By Occasion

Gear Guide for Off Road

Off-roading is all about exploring rugged terrains and tackling unpredictable trails. No matter how tough the trail gets, the right gear can make all the difference. Unlike commuting and touring gear, off-road riding gear demands not just protection and comfort, but also adaptability and freedom of movement to handle unpredictable terrain. Mud, gravel, dust storms, river crossings, and rocky climbs - the terrain throws everything at you. Which means your gear can't just be "good enough" - it has to be rugged, purpose-built, and ready for chaos. Here’s a practical, no-nonsense guide to off-road riding gear that balances protection, comfort, and adventure-readiness.

Jackets That Breathe Yet Protect

Off-road riding needs flexibility and airflow more than heavy-duty, built-in armour. Lightweight jackets with abrasion resistance, strategic ventilation zones, and a relaxed, adaptable fit to accommodate dedicated off-road armour systems work best.

What to Look For?

  • Abrasion-Resistant Materials: Tough enough to handle falls, slides, and brush contact
  • Ventilation: Breathable mesh panels and ventilated designs to keep you cool in the heat
  • Armour Compatibility & Fit: Sufficient room and adjustability to comfortably wear different types of dedicated off-road armour underneath
  • Reflective Elements: For visibility when riding in low-light conditions
Top Picks!
Corbett Monochrome - OFF ROAD TRAIL RIDING JACKET

Corbett Monochrome - OFF ROAD TRAIL RIDING JACKET

Pants Built for Trails

Unlike daily-wear jeans or even touring pants, off-road riding demands pants that can handle abrasion, impacts, and constant body movement. You need gear that offers abrasion resistance, protection at critical points, and enough room and flexibility to accommodate dedicated off-road protective gear while standing, moving, and riding aggressively on the trails.

What to Look For?

  • Abrasion-Resistant Fabrics: Cordura, Kevlar, or tough textile blends designed to withstand repeated wear, slides, and brush contact
  • Protection & Compatibility: CE-rated knee and hip armour, along with sufficient space and adjustability to wear dedicated off-road knee guards or braces underneath
  • Stretch Panels: Strategically placed stretch zones to allow unrestricted movement and comfort when standing on the pegs
  • Ventilation: Mesh panels or breathable linings to keep you cool during slow, technical, or high-effort off-road riding
Top Picks!
Corbett Monochrome - OFF ROAD TRAIL RIDING JACKET

Corbett Monochrome - OFF ROAD TRAIL RIDING JACKET

Corbett Monochrome - Off Road Trail Riding Pants

Corbett Monochrome - Off Road Trail Riding Pants

Body Armour to Protect Before You Fall

You’re going to fall - that’s part of off-roading. A good set of body armour is your first and best line of defense. Chest protectors, elbow guards, knee guards, and a neck brace can make all the difference. 

What To Look For?

  • CE-Level 1 or 2 protection
  • Ventilated and flexible designs for comfort
  • Easy to wear - under or over a jersey
  • Adjustable straps for a snug fit
Top Picks!

Gloves Built for Dirt

Gloves are a must for off-roading. They not only protect your hands from the external elements and abrasions, but also provide the grip and control that you need for tricky and off-road terrain. 

What To Look For?

  • Abrasion-resistant material: Tough palms and knuckle protectors to prevent injuries in falls
  • Breathability: Mesh or perforated designs to keep your hands cool and dry
  • Grip and control: Anti-slip palm material for better handling, especially in muddy conditions
  • Protection: Reinforced knuckles and palm protection for added security
Top Picks!
ROOST v2 – OFFROAD MOTORCYCLE GLOVES

ROOST v2 – OFFROAD MOTORCYCLE GLOVES

ROOST – OFFROAD TRAIL RIDING MOTORCYCLE GLOVES

ROOST – OFFROAD TRAIL RIDING MOTORCYCLE GLOVES

Boots That Shield and Support

Ankle injuries are super common off-road. Regular touring boots won’t cut it — you need rugged boots with ankle bracing, reinforced soles, and high torsion resistance 

What To Look For?

  • Ankle Protection: Reinforced ankles to prevent injury during falls
  • Sole Grip: Aggressive tread for traction on slippery or uneven surfaces
  • Weather Resistance: Essential for unexpected rain or wet conditions
  • Comfort: Padding and breathable linings for longer rides
Top Picks!

Smart Storage: Hydration Packs and Trail Bags

When you're riding off-road, you need hydration, tools, maybe a snack - but you don't want to be carrying a heavy backpack that throws off your balance. 

What To Look For?

  • Waterproofing: Protect your gear from the elements with waterproof materials or rain covers
  • Compartmentalised Storage: For easy access to your gear
  • Comfortable Straps: Make sure the bag won’t affect your riding balance or get in the way of your movements
  • Secure Fit: Make sure the bag won’t affect your riding balance or get in the way of your movements
Top Picks!
MARINE NEO HYDRATION PACK WITH INCL. HYDRAPAK 2L BLADDER (BLACK)

MARINE NEO HYDRATION PACK WITH INCL. HYDRAPAK 2L BLADDER (BLACK)

100% Waterproof Handlebar Bag

100% Waterproof Handlebar Bag

If you’re carrying your helmet into the office and metro, this makes it hassle-free
RE HIMALAYAN 450 TRAILPACK LITE

RE HIMALAYAN 450 TRAILPACK LITE

KTM ADV/Enduro 250/390 TrailPack (2025-)

KTM ADV/Enduro 250/390 TrailPack (2025-)

Rain Gear for Unpredictable Weather

Off-road riding means encountering all types of weather. You could start under clear skies and end up in a downpour. A lightweight, packable rain suit is essential for off-road riders who want to stay dry without adding extra bulk. 

What To Look For?

  • Compact and foldable design: To store in your backpack or tail bag without taking up too much space
  • Waterproofing: Keep the rain out, but also ensure breathability
  • Reflective details: For visibility if you're caught in low light conditions
Top Picks!
M200 - Rain Jacket

M200 - Rain Jacket

M200 - Rain Pants

M200 - Rain Pants

Start with Basics - Your Helmet!

Off-road falls are almost guaranteed and they are often messier than road crashes. Your helmet must offer full-protection, a great ventilation system for long rides, and a secure fit. It is not just about surviving a crash, it is more about keeping up with nature’s toughest challenges. 

What To Look For?

  • Safety Certifications: ISI+ECE+DOT (dual preferred)
  • Good ventilation to reduce heat and moisture buildup
  • Lightweight shell for better comfort during extended rides
  • Secure fit with a DD ring to keep the helmet snug during intense off-roading
  • Ensure to have goggles compatibility to adapt to varying light conditions
  • Extended chin bar for better breathing
  • Removable washable liners

In Conclusion

Off-road riding may be a hobby, but it demands serious gear. Purpose-built off-road equipment isn’t an upgrade—it’s the difference between enjoying the trail and suffering or risking injury. Choose gear that offers the right protection, comfort, and confidence to ride every trail to its fullest.

Frequently
Asked Questions

Can I use my street riding gear for off-road rides?

Serious off-roading needs purpose-built lightweight and flexible gear for better safety and comfort.

Are off-road boots important for off-road riding?

Absolutely. Your ankles and shins take a beating during off-road falls - good boots can literally save your bones.

Are mesh jackets good enough for trails?

No, street mesh jackets are not ideal for off-road riding. While they offer excellent airflow, they are designed for fixed, upright riding postures typically seen in commuting and touring.

Off-road riding involves constant body movement—standing on the pegs, shifting weight, and aggressive upper-body input. Street mesh jackets, with armour built into fixed pockets, tend to be more restrictive and allow the armour to shift out of position during movement, reducing its effectiveness in the event of a fall or crash.

Purpose-built off-road jackets are designed to allow unrestricted movement and to be worn over dedicated off-road armour, ensuring protection stays correctly positioned when it matters most.

Is hydration gear necessary for off-roading?

Yes. Dehydration hits faster than you expect off-road, so carrying a hydration pack is smart.