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Enduro PPE

Enduro PPE varies slightly from motocross PPE in that enduro riders aren’t so concerned with being as light as possible, and are more worried about being exposed to extreme weather, trees and branches. As a result, enduro wear is usually more rugged and oriented towards warmth and comfort. There are also pockets and storage. They are similar, however, in that both types of PPE are designed to protect the rider in the off-road environment.

	Helmet Enduro riders typically wear motocross helmets.  “This is what I consider to the most important part of any time you’re riding a motorcycle,” says Freestyle Motocross legend Jeff Tilton. “You’ve got to protect your head with a good, high-end helmet.”  Motocross helmets are lightweight and have large eye ports that allow goggles to comfortably fit.  Their inside liners are usually removable so they can be washed.  And remember, Marine riders must always wear a properly fastened (under the chin) protective helmet which meets the standards of the Snell Memorial Foundation (SNELL), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), or the Department of Transportation (DOT).
	Eye Protection Enduro/motocross goggles have sturdy, lightweight frames with triple-layer “moisture-wicking” face foam, anti-fog scratch resistant lenses, and posts for tear offs.  The lenses are usually UV treated to protect from harmful rays from the sun, and come with different shade lenses for various riding conditions. And remember, they must be shatter resistant.
	Jacket The focus of enduro PPE is durability and versatility.  Enduro jackets are typically made of textile materials to provide extra protection against the added elements of enduro riding such as tree branches and rocks.  These jackets are designed to be used in a variety of different weather and riding conditions.  They are typically waterproof and have  either removable inner liners or ventilation areas that have zippers to be comfortable in different temperatures.  They also have convenient pockets and storage compartments. Enduro jackets should also have CE approved padding in the elbows and shoulders.
	Jersey Depending on the type of riding you are doing , a motocross jersey may be more practical than a jacket.  Motocross jerseys are usually made with light, synthetic fibers and have mesh panels incorporated in them for improved breathability but still provide protection.  Also, the elbows should be padded.
	Pants Enduro pants have the same characteristics as an enduro jacket.  They are made to be versatile and durable to suit the wide range of conditions that you will encounter in enduro riding.  Different than motocross pants, enduro pants are designed to go over your boots.  While enduro riding you will often encounter water crossings.  The over the boot design keeps water from getting inside your boots.  Riding with wet socks and feet can quickly ruin a day of riding.  These pants should be double stitched and have stretch material to allow for maximum flexibility and comfort.  Pockets and storage compartments are standard in these pants as well.
	Chest/Back Protection Enduro riders should use protective body armor.  They are designed to be worn snugly under an enduro riding jacket, with a low profile that minimizes any sort of restrictive movement.  Molded polyethylene armor protects your chest, shoulders, back, and elbows, while their mesh frames allows for air flow to keep you cool.  Some come with a kidney belt built in, making a true all-in-one chest protector.
	Kidney Belt Kidney belts provide an added amount of protection to your lower back and torso by providing firmness. They are typically made of stretchable mesh stretch material and are fortified in the back by rigid, molded plastic.
	Knee Protection Modern knee protection for enduro riders goes far beyond the old foam volleyball kneepads of yesterday…they are more like armor.  Now they are made with rigid, molded frames padded undersides. You’re legs can now be almost fully protected while maintaining the full range of riding motion.
	Boots Although there are boots sold specifically for “enduro” riding, any motocross boot is more than adequate to maintain safety and comfort while riding enduro.   Motocross boots are fit high up the calf and are designed with both rigid and flexible features.  The rigid feature protects the foot; ankle and lower shin from impact or crush injuries, while the flexible part allows easy movement.  They are made with a molded shell and a combination of durable synthetic and/or leather.  As always, try on several different styles to find which gives you the most comfort and flexibility.
	Gloves Enduro gloves are double-layered and have an abrasion resistant palm.  Because enduro riders are more prone to contact with trees and branches, the top of enduro gloves must be padded and armored to protect the rider’s knuckles and fingers.  Many achieve this through foam backed Polyurethane or carbon fiber knuckle protection.
	Underwear Any sort of lycra-based shirt/pant combo fits well underneath your motocross or enduro riding gear.  EVS and Fox make great motocross rider-specific underwear with padding right where you need it.  Regardless of what material it’s made from, be sure it has wicking/breathable qualities.
	Hydration Systems There are many manufactures oflow-profile backpack type hydration system that provides up to 2-3 hours of hydration and doesn’t interfere with helmets, etc.  They also have external zip pockets that are good to store keys, wallet, cell phone, tools, etc.
	Goggle Roll/Tear-Offs In the event that you’re eating someone’s roost, tear-offs are a great way to keep your vision clear all day.  Most goggles have “posts” to mount the various types of brands.