Lauren HollandBy Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

Troy Lee riding gear is a popular choice among off-road riders, and this guide shows you how to pick the right pieces for your machine, your riding style and your body. You will learn which items matter most, how to check fit, and what to look for before you ride. Use it as a checklist before your next purchase or trail day.

Start With the Helmet and Goggles

Your helmet is the one piece of gear you should never compromise on. Look for a DOT-certified or ECE-rated helmet, and make sure it fits snugly with no pressure points at the temples or forehead. When you tug the chin strap and try to rotate the helmet forward, it should not move off your head or shift the padding.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Riding Gear Motorcycles: Top Picks for Safer Rides (2026).

Goggles come next. Pick a pair that seals against your helmet’s shell and has a vented lens, and carry a spare tear-off or roll-off system if your riding involves dust or mud. Many owners report that a goggle with a vented frame fogs less on cool mornings, which matters when you are following a group on a tight trail.

Choose Jersey and Pants for Mobility

Off-road jerseys and pants need to let you move freely while standing on the pegs and reaching for the bars. Try the full riding position before you buy: stand, crouch and reach forward. Seams should not dig into your shoulders or knees, and the waist should stay put when you bend.

  • Check that sleeve and leg lengths cover your wrists and boot tops in a standing position.
  • Look for reinforced knee areas if you ride a lot of rocky or rutted terrain.
  • Choose a color or pattern that makes you easy to spot in dust and on group rides.

Protect Your Torso, Hands and Feet

A chest protector and neck brace reduce the risk of serious injury in a crash, and most riders who spend time on jumps or technical terrain find them worth wearing every ride. Gloves should fit closely enough to keep your grip on the bars but leave room for your fingers to flex. Boots need firm ankle support and a sole that grips the pegs. Break in new boots on short rides before a full day on the trail.

Build a Pre-Ride Fit and Condition Check

Once your gear is on, run through a quick check before you start the engine. Make sure the helmet strap is snug, the goggles sit flush, and no straps or zipper tabs are loose enough to catch on a branch or handlebar.

  1. Tighten the helmet chin strap until you can fit only one finger under it.
  2. Inspect goggles for cracks, scratches and a clean seal against the helmet.
  3. Confirm jersey and pants have no tears at stress points like elbows and knees.
  4. Test glove grip by squeezing the throttle and brake levers.
  5. Lace boots firmly and confirm the buckles or closures lock down.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Buying a helmet based on looks alone instead of fit and certification.
  • Choosing gear sized for a future body size, which can reduce protection now.
  • Skipping goggles or wearing sunglasses that do not seal, which lets dirt in.
  • Ignoring wear on straps, seals and padding that can lose protection over time.

If you ride with younger family members, compare sizing and features across our guides such as Youth Mx Riding Gear: A Practical Guide (2026) and Youth Quad Riding Gear: 7 Essentials to Keep Your Kid Safe (2026). For trail-focused riders, Trail Riding Motorcycle Gear: 7 Essentials for Safe Off-Road Rides covers additional layering choices.

  • A well-fitted off-road helmet with a sealed goggle system helps keep your head and eyes protected in dust and debris. View on Amazon
  • A chest protector adds impact protection for the torso on jumps and rough landings. View on Amazon
  • Off-road gloves with reinforced palms improve grip and reduce blisters on long rides. View on Amazon

FAQ

How do I know if troy lee riding gear fits correctly?

Try the full riding position, including standing on the pegs and reaching forward, and make sure no seams pinch or straps bind. Helmets should sit snugly without pressure points.

Should I replace my helmet after a crash?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing a helmet after any significant impact, even if damage is not visible. Check the manufacturer’s guidance for your specific model.

Can I use the same gear for dirt bikes and ATVs?

Many off-road pieces work for both, but check that boots and protectors suit the controls and pegs of your machine. Consult a professional fitter if you have questions about protection levels.

Conclusion

Start with a properly fitted helmet and goggles, then add protection and comfort for the rest of your body. Run a quick check before every ride, and replace worn items before they fail. A good setup will keep you safer and more comfortable on every trail.

Ready to choose one?

Lauren Holland

About Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our ATV, UTV/side-by-side & dirt bikes guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.