I'm in the process of looking in to buying my first ATV, but wanted to know what type of apparel should I get, and where is the best place to buy it at?

 

i like fox racing and thor apparel the best. any dealership should sell it or you can get it online at http://www.rockymountainatv.com one brand that i don't like is ocelot. i think their jerseys are to plain.

 

I think the best gear out there is Thor. It is probably one of the most expensive but some of there jersey's are a mesh type and breath much better, and also shed water much better. Also there pants seems to be constructed much better. I got Ocelot as my first gear (because it is very cheap) and it was great to start but after a couple washes it started to fall apart... GOod luck...

86 TRX 250, 94 YZ 125

 

he said he is getting his first atv so i am thinking that he might not want to pay the price of the best right now.

 

Run don't walk to your local K-Mart right now. They are clearing out the winter fleece, shirts, sweatshirts, vests and windproof/waterproof (gore-tex like) lined/unlined jogging suits. Some pieces are $6.00 and up. Highest priced was $14.

Forty dollars will fix up up just fine.

 

carhartts work for me.

 

AAWORM,
You said that this is going to be your first ATV. Here is a minimum that should be worn while riding!! Long sleeve shirt, Pants, boots, helmet, goggles, and gloves.
Now, depeneding on how much you want to spend and the tyoe of riding you do will depend on what you buy.

Helmets: I recomend full face unless you like wearing false teeth, broken nose or stitches in your face. Other than that there are two standards, DOT and SNELL. SNELL helmets are tested to stricter standards. They are usually made from fiberglass or carbon fiber, These are better but not necessary unless you are getting a sport quad that you may end up crashing at 60-70mph. Starting price is around $200 and up. DOT Standard helmets is usually made of plastic. Good helmet for general riding purposes. How ever won't absorb impacts as well as the other types. If you are just trail riding then go with the DOT prices start around $35 and up.

Shirts: A long sleeve shirt is recommended. It is not necessary to have a uniform. however, these uniforms have been desinged for riding. They are usually more comfortable to wear all day in the hot sun. But for general trail riding a long sleeve shirt would be just as good and save a little money.

Pants: For general riding purposes regular levis or other material is perfectlly suitable. Again If you are going to be racing then go with the uniform. They are 100% more confortable. They are also padded. I personally prefer the uniform even for general rides. The Uniform is looser fitting and cooler to wear. I also wear biker shorts or spandex under the pants.

Gloves: You can get some Leather gloves and they are fine. MX Gloves are better for breathing and allow your hand to stay cooler. I really would recommend you get the gloves even for general trail riding.

Boots: Again this comes down to the type of riding. If you are racing then go with the MX boots!!! If you are just trail riding then a pair of high top hiking boots work just as well.

Goggles: Some people wear sunglasses but they are asking for trouble. Get the goggles they are 100 times better protection for your eyes. When you are riding behind someone they can flip up mud rocks, debris of all sorts. sunglasses just don't give you the protection you need. I would also recommend a roll off or tear off system. It is nice to have a fresh view when things get dusty and dirty.

Accessories: Shin/knee guards, and chest protectors are a personal choice. If you are racing then I would definetely get them If you are just trail riding you can get them if you have the money if not skip it. I personally wear them because I want as much protection as possible.

Other Items: Water packs, Fanny packs. I consider these items part of the riding attire. If you are out riding there is nothing better than to be able to take a drink while you are going. I wear a camelback full of water. I also wear a fanny pack that contains extra plugs, and a tubless tire repair kit.

As far as a place to buy stuff. I check the mail order places, watch for close out items!!! I bought my MX clothing (Answer team 2) at about half price!!! Pants for $50, jersey for $12, Gloves $8, boots $60.

anyway I hope this helps sorry for the long post. But you don't need to go out and spend $800 on gear unless you have the money and don't care. You can be sensible and have a great time riding without emptying your wallet.

 

Thanks everyone. All will be taken under consideration. I think the 'what is necessary' as oppose to 'type I should buy' is more important at the moment. ttaylor, very good over all - exactly what I was looking for.

Now is the hard part...finding that new machine. Good thing the bike show is in Chicago this weekend...any suggestions?

 

Also, try www.bobscycle.com for riding gear. They're closer to you, and you should save on shipping. Snell rated helmets are better that DOT rated helmets and start for around $ 110.00. Check Bob's specials too, some of the stuff is pretty inexpensive.