Start Smart, Ride Safe
Getting into motocross is exciting - but before you hit the dirt, you’ll need the right gear. The right setup not only protects you but helps you ride with confidence – a huge bonus for those riders new to the sport. Here’s your essential beginner motocross gear checklist for 2026, powered by Alpinestars' innovation and performance.
1. Helmet
Your most important piece of gear – you should never ride a motorcycle of any kind without a helmet. Look for DOT/ECE-certified helmets with lightweight shells, advanced ventilation, and emergency-release systems. Correct fitment and sizing are essential for maximum protection. If possible, new riders should always visit a dealership or motocross gear retailer in person to get properly sized and learn to understand key details about how their helmet should fit.
➡️ Top pick: Alpinestars Supertech M10 or M7 – high-end performance with adjustable A-Head fitment system, rotational impact protection, and superior comfort for whatever kind of riding you’re doing. For the youth riders out there, the Alpinestars S-M3 Youth Helmet is a great option.
2. Boots
Protection starts from the ground up. Boots provide protection for your feet, ankles, and lower legs while also managing your bike control with the lower body. Comfort and feel on the footpegs whilst still maintaining a high level of protection is essential when choosing your motocross boots. You need a sturdy and secure feeling for your foot in the boot, whilst still being able to feel your gear shifter, rear brake pedal, and footpegs.
➡️ Top pick: For adult riders, the Alpinestars Tech 10 boots offer the ultimate levels of protection and support, while the Tech 7 boots are great for those who want a little more feeling and flexibility. Youth riders should look no further than the Alpinestars Tech 7S Youth boots.
3. Goggles
Keep vision clear against mud and dust, as well as changing lighting conditions, to ensure maximum clarity. You’ll want a large peripheral view, anti-fog lens coatings, and exceptional ventilation. Pro tip: It’s always handy to pack spare lenses along with tear-offs/roll-offs for changing weather and lighting conditions.
➡️ Top pick: The Alpinestars Supertech Goggles sit at the top when it comes to comfort and optical clarity. For youth riders, the Alpinestars Vision Youth Goggles are a solid choice.
4. Jersey & Pants
Motocross gear is very open to personal preference. The general approach is that your gear should move with you on the bike, feeling comfortable and non-restrictive, while also protecting against abrasion. Different lines of riding gear focus on different aspects of riding – decide if you want a more streamlined and lightweight fit with the premium lines, or more of a baggy and loose feel. Look for specific features such as ventilated mesh material in a jersey for warm weather riding or inner-knee leathers on the pants for maximum durability.
➡️ Top pick: Alpinestars Supertech Gear offers the highest level of race-ready features and performance, while the Alpinestars Racer Gear is the most popular for everyday comfort and durability.
5. Gloves
Good gloves mean better control. Your hands are one of the most critical contact points with the motorcycle, so ensuring the right set of gloves is essential. Choose between lightweight, minimalist gloves that offer palm protection to prevent blisters, or more heavy-duty material gloves with top-of-hand padding to help protect against roost.
➡️ Top pick: Alpinestars Radar Gloves - trusted by AMA Supercross and MXGP athletes for superior performance.
6. Body Armor & Protection
Even beginners should wear full-body protection. Protective pieces for the upper body include standard chest protectors, full protection jackets, and elbow guards, while for the lower body, padded shorts and pants, knee braces, and knee guards are all popular choices. Personal preference and comfort are big factors when it comes to your protective wear, but one thing is for sure – you can never have too much protective gear.
➡️ Top picks: The A-5 Plasma and A-4 Plasma Chest Protectors are 2 of the most popular choices of low profile chest protectors, while the Bionic Plasma LT Protection Jacket is a great choice for full upper body protection – also available in the Youth Bionic Plasma LT Protection Jacket for the youth riders.
7. Neck Support
Often overlooked but crucial for preventing neck injuries.
➡️ Top pick: BNS Tech-2 - lightweight carbon polymer neck brace designed to integrate with Alpinestars helmets and protectors.
8. Base Layers & Essentials
Stay cool, dry, and comfortable. Compression base layers regulate temperature and prevent chafing. Add boxers, hydration packs and MX socks to complete your setup.
Ride Ready: Build Your Kit with Alpinestars
Motocross demands gear that performs as hard as you do. Starting with premium protection and comfort means you’ll ride safer, progress faster, and have more fun on the track.
