Dirt Bike Gear Guide

Jul 21, 2023 — Gearing up can be overwhelming, often leading you to spend more than you actually need in the heat of an "Add to Cart" frenzy. So, here’s a gear guide filled with the necessities, the bare bones of motocross, so to speak.

Whether you're a seasoned off-road daredevil or just getting your wheels muddy for the first time, having the right equipment can mean the difference between a wicked ride and a disaster. Time to suit up.

Helmets

No brain, no gain. It’s pretty much the 1 essential that often feels more essential than the other essentials. I just like saying essential. But seriously, it’s your brain. If you need it to ride, you need to keep it protected while riding… and especially, falling.

Pick a helmet that's both sturdy and flashy enough (going all camo if you frequently ride in the forest is probably not the best idea, unless you don’t have a trail permit). Ventilation shouldn’t be an issue here, as the vast majority of dirt helmets will be shield-less, though incomplete without the next item on our list.

Goggles

I’ve frequently typed "Google" instead... frequent typo. These bad boys keep dust, dirt, and pesky bugs out of your peepers on track or trail.

Look for models with a wide field of vision, and preferably a wide strap to better grip your helmet. Also, outriggers. I greet them with open arms. These are small plastic pieces on each side of the goggle frame that allow for the goggles to seal properly, keeping dirt and debris out.

Now for the heated debate: tear-offs or roll-offs? It's like choosing between Spider-Man and Batman. Tear-offs are like Spidey’s reusable webs, but for goggles — rip, toss and replace to reveal a fresh view. Roll-offs are like a piece of tech built in the bat cave — when dirty, just roll them and a new layer appears like magic. Take your pick and keep the dirt in its place, not in your face.

Neck Braces

As Wu-Tang Clan so accurately puts it: "Protect Ya Neck." You could have the best helmet in the world, but if you suffer from noodle neck — as one often does being propelled off a bike at high speeds — a neck brace will keep your head straight when gravity takes over.

No one likes a chicken dance on the track, so embrace the neck brace.

Roost Guards… Actually Have Something to Do With Roosters

Next on the list is chest protection. It might not look like it, but under those flashy jerseys, MX pros do have some sort of armor.

Roost guards are the most common in motocross, providing lightweight protection for the chest and back. These are commonly less bulky and serve to shield you from what’s known as the "Rooster’s Tail," since debris flying off the back of a bike resembles this lovely pattern. Except, it’s not so lovely when you’re on the receiving end.

Chest protectors are somewhat different in that they are bulkier, with the net positive of providing even more coverage. These are great for trail riding, where you are likely to get hit by different types of obstacles: logs, trees, swooping eagles, caribou (true story), etc.

Knee Braces or Knee Guards? A Pivotal Decision

Ah, the age-old dilemma first documented in ancient hieroglyphics — knee braces or knee guards? It’s like telling your significant other that dinner’s on you and either going to KFC or "Le Fancy French Restaurant."

Knee guards are lightweight, comfy, and get the job done for most riders. On the other hand, knee braces are the apex — added support, stability, and protection. Choose based on the type of riding you do.

Boots

If Puss in Boots actually cared about functionality instead of handmade Italian leather, he would stomp around fearlessly decorated in dirt bike boots. They’re stiff, so as to better protect you from injury, and they need to be since you’ll be planting them on the ground to quickly get out of a tight curve.

The helmet and boots are probably the 2 pieces you should never skimp out on for motocross. And given the frequency of use, pick a boot that can take a beating and then some.

Jersey, Gloves and Pant

We all know dirt biking doesn't shy away from its zeal for flashy colors like lime green, fuchsia and yellow. Let your inner diva take the stage as you soar through the air with matching jersey and pants. Why are these "essential," you might ask? Well, without them you would just be a naked person with some armor.

Finally, complement the look with gloves that are thin for responsive feedback, though I would still recommend knuckle protection and palm reinforcement to safeguard against tumbles.

So there you have it folks. The most essential dirt bike gear essentials to ever essential. Remember, safety doesn't have to be boring. Embrace the flashiness, have fun, and let the throttle roll. Now go forth, conquer the dirt and stay muddy my friends; you've got all you really need.