ll have for some time.

The new HydroFoil Endure fabric performs well, the bike-specific fit details are thoughtfully executed, and the overall design prioritises practicality. They really are an item where the basics of cut and materials deliver what you need.

If you regularly find yourself riding through rain, cold conditions or standing water, proper waterproof trousers remain one of the best investments you can make in riding comfort.

RRP: ~$AUD245
Available: Direct from Ground Effect