Motocross Gear for Beginners: What You Really Need

Buying motocross gear as a beginner can get expensive very quickly. Helmets, boots, goggles, knee protection, body protection and clothing are available in almost every price range, which makes it difficult to know what you actually need.

When I started motocross, most of my gear was cheap, old or borrowed from family and friends. Over the years, I tried different products and gradually upgraded almost everything. Today, I use much more expensive gear, but that does not mean a beginner needs to buy the same equipment immediately.

This guide explains which motocross gear I would prioritise as a beginner, where you can save money and which upgrades made the biggest difference for me.
If you are completely new to the sport, start with my guide on how to start motocross.

What motocross gear does a beginner need?

For your first rides, you should at least have the basic protective equipment needed to ride safely and comfortably.

• Motocross helmet
• Goggles
• Motocross boots
• Knee protection
• Body protector
• Gloves
• Motocross jersey
• Motocross pants

You do not need premium versions of every item. I would spend most of the budget on the equipment that protects you and save money on things that mainly affect appearance or comfort.

1. A helmet should be your first priority

A helmet is the item I would take the most time choosing. My first helmet cost around €100, but after riding for a while I discovered that it did not fit my head shape properly. It created pressure points and eventually became painful.

Today, I ride with an Arai MX-V EVO in Frost Black, with custom graphics. It is much more comfortable for me, but that does not mean the same helmet will be perfect for everyone.

The best helmet is not simply the most expensive one. It is the helmet that fits your head properly.

I would personally always buy a helmet new. For other gear, second-hand equipment can sometimes be a good way to save money, but with a helmet I want to know its history and condition.

2. Good boots are worth investing in

When I started, I used an old pair of boots from my uncle. They were good enough to start riding, but later I upgraded to Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS boots.

The difference in comfort and support was noticeable for me. Boots are something I would spend more money on once you know that you want to continue riding motocross.

3. Knee guards or knee braces?

I started with simple knee guards that I received from someone I knew. Later, I switched to Leatt C-Frame knee braces.

That change felt strange at first. With basic knee guards, you barely notice anything between your legs and the bike. Knee braces wrap much further around your legs, so when I first used them it felt like I could not grip the bike in the same way.

After some time, I got used to them. Now I would not want to go back. For me, the extra protection is worth the initial discomfort.

Some protective gear feels strange at first. Give yourself time to get used to it before deciding that it does not work for you.

4. Body protection, goggles and gloves

I currently use an Alpinestars A-1 body protector and wear body protection every time I ride. The same applies to my knee braces and the rest of my protective equipment.

For goggles, I use several different models. Most of my normal goggles are 100% Armega, while I use 100% Accuri goggles with a roll-off system when conditions require it.

Goggles are also an area where beginners can save money. You do not need the most expensive goggles immediately. As long as they fit your helmet properly and provide clear vision, a simpler model can be enough.

5. Do you need expensive motocross clothing?

No. A jersey and pants are probably the easiest places to save money when you start.

Today, I ride in custom motocross kits from Jopa in Enter, but when I started I simply used an old suit from my father. It did the job.

Expensive or custom clothing can look better and may feel nicer, but it will not suddenly make you a better rider. I would put that money towards your helmet, boots or knee protection first.

Can you buy motocross gear second-hand?

In my experience, a lot of motocross gear can be bought second-hand if it is still in good condition. Boots, clothing, body protection and some knee protection can all be possibilities.

I would personally make an exception for the helmet and buy that new. For everything else, check the condition carefully and make sure it fits correctly.

If you want to know how much a complete setup can cost, read my beginner guide to motocross costs.

My current motocross gear

• Helmet: Arai MX-V EVO
• Boots: Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS
• Knee braces: Leatt C-Frame
• Body protector: Alpinestars A-1
• Goggles: 100% Armega and 100% Accuri
• Clothing: Custom Jopa motocross kits

These are products that work well for me after trying different equipment over several years. They are not automatically the best choice for every rider. Fit, comfort, budget and personal preference are different for everyone.

Frequently asked questions

What motocross gear should a beginner buy first?

I would prioritise a helmet, boots, knee protection, body protection and goggles. Clothing and accessories can be upgraded later.

Do beginners need expensive motocross gear?

No. Spend more where protection and fit matter, but start simple with clothing, goggles and accessories if your budget is limited.

Final thoughts

When I started motocross, almost none of my equipment was premium. Some of it was old, some was borrowed and some was simply inexpensive.

Over time, I upgraded almost everything and discovered which products felt best for me. The more gear you try, the better you understand what fits your body and riding style.

You do not need the most expensive gear to start motocross. Start with safe equipment, ride regularly and upgrade when you know what you actually need.

If I started again today, I would spend more money on a good helmet, boots and knee protection and keep the rest simple.

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