Madison DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Bib Trousers review

The Madison DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Bib Trousers are designed for the grimiest and grottiest riding conditions – DTE stands for 'defy the elements'.

In the UK, we’re treated to some wet and miserable riding conditions where the right kit can make the difference between a fun-filled mud adventure and a miserable, cold, wet sulk.

The best winter mountain biking kit enables you to keep ripping around wet winter trails, keeping you warm, comfortable and protected.

I’ve been thoroughly impressed by these Madison waterproof trousers, and have been splashing around the puddles of the Forest of Dean, BikePark Wales and a few other favourite spots for a couple of months to see how they stand up to a typically wet British winter.

They were also picked by Tom Marvin in his 2023 gear of the year.

Madison DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Bib Trousers details and specifications

Madison claims these are the “ultimate all-in-one riding pants” and are “designed to meet the demands of various biking conditions, providing unparalleled protection and comfort”.

Those are bold claims – can they be backed up on the trails?

The dungarees boast high waterproof and breathability capabilities, with a stated 20,000mm waterproof rating and a breathability rating of 40,000g/m2/24hrs.

Along with fully taped seams and a DWR coating, this construction should ensure reliable protection against heavy rain and wet conditions.

An added benefit of this construction is the excellent windproofing, helping reduce wind-chill on high-speed trails and laps of the bike park.

The fabric, constructed from 55 per cent elastomultiester and 45 per cent recycled polyester, is a four-way stretch material designed to offer unrestricted movement on the bike, whether pedalling up a tortuous climb or ripping back down the other side.

Madison claims the high-top dungaree, equipped with quick-release elasticated shoulder straps, provides enhanced weather protection compared to standard waterproof riding trousers by offering superior torso protection.

The fit has been tailored, with pre-curved knees and elasticated, tapered hems in a bid to improve comfort.

A few finishing details include reflective inserts that enhance visibility. There’s a central chest pocket for valuables and a phone-friendly hip pocket, both equipped with full-closure zips.

There’s a long side-access zip to help get the pants on and off.

There are five size options, from small to extra-extra-large, for these unisex bibs. Plus, they come in two colourways: black and Midnight Green.

A neat feature is the three leg lengths (30in short, 32in regular or 34in long) in the black colour option to help achieve the ideal fit.

Madison says it uses recycled zips throughout the bibs, as well as recycled reflective prints.

The brand has also started a garment-repair service, where any damage, alterations or adjustments can be made under guarantee or for a cost to extend the lifespan of the trousers.

My size-medium bibs, with a short leg, weigh 542g.

Madison DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Bib Trousers performance

I’ve spent a couple of months heading out in some of the UK’s harshest weather to see if these bibs live up to their claims.

From drizzle to downpours, with a mild December transitioning into a chilly January, I encountered everything from unseasonably warm temperatures to freezing conditions.

The trousers have come with me to the bike park, on enduro loops and trail-bike blasts to give them a thorough thrashing.

For testing, I tried a size-medium with a 30in (short) leg length for my 173cm height and 74kg weight. For comparison, I usually wear 30in-waist riding pants (men’s small).

I found the fit around the torso and waist spot-on. Snug yet not constrictive, the bibs left ample room for layering without sacrificing mobility.

Their fit was great, except for the leg length. The inseam measured 29in and was just a little too short for me.

Standing up or riding on the pedals, the cuffs would just about reach the tops of my riding boots, but when sitting down pedalling, there was a decent gap, which meant I always had to ride in my most fashionable socks.

This isn’t a fault of the pants, because you can select the leg length, but choosing a slightly longer leg length than you're used to might be wise to get full coverage and minimise the chances of damp socks.

However, these are some of the most comfortable pants I’ve ridden in. The dungaree-style and lack of waistband takes away any pressure point and fasteners, leaving you with a snug wrap of material that’s cosy and practical.

The adjustable shoulder straps were easy to tension, helping keep the bibs in place. No matter how thick or caked on the mud was around my backside, I never had to adjust or yank up the bibs, as is often the case with wet, muddy trousers.

Baselayers and mountain bike jerseys never came untucked, meaning I didn't need to stop for a mid-ride garment reset.

For wet-weather riding, this practical solution makes plenty of sense.

The tailored shape was comfortable to pedal in, and while the material rustled, it wasn’t loud enough to become distracting. I would like to see the leg shape a little more fitted, however.

That would reduce excess material, too. There’s plenty of space to fit even bulky knee pads suitable for bike parks. However, a more slender design would be more befitting of modern mountain bike pants.

The four-way stretch of the material is noticeable, but minimal. Still, a more form-fitted cut wouldn’t go amiss.

In terms of weatherproofing, the pants are very respectable. Without a laboratory, it's difficult to verify the fabric’s stats, but even out in foul weather for extended rides, I stayed warm and reassuringly dry.

Whether the inside of the pants gets mildly damp from body heat, moisture seeping through, or both, the Madison bibs held up well against winter weather, bettering other waterproof trousers I ride in, such as the Troy Lee Designs Resist pants.

Riders who run hot might like to see a vent or two, but I never found myself overheating. As such, these have become my new go-to pants for wet rides.

I would like to see an additional pocket. The chest pocket is great for a bank card or some cash, but it's tricky to open and reach into because the zip-cover flap is stitched down at each end, making it hard to make full use of the pocket size.

Hence, there’s nowhere to stash a multi-tool, snack or keys – unless you fancy them rattling around with your phone in the one hip pocket.

After months of rigorous use, the material remains resilient, showing little wear and ensuring a dry ride.

Priced just below £200, these bibs offer impressive value, considering their performance and durability, making them a solid investment for winter-riding enthusiasts.

How do the Madison DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Bib Trousers compare to the POC Consort Dungarees?

If you’re after wet-weather, dungaree-style pants, these two are your best options.

The DTE trousers are less than half the price of the £450 POCs, and boast greater waterproofing and breathability ratings.

The POC Consort Dungarees are more feature-heavy, with vents and waist adjustment, but both do an excellent job of keeping mud out, following a very similar design.

However, I’ve a sneaking suspicion the Madison bibs might be a Consort killer with their price-to-performance ratio.

Madison DTE 3-Layer Waterproof Bib Trousers bottom line

These waterproof trousers are a great choice for riders looking to make the most of winter or wet-weather rides.

Their fit is good, comfort is great and they offer impressive protection against the elements for the price.

There’s still room for improvement with an additional pocket, a vent or two and a slimmer fit, but they have the essentials dialled.