Kids Motorcycle Safety Gear: 10 Must-Have Items

Updated: 14.05.25

Introducing kids to motorcycling is thrilling, but safety comes first. Discover the top 10 must-have safety gear items to keep young riders protected on every adventure. Prioritising proper gear ensures they enjoy the ride without compromising safety. Check out our Comprehensive Guide to Kids Motorbikes for more tips!

1. Helmet: The Ultimate Protection

A helmet is the cornerstone of kids’ motorcycle safety. Full-face helmets with DOT certification and ECE 22.05 ratings offer maximum protection. Ensure a snug fit to safeguard young riders.

Related: Get the Right Motorcycle Helmet Fit

2. Body Armour: A Second Skin

Body armour, like armoured jackets and trousers, acts as a robust shield. Made from leather or textile, it protects against falls and abrasions, making it essential kids’ motorcycle gear.

Related: 5 Things Your Kids Should Never Do on a Motorbike

3. Gloves: Safeguarding Small Hands

Gloves protect hands from abrasions and elements. Choose gloves with a 1 KP rating to ensure durability and safety for young riders.

Shop our kids’ motorcycle gloves for quality options.

4. Boots: Strong Foundations

Motocross boots with high safety ratings (e.g., multiple ‘2’ ratings) protect feet and ankles. Pre-curved designs ensure comfort and security during rides.

5. Goggles: Clear Vision, Safe Rides

Goggles shield eyes from dust, debris, and wind, ensuring clear vision. They’re vital motocross accessories for safe riding.

Related: Motorcycle Safety Tips: Visor vs. Goggles

6. Knee Pads: Joint Protection

Knee pads guard against impacts and abrasions, keeping young riders’ knees safe during rough rides.

Related: How to Wear Dirt Bike Knee Pads for Safety

7. Elbow Pads: Silent Guardians

Elbow pads protect these critical joints, ensuring balance and safety during every ride.

8. Over-Clothes: Extra Protection

Motocross jerseys and trousers, made from textile or leather, shield regular clothes from damage while adding a protective layer.

9. Reflective Gear: Stay Visible

Reflective gear enhances visibility, especially at night, making young riders stand out to other road users.

Related: How to Ride a Motorbike at Night

10. Earplugs: Protect Hearing

Earplugs reduce harmful noise from the road, protecting young riders’ hearing for a safer, more comfortable ride.

Gear Maintenance and Care

Regularly inspect gear for wear or damage. Clean helmets, boots, and clothing according to manufacturer guidelines to maintain their protective qualities.

Proper Fit for Maximum Safety

Ensure gear fits snugly without being restrictive. Use sizing charts and try on items before buying to guarantee optimal protection.

Understanding Safety Ratings

Choose gear with certifications like DOT (helmets) or CE ratings (armour, boots). These ensure compliance with rigorous safety standards.

When to Upgrade Gear

Replace gear every 5 years, when damaged, or if it no longer fits due to growth. Snug helmets or pinching boots signal it’s time for an upgrade.

Conclusion

Motorcycling is thrilling, but safety is non-negotiable. Equipping kids with the right gear—helmets, armour, gloves, and more—ensures they ride safely and confidently. Make safety a promise for your young adventurers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is kids’ motorcycle gear different from regular clothing?

Kids’ motorcycle gear uses abrasion-resistant materials and impact protection, unlike regular clothing, to address specific riding risks.

When should kids start wearing motorcycle safety gear?

Kids should wear safety gear from their first ride, even as passengers, to build a safety-first habit.

How often should kids’ motorcycle gear be replaced?

Replace gear every 5 years, when damaged, or if outgrown to ensure proper fit and protection.

How do I choose the right size for kids’ motorcycle gear?

Measure your child, consult sizing charts, and try on gear for a snug, non-restrictive fit. Reassess as they grow.

What safety certifications should I look for in kids’ gear?

Look for DOT (helmets), ECE 22.05 (helmets), or CE ratings (armour, boots, gloves) for verified safety standards.