BMX gear for riders

The required kit for BMX racing

In BMX racing, an Olympic discipline since the Beijing Games in 2008, up to eight riders start together from an inclined starting gate before tackling bumps, banked turns, and jumps. Falls are common, and the rules set a minimum outfit: full-face helmet, gloves that cover the fingers completely, long-sleeved jersey down to the wrists, and long trousers made of durable fabric, with joggers being prohibited. This base aims to prevent burns and abrasions from contact with the track. The protections described below are added under the trousers and jersey, never replacing these mandatory items.

The rest of the outfit

BMX gear also includes:

• BMX helmets.
• Gloves.
• BMX goggles.
• Jerseys.
• Trousers.
• BMX shoes.

All the gear is gathered on the BMX page.

Knee pads, elbow pads, and shin guards: protecting the joints

The knee and elbow hit the ground almost in every fall. The flexible knee pads and elbow pads, made of foam that hardens upon impact, slip under the trousers and jersey without hindering pedalling in a standing position. The models with a hard shell, which are bulkier, are reserved for dirt and big jumps. In freestyle, with flat pedals with pins, shin guards prevent cuts when the foot slips and the pedal strikes the leg. It's important to check that each piece of protection stays centred on the joint when the rider is in position with bent legs, and that the straps do not compress the back of the knee.

Back protector and neck brace: the back and neck

On jumps on the track or a dirt spot, a backward fall can impact the spine. The back protector, a plate integrated into a vest or an independent harness, distributes the shock energy over a larger area. The neck brace, or cervical protection collar, rests on the shoulders under the full-face helmet: it limits extreme bending of the head forward, backward, or sideways. It is adjusted while wearing the helmet so that its edge rests on the neck brace and not on the neck. These two pieces of protection require careful fitting, as a poorly adjusted piece hinders the rider's movements on the bike.

Good deals

Great deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and the back-to-school period.

Frequently asked questions

Are BMX protections compulsory for a child?

In clubs and competitions, a full-face helmet, long gloves, and covering clothing are required regardless of age. Knee pads and elbow pads are not always mandatory but are highly recommended for children who are learning to fall as well as ride.

What protections for BMX freestyle in a skatepark?

In parks, riders often wear a bowl helmet, soft knee pads, and shin guards. To learn new tricks, elbow pads and hip protection add valuable safety on concrete.

How to measure your leg for BMX knee pads?

Measure the circumference of the leg a few inches above and below the knee, with the leg straight, and then refer to the manufacturer's guide. The knee pad should stay in place when pedalling while standing, without slipping or compressing.

Does a BMX protection need to be certified?

Quality protections are tested according to a European standard that measures the force transmitted during an impact. This marking, indicated on the label, guarantees a verified level of absorption, useful for comparing two similarly appearing models.

When should you replace your BMX protections?

After a severe impact, if a shell is cracked or foam is compressed and no longer regains its shape, the protection must be replaced. For young riders, growth also requires checking the size at the start of each sports year.