ADVRiderMag is the ultimate Australian dedicated adventure-riding journal.
Australia promises countless opportunities for adventure. No matter where you travel in its eight states and territories, you’ll see a unique mix of environments, cultures, and rhythms, from the outback premier national parks in the Northern Territory to the subtropical ‘Sunshine State’ Queensland. You don’t need much to see it, either.
As a rule, adventure riding involves packing light for optimal speed and nimbleness. If you want to go camping, you may need to pack extra gear—but all you truly need to have the right clothing for the job are a few key items. The following are the essentials you need to wear for your next adventure ride.
Helmet
The helmet is non-negotiable. The Australian Road Rules insist that all motorbike riders wear an approved bike helmet that meets the law’s safety standards—with an identifying mark certifying compliance—and is in good repair and working order. Aside from those protective prerequisites, choosing the helmet with the best fit and most comfortable style for you is also vital. You can have a helmet that’s full-face or flip-up like the Klim Krios Karbon Adventure Helmet, which has a chin bar to shelter your lower face, or an open-face helmet like the Bell Riot Matt Black Helmet, which gives you better visibility and ventilation. A good helmet will shield your head from the elements and dangerous accidents.
Sunglasses
You need your eyes to navigate the road. That’s why a reliable pair of sunglasses is crucial—you need the most updated vision technologies to protect your eyes from UV rays and sun glare, set in lightweight frames that won’t burden you while driving. You can start with Oakley’s Encoder Strike, which is specifically designed for riders and has features like uncompromising impact protection, O-Matter temples crafted to fit seamlessly beneath hats and helmets, and Unobtainium ear socks and nose pads that provide a no-slip grip and all-day comfort. It also has PhysioMorphic Geometry with a cut inspired by vintage designs, so you’ll have full eye coverage and peak style on whatever trail you ride.
Gloves
Your hands do the simple job of navigating your bike—but when you’re driving long hours facing wind, rain, and scorching sun, you’ll realise they could use the extra help of an excellent pair of gloves. You want the durable kind, preferably with a combination of materials like leather, which will supply comfort and flexibility, and carbon fibre or titanium knuckles for extra protection. A stellar model is Held Air n Dry gloves, a type of Gore-Text glove that has two chambers: one for airflow, breathability, and comfort, and the other for watertight warmth during rainy weather. Pick gloves that suit you and your needs.
ADV suit
You’ll likely be wearing your ADV suit day in and day out. It consists of jackets and pants that shield you from weather conditions. The suit often has a waterproof membrane or lining, body armour that keeps you safe from off-road tumbles, and a ventilation system that prevents overheating. You want to look for a type with heavy-duty material with a high CE rating, preferably with a warranty, so you can get broken zippers and tears repaired or replaced. REV’IT! gear has a CE level 2 and comprises air mesh and polyester ripstop. All the brand’s products have a 2-year warranty.
Motorcycle boots
Motorcycle boots made for adventure riding serve two purposes. Firstly, they safeguard your ankles and shins while you’re motorbiking. They should be able to prevent torsional and lateral injuries while giving your feet enough flexibility to manoeuvre. Secondly, since part of adventure riding is getting off your bike to check out the scenery, they need to aid your feet in walking around challenging terrain. Sidi’s REX boots are a great option, with their breathable Air Teflon and Cambrelle fabric, ankle support braces, and asymmetric heel cup that ensures the best fit while giving you excellent traction even in the damp and mud.
Adventure riding doesn’t take much preparation in the wardrobe department—you can embark on your trip with the right clothing items. Once you have those essentials, you’re ready to go off and explore.
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