Buying Motocross Gear: The Key Points to Keep in Mind
This is what you need to know before hitting the track:
- The Right Fit: Choose a tight-fitting Athletic Fit for minimal air resistance or a comfortable Relaxed Fit with room for extra protection under your jersey.
- Abrasion Resistance and Heat Protection: A good pair of motocross pants has heat-resistant leather panels on the inside of the knees to protect you from hot exhaust pipes and abrasion from knee braces.
- Moisture Wicking: Modern jerseys are made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that quickly pull sweat away from your skin, so your body stays cool during a grueling lap.
- Complete Motocross Gear Set: Buying a complete set (pants and jersey) is often more cost-effective and ensures that your colors and fit seamlessly match one another.
- Extra Growing Room for Kids: Never buy kids' gear too big 'to grow into'. Oversized clothing will cause built-in or removable protectors to shift during a crash.
The Anatomy of Motocross Gear: Protection and Ventilation
Your motocross gear is your second skin on the track. Where regular sportswear tears immediately upon contact with the ground, motocross gear is constructed from extremely abrasion-resistant materials like 600D polyester. The pants are the most technical component. They are pre-shaped to fit the active rider attack position and feature stretch panels at strategic spots like the crotch and knees for maximum range of motion.
Ventilation is also extremely important. During a 20-minute lap, your body temperature rises extremely quickly. Jerseys are therefore equipped with perforated mesh panels under the armpits and on the back. This creates a constant airflow that effectively draws heat away. This prevents overheating and keeps you sharp all the way to the checkered flag.
Athletic Fit vs. Relaxed Fit: What Works for Your Riding Style?
Just like with helmets and boots, there are two distinct trends in motocross clothing for riders. Which fit you choose depends on your personal preference and how you wear your protective gear.
Athletic Fit: The Racer's Choice Brands like Alpinestars and 100% are increasingly designing their premium lines with a Athletic Fit This clothing fits snugly to the body, doesn't flap in the wind, and is made from extremely elastic materials. This minimizes the chance of getting caught on something and gives a modern, streamlined look. Keep in mind: this fit is designed to be worn with protective onder gear under your jersey, or with a very slim-fitting body protector.
Relaxed Fit: Comfort and Room If you prefer to ride recreationally, or wear a bulky body protector over your jersey? Then the traditional Relaxed Fit your best friend. This clothing fits a bit looser on the body and offers plenty of room for thick knee guards, elbow guards, and a kidney belt. It delivers a classic look and maximum comfort for long days in the dirt.
Size Guide and the 'Anti-Frustration' Fit Guarantee
Nothing is more frustrating than a pair of motocross pants that slip down while riding or a jersey that is too tight around your forearms. Because every brand fits differently – Alpinestars often runs more slim and true to Italian sizing, while Acerbis is known for a very forgiving, easy fit – accurate measurements are important.
Measure your waist circumference at the spot where your pants normally sit (just above your hips) and account for the protective gear you will wear underneath them. If you wear thick knee braces? When in doubt, size up so that the pant legs do not pinch at your knees.
For young riders, the rule is: never buy gear to grow into. If a kids' motocross gear set is too big, the knee panels and hip protectors will shift, causing them to lose their effectiveness. Unsure about the fit while checking it out at home? No stress. Send the gear back to MXProStoreParts without hassle, and we will immediately exchange it for the correct size. Your focus should be on the track, not on a return label.
Maintenance Tips for Your Motocross Gear Set
Mud, sweat, and grease slowly break down the elastic fibers of your gear. With proper care, your motocross gear set will stay looking clean and fresh for seasons to come.
The Washing Machine: Rinse off the worst caked-on mud first with a garden hose after a muddy ride. Then wash the gear inside out on a maximum temperature of 30 degrees. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener; this will damage the breathable coatings and the elasticity of the fabrics.
The Dryer is Forbidden: Never put your motocross pants and jersey in the dryer. The intense heat will damage the sublimation prints (causing the colors to fade) and melt the elastic components. Simply hang the gear on a hanger to dry; thanks to the fast-drying fabrics, your set will be dry again in no time.
Velcro: Always close all zippers and Velcro closures on your motocross pants before loading them into the washing machine. Unfastened Velcro can severely damage the fine mesh material of your jersey during washing.
