What Gear Do I Need for Dirt Biking?

Gear questions are the number one thing we hear from women thinking about trying dirt biking. How much do I need? What's essential vs. nice-to-have? Do I have to spend $2,000 before I even get on a bike?

The short answer: no. Here's a practical, no-nonsense breakdown of what you actually need — organized by priority so you can gear up without breaking the bank.

The Non-Negotiables (Must-Have)

These are the items you absolutely need before any ride. No exceptions.

DOT-Approved Helmet

The most important piece of gear you'll own. A proper dirt bike (motocross) helmet has a visor, chin guard, and is designed for off-road impacts. Women often need smaller sizes than they expect — get measured and make sure it fits snugly without pressure points. Never buy a used helmet — you don't know its crash history.

Goggles

Not sunglasses. Proper MX goggles seal against your helmet to protect from dust, rocks, branches, and roost (debris kicked up by other riders). Make sure they fit your helmet with no gaps at the top or bottom.

Boots

Over-the-ankle MX boots with a stiff sole. This is the piece most beginners underestimate. Regular hiking boots won't protect your ankles from the lateral forces of dirt riding — rocks, ruts, and tip-overs put serious stress on your feet and shins. Proper MX boots make a massive difference in both safety and confidence.

Gloves

MX-specific gloves are ideal — they're designed for grip on handlebars and protection from blisters and branches. For your very first ride, any full-finger glove works in a pinch.

Long Pants & Long-Sleeve Top

Riding pants with built-in padding are the goal. For your first time, sturdy jeans work. Pair with a long-sleeve MX jersey or a lightweight jacket. The key is covering skin — branches, rocks, and the bike itself can scrape you up.

Strongly Recommended

Once you know you're hooked (and you will be), add these:

• Chest/back protector (roost guard) — Protects your torso from rocks, branches, and impacts. Lightweight and worn over or under your jersey.
• Knee guards or knee braces — Your knees take a beating on the trails. Even basic knee guards make a significant difference.
• Neck brace — Reduces the risk of neck injury in a crash. Especially important for trail riding and more aggressive terrain.
• Riding-specific pants with built-in padding — Purpose-built MX pants have hip, knee, and tailbone protection sewn in. Much more comfortable than jeans for longer rides.

Nice-to-Have Upgrades

These aren't essential for getting started, but they make riding more comfortable as you progress:

• Hydration pack — A small backpack with a water bladder. Staying hydrated on the trails is critical, especially on longer rides.
• Riding-specific socks — Tall, padded socks prevent blisters and keep your boots comfortable.
• Elbow guards — Extra protection for your arms on technical terrain.
• Kidney belt — Supports your lower back and core during long rides.
• Phone mount — Handlebar-mounted for trail navigation apps.

Gear Tips for Women & Smaller Riders

What About Bike Gear?

Body gear gets you riding. Bike gear protects your investment. The essentials for your bike include handguards (protect your levers and hands from branches), a skid plate (protects the engine from rocks), and radiator guards.

For dialing in how the bike fits your body, read our suspension setup guide — getting the right sag and seat height makes a huge difference for shorter and lighter riders.

Budget Guide

Here's roughly what to expect at each level:

Many clinics — including Dirtastic beginner events — include gear rental. Don't let the cost of gear stop you from trying. You can always start with rental gear and buy your own once you know you're hooked.