“Dogs of War” and “Call to Arms” Pants by S&S Review

[MotoNews]

Published in: Gear

Don’t be thrown off by their unusual product names, let’s review a couple of practical and protective new riding pant offerings from Speed and Strength (S&S)—“The Dogs of War” and “Call to Arms.”

The Dogs of War: Although marketed more for regular motorcycling, these straight fit cotton-poly blend riding pants not only exude toughness but are protective and practical, making them a good/economical choice for adventuring. The seat and knees are reinforced with Aramid fiber (generic Kevlar), with Vault C.E.-approved knee protectors. The knee pads are designed to be removed for washing and can be easily adjusted to your riding position from outside the pants, which in my opinion are considerably more comfortable than inside-attached pads. Another key point is that the knees and waist are extremely articulated for better flexibility with stretch panels which aid in rider comfort, especially for long hauls and many days of continuous riding. The pockets include a couple of large cargo-style with two metal snaps each (which will hold a fair amount), a couple of rear covered pockets also with two snaps each, and the typical jean-style front waist “slash” pockets—which due to the pant armor design are a bit shallow and are therefore really only useful for hand-warming. The Dogs of War come in black or olive.

Call to Arms: If you prefer a more jean-style design, the Call to Arms model might be your style. These pants are slightly baggier and have only single metal snaps on the cargo pockets. You also won’t find the obvious stretch panels in the waist and knees as you do in the Dogs of War. Regardless, these pants have a great fitting appeal. They too are reinforced at the knees and seat with the Aramid fiber. Another difference is that the Vault C.E. knee pad armor is removable from the inside. They’re also lined with 100% polyester to ensure comfort. The Call to Arms pants are available only in black.

Fitment: I suggest purchasing one size larger than you’d normally wear—as both models tend to run small. And due to the added weight and protective qualities, I suggest either with suspenders or a heavy belt. On both of these pants, the last belt loop is doubled for durability. And by the way, they both use industrial-strength YKK zippers.

Both designs are utilitarian and protective but comfortable enough to wear to work. To the untrained eye, you wouldn’t know they were motorcycle gear.

MSRP: Dogs of War—$149.95 (black or olive) | Call to Arms—$159.95 (black only)

SSGear.com

PROS:

• All day comfort
• Decent protection
• Stylish

CONS:

• Only limited dark colors are available
• Odd names
• A bit pricy

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