Gear Guide for Off Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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