Motocross PPE

In motocross, just like any other kind of riding, form follows function. You’re looking at high performance, high risk riding in a relatively confined space with other riders going all-out very close by. Head-to-toe armor is your only option.

	Helmet “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 follow the same philosophy as the bikes they ride on: they are meant to be light and competitive. They are typically made with ventilation systems to give the helmet a little A/C. They also 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 Motocross goggles have sturdy, lightweight frames with triple-layer “moisture-wicking” face foam, double lens 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.
	Neck Protection Possibly the next most important safety item next to a helmet is a neck brace. In the event that there is the potential for a neck injury, a brace could be the difference between a sore neck and a broken one.
	Jersey Because the motocross environment is an intensely physical environment, riders typically need outerwear that provides for cooling and ventilation, but that is also protective. Motocross jerseys are usually made with light, synthetic fibers and have mesh panels incorporated in them for improved breathability. Also, elbows should be padded.
	Elbow Guards Elbow guards have a high-impact plastic shell that protects the elbow and a portion of the forearm. The inside is made of ventilated, foam backed padding that provides both comfort and ventilation.
	Chest/Back Protection When a rider separates from the bike and it’s still moving, the potential for chest and/or back trauma is significant. Also, rocks and dirt clods from your buddy’s roost can be painful as well. Protect yourself with chest/back armor that fits either under your jersey (a “sub-frame” style) or over. The key feature for chest armor is that it is comfortable and flexible. A hard shell with multiple flex-points and Lycra with biofoam keeps you protected and moving.
	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.
	Pants Motocross pants usually accompany a matching jersey so they are made with the same lightweight synthetic fiber. They are designed to be comfortable in the ride position and have stretch panels in key points such as the knee. The also have leather inner knee panels to minimize chafing and heat, and are make to tuck comfortably in riding boots.
	Knee Protection Modern knee protection for motocross 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 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. Also, new motocross boots tend to be stiff to the point that you’ll notice a little trouble braking and shifting. Make sure give them a couple of easy rides to break them in properly.
	Gloves Motocross gloves come with a variety of unique features. Typically, a double-layer, abrasion-resistant palm will provide the needed grip while preventing the gloves from wearing too fast. Also, some sort of silicone grip on the lever fingertips help operate controls as they were intended to be.
	Gear Bag Motocross gear bags typically have a large compartment along with smaller divided areas. Many are vented to allow for moisture to evaporate, and have protective goggle pockets and sometimes a pull-out changing mat.
	Hydration Systems There are many popular low-profile backpack type hydration system that provide up to 2-3 hours of hydration and don’t interfere with helmets, etc. They also have external zip pockets that are good to store keys, wallet, cell phone, light tools etc.
	Underwear Any sort of lycra-based shirt/pant combo fits well underneath your motocross or enduro riding gear. Many manufacturers 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.
	Tear Offs In the event that you’re at the track 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.