Top Adventure Motorcycle Gear 2025
Evan Rally
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You can’t outride bad gear.
Doesn’t matter how sharp your lines are. If your boots give out, your gloves soak through, or your helmet fogs at the wrong moment, you’re done. Adventure riding throws everything at you (heat, rain, wind, gravel, fatigue) and expects you to keep going. Your gear either keeps up or becomes the problem.
The mistake most riders make? Trusting gear that isn’t built for it. Maybe it says “ADV” on the tag, but the vents don’t work, the armor shifts, and the waterproofing gives up after one storm. That’s not adventure-ready.
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This guide is a field-proven roundup of the best adventure motorcycle gear for 2025. Gear tested in real conditions, over long miles, with no shortcuts. Helmets, jackets, gloves, boots, luggage, tech. Every piece here earns its place. This list is built on experience and includes insights from veteran riders like Robert Baldinger’s adventure gear picks.
If you’re serious about the ride, it starts with what you wear. Let’s get into it.
Top Adventure Motorcycle Gear
If you’re gearing up for real ADV miles, this is what holds up. Every piece here has been tested, worn hard, and proven to work when the terrain gets unpredictable.
Best Helmet 
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Best Jacket 
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Best Gloves 
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The XD-5 offers strong ventilation, stable aerodynamics, and a secure fit. Its build quality and visor system perform reliably in long-distance, mixed-condition riding. | CE AAA-rated with Gore-Tex Pro and full D3O armor, the Badlands Pro A3 provides consistent protection and weatherproofing for extended time on the bike. | Adaptable two‑chamber gloves that switch between ventilated comfort and GORE‑TEX waterproofing—durable, protective, and ride-ready in varied conditions. |
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The XD-5 offers strong ventilation, stable aerodynamics, and a secure fit. Its build quality and visor system perform reliably in long-distance, mixed-condition riding.
- Quietest ADV helmet
- Removable peak
- Tons of ventilation
- Can use with googles
- DOT and Snell approved
- Heavier than lightweight ADV lids (~1814 g)
- Visor fogs in heavy rain without Pinlock
CE AAA-rated with Gore-Tex Pro and full D3O armor, the Badlands Pro A3 provides consistent protection and weatherproofing for extended time on the bike.
- CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance
- D3O Level 2 armor in shoulders, elbows, and back
- Extensive ventilation system with 12 vents
- Premium price point
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Hydration bladder not included
Adaptable two‑chamber gloves that switch between ventilated comfort and GORE‑TEX waterproofing—durable, protective, and ride-ready in varied conditions.
- Superb ventilation in warm weather
- Waterproof GORE‑TEX keeps hands dry in rain
- Kangaroo leather palm offers excellent feel & durability
- Touchscreen‑compatible fingertips added in Mark II
- Hard‑knuckle and Superfabric protection provide solid safety
- Dry chamber fit may feel bulky or loose
- Long break‑in period before comfort peaks
ADV Gear Myths, Debunked
Adventure riding demands a lot from your gear: long hours, tough terrain, unpredictable weather. But too many riders fall into bad advice or outdated assumptions when choosing what to wear. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ADV gear myths, and the facts that’ll actually keep you safer and more comfortable on the trail.
“Waterproof gear doesn’t breathe.” It depends on the membrane. Cheap liners trap sweat, but top-tier 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro and similar materials vent moisture while staying watertight. The key is buying gear with direct ventilation and laminated waterproofing, not zip-in liners that create heat zones.
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“You don’t need real armor off-road.” Wrong. Just because you’re going slower doesn’t mean you’re safer. Rocks, ruts, and low-speed drops can do serious damage. CE Level 1 is fine for flexibility, but skip the foam inserts and upgrade to real D3O or SAS-TEC armor if it’s not included.
“Adventure boots are overkill unless you’re racing.” Plenty of injuries happen at trail pace. ADV boots protect your ankles, shins, and toes from impacts and torsion—things hiking boots won’t stop. You don’t need full motocross stiffness, but real ADV or light enduro boots are a smart investment.
“Soft luggage isn’t durable.” Modern ADV soft bags use ballistic nylon, roll-top closures, and reinforced panels that hold up to crashes. Hard cases can crack on impact. Soft luggage flexes and bounces back. If you’re riding rough terrain, go soft or hybrid.
“You can just use your street helmet for ADV riding.” Street helmets are made for clean air and consistent speed, not dust, dirt, or standing posture. They lack the peak, airflow, and goggle compatibility that matter off-road. A true ADV helmet gives you better vision, better ventilation at low speed, and less fatigue when the terrain gets rough.
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“You don’t need comms or GPS if you have a phone.” Phones fail fast off-road. No signal, dead battery, glare you can’t see through. GPS units are built for impact, weather, and glove use. Comms keep groups connected without shouting or stopping. For remote riding, dedicated tools are what keep you on track and in touch.
Ready to ride smarter? Skip the myths. Pick gear that matches how and where you ride, not what someone once said in a parking lot.
Best Adventure Motorcycle Helmets
An adventure helmet isn’t just about impact protection. It’s your shield from windblast, your ventilation system in the desert, and your visor through rain and trail grime. Whether you’re running high-speed tarmac or crawling over rocks, you need a lid that’s stable, quiet, and breathable.
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The best ADV helmets balance road-worthy comfort with dirt-readiness: wide eye ports for goggles, peaks that don’t catch wind, and ventilation you can actually feel at speed. Some even ditch compromise completely, giving you modular configurations for on-the-fly changes.
Whether you prefer full-face coverage, dual-sport adaptability, or rotational protection like Mips, these helmets are built to perform through long days and variable conditions. They’re chosen because they hold up when the ride gets rough and the miles get long. If you’re weighing more options, our ADV helmet roundup breaks down more picks for different budgets and riding styles.
Best Overall
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Best for Dual-Sport 
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Best Budget 
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Built for serious ADV riders, the XD-5 delivers three configurations, strong airflow, and a quiet shell. The peak is stable at speed, and the liner is plush enough for all-day wear. With Pinlock-ready visors and Arai’s top-tier safety, this is the one-helmet-to-rule-them-all for mixed-surface adventures. | The Nexx X.WED3 is a lightweight, feature-packed helmet built for riders who split time between dirt and pavement. It weighs around 3.75 lbs, features a panoramic eye port for goggles, a removable peak, and a Pinlock-ready visor. With 11 intake and exhaust vents, and an aerodynamic shell, it delivers impressive airflow even at low speeds. Long term review here. | Bell’s MX-9 brings Mips tech and solid airflow to a budget-friendly ADV helmet. It’s a little noisy at speed but stable and protective where it counts. Swapping visors for goggles is easy, and the shell holds up to off-road abuse. If you’re just getting into ADV, this is the move. |
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Built for serious ADV riders, the XD-5 delivers three configurations, strong airflow, and a quiet shell. The peak is stable at speed, and the liner is plush enough for all-day wear. With Pinlock-ready visors and Arai’s top-tier safety, this is the one-helmet-to-rule-them-all for mixed-surface adventures.
- Quietest ADV helmet
- Removable peak
- Tons of ventilation
- Can use with googles
- DOT and Snell approved
- Heavier than lightweight ADV lids (~1814 g)
- Visor fogs in heavy rain without Pinlock
The Nexx X.WED3 is a lightweight, feature-packed helmet built for riders who split time between dirt and pavement. It weighs around 3.75 lbs, features a panoramic eye port for goggles, a removable peak, and a Pinlock-ready visor. With 11 intake and exhaust vents, and an aerodynamic shell, it delivers impressive airflow even at low speeds. Long term review here.
- Big eyeport
- Lightweight
- Anti-vibration system
- So popular it's often out of stock
Bell’s MX-9 brings Mips tech and solid airflow to a budget-friendly ADV helmet. It’s a little noisy at speed but stable and protective where it counts. Swapping visors for goggles is easy, and the shell holds up to off-road abuse. If you’re just getting into ADV, this is the move.
- MIPS liner reduces rotational force in crash
- Large visor for great visibility
- Removable peak for comfortable highway miles
- A bit loud at highway speeds
- Initial fit runs snug until broken in
Top ADV Riding Jackets
Your jacket is your mobile shelter. In the world of ADV, that means rain, sun, gravel, cold, sweat—all in the same day. A proper ADV jacket needs to do it all: vent like a mesh shell, seal like a rain suit, and protect like a suit of armor.
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But it also has to be wearable for hours—sometimes days—at a time. Good ones use Gore-Tex or multi-layer waterproofing, CE-certified armor, and smart vent placement that actually works at trail speed. Pocket layout matters. Fit matters. Pressure points matter.
These jackets have been chosen because they deliver where it counts. For more options across seasons and budgets, check out our complete guide to the best ADV jackets.
Best Overall
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Best for Women 
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Best for Summer 
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CE AAA-rated, Gore-Tex Pro, and armored everywhere, this is the jacket for riders who don’t mess around. It vents like a mesh shell but shrugs off rain and impacts. Loaded with pockets, straps, and real-world durability. It’s heavy and pricey, but built to outlast the bike. Want to know how it performs after long miles in rough terrain? Read our in-depth review. | Designed with real touring in mind, the Artemis balances waterproofing, abrasion resistance, and rider-fit ergonomics. It’s not a shrunk-down men’s jacket—it’s built for female ADV riders who want full protection without bulky excess. Excellent for multi-season riding, with vents and pockets placed where they actually help. | For desert heat or jungle humidity, the Baja S4 delivers standout airflow. Karbonite mesh and stretch zones keep it tough and mobile, while D3O armor offers legit protection. Pair it with a waterproof shell when the weather turns. It’s purpose-built for hot, hard off-road work and it shows. |
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CE AAA-rated, Gore-Tex Pro, and armored everywhere, this is the jacket for riders who don’t mess around. It vents like a mesh shell but shrugs off rain and impacts. Loaded with pockets, straps, and real-world durability. It’s heavy and pricey, but built to outlast the bike. Want to know how it performs after long miles in rough terrain? Read our in-depth review.
- CE AAA-rated abrasion resistance
- D3O Level 2 armor in shoulders, elbows, and back
- Extensive ventilation system with 12 vents
- Premium price point
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Hydration bladder not included
Designed with real touring in mind, the Artemis balances waterproofing, abrasion resistance, and rider-fit ergonomics. It’s not a shrunk-down men’s jacket—it’s built for female ADV riders who want full protection without bulky excess. Excellent for multi-season riding, with vents and pockets placed where they actually help.
- GORE-TEX shell provides all-weather waterproofing
- D3O armor and Superfabric offer strong protection
- Ventilation and fit tailored for female riders
- Warm at low speeds – Too hot for slow off-road riding in summer
- Hair-tangling collar liner – Springless collar catches long hair easily
For desert heat or jungle humidity, the Baja S4 delivers standout airflow. Karbonite mesh and stretch zones keep it tough and mobile, while D3O armor offers legit protection. Pair it with a waterproof shell when the weather turns. It’s purpose-built for hot, hard off-road work and it shows.
- Blazing airflow ideal for high heat
- Stretch‑zone chassis boosts off‑road mobility
- Durable Superfabric in impact areas adds abrasion resistance
- Multiple pockets plus hydration/backpack integration
- Lightweight comfort—riders say they forget they had a jacket on
- Only Level 1 armor—upgrade advisable for more protection
- Too cold in temps under ~5 °C without layering
Top Adventure Motorcycle Gloves
ADV gloves are a tricky balance. Too light and you risk road rash. Too heavy and you lose feel. You want gloves that breathe, flex, and still armor your hands against the unexpected. For more picks beyond this list, check out our full guide to the best motorcycle gloves.
Heat, rain, cold, vibration—all of it passes through your grips. These gloves are built to handle it. Some are focused on airflow for long days in the heat, others on waterproofing or even full-blown electrical heating for cold rides.
But they all share one trait: they’re made for riders who don’t stop when the weather turns or the road ends. These picks offer legit protection and real-world functionality without turning your hands into sweaty bricks or stiff paddles.
Best Overall
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Best Waterproof 
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Best Heated 
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Dual-chamber magic: one side vents, the other stays dry. The Air N Dry II lets you choose airflow or waterproofing mid-ride. Throw in knuckle armor, a good gauntlet, and strong palm reinforcement, and you’ve got a glove that adapts to changing conditions like nothing else. | Gore-Tex waterproofing, insulation, and full knuckle protection—these are for foul-weather ADV days. Not the best for airflow, but if you ride through rain, wind, and cold, the Vanguard GTX Long will keep your hands dry, functional, and warm without overdoing the bulk. | When temps drop and your hands stop working, Gerbing’s heated gloves step in. 12V powered warmth you can control on the fly, with a rugged ADV build that doesn’t skimp on protection. You’ll need a wired setup, but the comfort on cold days is worth every ounce. |
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Dual-chamber magic: one side vents, the other stays dry. The Air N Dry II lets you choose airflow or waterproofing mid-ride. Throw in knuckle armor, a good gauntlet, and strong palm reinforcement, and you’ve got a glove that adapts to changing conditions like nothing else.
- Superb ventilation in warm weather
- Waterproof GORE‑TEX keeps hands dry in rain
- Kangaroo leather palm offers excellent feel & durability
- Touchscreen‑compatible fingertips added in Mark II
- Hard‑knuckle and Superfabric protection provide solid safety
- Dry chamber fit may feel bulky or loose
- Long break‑in period before comfort peaks
Gore-Tex waterproofing, insulation, and full knuckle protection—these are for foul-weather ADV days. Not the best for airflow, but if you ride through rain, wind, and cold, the Vanguard GTX Long will keep your hands dry, functional, and warm without overdoing the bulk.
- GORE-TEX with Gore-Grip for waterproofing and dexterity
- 3M Thinsulate insulation for warmth without bulk
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips & visor wiper for convenien
- Low-profile gauntlet may not suit riders preferring full wrist coverage
When temps drop and your hands stop working, Gerbing’s heated gloves step in. 12V powered warmth you can control on the fly, with a rugged ADV build that doesn’t skimp on protection. You’ll need a wired setup, but the comfort on cold days is worth every ounce.
- Microwire heating system warms every finger
- Waterproof Aquatex membrane & 150g Thinsulate insulation
- Premium cowhide leather with TPU knuckle protection
- Heat controller and battery harness sold separately
Best Adventure Motorcycle Pants
ADV pants don’t get enough credit. They have to flex when you stand, protect your knees and hips when you go down, stay dry in storms, and breathe under pressure. That’s a tall order, but the right pair will do it all.
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The best adventure pants are cut for mobility, with articulated knees, stretch zones, and armor that stays in place. They vent well in the heat but can still take a downpour without soaking through. And they need to layer comfortably if the ride stretches across changing climates.
Whether you’re bombing fire roads or stuck in traffic on the way to the trail, these pants work because they’re built for the job, not just for show.
Best Overall 
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Best for ADV/Touring 
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Best Waterproof 
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Built with a GORE‑TEX Performance shell and reinforced FPL400/Cordura zones, the Carlsbad Pants deliver lightweight, bombproof adventure protection. They feature D3O Level 2 armor, thigh intake/exhaust vents, goat‑leather knee panels, and waterproof zippers. Highly mobile, weatherproof, and equipped with cargo pockets, they’re ideal for 3‑season ADV riding where flexibility and durability matter. | Riders who want waterproofing, venting, and no-fuss fit will love these. The Dominator 3 GTX pants use laminated Gore-Tex, big zippers for airflow, and CE Level 2 armor. Less bulky than Klim’s offerings but still rugged. Great for asphalt-heavy riders who want protection without feeling overdressed. | Adventure pants that do it all: built-in waterproof liner, big mesh panels, and a flexible fit that adapts to seated or standing riding. Available for both men and women, these are a strong pick for hot-weather trips with unpredictable skies. Less armor than premium options, but all-day comfort is excellent. |
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Built with a GORE‑TEX Performance shell and reinforced FPL400/Cordura zones, the Carlsbad Pants deliver lightweight, bombproof adventure protection. They feature D3O Level 2 armor, thigh intake/exhaust vents, goat‑leather knee panels, and waterproof zippers. Highly mobile, weatherproof, and equipped with cargo pockets, they’re ideal for 3‑season ADV riding where flexibility and durability matter.
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX shell
- Excellent airflow with dual vents
- CE Level 2 D3O armor included
- Only two cargo pockets
- Some sizing inconsistencies
Riders who want waterproofing, venting, and no-fuss fit will love these. The Dominator 3 GTX pants use laminated Gore-Tex, big zippers for airflow, and CE Level 2 armor. Less bulky than Klim’s offerings but still rugged. Great for asphalt-heavy riders who want protection without feeling overdressed.
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX Pro
- CE Level 2 armor with Armacor reinforcements
- Adjustable vents with FidLock fasteners
- Stiff out of the box
- No built-in insulation
Adventure pants that do it all: built-in waterproof liner, big mesh panels, and a flexible fit that adapts to seated or standing riding. Available for both men and women, these are a strong pick for hot-weather trips with unpredictable skies. Less armor than premium options, but all-day comfort is excellent.
- Adaptable for all-weather riding
- CE-rated armor for knees and hips
- Effective thigh ventilation panels
- Layer changes can be tedious
- Not ideal for off-bike use
Top ADV Boots
ADV boots live in the no-man’s land between full motocross armor and road touring comfort. You need enough support to handle drops and ruts, but not so stiff that you can’t walk.
The best ones protect your ankles and shins, stay dry in creek crossings, and give a solid peg feel when the riding gets technical. They have to work in the wet, stand up to rocks, and still flex enough for long hours. Whether you’re hammering out desert miles, slogging through mud, or stepping through hotel lobbies at day’s end, your boots should never slow you down. For more solid choices across different needs and budgets, see our complete guide to the best motorcycle boots.
Best Overall 
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Best for Trail 
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Best for Comfort 
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This is a motocross muscle built for ADV grit. Designed for serious off-road use, the Instinct 2.0 combines high-impact TPU armor with a hinge system that improves flex without sacrificing support. The ULTRATAC sole grips well on pegs and terrain, while the interior offers solid comfort for long rides. | The Tech 7 offers serious armor, great flexibility, and better shift feel than most MX boots. It’s a top choice for dual-sport riders who value trail performance but need comfort for all-day standing and walking. | The best “everyday” ADV boots around. Waterproof, comfortable right out of the box, and protective enough for moderate off-road. Not as armored as full MX boots, but far better than street gear. Perfect for ADV riders who want one boot for all their rides. |
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This is a motocross muscle built for ADV grit. Designed for serious off-road use, the Instinct 2.0 combines high-impact TPU armor with a hinge system that improves flex without sacrificing support. The ULTRATAC sole grips well on pegs and terrain, while the interior offers solid comfort for long rides.
- Excellent Ultratac sole grips pegs firmly
- Hinge-lock stops hyperextension safely
- Forged metal buckles stay reliable when wet
- Comfortable interior—ride-ready from day 1
- Slim profile enhances bike control
- Durability issues reported over long-term use
- No Velcro retention—needs tongue hold during donning
The Tech 7 offers serious armor, great flexibility, and better shift feel than most MX boots. It’s a top choice for dual-sport riders who value trail performance but need comfort for all-day standing and walking.
- Dual pivot system enhances flexibility and bike control
- Shock-absorbing foam zones offer top-tier impact protection
- Wear indicator sole with Kevlar layer ensures long-term durability
- Snug ankle fit may require break-in time for wider feet
The best “everyday” ADV boots around. Waterproof, comfortable right out of the box, and protective enough for moderate off-road. Not as armored as full MX boots, but far better than street gear. Perfect for ADV riders who want one boot for all their rides.
- Waterproof and breathable with Drytex lining
- Excellent grip and walking comfort with dual-density sole
- High-impact protection with TPU inserts and steel shank support
- Slightly bulky for casual or short rides
Best Luggage Systems for Adventure Motorcycles
Luggage can make or break a long trip. Too heavy, too loose, or too awkward and you’re fighting it the whole time. The right ADV luggage carries what matters without throwing off your balance or weighing down your ride.
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Hard cases give you security and weatherproofing. Soft bags flex better in the dirt. Hybrid systems offer the best of both. These options are chosen because they work in the real world—tested on bikes that fall over, get buried in mud, or spend days in the rain.
Easy mounting, tough materials, smart storage layout. This gear holds up and stays out of your way so you can focus on the ride, not what’s strapped to the rear rack. For a deeper breakdown of setups, check out our luggage guide with Robert Baldinger, where he walks through actual packing strategies.
Best Hard 
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Best Soft 
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Best Hybrid 
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47 liters of lockable, waterproof space for serious touring. Quick-release mount, durable shell, and a sleek profile that fits modern ADV bikes. If you want secure hard luggage without bulky panniers, this top case nails it. | A soft tail bag that expands when needed and disappears when not. Water-resistant, simple to mount, and light enough for daily use. It’s not a world tour bag, but for errands, overnights, or lightweight ADV setups, it’s super practical. | Weather-resistant, modular, and low-profile enough to avoid wide-bike syndrome. Built to carry tools, gear, and spares without hard pannier drama. Ideal for remote ADV trips or weight-conscious setups. |
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47 liters of lockable, waterproof space for serious touring. Quick-release mount, durable shell, and a sleek profile that fits modern ADV bikes. If you want secure hard luggage without bulky panniers, this top case nails it.
- Secure Monokey mount & two key system—easy lock/unlock
- Waterproof shell keeps contents dry even in heavy rain
- Integrated stop‑light adds extra visibility in traffic
- Durable ABS plastic with sleek styling that complements bikes
- Removable unit with comfortable carry handle—hotel‑ready
- Actual capacity may not fit two full-face helmets
- Stop-light kit wiring is thin and may need re-routing/sealing
A soft tail bag that expands when needed and disappears when not. Water-resistant, simple to mount, and light enough for daily use. It’s not a world tour bag, but for errands, overnights, or lightweight ADV setups, it’s super practical.
- Secure quick‑release straps stay tight at speed
- Sturdy UltraMax fabric maintains shape, resists UV
- Expandable capacity fits extra gear or groceries
- Includes waterproof rain cover for wet weather
- Flush carry handle & shoulder strap for easy transport
- Straps might need occasional re‑tightening
- Backpack strap option is functional but not very comfortable
Weather-resistant, modular, and low-profile enough to avoid wide-bike syndrome. Built to carry tools, gear, and spares without hard pannier drama. Ideal for remote ADV trips or weight-conscious setups.
- Lock-free design mounts in minutes and fits most bikes
- Massive capacity replaces top bags for shorter trips
- Impact-resistant Cordura and internal padding stand up to abrasion
- External pockets and lashing points boost versatility
- Lightweight build keeps bike handling sharp
- May need exhaust guards to prevent heat damage on some bikes
- Velcro fastening can loosen; buckles would offer finer adjustment
Top Navigation and Tech Gear for ADV Riders
When the roads get remote, your tech better work. You can’t be fussing with apps or re-mounting your phone while bouncing through a rock garden. The right gear here is simple, rugged, and built for the job.
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A proper GPS won’t lose signal or panic when the trail vanishes. A solid phone mount will hold through 70 mph slab and 7 mph singletrack. And comms need to work hands-free, with clear audio and zero frustration.
This isn’t luxury. It’s functional riding tech that helps you stay on track, stay in touch, and stay focused when the terrain stops playing nice. These tools aren’t gimmicks. They’re trail-tested and trusted by riders who’ve put in real miles.
Best GPS 
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Best Comms 
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Best Phone Mount 
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The gold standard for ADV GPS. Glove-friendly screen, rugged design, and mapping built for backroads, off-road tracks, and remote terrain. Turn-by-turn on gravel, weather overlays, and group ride tracking—this isn’t just a nav unit, it’s a trail companion. For long-range travel and route planning tips, see our ADV navigation and prep guide. | Premium mesh communication with crystal-clear audio and voice-activated control. The PackTalk Pro syncs with your phone, GPS, and other riders, even across brands. Long battery life and weather resistance make it perfect for long ADV group rides. Want to know how the crash detection actually works? We tested it in our full PackTalk Pro review. | Your phone’s best friend on the bike. Locks securely to the bar and includes a vibration damper that protects your phone’s camera. Easy to use with gloves, and stable at speed. For riders using mobile nav or music, it’s a no-brainer. |
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The gold standard for ADV GPS. Glove-friendly screen, rugged design, and mapping built for backroads, off-road tracks, and remote terrain. Turn-by-turn on gravel, weather overlays, and group ride tracking—this isn’t just a nav unit, it’s a trail companion. For long-range travel and route planning tips, see our ADV navigation and prep guide.
- Bright, glove-friendly 6" HD screen
- Real-time group ride tracking
- Easy switch between street, topo, and satellite maps
- Tread app can be buggy
- Not compatible with Garmin BaseCamp
- Audio prompts may be too quiet over Bluetooth
Premium mesh communication with crystal-clear audio and voice-activated control. The PackTalk Pro syncs with your phone, GPS, and other riders, even across brands. Long battery life and weather resistance make it perfect for long ADV group rides. Want to know how the crash detection actually works? We tested it in our full PackTalk Pro review.
- 15+ rider intercom over Mesh (even Senas)
- Magnetic air mount
- Auto on-off
- Crash detection and emergency call
- 45mm JBL speakers in the box (the best)
- Costs as much as a mid-range helmet
Your phone’s best friend on the bike. Locks securely to the bar and includes a vibration damper that protects your phone’s camera. Easy to use with gloves, and stable at speed. For riders using mobile nav or music, it’s a no-brainer.
- Patented dual-stage lock keeps phone firmly mounted
- Vibration dampener absorbs high-frequency shock
- Quick twist-and-go attachment makes it easy to remove
- Fits a wide range of handlebar sizes, tool-free install
- Strong build with glass-filled nylon and stainless steel hardware
- Some users report residual shake on high-vibration bikes
- Mount clamp can be bulky on smaller handlebars
ADV Motorcycle Gear Buying Guide: What to Look for Before You Ride
Adventure riding pushes gear harder than most types of motorcycling. Long hours, unpredictable terrain, and fast-changing weather mean every piece you wear or pack has to hold up, function without fuss, and keep you focused on the ride, not what’s rubbing, fogging, leaking, or falling off.
Start with the helmet. You want something stable at speed, ventilated enough for trail work, and comfortable for hours. Eye port width matters, especially if you plan to wear goggles, and visor systems should be glove-friendly and fog-resistant. Fit is everything, and noise fatigue is real on longer days.
Your jacket and pants should be purpose-built for movement. Look for Gore-Tex or laminated waterproofing that doesn’t require constant zipping and unzipping. Vent placement is more important than pocket count, and armor should be CE-rated and stay in place when you’re standing or seated. Reinforced knees, stretch zones, and articulated panels make a real difference when you’re shifting weight all day.
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Boots should give ankle and shin protection. Waterproofing helps, especially if you cross streams or get caught out in weather, but don’t sacrifice peg feel. Avoid hiking boots or casual-looking options that offer little support when the bike goes sideways. The best ADV boots strike a usable middle ground between flexibility and impact protection.
Gloves are often overlooked, but they’re your only connection to throttle and controls. Get a pair that matches your riding environment. Vented gloves with armor for heat, waterproof or heated ones for colder climates. Look for seams that don’t dig in and closures that stay shut.
Luggage is all about balance. Hard cases offer protection and locking security, but they’re rigid and heavy. Soft bags flex better off-road and handle drops, while hybrids try to give you both. Mounting should be stable, weight distribution should be considered, and overpacking is always a mistake. Smaller, smarter, tighter is usually better. If you prefer to carry gear on your back instead of your rack, our guide to the best ADV motorcycle backpacks can help.
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Don’t neglect your tech. GPS units are more rugged and reliable than phones in remote riding. If you use a phone for navigation, get a solid, vibration-dampened mount. Communication systems aren’t just for group rides, they make routing, weather updates, and fuel stops a lot smoother if you’re riding distance.
The right ADV setup isn’t just about features, it’s about gear that disappears while you ride. Nothing should distract, overheat, rattle loose, or make you wish you’d packed something else. Choose once, choose right, and the gear will do its job while you do yours.
Adventure Motorcycle Gear FAQ
Adventure gear raises real questions once you start putting on miles. From armor and waterproofing to luggage and comms, here are the answers riders actually need.
Do I need different gear for ADV compared to street riding?
Yes. Street gear isn’t built for standing posture, mixed terrain, or low-speed impacts on rough surfaces. ADV gear adds mobility, better ventilation, and more abrasion resistance in off-road crash zones.
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Is Gore-Tex worth it for adventure gear?
If you ride in changing or wet conditions, yes. Laminated Gore-Tex sheds water without soaking the outer shell, unlike zip-in liners that trap heat and moisture. It’s more expensive but holds up better over time.
How much armor do I really need for ADV?
At minimum: CE Level 1 in elbows, shoulders, knees, and hips. Level 2 is better for higher-speed or rockier riding. Back protection should also be CE-rated, skip foam inserts.
Can I wear hiking boots or trail shoes for ADV rides?
No. They lack ankle protection and torsional support. Even light-duty ADV boots offer better crash protection and peg feel than hiking footwear.
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Are soft bags safe for long trips?
Yes, if they’re built right. Quality soft luggage uses reinforced panels, waterproof materials, and secure mounts. They’re better than hard cases in a crash and easier to repair or carry.
What’s the advantage of dual-chamber gloves like the Held Air N Dry?
You get a waterproof side and a ventilated side in one glove. No need to stop and swap. It’s a practical solution for rides that start cold, heat up, and end wet.
How should ADV pants fit over boots?
They should have enough room to clear your boot tops without bunching or pulling. Zippers or Velcro at the cuff help seal out debris. Make sure knee armor aligns properly when standing and seated.
Can I just use my phone for navigation?
You can, but dedicated GPS units are better for vibration resistance, battery life, and off-grid performance. If you use your phone, get a vibration-dampened mount and power it from the bike.
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Are comm systems worth it if I ride solo?
Yes. You can still get turn-by-turn navigation, phone calls, and music, all without pulling over. For group rides, they’re even more useful for coordination and safety.
Is expensive ADV gear always better?
Not always. Higher price gets you better materials, waterproofing, and durability, but only if it fits your riding style. Budget gear can work, just know what compromises you’re making.
Wrapping-up…
Adventure riding doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. It demands gear that fits right, protects when it counts, and holds up through whatever the road (or trail) throws your way. The best ADV gear isn’t always the flashiest, but it works without getting in your way. That’s what matters when you’re tired, far from home, and still chasing the next stretch of horizon.
Choose gear that matches your terrain, your pace, and your tolerance for discomfort. Invest where it counts. And once you’re dialed in, stop thinking about your setup and start thinking about where you’re going next. That’s the whole point.
