What to Wear: Track Day Gear for Riders

Helmet Requirements

Standards Accepted

• ACU Gold: UK racing standard
• ECE 22.05 or 22.06: European standard
• FIM Homologation: International racing
• Must be less than 5 years old (check manufacture date)
• No damage or previous impacts

Helmet Features to Consider

• Good ventilation for summer days
• Removable liner for washing
• Double-D ring retention (required)
• Tear-offs or Pinlock for vision
• Comfortable fit for all-day wear

Leather Requirements

Options

• One-piece suit: Always accepted, most protection
• Two-piece suit: Must have 360° connecting zip
• Minimum 1.2mm leather thickness
• CE armour in shoulders, elbows, knees
• Hip protection recommended

Suit Features

• Knee sliders (replaceable)
• Accordion stretch panels
• Perforated panels for cooling
• Aerodynamic hump (reduces fatigue)
• Internal pockets for essentials

Popular Brands

• Entry Level: RST, Wolf, Richa (£300-600)
• Mid Range: Alpinestars, Dainese, Spidi (£600-1200)
• Premium: Gimoto, Kushitani, custom (£1200+)

Back Protection

Required if your suit doesn't have built-in protection:

• CE Level 2 protection minimum
• Full coverage (not just insert)
• Separate or integrated options
• Chest protectors also recommended

Gloves

Requirements

• Full gauntlet style (cover wrists)
• Leather construction
• Retention strap at wrist
• Knuckle protection
• Palm sliders recommended

Features to Look For

• Pre-curved fingers
• Kangaroo leather palms (durability)
• Visor wipe on thumb
• Touch-screen fingertips

Boots

Requirements

• Full height (above ankle)
• Motorcycle specific
• Ankle protection systems
• Non-slip sole
• Shin plate recommended

Track Boot Features

• External toe sliders
• Replaceable parts
• Ankle bracing system
• Lightweight construction
• Good feel for controls

Additional Items

Highly Recommended

• Base layers: Moisture wicking
• Balaclava: Hygiene and comfort
• Spare visor: Clear and tinted
• Earplugs: Protect hearing
• Neck brace: Extra protection

Comfort Items

• Cooling vest for hot days
• Heated vest for cold mornings
• Hydration system
• Anti-fog spray
• Spare knee sliders

Budget Considerations

Minimum Budget (New)

• Helmet: £200-300
• Leathers: £400-600
• Gloves: £80-120
• Boots: £150-200
• Back protector: £80-120
• Total: £900-1350

Money Saving Tips

• Buy end-of-season sales
• Consider quality used gear
• Join brand loyalty programs
• Package deals from retailers
• Don't compromise on safety

Gear Maintenance

• Clean leathers after each use
• Condition leather regularly
• Check armour placement
• Replace damaged items immediately
• Store in cool, dry place
• Service helmet interior