Complete Youth Motocross Gear Checklist: What Does Your Child Actually Need?
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Getting your child into motocross is one of the most exciting things a family can do together. But standing in front of a wall of gear for the first time can feel overwhelming. What's essential? What can wait? And how do you avoid buying the wrong size?
This guide breaks it all down — simply and honestly — so you can get your young rider kitted out with confidence.
The Non-Negotiables: Safety Gear First
These five items are required before your child gets on a bike. No exceptions.
1. Helmet
The single most important purchase. Look for a helmet certified to ECE 22.06 — the current EU safety standard. Make sure it fits snugly with no side-to-side movement. Youth helmets from brands like Airoh, 6D, and Alpinestars are designed specifically for smaller head shapes.
Tip: Measure your child's head circumference before ordering and check the brand's size chart — sizing varies between manufacturers.
2. Goggles
Goggles protect eyes from roost, mud, and dust. They must fit properly inside the helmet's goggle port. Look for a wide foam seal and a lens that can be swapped easily. Browse goggles →
3. Boots
MX boots protect ankles, shins, and feet in a way that trainers simply cannot. They should be stiff enough to support the ankle but allow the foot to flex naturally on the pegs. Size up slightly if your child is still growing. Browse boots →
4. Gloves
Gloves improve grip, reduce vibration fatigue, and protect hands in a fall. A snug fit without bunching at the fingers is what you're after.
5. Knee Guards
At minimum, CE Level 1 knee guards. For younger or newer riders, a soft-insert guard worn under the trousers works well and stays in place. Browse protection →
6. Neck Brace
For riders on all bikes and competing regularly, a neck brace such as those from Leatt is worth serious consideration.
The Next Tier: Comfort and Added Protection
Once the essentials are covered, these items make a real difference to comfort and confidence.
Jersey & Trousers
MX specific clothing is cut for riding — longer in the back, with ventilation panels and reinforced knees. It also looks the part, which matters to young riders! Browse clothing →
Chest Protector / Body Armour
Highly recommended for riders on 65cc bikes and above. A roost deflector (lightweight chest plate) is a good starting point; a full body armour vest offers more coverage.
Elbow Guards
Often overlooked but very useful for beginners who are still finding their balance. Soft-shell elbow guards are comfortable and easy to wear under a jersey.
Budget Guide: What to Expect
| Level | Helmet | Boots | Full Kit (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | DKK 800–1,400 | DKK 600–1,000 | DKK 2,500–4,000 |
| Mid-range | DKK 1,400–2,500 | DKK 1,000–1,800 | DKK 4,000–7,000 |
| Premium | DKK 2,500+ | DKK 1,800+ | DKK 7,000–12,000+ |
Entry-level gear from reputable brands is perfectly safe and a sensible choice for first-season riders. Upgrade as your child progresses.
Gear That Grows vs. Gear to Replace
Some items can be sized up to last two seasons; others should fit precisely every time.
- Size up slightly: Boots (one size), jersey and trousers
- Fit precisely every time: Helmet (never compromise on fit), knee guards, goggles
- Replace after a crash: Helmet (always), goggles if cracked
Nordic Riding: Cold Weather Layering
Danish and Scandinavian tracks can be cold well into spring and autumn. A few practical tips:
- A thin thermal base layer under the jersey makes a big difference
- Waterproofs (or a lightweight oversuit) for wet days
- Neoprene gloves keep hands warm without affecting fit
Quick-Reference Checklist
Print this out and tick off before race day:
- Helmet (ECE 22.06 certified, correct fit)
- Goggles (fits helmet goggle port)
- Boots (ankle support, correct size)
- Gloves (snug fit)
- Knee guards (CE Level 1 minimum)
- Jersey & trousers (MX-specific)
- Chest protector / roost deflector
- Elbow guards
- Neck brace (All)
- Spare goggle lens
