Dirt Bike Gear for Kids: The Complete Parent Guide

Few things beat the grin on a kid's face the first time they twist the throttle on a dirt bike. Before that moment, though, parents have a big job: getting the right gear so young riders stay safe, comfortable and eager to ride again. Kids' dirt bike gear can feel confusing, with youth sizes, age ranges and dozens of brands. This guide covers the essential dirt bike gear for kids, how to size it, where you can save money and where you should never cut corners.

The essential gear list for young riders

Children need the same core protection as adults. Here is the full list, in order of importance:

1. Helmet. A DOT-approved youth off-road helmet that fits snugly. This is the one item you should never buy used or oversized.
2. Goggles. Youth goggles that fit inside the helmet's eye port without gaps.
3. Boots. Youth moto boots protect ankles and shins from the bike and the ground.
4. Gloves. Better grip, fewer blisters and protection for small hands.
5. Chest protector. Guards against roost, handlebar impacts and falls.
6. Knee guards. Knees hit the ground first in most tip-overs.
7. Jersey and pants. Long sleeves and tough pants protect against scrapes, sun and hot engine parts.

How to size kids' dirt bike gear

The golden rule: protective gear fits now, clothing can have room to grow.

• Helmets: measure head circumference just above the eyebrows. Never size up.
• Boots: go by shoe size and try them on with moto socks. Half a size of room is fine; more is unsafe.
• Chest protectors and knee guards: usually sized by height and weight. Follow the brand's chart closely.
• Jerseys: measure chest over the chest protector and size up one if they are between sizes.
• Pants: measure waist and inseam. Adjustable waist straps help pants last longer.

Youth jersey sizes are often labeled by age ranges like 6–8 or 10–12. Use the measurements, not just the age. Our size guide lists exact measurements for each size.

Choosing a youth motocross jersey

Kids care about looks as much as adults do, and a jersey they love makes gearing up something to look forward to. Look for:

• Lightweight, breathable fabric that wicks sweat on hot days.
• Long sleeves for arm protection and sun coverage.
• UPF sun protection for long days at the track.
• Bright colors so you can spot your child on the track or trail.
• Their name and number. Personalized jerseys make kids feel like real racers.

Browse our youth motocross jerseys and kids dirt bike jerseys for designs that come in youth sizes.

Matching parent and kid gear

Family riding days are better when everyone matches. Many of our designs come in both adult and youth sizes, so parents and kids can ride in the same colors. It also makes it easy to spot each other in a busy pit. See our adult and kid motocross jerseys.

Where to save and where to splurge

Spend more on:

• Helmet: buy new, from a reputable brand, fitted properly.
• Boots: good youth boots protect growing ankles and shins.
• Chest protector: this is real impact protection.

Save on:

• Jerseys and pants: these get outgrown quickly. Choose affordable, durable options.
• Gloves: kids lose and outgrow them; buy two budget pairs.
• Hand-me-downs: pants, jerseys and gloves pass easily between siblings. Helmets do not.

Dressing kids for the weather

Kids get cold and overheated faster than adults. On hot days, choose light-colored, vented jerseys, take frequent shade breaks and keep a water bottle in the truck. On cool mornings, add a thin thermal base layer under the jersey and pack a warm hoodie for between rides. Always bring a full change of clothes, because young riders find every mud puddle on the property.

Safety tips for young riders

• Choose the right bike size. Kids should be able to touch the ground with the balls of their feet.
• Start slow. Use a throttle limiter if the bike has one and ride in an open, flat area first.
• Supervise every ride. An adult should always be close by.
• Gear up every time. Even a quick loop around the yard calls for the full kit.
• Consider a youth riding class. Trained coaches teach skills and safety habits early.
• Keep sessions short. Tired kids make mistakes. End on a high note.

Gearing up on a budget: a starter kit

A practical first kit for a beginner might include a new youth helmet and goggles, entry-level youth boots, a chest protector, knee guards, two pairs of gloves, one or two youth jerseys and a pair of riding pants. Add elbow guards and braces as skills and speed grow.

When to replace kids' gear

• Helmet: after any significant crash, when it no longer fits snugly, or after about five years.
• Boots: when toes reach the end or the buckles no longer close properly.
• Chest protector and knee guards: when they no longer cover the right areas or straps are stretched out.
• Jerseys and pants: when sleeves no longer reach the wrists or pants ride up above the boot tops.

Check gear fit at the start of every season. Kids can grow a full size in just a few months, so a quick try-on before the first ride of spring saves surprises at the track.

Making gear fun

A child who loves their gear is a child who wears all of it without arguing. Let them pick their jersey colors, add their name and favorite number, and match the rest of the family. Bright designs like flames, lightning and wild animals are big hits with young riders. Little touches like these turn gearing up into part of the adventure instead of a chore.

Gearing up for the first race

If your child is ready for their first youth race, check the event rules for required gear. Most require a DOT helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, long sleeves and long pants, and many recommend a chest protector. A visible race number on the back of the jersey makes life easier for scorers and helps you track your rider during the moto.

Shipping and returns

Our jerseys are printed to order. Allow 2–3 business days for processing and 3–7 business days for US shipping (international 7–14 business days). Orders of $50 or more ship free. If the size is wrong, request a return within 30 days. Our team is available 8 AM–5 PM Pacific time to help with youth sizing.

FAQ: dirt bike gear for kids

What gear does a kid need to ride a dirt bike?

A DOT youth helmet, goggles, moto boots, gloves, chest protector, knee guards, a long-sleeve jersey and riding pants.

What size motocross gear should I buy for my child?

Fit protective gear exactly. Jerseys and pants can be one size up for growth.

Will a youth medium fit a 7 year old?

Often, with room to grow. Compare your child's chest and height to the size chart for the exact jersey.

Can kids wear adult small gear?

Older teens sometimes can, but youth gear is cut for smaller bodies. Always go by measurements.

Can I get a kids' jersey with their name on it?

Yes. Many of our youth jerseys can be personalized with a name and number.

Get your young rider ready for the trail with our motocross collection.