Before you give your ATV some significant gas, you'll wish to ensure you've planned for your off-road adventure with the appropriate equipment to safeguard on your own and protect against any type of injuries. Correctly picked clothing and tools not just maintains you much safer as well as a cleaner while ATV riding, yet it can also make hrs invested in your vehicle a whole lot much more comfortable.
What To Wear ATV Riding
You want to get home unhurt after ATV riding. So, below is the safety apparel you need to wear when riding an ATV.
- Gloves
- Helmet
- Long-sleeved shirt and pants
- Goggles
- Riding boots
- ATV communications system

1. Gloves
This is possibly among one of the most overlooked aspects when individuals are preparing for journey holidays but might become among the most essential. Gloves are one of the safety garments to cover your hands against blisters on the steering wheel of your ATV. Besides, gloves secure you from rocks if you fall on the ground.
When picking gloves to put on, you should check if it has a flexible wrist or plenty of extra padding.
If you are riding in warm problems, you need to consider wearing well-ventilated and light-colored gloves. When riding in chilly conditions, you must take into consideration using waterproof gloves to stop water from coming into contact with your hands.
If you enjoy some serious riding, you most likely intend to think about pro-style gloves, something with a great hold that will certainly improve your hold on the handlebars. Riding equipment is conveniently readily available around the web and you can look for something vented that will let your hands take a breath.
If your riding will be a little bit much more casual, any large house renovation shop will certainly have a selection of light work gloves that must do the trick.
For something flashier, consider soccer goalkeeper handwear covers located at sporting products shops.

2. Helmet
Security is always a priority when riding off-road vehicles. The single most important point you'll put on is a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet.
A helmet is one of the most vital clothing you need to always use when riding an ATV. Riding without your safety helmet is dangerous as you might fall and also harm your head.
There are helmets, particularly for off-road flights that satisfy maximum security problems. Select a top-quality safety helmet with a port for goggles, a durable guard, and also one helmet that fits your head well.

3. Long-sleeved Shirt And Pants
What clothing should be worn when riding ATVs? This might be a problem for many ATV beginner riders. Actually, it is not that complicated. Here are some tips you should know:
Always protect your own from sunburns or rock debris by putting on a long-sleeved shirt. You can choose a color that will certainly be easy to clean due to the fact that you will get dirt when riding.
For the shirt, you can think about using a jacket that fits you well and also will certainly not limit you from making movements when riding.
If you are riding in damp conditions, you can put on a waterproof jacket.
About pants, there are pants made for off-road riding and also usually featured knee pads to safeguard your knee if you drop or collision.
Since you will make a lot of body movements throughout the riding, you need to think about obtaining comfortable pants that do not restrict movements.

4. Goggles
If your helmet doesn't consist of a faceguard, wear unbreakable goggles to keep dust and also dirt out while allowing enough airflow to minimize fogging. Goggles are a crucial safety and convenience thing that everyone ought to use.
Goggle is essential to secure your eyes from dirt and also sunlight that might limit your vision when riding your ATV.
Pick goggles that fit your helmet well and whose lenses are removable if they are scratched throughout autumn or from flying debris.

5. Riding Boots
You've pertained to tropical heaven to allow loosened, as well as surely you have actually brought your flip flops, shoes, perhaps your amazing aqua shoes. They're all geared in the direction of freeing your feet from the city or cold-weather constraints and also primed to put your toes in the sand.
These shoes may be fine for walking on a coastline, and even a light nature stroll. However, if you're whipping with a sturdy surface, you wish to keep your feet secure. Best to select something sturdy, such as trekking boots, that can use some ankle defense.
However, a fundamental set of tennis shoes will certainly shield your feet from any kind of bits of the brush or kicked up stones that might endanger to strike your feet.
Choosing footwear that is perfect for you is one more precaution to take. Select long boots that cover your upper hands to the knee.
Get boots with a great sole that will certainly stop you from obtaining stuck in the mud if you ride throughout the sloppy period.
What boots provide ankle support for trail riding?
| Best Ankle Support Boots for ATV Riding |
Benefits |
| Alpinestars Tech 7 Boots |
Designed for off-road/enduro; has a biomechanical pivot system for flex + stability and strong TPU structure. |
| Alpinestars Tech 7 Boots |
Lightweight but still protective; good for trail riders who don’t want super stiff MX boots. |
| Alpinestars Tech 10 Boots |
Premium-level protection: dual blade system helps prevent ankle rotation, super durable. |
| Gaerne Fastback Enduro Boots |
Has a wrap-around ankle pivot system for very good lateral support, but also flexible. |
| Sidi Adventure 2 Gore‑Tex |
Adventure‑style boot with good ankle and shin protection – more walkable. |
| Forma Adventure Low Boots |
Mid-height, TPU protection around ankle, easier to walk in than full MX boots. |
| O’Neal Element Boots |
Good budget-friendly option with impact protection, a solid sole, and ankle support. |
| Sedici Vertice Waterproof Boots |
Water-resistant + protective; good for muddy or wet trails without sacrificing ankle stability. |
| Alpinestars Tech 10 Enduro |
Known for unmatched ankle protection and a dual-hinge system. |
| Klim Adventure Gore‑Tex Boots |
From Motorcycle.com: reinforced ankle protection + structure + comfort for long trail or adventure rides. |
| Fox Bomber Boots |
More of a short boot, but WebBikeWorld notes they still give “decent ankle support” for ATV-style riding. |

6. ATV Communications System
Riding ATVs with family and friends is a wonderful method to link and bond over your love of outdoor journeys.
Fodsports Systems' revolutionary Bluetooth communicators are the most effective ATV headgear interactions system for staying connected while you're on the trail.
They're hands-free as well as voice-operated, so you don't need to eliminate your hands from the handlebars, and you can also respond to calls or stream songs from your smart device with simply a few straightforward voice commands.
Fodsports Solution additionally uses innovative ATV communications system designs with Dynamic Mesh Communication to provide you with much better performance, larger networks, and also interaction over a much longer distance.

ATV Mudding Clothes Considerations
If you're intending to ride in the mud, after that think about jumping into some waders before you go out. At least, you'll wish to use path riding garments you do not mind obtaining filthy, but that are durable sufficient to take on some determined wear-and-tear.
Constantly wear a long sleeve tee shirt to shield yourself from particles, as well as long-term sunlight direct exposure.
A riding jacket or safety vest supplies added defense in case you take a tumble as well as shields you from flying debris and also various other aspects while riding. An excellent riding jacket ought to be well ventilated, provide an unrestricted variety of motion as well as be water-resistant.
Use layers especially if you're riding in cold weather and make certain you're planning for the components with a waterproof riding jacket.
While it's alluring to throw on some old pants for your off-roading journey, you'll intend to make the effort to dress for both comforts as well as safety.
What to wear for ATV riding woman?
Because women's ATV equipment has specific sizing requirements, men's ATV safety gear is not suitable for female ATV riders.
Now, many ATV equipment brands cater to this need of female riders. They have designed gear specifically tailored for women and ideal for ATV riding.
Here are some suggestions on what clothing female riders should wear when riding ATVs:
-
- Helmet
- A DOT-approved full-face or off-road helmet is non-negotiable.
- Eye Protection
- Use tight-fitting goggles — they keep out dust, mud, and debris.
- Upper Body
- Long sleeves: a jersey or lightweight jacket protects from scrapes and sun.
- Consider a padded/armored vest or jacket if riding rough terrain.
- Lower Body
- Tough, long pants — not jeans necessarily, but off-road or trail riding pants with reinforced areas.
- Gloves
- Full-finger riding gloves are a must for grip and hand protection.
- Footwear
- Over-the-ankle boots — hiking or dedicated riding boots for ankle support.
- Layers / Extras
- Bring a rain shell or lightweight jacket — weather can change quickly.
- Optional: body armor (chest, back), especially for more aggressive riding.
Here are some recommended women's ATV riding gear:
| Women-Specific ATV Riding Gear Picks |
Benefits |
| Fox Ranger Jersey |
Breathable and made for dirt riding. |
| Fox Ranger Off‑Road Pants |
Stretch panels + reinforced knees. |
| BILT Blaze 3 Mesh Jacket |
Great airflow for hot days. |
| BILT Blaze 3 Mesh Pants |
Mesh design plus reflective bits. |
| Willbros Women’s Jersey/Pants Combo |
A full set, good value. |
| O'Neal Element Women’s Pants |
Rugged and built to last. |
| Alpinestars Stella Tech 3 Boots |
Ankle support + off-road protection. |
| Leatt ReaFlex Women’s Body Protector |
Impact protection shaped for women. |
| KLIM Women's Artemis Jacket |
Durable and designed in various colors + high-performance in different weather. |
In addition, women ATV riders should adjust their gear according to the weather to ensure comfort.
- Hot weather: Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking synthetic underwear and breathable sweatshirts and pants to stay cool. Neck warmers or headscarves help protect against sun and dust.
- Cold weather: It is recommended to wear thermal underwear, a warm mid-layer (such as a fleece sweater), and a windproof, preferably waterproof, jacket and pants. Warm gloves and a balaclava are also good choices.
What Do Children Need To Take Care Of When Riding ATV?
Have your child wear safety and security equipment whenever hopping on an ATV.
This action will certainly emphasize the relevance of safety and security equipment and also aid to create secure riding behaviors.
To effectively place the ATV, first check that the emergency brake is established. Mounting is from the side, placing the left foot on the footrest (if mounting from the left). Be careful not to step on the shift lever (if the vehicle is furnished with one).
The other leg is swung over the seat and also placed on the various other footrests. Care should be taken to relax the feet in the middle of the footrests. This allows correct use of the change lever and also the rear brake.
When installed, the child must assume the appropriate riding posture. Dismounting turns around the mounting treatment. With the emergency brake established, the leg is swung over the seat onto the ground. The other foot is then gotten rid of from the footrest. Correct riding posture assists your child to operate the controls.

An appropriate straight-line riding pose consists of:
- Head as well as eyes up, looking well ahead.
- Shoulders loosened up, back right.
- Arm joints curved, slightly out and away from the body.
- Hands on the handlebars.
- Knees in.
- Feet on the footrests, toes aiming straight ahead.
Can You Ride An ATV Without A Safety Helmet?
Actually, all quad bike bikers, whether on or off-road, should wear a safety helmet as well as appropriate protective apparel.
Presently, there is no legislation needing you to do this-- but offered there have been some extremely serious crashes when not wearing this gear, taking this precaution is definitely essential.
What Is The Greatest Benefit Of Wearing An ATV Helmet?
- Aids prevent significant head injury.
- Full-face headgears secure both your head and face. They provide the most effective defense throughout a collision, shield from tree branches and also falls, provide heat, and protect from loud noises.
- Open-face helmets are lighter as well as cooler however must be put on with eye protection.
- Can raise your exposure after dark if you include a strip of reflective tape to your safety helmet.
What Must I Carry During Off-road Trip
When you start your off-road trip, you ought to bring some products.
These products include a License, ATV enrollment, flashlight, maps, general practitioner tool, cellphone, first aid kit, food, pocket knife, and some cash.
If you are traveling with a companion, you can bring Bluetooth intercoms to make the connection between you even stronger.
What To Wear When Riding ATV In Desert?
Desert conditions are constantly hot and also dirty; therefore, you need specific items for such weather conditions for a safe and comfy ride.
When riding in the desert, you will certainly need to protect your eyes and skin. Use sunglasses to secure your eyes against sun rays and dirt and also sun cream to safeguard your skin from the sunshine.
Guarantee you have handwear covers due to the fact that the guiding wheel will certainly fume very quickly.
| Desert ATV Riding Gear |
Detalis |
| Helmet |
A well-ventilated, DOT-certified helmet is crucial. |
| Goggles |
High-quality anti-fog goggles, preferably with tinted or amber lenses. |
| Bandana/buff |
Wrap it around your neck or face to block dust, or soak it in water to help cool down. |
| Moisture-Wicking Base Layers |
Wear lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon next to your skin. |
| Long-Sleeved Jersey/Jacket |
Opt for lighter color ventilated riding jerseys or mesh jackets designed for hot weather to maximize airflow. |
| Long Pants |
Look for pants with ventilation zones and stretch panels for comfort and flexibility. |
| Over-the-Ankle Boots |
Sturdy over-the-ankle boots with good grip provide essential foot and ankle protection and stability on the footrests. |
| Gloves |
Full-finger, lightweight, breathable options with reinforced palms are ideal for hot conditions. |
| Hydration System |
Bring enough water because dehydration happens fast in the desert. |
| Sunscreen and Lip Balm |
Apply high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen to all exposed skin and use SPF lip balm. |

How to layer clothing for hot and cold ATV rides?
Hot Weather ATV Riding Layering
The goal for ATV riding layers in hot weather is to stay cool, covered for sun protection, and manage sweat.
| ATV Riding Layering(Hot Weather) |
Detalis |
| Base Layer (Moisture Management) |
Choose lightweight, long-sleeved, moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics (polyester blends) or merino wool. |
| Mid Layer (Optional) |
Most times, you won't need this when it's crazy hot. If you think the temperature might drop, a light vest or softshell jacket in your bag is a good idea. |
| Outer Layer (Protection & Ventilation) |
A ventilated riding jersey or light mesh jacket. Lighter colors reflect sunlight and heat better. |
| Other Accessories |
A hydration pack, sunscreen, and a neck gaiter for dust/sun protection are essential. |
Cold Weather ATV Riding Layering
For cold weather ATV Riding Layers, they should be able to trap body heat, block wind, and stay dry from both outside moisture and sweat.
| ATV Riding Layering(Cold Weather) |
Detalis |
| Base Layer (Moisture Management) |
Choose thermal or heavyweight synthetic fabrics or merino wool long underwear. |
| Mid Layer (Insulation) |
Fleece jackets or pullovers, synthetic insulated vests, or even heated gear. Multiple thinner layers can be more versatile than one thick one. |
| Outer Layer (Protection & Ventilation) |
A waterproof and windproof shell or an all-weather riding suit with sealed seams. Ensure it's breathable to let sweat escape. |
| Other Accessories |
Insulated, waterproof gloves and boots, thick socks (wool or synthetic), a balaclava or neck gaiter, and a helmet liner are crucial for keeping extremities warm. |
What not to wear on an ATV?
Here’s what not to wear when riding an ATV — in simple, no-BS terms:
- Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or any open-toed shoes — they offer zero protection.
- Don’t wear shorts or tank tops — exposed skin = more risk of cuts, burns, or getting scraped.
- Stay away from loose, baggy, or dangling clothes (hoodies, strings, belts) — they can catch on stuff or your vehicle.
- Skip the bling — jewelry can snag or even rip in a crash.
Can you wear Crocs for ATV riding?
No, you shouldn't wear Crocs shoes on an ATV.
You may notice that Crocs shoes are generally loose-fitting, with an open heel, lacking support and grip. These features make them unable to provide sufficient foot and ankle protection for ATV riding. On uneven terrain or in the event of a collision, Crocs shoes increase your risk of sprains and fractures.
Furthermore, the foam material and design of Crocs shoes offer little protection against engine heat, flying rocks, branches, or impacts.
Additionally, Crocs shoes can become very slippery when wet, even with socks. This can affect your stability on the pedals.
In short, Crocs shoes may be comfortable, but they are not safe for ATV riding. Athletic shoes or hiking boots are the bare minimum—but riding boots are best.
Can you wear sandals/slides/flip-flops while ATV riding?
No, never wear sandals, slides, or flip-flops while riding an ATV. This poses a serious safety hazard.
Most ATV safety guidelines out there will tell you the same thing.
Sandals/slides/flip-flops don't give you any support for your ankles. If your foot slides off, or if there is a collision or rollover, you're way more likely to twist or break something. Ouch!
Plus, sandals/slides/flip-flops expose your feet to hot engine parts, rocks, branches, and flying debris. This means you could suffer burns or serious injury. No fun, right?
Moreover, they can slip off or get stuck, making it difficult to effectively operate the foot brake or accelerator. That's a recipe for a crash.
Conclusion
To summarize, taking ATV rides with friends and family produces adequate time for bonding. Besides bonding, you need to prioritize safety by selecting the best clothes for ATV riding.
The enjoyment of riding comes when you venture out unharmed by taking precautions by what to endure ATV riding. So, pack the essentials that offer you comfort and security before going off-road.
What is high hours for an ATV? And also high mileage?
Rodney L is a technical writer and product consultant with over a decade of experience in the motor industry. Rodney is a fan of performance machines that run fast and loud and an expert in all things custom. His numerous articles and write-ups are available at our knowledge base. Whether it’s something wrong with your motorcycle or you are building a custom bike, you can trust Rodney’s experience.