Top pick
Arai RX-7V Evo
A track-day favourite. Visordown ran one on road and track for six months, and MCN and BikeSocial have both tested it too.
Helmet
Race helmets are shaped for a tucked-in riding position and stay stable at speed. Organisers expect a full-face helmet in good condition, so if yours has been dropped or crashed, replace it.
Also great
AGV Pista GP RR
AGV's MotoGP-spec lid. Visordown's tester made it his go-to for track and fast road riding after a year at circuits from Cadwell Park to Mugello: a stunning piece of kit, if noisy on the road.
Also great
Alpinestars Supertech R10
Alpinestars' race helmet, built for aerodynamics. Ultimate Motorcycling found few helmets as stable at speed; it's louder than an Arai or Shoei and has no room for glasses.
Leathers
Most UK track days need a one-piece suit, or a leather jacket and trousers that zip together all the way round. MSV-owned circuits, such as Brands Hatch and Donington Park, also require a full-length back protector.
Top pick
RST Tractech Evo 4 Suit
An AAA-rated one-piece at a mid-range price. BikeSocial rated the fit, build and comfort highly; most of the armour is Level 1.
Out of stock everywhere right nowCompare prices
Also great
RST Pro Series Evo Airbag Suit
A one-piece with a built-in airbag. MCN said it offers an incredible level of protection for the price; the catch is no pockets.
Recommended by MCN
Also great
Spada Curve Evo Suit
Picked by Visordown as a do-it-all one-piece for riders of every level in its best leathers for every budget.
Recommended by Visordown
Prices coming soonCompare prices
Gloves
Full-gauntlet race gloves with hard knuckle and palm sliders. Look for CE Level 2 (marked 2KP on the label) if you can.
Top pick
Alpinestars GP Tech V2
MCN rated them 4/5 in its sports and track glove test: CE Level 2, comfortable from day one and great feel on the bars.
Recommended by MCN
Also great
RST Tractech Evo 4
Visordown's tester used them on track at Mallory Park and now wears them on the road too: good value at around £100.
Also great
LS2 Swift Racing Gloves
The budget pair. MCN gave them 4/5 for feel, Level 2 protection and value; the loose thumb makes indicating awkward on the road.
Boots
Race boots brace your ankle and have toe sliders and shin protection. They're not made for walking, so pack some trainers for the paddock.
Top pick
Alpinestars Supertech R
Alpinestars' top race boot. Visordown rated it highly for comfort and protection; it's expensive.
Also great
Sidi Rex
BikeSocial called it an excellent choice for protective sports riding, if you can afford it.
Also great
RST Tractech Evo 3
The value pick. Visordown rated it a good road-and-track compromise with solid protection for under £150.
Out of stock everywhere right nowCompare prices
Before you buy
- 1
Check the rules
Every organiser and circuit has its own kit rules. Most want one-piece or zip-together leathers, and MSV circuits need a full-length back protector. Check before you book.
- 2
Fit in a crouch
Try leathers on in a riding crouch. They should feel snug standing up and right when you're tucked in, with the knee armour on your knees.
- 3
Bring trainers
Race boots are hard work to walk in. Pack some trainers for the paddock and briefings.
- 4
Replace after a crash
A helmet that's taken a hit should be replaced even if it looks fine, and crashed leathers or gloves should be checked for worn-through seams.
Track day questions
Do I need one-piece leathers?
Not always. Most organisers also accept a leather jacket and trousers that zip together all the way round. Check your organiser's rules before you buy.
Can I hire kit for my first track day?
Some track-day organisers and riding schools hire out leathers, which is worth it for your first go. You'll usually still need your own helmet and gloves.
Do I need an airbag?
It isn't usually required, but more and more riders use one. A suit with a built-in airbag, like the RST Pro Series Evo, adds protection without a separate vest.
When is gear cheapest?
Black Friday and the end-of-season sales in late summer and January are the big ones, but shops drop prices all year. Join our Discord, pick your sizes, and we'll ping you when any of these drops.
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