Exploring ATV trails is all about adventure, but every successful ride starts with proper preparation. ATV trail riding gear helps you stay safe, comfortable, and prepared for changing trail conditions, from protective riding gear to emergency supplies and communication equipment.
This guide covers all the essential gear you should bring, including riding gear, emergency equipment, communication devices, and comfort items, so you can enjoy the ride with confidence, whether it's a short outing or a full-day adventure.
What to wear for ATV trail riding?
Since riders often spend hours navigating uneven terrain, ATV trail riding gear should provide protection without sacrificing comfort during extended periods on the trail. Lightweight, breathable equipment is usually the best choice.
📌 Lightweight ATV helmet and goggles
A well-ventilated ATV helmet helps reduce fatigue during long rides while still providing reliable protection. Pair it with goggles featuring anti-fog and dust-resistant lenses to maintain clear vision through changing trail conditions.
📌 Breathable jersey and ATV riding pants
Unlike mud riding, trail riding places greater emphasis on ventilation and flexibility. Jerseys and pants made from abrasion-resistant yet breathable fabrics protect against branches, rocks, and minor falls without becoming excessively hot.
If dedicated riding pants aren't available, durable jeans offer reasonable protection against brush, flying gravel, sun exposure, and hot exhaust pipes.
Lightweight cargo pants may be suitable for casual rides in warm weather, although they generally provide less abrasion resistance.
📌 Chest, elbow, and knee protection
Rocky trails and uneven terrain increase the likelihood of falls. Chest protectors help absorb impacts from branches and obstacles, while elbow and knee guards reduce the risk of injury during unexpected spills. Lightweight, ergonomic designs protect without limiting movement.
📌 ATV trail riding boots
Trail boots should offer a balance between flexibility and ankle support. Waterproof yet breathable materials are ideal since riders often encounter shallow creek crossings, mud, and wet ground during longer adventures.
📌 Lightweight riding gloves
Quality gloves improve grip while reducing vibration transferred through the handlebars. Models with reinforced palms provide additional durability without sacrificing dexterity, making them ideal for extended trail rides.
ATV trail riding pack list: Must-have accessories
In addition to protective clothing, your gear should include ATV riding accessories for navigation, communication, recovery, and personal comfort.
👉 Comfort, food, and weather protection
The must-haves for ATV trail riding should help you stay comfortable throughout long rides and adapt to changing trail conditions.
💧 Hydration and nutrition
- Water and energy snacks: Carry more drinking water than you expect to need, along with protein bars or trail snacks to maintain energy.
- Hydration pack: A hydration backpack allows you to drink while riding and usually includes compartments for snacks, sunscreen, and other small essentials.
☀️ Sun and heat protection
- Sunscreen and lip balm: Protect exposed skin from UV rays and windburn.
- Hat and sunglasses: Useful during breaks or while walking around camp.
- Cooling bandana: Wetting a bandana and wearing it around your neck provides quick relief on hot days.
- Cooling vest: For riding in extreme temperatures, a cooling vest worn beneath your protective gear can greatly improve comfort.
☔ Weather protection
Mountain weather can change quickly, so a compact waterproof jacket and pants are worth carrying even if the forecast looks clear.
👉 Communication and navigation for trail riding
Reliable communication and navigation become increasingly important as trails become more remote.
📡 Navigation essentials
- Rugged off-road GPS
- Printed trail maps
- Compass stored in a waterproof case
Paper maps remain valuable backups if electronic devices lose power or satellite reception.
📞 Communication equipment
- Helmet intercom or two-way radio: Hands-free helmet communication systems make it easy for riders to share directions, warn about obstacles, and coordinate regrouping without stopping.
- Satellite messenger: Recommended for remote riding areas without cellular coverage.
- Mobile phone: Keep it protected in a waterproof, dust-resistant case for emergencies.
- Safety reminder: Always tell someone your planned route and expected return time before leaving.
For ATV riders who frequently travel in groups, a mesh helmet intercom is a convenient communication tool. The Moman CP-X is an ideal choice for group ATV trail riding. Its mesh networking allows teams to stay connected across changing terrain, and automatically reconnects riders when they move back into range.
👉 Emergency and recovery gear
Remote trails require riders to be prepared for both injuries and mechanical failures.
🩹 First-aid supplies
Carry a compact waterproof first-aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, pain relievers, and other basic medical supplies.
🔧 Trail tools
Bring a compact tool roll containing the basic tools required for your ATV, including metric sockets or wrenches. Zip ties and heavy-duty duct tape are also useful for temporary repairs until you return home.
🧰 Tire repair equipment
- Tire plug kit
- Spare tire plugs
- Portable air compressor or hand pump
Sharp rocks and fallen branches can easily puncture ATV tires, making repair equipment essential.
🪜 Recovery equipment
- Heavy-duty tow strap
- Winch recovery kit
- Recovery gloves
If your ATV becomes stuck in mud or on rocky terrain, proper recovery equipment can save significant time and effort.
How to pack your ATV trail riding gear
Because storage space on an ATV is limited, packing efficiently helps improve both safety and handling.
👉 Wear a backpack or hydration pack
Keep your most important items, including water, your phone, a first-aid kit, and navigation tools, with you instead of storing them on the ATV. If you become separated from your vehicle, these essentials remain accessible.
👉 Use cargo boxes and rack bags
Store heavier equipment, including recovery gear, air compressors, and tool kits, inside securely fastened cargo boxes or rack bags.
Proper weight distribution improves vehicle stability while reducing the chance of equipment shifting or falling off during rough riding.
👉 Consider a utility trailer for extended trips
For overnight adventures or camping excursions, an off-road utility trailer provides valuable extra storage space for tents, cooking equipment, and additional supplies.
However, remember that towing a trailer reduces maneuverability, especially on narrow or winding forest trails, so it is generally best suited to wider routes and less technical terrain.
