How to Buy Essential Riding Gears While on a Budget?

I came across this quote once, and it’s stuck with me ever since:

“It’s not about how fast you go from point A to B, but how long you can ride without getting tired.”

As motorcycle enthusiasts, we’re always rambling on about stuff like build quality, engine performance, or suspension setup. We love diving deep into the tech that makes our ride feel like a dream.

Yet, In all that excitement, I think we often overlook something. 

“Essential Riding Gears that are purpose-built for the task at hand”

What truly matters most is, “Am I safe and comfortable?” , and “Can I go the distance without wearing myself out or putting the safety at risk? ”

Because, let’s face it, no matter how awesome your bike is, the riding gear keeps you safe and comfortable, mile after mile.

What are Riding Gears? 

Riding Gears are specialised Clothing (like Jackets, Pants, Boots), Accessories/ Equipments(Helmet, Gloves, Armor, etc) designed to ensure riders safety, comfort and performance. 

• Riding Gears minimise injuries in the event of an accident providing impact resistance & abrasion protection. 
• Specialised motorcycle gears offer Weather Protection during Rain(Waterproof Jackets, Pants and Boots stay dry), Cold(Insulated gear retain warmth), and Heat(Ventilated gear promote airflow)
• Riding Gears are designed to reduce fatigue (with ergonomic designs), avoid soreness and Chafing (with padding and breathable materials).

In this guide we will help you buy the right riding gears for your use case, be it Adventure Touring, City Commute, Off Roading, track racing or long distance cruising.

P.S. – We totally get that staying on budget is key, so we only recommend gear that’s durable, reliable, and totally worth your hard-earned cash. You won’t find any overpriced stuff here – just solid, stylish options that will keep you safe and looking good!

Indian Vs Foreign Brands | Which one to to go for? 

Indian brands like Royal Enfield, Rynox, Solace, and Aspida offer high-quality riding gear at budget-friendly prices.Their products are often tailored for the Indian climate, such as lightweight mesh jackets for hot summers and rainproof gear for monsoons. You get solid protection and comfort without spending a fortune.

1. Brands like Alpinestars, Dainese, and Rev’It are known for their top-notch materials, advanced technology, and superior durability.
2. Global Standards: Foreign brands often meet or exceed international safety certifications, offering greater peace of mind.
3. Advanced Features: These brands offer cutting-edge features, such as better ventilation systems, advanced armor, or integrated tech like Bluetooth.
4. Stylish Designs: If you’re after a sleek, premium look, foreign brands often stand out.

Must Buy Essential Riding Gears 

Whether you’re gearing up for a long-distance adventure, upgrading your gear for better safety, or diving into motorcycling as an exciting new hobby, getting the right riding gear isn’t just a good idea—it’s a must.

Trust us, you don’t want to wait for a crash to realize how important it is. 

Here is a breakdown of essential riding gears/ equipments every rider should own. 

1. Helmets

Helmets are protective headgear designed to safeguard riders from head injuries acting as a barrier against impacts, debris, and harsh weather conditions.

Depending on your use case, you can choose from these helmet types as long as they are certified (from DOT, ECE, or ISI) for guaranteed top-notch protection. 

• Full-face Helmets: Maximum protection, ideal for all types of riding.
• Modular Helmets: Flip-up chin bar for versatility, great for touring.
• Open-face Helmets: Lightweight and breezy, suitable for city commutes.
• Off-road Helmets: Designed for dirt and adventure riding.
• Half Helmets: Minimal coverage, popular for cruisers (not the safest option).

Useful add-on’s worth considering when buying a new helmet: 

• UV Protector Visor: Protects your eyes and skin from harmful UV rays, keeping you safe in the sun.
• Pinlock Anti-Fog Visor: Prevents fogging, ensuring clear visibility in cold or rainy conditions.
• Chin Curtain: Reduces wind noise and helps keep your face warm, especially in colder weather.
• Bluetooth Communication System: Allows hands-free calls, music streaming, and intercom use with fellow riders.
• Hydration System: Allows you to drink water without taking your helmet off, great for long rides.
• Reflective Stickers/Decals: Improve visibility at night for added safety.

Also Read: Complete guide to Helmets [Adventure/ Commute / Offroad]

2. Riding Jackets

Riding Jackets provide all-around protection from abrasions and impacts.

We Recommend going for Armored Riding Jackets that also come with temperature regulation and adjustable vents. 

Riding jackets enhance visibility, especially in low light, reducing the risk of accidents, and they offer handy storage for essentials like phones and wallets. 

Perfect Jacket for riding depends on your use case and preference. 

• If you’re gearing up for those summer rides, mesh jackets are your go-to. They’re lightweight, breathable, and perfect for keeping cool on hot days.
• For a stylish and durable option, leather jackets are a classic pick—especially if you’re cruising on a big bike. They’ve got that timeless vibe and tough build riders love.
• And if you’re all about long tours, adventure jackets are like the ultimate armored suits. With built-in ventilation and top-notch protection, they’re made for serious road trips.

Also Read: 5 things to lookout for when buying a riding jacket

3. Riding Pants

Riding pants are designed with abrasion-resistant materials and built-in armor to protect your knees, hips, and thighs during a fall, reducing the risk of severe injuries.

• Riding pants offer better protection against wind, rain and cold. 
• Keep you comfortable on long rides. 
• Tailored for better riding posture reducing backpain. 
• Come with reflective elements for better visibility at night. 

Also Read: 8 Riding pants that have stood the test of time

4. Riding Gloves 

A good pair of riding gloves adds to your overall riding look.

Riding gloves are an investment in your safety, comfort, and performance, making every ride safer and more enjoyable. 

• Riding gloves provide abrasion resistance and impact protection, shielding your palms, knuckles, and fingers from serious injuries.

• Riding Gloves ensure a firm grip on the handlebars offering better control of your bike. 
• Reduce fatigue by cushioning vibrations from the bike and handlebars, allowing you to ride longer without discomfort.
• You can pick Ventilated gloves, Insulated gloves or water proof gloves depending on the riding condition. 

Useful add-on’s worth considering when buying riding gloves: 

• Knuckle guards and palm sliders protect against sharp objects and abrasions.
• Reflective elements improve visibility during night rides.

Also Read: Best Riding Gloves for all season rides

5. Riding Boots

Choosing the right riding boots is key to staying safe and comfortable on your rides. 

For maximum ankle protection, look for boots with stiff ankle guards and built-in armor.

• If you’re planning a long ride, touring boots with waterproof features are a great choice to keep your feet dry. 
• For off-roading, opt for boots designed with extra ankle protection, enhanced grip, and durability to handle rough terrains.

Make sure your boots fit well(there should be enough room for your toes to wiggle). Look for boots with proper padding to cushion your feet and good breathability to keep them cool. The sole should offer excellent grip, especially in wet or muddy conditions, so choose boots with rubber or specially designed soles for superior traction.

Also Read: Here is our list of best riding boots that offer durability and water resistance