Whether you’re shopping for motorcycle aftermarket mods, an OEM oil filter, or simply a rad new pair of gloves, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. When it comes to accessories for your side-by-side, it’s sometimes hard to separate the rider must-haves from the wanna-be window dressing. Here’s a guide to the essential ATV and UTV gear you need to keep riding safely and in style.
A Helmet
Your helmet is arguably the most crucial part of your kit. That said, it’s important to recognize that not all helmets are equal when it comes to protecting your head and neck from harm.
First things first, be sure to pick a model that meets ECE and DOT safety standards, such as the SC1 Grit Helmet from MSR. Its sculpted, dual-density EPS liner is designed to handle impacts both big and small with ease while providing maximum comfort. Oversized intake ports and exhaust ports work together to keep you cool. This sleek, stylish helmet’s shell is constructed out of injection-molded ABS and comes in a variety of colors, too.
A Jacket
Getting dirty is often part of the deal when you head out on your UTV, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t protect yourself and what lies beneath. A sturdy, waterproof jacket is essential for comfortable riding.
When it comes to the best UTV riding gear, the Thor Pack Jacket is a popular, mid-priced pick. Elastic cuffs keep mud and debris from creeping up your sleeves, and a drawstring waist means you can secure the perfect fit, no matter what you have layered underneath. The Pack Jacket’s multiple pockets provide ample storage for your essentials, while the jacket itself is easily stored in the included pouch for those days when there’s not a cloud in sight for miles.
Riding Gloves
Hopefully, it goes without saying that you need your hands to control your UTV. More specifically, though, you need to keep them cool and dry.
A lightweight pair of gloves such as A.R.C.’s Battle Born Air Gloves offer a variety of features designed to keep your digits safe and supported, no matter how hot or how cold it gets. Stretchy nylon wrist panels, knuckle pads, and high-quality goat-skin leather combine to offer premium comfort. The polyester lining wicks away moisture from even the sweatiest palms, while Touch-Tech leather on the index fingerspermits easy operation of all your devices so you never have to choose between safety and sharing your adventures on social media.
Boots
The final components of your kit are your boots. You need a sturdy pair to protect your lower legs and feet when you’re off-roading. Fox Bomber Boots are an excellent mid-ankle option that won’t break the bank — or your ankles. They feature Fox’s famous bonded Duratac sole, an integrated steel shank, and an injection-molded plastic toe cap for maximum strength and support. Velcro closures, a flexible, ball-and-socket buckle, and a padded but bulge-resistant ankle design mean you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to stay safe.
The best aftermarket and OEM ATV parts combine form and function. Choose safety over style and performance over polish when shopping for UTV accessories to ensure the longevity of your gear, your side-by-side, and your riding career.
