When it comes to motorcycle gear, it’s hard to know what the best/safest options are, and it's even harder when you’re new to riding as a whole! So, we thought we’d help all the beginner riders out there and put together a guide on things to know and look out for when choosing your motorcycle gear.

We also have an article on the motorcycle gear laws, what is required vs what is recommended, so if you're new here, be sure to check this out here. 

In the UK, it is a legal requirement to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle on public roads, and that helmet must meet the correct legal safety standards. Other motorcycle gear, such as a jacket, trousers, gloves, and boots, is highly recommended.

We’ve created a checklist of all the best and recommended motorcycle gear:

Gear Type	Priority	Recommendations
Helmet	Legally Required	ECE 22.06 Rated Full Face Helmet
Jacket	Recommended	Textile Jacket with CE Armour
Gloves	Recommended	Full Wrist Protection
Boots	Recommended	Ankle-Supported Motorcycle Boots
Riding Jeans or Trousers	Recommended	CE-rated protective

Beginner or not, you want your motorcycle helmet to fit correctly, and you want to choose the right one:

In the UK, anyone riding a motorcycle on public roads must wear a safety helmet that meets legal safety standards.

The helmet must carry approval markings showing it complies with recognised regulations, such as current ECE 22.06 certification. Using a non-compliant helmet could not only put you at greater risk in an accident but may also result in penalties if stopped by police. 

A helmet only works properly if it fits correctly. You could have the most expensive, high-spec helmet, but this will not protect you if it is too loose, too tight, or positioned incorrectly on your head.

A properly fitted helmet stays securely in place during impact, helping to absorb and distribute the force of a collision while reducing the risk of serious head injuries. For maximum protection, always ensure your helmet is the correct size and that all straps are adjusted securely. 

Full-face helmets offer the highest level of protection, covering the entire head and face while also shielding riders from wind, rain, and debris.

Open-face helmets provide a lighter, more breathable feel and a wider field of vision but leave the face exposed. If you want a mix of both for both, then a flip front helmet provides a middle ground between the two!

The best choice depends on your riding style, comfort preferences, and desired level of protection. 

A second-hand helmet might save you a few pounds, but you never really know what it's been through. Even if it looks fine on the outside, it could have hidden damage from a previous knock or crash. When it comes to protecting your head, it's worth investing in a new helmet you can trust. 

A good motorcycle jacket does more than keep you comfortable on the road.

It adds an extra layer of protection, helps shield you from the weather, and can make a big difference if you come off your bike. Here's what to look out for when choosing your first jacket:

Leather jackets are a classic choice, offering excellent abrasion resistance and a timeless look. Textile jackets are often lighter, more versatile, and usually come with features like removable liners, ventilation, and waterproofing.

Both can offer great protection, so it often comes down to your riding style and personal preference. 

CE-rated armour is designed to absorb impact and help reduce injuries in a crash. The higher the rating, the greater the level of protection. When shopping for a jacket, check that the armour in key areas such as the shoulders, elbows, and back meets recognised safety standards. 

As we all know, British weather can be unpredictable, especially during autumn and winter. A waterproof jacket, or an additional waterproof layer, can help keep you warm, dry, and comfortable, making those colder rides much more enjoyable. 

When riding in the summer, staying cool becomes just as important as staying protected. Look for jackets with plenty of ventilation, mesh panels, and lightweight materials that allow air to flow while still offering the protection you need. A good summer jacket can make riding in warm weather far more comfortable without compromising on safety. Here are a few recommendations:

Weather	Recommendations
Summer	Rukka Air Karvik Jacket - Black
Summer	Oxford Dakar Dry2Dry Air 1.0 Textile Jacket - Silver / Blue / Fluo Yellow
Summer	Knox Honister MK2 Armoured Mesh Jacket - Black
Winter	Oxford Hinterland Advanced Textile Jacket - Black / Grey / Fluo
Winter	RST Alpha 5 CE Textile Jacket - Black / Black

There are several important factors to consider when choosing motorcycle gloves, including protection, comfort, fit, and weather suitability. The right gloves can improve both safety and riding confidence. 

It's best to choose gloves with secure wrist closures and extended cuffs whenever possible. Extra wrist coverage helps protect a vulnerable area and keeps the gloves securely in place. 

Waterproof gloves are ideal for riding in wet or cooler conditions, while summer gloves provide better ventilation and comfort in hot weather. The best option depends on the climate and type of riding you do most often. 

Motorbike boots are designed to protect your feet and ankles while providing comfort and control on the bike. Choosing the right pair can make a significant difference in both safety and riding performance. 

Look for boots with strong ankle support, reinforced toe and heel areas, and grippy soles for better traction when stopping or manoeuvring the bike. A secure fastening system and durable, abrasion-resistant materials are also important features. 

Trainers offer very little protection in the event of a crash. They typically lack ankle support, impact protection, and abrasion-resistant materials, leaving your feet and ankles more vulnerable to injury. Motorbike boots are specifically designed to withstand the demands and risks of riding. 

Picking the right riding trousers and jeans is also just as important as you want to be comfortable and protected. 

If looking for jeans, these will need to be made from abrasion-resistant materials or those reinforced with aramid fibres such as Kevlar. Features like CE-approved armour at the knees and hips, durable stitching, and a secure fit can provide additional protection. 

Motorcycle riding jeans should hold at least a CE A rating for road/urban commuting, which offers a good balance of protection and comfort. Higher ratings, such as AA & AAA, provide greater abrasion resistance.  

While maximum protection is important, uncomfortable gear is less likely to be worn consistently. Look for riding trousers that offer certified protection, flexibility, and breathability so you can stay comfortable without compromising safety. 

Building your riding kit can be expensive, but not everything needs to be purchased at once. Focus on the essential protective gear first, then add convenience and comfort items as your budget allows. 

There is no fixed amount, but quality protective gear should be viewed as an investment. Entry-level gear can provide excellent protection, while premium products often add comfort, weather protection, and extra features. Buy the best gear you can reasonably afford, especially for items that protect against serious injuries. 

Non-Negotiable Motorcycle Gear	Estimated Cost (Higher end)	Estimated cost (Lower end)	Nice to Have Motorbike Gear	Estimated Cost
Helmet	£650	£75	Bluetooth Communication Device	£60-350
All Weather Jacket	£700	£90	Dark Tinted Visor	£24.45
Gloves	£450	£35.99	All-in-One Racing Suits	£300-£1000
Trousers	£300-600	£67.49	Motorcycle Socks	£9.99-£107.99
Boots	£300-£500	£55	Summer Specific Riding Jacket	£69.99-550

So there you have our guide and kit checklist to the best motorcycle gear for beginners! We hope this has been insightful, and if you are looking for Helmet & leathers insurance or motorbike insurance, make sure to get a quote with Lexham today!