The Must Have Items This Christmas

Need help shopping this festive season?

This list is crafted specifically for ADV riding enthusiasts. Though many of the items can also work well for other types of riders, we’ve chosen gear that stands out in its category or represents the best of what’s available, with a focus on items that suit the current summer climate. If budget is a concern, consider choosing slightly lower-tier options within the same categories – these recommendations lean toward brand name, high quality and durability, which can sometimes mean a higher price tag. It’s worth noting that we haven’t personally tested or reviewed these products, instead, they have been selected through thorough research and community feedback. Lastly, there’s no sponsorship or payment involved in this list – these are simply honest recommendations to help you gear up for your next adventure and help you choose items for yourself, a loved one or a friend this Christmas.

ADV HELMET

TOP PICK – ARAI TOUR-X5
First introduced over 20 years ago, the Tour-X lineup of helmets had been crafted to reflect the values of adventure riders, including versatility, comfort, safety, shape, and endurance.
It’s back with a newly redeveloped model: the Arai Tour-X5, which marks the fifth generation of Arai’s renowned Tour-X helmets. With improved aerodynamics, enhanced ventilation, a redesigned visor system, and ECE 22.06 certification, the Tour-X5 elevates Arai’s ADV helmet line to the next level among a sea of competition.
Improved airflow in the Arai Tour-X5 has been partly achieved through a redesigned air channel hood, which now doubles as an air intake. This is complemented by an upgraded chin vent, which they call the “Mouth Shutter,” which has been larger thanks to a stronger shell. The new visor system also features a quick-release mechanism allowing for tool-free replacement – a practical upgrade for adventure riders on the go.
The peak has been redesigned in a wind tunnel to reduce buffeting at higher speeds, a redesigned rear section now features a rear spoiler further reduces turbulence. Additionally, a deployable chin curtain can be extended far inside the helmet, adding another layer of aerodynamic refinement that is said to reduce wind intruding from the bottom of the helmet and help prevent the visor from fogging.
Combined, the Tour-X5 is one of the most aggressively functional ADV helmets Arai has ever made. And while Arai has long set the standard for high quality helmets, this redesign will satisfy even seasoned riders and motorcyclists worldwide. The redesigned sun peak and enhanced ventilation make the helmet unshakable, both on days and stints on the tarmac you are sure to not exactly enjoy.
The Arai Tour-X5 has 3 shell sizes, comes in 7 finishes, and has an RRP of $1,199.95.

Why we love it:

• Build and design quality of Arai is unbeatable
• Improved ventilation and advancements in aerodynamics

ALTERNATIVE PICK – SCORPION EXO ADF-9000
A new brand to Australia, Scorpion EXO is the new kid on the block and has a lot to prove, but we think that they might have just done it.
Unique to Scorpion EXO helmets is their “Airfit” system, which is basically an airtight bladder placement in the cheek pads and the liner, that pumps up via a button on the inside of the chin. It also ensures a tight fit even when the inside pad loosens as the years go by.
The internal drop-down sun visor is personally a standout feature, setting it apart from many other adventure helmets. Not bad for a helmet that weighs 1500 grams, and it beats having to carry a separate set of glasses. We are not sure why it has taken so long for it to make its way, but we are glad to see more and more ADV helmets come with dropdown visors.
The titanium double D-ring fastener is a premium touch rarely seen at this price point. Depending on how it’s designed, Titanium will be either lighter but as strong compared to steel rings, and is slightly stronger than aluminium rings.
The Scorpion EXO ADF-9000 has 3 shell sizes, comes with a Pinlock, and weighs 1500 grams and has an RRP $749.95.

Why we love it:

• The inclusion of an internal drop-down sun visor
• Lower price without skimping on quality of features

HEATED GRIPS

OXFORD’S HEATED GRIPS
Unlike the other gear on this list, this is only for those who ride into the cooler and colder climates. Heated grips are a game-changer. OEM heated grips are usually the way to go if they’re available for your model – they integrate seamlessly and are designed specifically for your bike. But if you don’t have that option, Oxford’s universal heated grips are well worth considering. They’re highly regarded. With a single button system you can dial in just the right heat setting you want, and they typically heat up fast. With five different heat settings and reliable wiring, this gives riders a huge level of comfort when the temps drop. Keep in mind that in extremely cold weather, heated grips alone won’t suffice – You will get tempted to turn the grip heat on so it will make your palms feel nice and warm, but a few centimetres off the heat source, your hands will be cold as hell.
A very strange and very uncomfortable sensation that will not be fixed with heated grips before other gear. We recommend to pairing them with hand-warming covers or heated vests to keep the fingers obedient to clutch.
Oxford’s heated grips usually go for around $195–$249, they are a solid investment for those who frequent riding during winter.

YAMAHA HEATED GRIPS
OEM heated grips are generally easier to install and usually has a more integrated functionality and look.

ADV JACKETS & PANTS SET

ADV JACKETS & PANTS SETTOP PICK – REV’IT! SAND 4

If you’re looking for a versatile ADV setup that can handle a wide range of conditions, the REV’IT! Sand 4 Jacket & Pants should be high on your list. This is one of those do-it-all, 3-season gear sets that gets a lot of love in the ADV community for good reason. The three-layery construction is much lighter than the previous model, so it’s better suited for long-distance touring without feeling weighed down.

REV’IT! has really dialed in the protection here. You get Seeflex CE-Level 2 armour at the elbows, shoulders, and knees right out of the box, and there are pockets if you want to add back and chest protection later. It’s clear the Sand lineup has been built with durability and flexibility as the priorities, and it’s a lineup that has a strong reputation in the ADV world.

The jacket’s adjustability is a big win as well. You’ve got a drawcord at the hem, straps on the lower and upper arms, tabs at the cuffs, and the Flexisnap collar system on the front. This adjustability is great for getting everything dialed in just right, especially when layering up or down with the detachable thermal liner. The shell is made from 3D air mesh, which is a smart choice since it has a highly breathable and efficient 3-dimensional structure that promotes airflow. This is exactly what you want for long rides in variable conditions.

As for ventilation, the Sand 4 really shines. It has large ventilation panels on the chest and back and generous zippers on the sleeves that you can open up when things get warm. This setup works well in both hot and cold weather, and the airflow is impressive. When it cools down, just add the thermal liner, which packs down small and can be stored in a pannier or backpack.

The design is also functional, with a Hydratex waterproof membrane and a liner system for fine tuning to keep you warm while still shedding excess moisture. REV’IT! also added polyester and ripstop fabrics on the bum area which help keep you from sliding around, which is a nice touch when you’re navigating off-road sections. Waterproof pockets add extra practicality, and the reflective trim on both the jacket and pants is a safety net for night use.

$849 for the jacket and $549 for the pants, the REV’IT! Sand 4 is certainly not a cheap investment. But if you’re serious about ADV riding and want gear that can handle a variety of conditions without skipping a beat, it’s worthwile. The set is designed for riders who don’t want to be limited to short commutes, but who are doing cross-country tour or just hitting up weekend trails.

Why we love it:
• The rugged and do-everything nature of the Sand 4
• REV’IT! armour is effective, thin and flexible
• CE-Level 2 rated

SUMMER PICK – KLIM INDUCTION

For riders in hot climates or looking to maximize airflow, the Klim Induction Jacket & Pants combo is an excellent choice. This setup is fully focused on ventilation, making it a top-tier warm-weather option. The entire jacket is built for airflow, with vented areas on the chest, back, and arms, so it’s perfect if you’re riding in high temperatures. Just keep in mind that this jacket is so highly vented that it’s strictly a warm-weather piece – it makes no qualms about making you want to be comfortable in colder conditions.

The Induction material is made from Klim’s Karbonite mesh, a strong and durable base material that holds up well in terms of abrasion resistance while still letting air through. It’s also CE AA rated and certified to EN 17092, which is great for peace of mind. Klim’s thoughtful details are what sets them apart from other brands in this space. It’s not just the lightweight design. Another great feature is that Klim has redesigned the zip on the pants to accommodate tucked-in boots, which is a great touch. One of the most useful features is the inclusion of D30 protectors at the shoulders and elbows, so you’re set right from the start.

You’ll need to purchase the back protector separately, which is known for being both protective and flexible. Other body protection is also optional. The jacket and pants are designed to fit closely for warm-weather riding, which is a hallmark of Klim’s design ethos. You’re not paying for the cheapest option here, but one of the most well-ventilated and longest-lasting sets of warm-weather gear for ADV riders.

Why we love it:
• Unmatched ventilation for hot weather
• Klim has a stellar reputation for producing ADV gear that is built to last

ADV GLOVES

SUMMER PICK – KLIM INDUCTION GLOVES

If you’re already a fan of the KLIM Induction Jacket & Pants, the KLIM Induction Gloves are the perfect companion to round out your gear. They bring the same airflow and lightweight benefits, designed for warm-weather riding but with a focus on protection and comfort.

First off, these gloves are super easy to get on and off. KLIM added loops to help pull them on, and a zipper paired with an adjustable Velcro strap means you can get a snug fit quickly. The goatskin leather makes them feel soft but durable, and the gloves stay light and flexible. So if you’re out on a hot day or in steamy weather, these fingers and palms are pre-curved, so you don’t start feeling like a second skin the moment you put it on, and it won’t require as much breaking in compared to thicker protection—wise, KLIM didn’t skimp. There’s a carbon fibre slider over the knuckles to take care of impact protection, which is reassuring when you’re pushing through trails or hitting high speeds. External stitching on these gloves means no pinch points or uncomfortable seams digging into your hands.

Some nice and functional touches are added as well: a rubber blade on the left index finger for clearing your visor in the rain (works as a lifesaver in wet conditions). And since we’re all glued to our devices, there’s touch screen-compatible fingertips, a must for quick swipes, even if it’s to enable low brightness or checking maps quickly on a rest stop.

Size options are also pretty inclusive, from XS to 3XL, so you’re likely to find a good fit.

If you’re after a glove that stays cool and comfortable in hot weather, the KLIM Induction Glove are a top-notch option. They hit that sweet spot between protection, breathability, and practicality, making them a great pick for ADV riders in warmer climates.

Why we love it:
• Extremely breathable and lightweight for hot weather
• Build quality and the inclusion of a wiper blade

ADV RIDING BOOTS

TOP PICK – SIDI ADVENTURE 2 GORE

For anyone looking at serious ADV riding, the SIDI Adventure 2 Gore boots hold up to a pretty high standard. These are built with high-tech microfibres, suede, Cordura nylon, and Gore-Tex, so you’re getting top-notch materials and construction (which, honestly, is what you’d expect for $650). They are advertised as 100% waterproof, so your feet stay dry even if you’re slogging through puddles or caught in a late storm.

The Adventure 2 boots are known for being warm, so they might not be the best option if you’re mostly riding in hot weather. To help with that, it’s worth investing in some Merino wool or Cool-Max socks. They can help a bit with ventilation and prevent your feet from overheating.

Comfort-wise, the boots are surprisingly good for longer rides, and don’t they should hold up for medium-length walks, and the design supports you while standing on the pegs, which is huge for ADV riding. They’re designed for all-around adventure riding and definitely hold their own for long-range comfort.

Sizing ranges from 41–50. The fit feels secure and supportive, which is nice when you’re tackling uneven terrain and don’t want any wiggle in your boots. Just keep in mind that these are all-around adventure boots, not necessarily made for hot weather, but they’ll handle everything else with ease.

Why we love it:
• Designed for long rides and all-day comfort on and off the bike
• Made of premium materials including water-resistant Gore-Tex lining

MOTO-VLOGGING

Moto-vlogging is a growing must-have/sub-culture for motorcyclist and we can see why. It adds a layer of fun, and gives people who have never ridden before a point-of-view shot of what it looks like to ride.

Having a camera rolling while you ride lets you document the journey as it happens, which makes it way easier to relive those views and moments, and captures a little slice of the pure freedom of the ride.

Plus, with a helmet mount setup, you can capture high-quality photos and videos without stopping all the time. Share them with followers, family, or your social media friends and they’ll feel like they’re riding alongside you.

Moto-vlogging also gives you a new way to connect with the riding community online, and you’d be surprised how many tips, advice, and even new friends you can make just from sharing your adventures.

INSTA360 X4

The Insta360 X4 captures everything. Literally. With its 360-degree recording, you don’t have to stress about sitting the perfect angle before a ride. Just mount it in the right position, hit record, and worry about framing the shot later.

The 8K resolution is unique in its class and lets you zoom and crop your footage like it was shot with a traditional camera. Want some slow-mo action? You can record at 100fps even at 4K for smoother playback. There are motorcycle-specific bundles available too.

We recommend to grab the optional lens guard to protect your investment because, well, debris happens on the road. The AI-powered editing app is also worth it – it’ll handle the tough parts of editing and spit out stable, cool clips for you in no time.

INSTA360 ACE PRO 2

Looking for something a bit more traditional and less complex like a drag-and-drop solution? The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is perfect. Thanks to its larger 1/1.3” sensor, it captures more light than most other action cameras, making it much more usable for night riding footage.

That is also thanks to the dual AI processing cores that further processes the image for better quality. You’ll be recording well after sunset while others pack it in.

It offers the best 8K option and records at 120fps, but what stands out is the 157° wide-angle capture. It gets more of you, your bike, and the scenery in the frame. Plus, the included wind-guard mic ensures you’re actually audible – even if you’re in the middle of a hurricane or hitting a whoop section at speed.

And just like the X4, the Ace Pro 2’s app makes editing a breeze with automatic clip generation, so you can focus on the ride, not the post-production.

INTERCOMS

Intercoms are absolute game-changers for anyone who rides with friends, a group, or even a pillion. Being able to stay connected on the road makes things so much easier and way more enjoyable. There is much less planning and contingency planning needed since you can communicate in real-time, which takes out the guesswork on where to turn, when to stop, or if something goes wrong. It’s also super helpful to stay in touch with a pillion – they’ll feel safer and more comfortable if they can talk to you (but we know plenty of riders who would rather not).

Another big plus? Entertainment. Most intercoms let you connect to your phone, so you can listen to music, podcasts, or even an audiobook to make those long solo rides more palatable. Some models even include FM radio, so you can listen to local stations. And if you’re into voice commands, most intercoms will let you use voice prompts like with a nice hands-free bonus.

One of the main drawbacks is compatibility. To get the best, most reliable connection you need to all be on the same system or brand. However, if you’re only pairing with one other rider, many intercoms support basic Bluetooth connections, so you might be able to mix and match if needed.

The cost is also well worth mentioning – good intercoms, especially those built for group riding, can be pricy. We’d suggest keeping an eye out for sales or deals if you’re looking to add an intercom to your setup without breaking the bank.

CARDO PACKTALK PRO

The Cardo Packtalk Pro is packed with features, including crash detection that can automatically send for help in case of an emergency – what they call a “silent guardian.” With its 2nd Generation DMC, it provides seamless group connectivity with a range of up to 1.6 km (1 mile), plus it auto-healing to reconnect riders who may have fallen out of range. Attaching and detaching the intercom to the helmet is made easier thanks to their “Air Mount” wireless magnets.

The Packtalk Pro also includes voice command functionality, so you can stay hands-free on the road. With IP67 waterproofing, 45mm JBL speakers for loud and clear audio, and a two-hour charge providing 13 hours of talk time, it’s built for the long haul. MSRP $799, with a 3-year warranty to back it up.

SENA 50S

For riders looking for high-quality sound and a reliable connection, the Sena 50S is another top pick. Featuring SOUND BY Harman Kardon speakers, it delivers clear audio and good voice quality. It has quick setup for group rides, with an Easy Mesh connection that lets you connect at the open Sena Mesh network without fiddling with buttons.

With a range of up to 1.6 km (1 mile) for group rides, the 50S also has impressive battery life. The quick charging gives up to 50 hours of Mesh talk time or 14 hours of Bluetooth talk time. MSRP $549.

ADV MOTORCYCLE GEAR

KRIEGA UNIVERSAL FIT TAIL BAGS

If you’re looking for versatile and durable soft luggage for adventure riding, the Kriega Universal Fit Tail Bags are a solid choice. These bags have a sizing range from 5L to 40L, giving you plenty of flexibility based on the length and demands you set. For most light adventures, a single 20L or 30L tailbag is ideal, providing ample space without making the rear section too bulky.

The RRP for those sizes is $275 and $315 respectively – not the cheapest, but you’re getting very good build quality and 10-year guarantee for your money.

One of the best features of the Kriega tail bags is their almost universal fit and modular design. They’re designed to work with most bike setups, and Kriega even offers a “Fit Kit” for bikes that are typically challenging to mount on – like certain Ducati models and the Tenere 700. Kriega has engineered these to integrate easily with other Kriega bags, which means you can stack them on top of each other if you need extra space, or if you upgrade to a larger bag, you can mount the old one on top.

Another nice touch is that they come with adapters for mounting on the tank, they are sold separately but they give you more mounting options. And if you want a bag that transitions off the bike, the 20L and the 30L sizes come with a shoulder and waist strap so you can carry it like a backpack. The removable internal white liner makes it easy to keep clean and find items inside, while the YKK water-resistant zips and Kriega’s guaranteed water resistance mean your gear should stay dry in all but the worst downpours.

These bags are made from super-tough Cordura Lite fabric, so they’re lightweight but strong. The 10-year guarantee doesn’t hurt either – Kriega stands by its products, which is a big reason they’re so respected in the ADV riding community.

For riders who want a highly adaptable, rugged tail bag with options for stacking and compatibility across bike models, the Kriega Universal Fit Tail Bags are definitely worth considering.

QUADLOCK

Quad Lock has quickly become one of the go-to choices for securely mounting your phone to your bike. It’s especially popular with riders who use their phone as a GPS, and it’s easy to see why – their system has a reputation for being one of the most secure phone mount options out there.

One thing to note is that Quad Lock offers a range of mount options: handlebar, brake reservoir, and mirror stem mounts, just to name a few. Each one is sold separately, so you’ll need to buy the specific mount that works for your setup.

For most riders, the handlebar mount seems to be the most common choice, and it’s also their best seller. It is quick and straight to fit; although it should only take a 10–20 minutes to get it all set up and ready to go.

One essential add-on that is a must-consider is the vibration dampener. This is a must-have in our opinion, especially if you have a phone with optical image stabilization (OIS), which many do these days. These OIS systems are so easily damaged by vibrations caused by motorcycles, so the dampeners provide that extra protection that’s well worth the investment.

Quad Lock also offers a wireless charging add-on, which is such a good convenience. Just mount your phone, and it starts charging – no need to fiddle with cables before or after your ride, fumble mid-ride when you realise your phone is running out of juice. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly charging option instead, you could opt for a 12V to USB adapter, running a cable from your battery to your phone for a DIY solution.

One thing to keep in mind – you’ll need to use Quad Lock’s proprietary phone cases. They’re durable and impact-resistant, made from a rubber that gives you grip, so it’s not a big deal – in fact, it’s a benefit. It means that if you upgrade your phone, you’ll also need to get a new case, and you will be invested in their ecosystem.

ADV SOCK STUFFERS

KEYCHAIN

Key chains make for good Stocking Stuffers for Christmas. Rubber or soft material key chains are ideal because they won’t scratch your tank or other surfaces when dangling.

EARPLUGS

Riding without ear protection? Big mistake. Some do. Wind noise on the highway is no joke. Aside from the obvious, constant exposure subliminally makes you more tired, more susceptible to a crash and not to mention the long-term damage it can do to your hearing.

A good pair of earplugs, like the NoNoise Ear Plugs, are a solid choice. They’re specifically designed for motorcyclists, with a special filter inside that cuts down on the wind noise frequencies while still letting frequencies that would come from traffic, sirens and intercom pass through easier.

Wear them enough times and they become cheaper than constantly buying disposable ear plugs.

VISOR CLEANERS

Clear vision is critical, and visor cleaning sprays or wipes are perfect for maintaining a streak-free visor. Bonus points if the cleaner comes in a travel-friendly bottle that can be tossed in a jacket pocket or tank bag.

Something like the Muc-Off Visor Cleaner is perfect for quick cleanups on the go. It’s compact enough to fit in a pocket or tank bag, so it’s always there when they need it.

This one works on helmet visors and even goggles, and it’s safe to use on anti-fog coatings too. Pair it with a microfiber cloth, and it’s a lifesaver for keeping their view crystal clear after riding through bugs, dust, or rain.