Enduro mountain biking is about covering big terrain with technical descents and timed stages that reward confidence, speed, and flow. But to ride at your best, protection is key. Whether you're racing or exploring new trails, the right MTB protection gear helps you ride harder while reducing the risk of injury. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to stay protected without compromising performance.
To help you choose the right protection for enduro riding, here are the key gear essentials every rider should consider:
- Full Face Helmet / Half Shell
- Knee Pads
- Upper Body Protection
- Elbow Pads & Padded Shorts
- MTB Jerseys & Pants
- Gloves & Goggles
- Neck Brace (Optional)
1. Full Face Helmet or half shell: Lightweight Coverage for All-Day Riding
A full face MTB helmet is essential on enduro trails. It protects your jaw, face, and skull during high-speed crashes, while modern designs ensure breathability and comfort for long climbs. Look for lightweight shell construction, ventilation channels, and rotational impact protection systems like MIPS. Alpinestars’ Supertech M10 delivers pro-level safety in a compact, breathable shell - ideal for riders tackling fast, unpredictable terrain.
The Alpinestars Vector Tech helmet is built for enduro riders who need lightweight protection on the climbs and serious coverage on the descents. Its extended rear shell and multi-density EPS liner provide enhanced impact absorption without compromising ventilation or comfort. With an adjustable fit system and optimized airflow, the Vector Tech is ideal for long days in the saddle where both performance and protection matter.
2. Knee Pads: Reliable Protection Without Restriction
Knee pads are your most frequent contact point in a crash and should be part of every ride. For enduro, you need a balance of CE-certified impact protection, secure fit, and pedaling comfort. Alpinestars’ Vector Pro and A-Impact Plasma Pro knee guards stay in place over hours of riding, offering confidence through rock gardens, switchbacks, and jumps - without limiting your mobility on the climbs.
3. Upper Body Protection: Chest, Back, and Shoulders
When trails get steep and features get bigger, upper body protection adds another layer of security. Protection vests or jackets with integrated back, chest, and shoulder armor are common among serious enduro riders and racers. Look for lightweight, ventilated designs that can be worn under a jersey and don’t interfere with hydration packs. The Alpinestars A-Impact Plasma Protection Jacket offers maximum CE-level protection with a modular design that adapts to your ride.
4. Elbow Pads and Padded Shorts: Extra Coverage for Aggressive Lines
While not every rider uses elbow pads or padded shorts, both provide smart coverage when riding harder lines or racing longer stages. Elbow guards should offer a low-profile fit with enough flex to avoid restriction, while padded shorts can help reduce impact forces on hips and tailbone during slides or crashes. They’re a smart choice for back-to-back riding days, rugged terrain, or when you're pushing your limits.
5. MTB Jerseys and Pants: The First Layer of Defense
While often overlooked as protective gear, your jersey and pants matter. MTB-specific jerseys are made from abrasion-resistant materials that wick sweat and withstand brushes with trees, rocks, and dirt. Long-sleeve jerseys add protection without overheating, especially when made with lightweight mesh panels. MTB pants are critical for leg coverage, especially in overgrown or rocky terrain. Look for models with stretch zones, pre-shaped knees, and durable fabrics that can handle crashes. Alpinestars’ A-Aria, A-Supra and A-Dura apparel lines combine race-ready fit with trail-proven durability, offering mobility, ventilation, and protection in one system.
6. Gloves and Goggles: Control and Clarity
Good gloves do more than improve grip. They add abrasion resistance, protect against branches and debris, and reduce hand fatigue over long rides. For enduro, look for padded palms and stretch materials that move with your hand. Goggles provide full-field vision and essential eye protection when paired with full face helmets. Choose lenses suited to light conditions and vented frames to reduce fogging during high-output climbs and descents.
7. Optional: Neck Brace for Added Spinal Protection
For riders racing or pushing high-consequence terrain, a neck brace can offer additional spinal protection during crashes. If you wear full upper body protection, ensure compatibility with your brace to maintain freedom of movement.
Dial Your Kit to Your Ride
Not every trail or rider requires the same level of gear. If you're riding flow trails and moderate terrain, a trail lid and knee pads may be enough. If you're racing multi-stage events or spending weekends in alpine terrain, full face helmets, armor, and abrasion-resistant apparel are recommended. Always choose gear that fits well, stays in place, and doesn’t distract from your focus on the trail.
