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BEST SPORTBIKE GEAR OF 2024

REVZILLA’S TOP PICKS


Today’s sport riders have endless options when selecting their gear, and sport protection has never been better thanks to advances in materials, armor, aerodynamics, and airbag systems.

It's your skin and your safety hanging in the balance a few inches above the apex. If it sounds important, that's because it is. Still, all those options can be a bit overwhelming when deciding on new sport motorcycle gear, but don’t worry. We’ve rounded up all the best sport gear out there, and we split our picks into a few different categories to best match your riding style. Let’s take a closer look at our top picks.

Best Sportbike Racing Gear

Gear that cuts no corners and makes no compromises

Arai Corsair-X Helmets - Shop Now
Alpinestars Missile v2 Race Suit - Shop Now
Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Airbag System - Shop Now
Dainese Steel Pro Gloves - Shop Now
Alpinestars Tech Air 10 Airbag - Shop Now
Track/Pro - Shop The Outfit
Overview

Our first rider type is heading to the track. We’ve selected some serious equipment here that represents the pinnacle of track day tech for those of us who aren’t pro racers. That said, you’ll find some of this gear in competition around the world, so don’t hesitate to chase that checkered flag. Read on to learn what we recommend for today’s track day rider.

Arai Corsair X Helmet

The Corsair X is Arai’s flagship line of sport helmets. In testing, we found it to be our favorite in its class. The Corsair X is an aggressive package that calls the racetrack its home. The helmet starts with its PB SNC2 “Super Fiber” synthetic shell that uses Arai’s signature sphere concept. This stronger, smoother shape is meant to redirect energy in the event of a crash. The Corsair X’s heat management makes a huge difference in comfort when riding at the limit. All vent controls are easy to operate with a gloved hand. 

Inside, you’ll find Arai’s Eco Pure liner with adjustable temple padding and antibacterial protection. The VAS MAX Vision face shield offers the clear, wide view sport riders demand. A Pinlock insert is included to prevent dangerous fogging. With Snell M2020 approval and emergency release cheek pads, the Corsair X is our choice for a day at the track. 

A key upgrade to this helmet is the GP Spoiler Extension for the Corsair X.  This attachment maximizes the high-speed stability of the Corsair X’s aero package. Arai designed the GP Spoiler Extension to break away, so there’s no safety penalty here. And what sport rider doesn’t love that GP style?

Alpinestars Missile V2 Race Suit

A one-piece race suit is necessary if you’re primarily riding at the track. Our favorite option is the Alpinestars Missile v2 Race Suit. The Missile v2 suit checks all of our boxes, looks the part, and delivers a ton of value for its $1,100 price. Alpinestars crafts this suit from premium bovine leather for outstanding abrasion resistance. That’s followed up by a full suite of Alpinestars’ GP-R protectors at the shoulders, elbows, and knees. Dynamic Friction Shield sliders further defend the elbows and knees. Even so, leather and hard protectors are table stakes at this level of sport riding, so what truly sets the Missile suit apart? For us, it’s all about comfort and agility. Alpinestars absolutely nails their placement of stretch materials, accordion panels, vents, and gussets. The suit moves with the rider in a full race position, encouraging proper form. These suits satisfy protective requirements for most track and racing organizations, too.

Alpinestars Tech Air 5

Modern motorcycle airbag systems utilize cutting edge technology to provide unparalleled protection for riders. The Tech Air 5 from Alpinestars takes that technology even further with six triaxial integrated sensors, an advanced crash algorithm that leverages AI to accurately monitor when to deploy, and 30 hours of riding time on a full charge. We love the comprehensive upper body coverage that this system allows, as well as the ease of use and app integration.

Dainese Steel Pro Gloves

In many ways, these are the ultimate race glove. Composite inserts combined with preformed stainless steel provide hard part protection on the back of the hand, while a reinforced leather palm and uses polyurethane inserts improve longevity and positive feedback with your grips.

Alpinestars SMX Plus v2 Boots

The SMX Plus line is intended for serious track riders, and the SMX Plus v2 is no exception. It’s sleek, protective, innovative, and our favorite track day boot. Alpinestars starts with their microfiber upper and incorporates flex panels, accordion stretch, ventilation, and track-grade hard parts. One of our favorite features is the Multi-Link Control system that supports the ankle to address common trackday injuries like hyper-torsion and ankle impacts. Major hard parts are replaceable for maximum longevity. These boots slip on and off easily with their side entries and accordion sections. The interiors are among the best in their class according to our test feet. We can’t recommend these boots enough.

Best Budget-Friendly Sportbike Gear

Gear you can confidently test the waters with

Scorpion EXO R1 Air Helmet - Shop Now
Sedici Corsa Race Suit - Shop Now
Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Airbag System - Shop Now
Dainese Carbon 4 Short Gloves - Shop Now
Sedici Corsa Boots - Shop Now
New to Track/Budget - Shop The Outfit
Overview

Our next type of rider has taken all the necessary steps to get on track. They'll know soon if this fast-paced riding style, where there's zero margin for error, is right for them. In the process of getting geared up, they're investing in head-to-toe safety apparel that's likely required by the circuit to ride and, frankly, the smartest way to gear up. You won't find every last bell and whistle here, but rider well-being is at the forefront so safety is the top consideration during manufacturing.

Scorpion EXO-R1 Air Helmet

Scorpion’s EXO-R1 Air helmet is a budget powerhouse, offering features and protection usually reserved for premium sport lids. Scorpion uses a multi-layered Ultra-TCT shell that combines fiberglass, aramid and poly-resin fibers for low weight and serious protection. The shell design is impressively aerodynamic, and inside, you’ll find plenty of comfort with technical materials to wick away sweat while turning laps. Additional comfort comes from the EXO-R1’s ram-air intake system with efficient exhaust vents. The face shield is wide and optimized for a clear field of view. It even comes with a Pinlock anti-fog insert straight from the factory, plus a bonus dark smoke shield for bright days. Final details like titanium D-rings and emergency cheek pad releases make this a true bargain that doesn’t skimp on safety.

Sedici Corsa Race Suit

Don’t let the price tag fool you. The Sedici Corsa one-piece suit is built to withstand the rigors of trackdays. Sedici uses an aggressive race fit and race-ready cowhide for a formidable package at an affordable price. Stretch panels and accordion sections allow a full range of motion as you develop your sport riding skills. The suit includes CE Level 2 armor, perforated airflow sections, an antimicrobial mesh lining, and knee panels for better grip on the tank. This suit has all the technical features you’ll need for track riding, and it can also pull double duty when riding technical canyon roads.

Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Airbag

Not so long ago, the Tech Air 5 was the most advanced airbag available from Alpinestars. Now, advancements in motorcycle airbag tech made this system more attainable than ever for beginner riders. The Tech Air 5 has a leg up on the competition because it is completely self-contained, so there are no wires or cables to attach to the motorcycle. Also, it is universal, and will work with any track suit or jacket as long as there is a little room for the airbag to expand. We haven’t experienced any issues or shortcomings with this system in our testing, and for the money, there is no better way to improve confidence and safety at the track.

Dainese Carbon 4 Short Glove

These are the short-cuff version of a full gauntlet glove built by Dainese. We love many of the race-inspired features and style cues that made their way into the short version. Drum-dyed goatskin leather, a sheep skin and Amica suede palm, and mesh panels provide excellent protection, tactile feedback, and comfort.

Sedici Corsa Vented Boots

Sedici’s Corsa Vented boots don’t just wear aggressive sport style. These microfiber boots back up their looks with all the sport essentials, including dual hinged ankles, reinforced midsoles, TPU sliders, and replaceable alloy parts. Sedici also gave the Corsa Vented boots some premium features like rubber shift pads, air mesh lining, and one-piece molded heels. Grip is ensured by oil-resistant rubber soles with plenty of grip. Ride all the way to your limits; the Corsa Vented boots duct air where it’s needed so you can focus on the ride. We’re thrilled to see boots like these for just a couple hundred bucks, and we hope to see more gear like this from Sedici in the future. re among the best in their class according to our test feet. We can’t recommend these boots enough.

Best Street and Sportbike Leather Gear

Time-honored choices for fashion and function

Alpinestars GP Plus R V4 Airflow Jacket - Shop Now
Dainese Pony 3 Perforated Pants - Shop Now
REAX Castor 2 Perforated Gloves- Shop Now
Alpinestars SMX 6 v2 Boots - Shop Now
Street Sport -  Leather - Shop The Outfit
Overview

Leather gear has long been a mainstay in street riding. It'll hold up for years, provide unbeatable protection in a spill and simply looks good on the bike, in the paddock or parking lot. The products we've picked here are suited for sportbikes that can pull off highway duty and the occasional track day appearance. It's the best of both worlds and this is truly the best street and sportbike leather motorcycle gear to hang in your gear closet.

Alpinestars GP Plus 3R V4 Airflow Jacket

This premium jacket from Alpinestars features race-inspired features and construction techniques for thee best in performance and protection.A 1.3mm race grade leather exterior is fitted with vented shoulders and extensive perforation zones on the chest and sides for improved airflow. A variety of armored materials protects the most vulnerable parts of your body, while stretch panels and ergonomic cuffs to ensure a safe, mobile, and comfortable fit.

Dainese Pony 3 Perforated Pants

The Pony 3 Leather pants take construction techniques and materials engineered on the track, and blend them into gear meant for the street. Perforated panels help with airflow, while hip and knee armor add protection to vulnerable contact points. We love these pants because they bring a sporty, track-oriented feel to gear that's just as at home in the canyons or on a long tour.

REAX Castor 2 Perforated Gloves

The Castor 2 Perforated Gloves from Reax are our pick for best leather sportbike gloves. Extensive perforation provides excellent breathability, while drum dyed goatskin, raw carbon hard knuckles, and AVP impact absorbing protection provide the ideal combination of protection, style, and comfort.

Alpinestars SMX 6 v2 Boots

The Alpinestars SMX 6 v2 boots can handle the track or the street with their Goldilocks design that’s neither too sporty for the street nor too casual for a track day. These boots bring together the industry standards of microfiber, accordion stretch, and TPU hard parts, but they offer more comfort and finesse than the competition. That’s why they easily won top honors among street sport boots for this year. These would be our first pick for riders who routinely keep a spirited pace on tight roads, and you’ll spot these exact boots on our staff riders when riding high-performance motorcycles near their limits.

Best Textile Street and Sportbike Gear

Professional performance that's daily-wear ready

Alpinestars T-GP Plus R V4 Airflow Jacket - Shop Now
Klim K Fifty 2 Jeans - Shop Now
Alpinestars Tech-Air 3 System - Shop Now
REAX Superfly 2 Gloves - Shop Now
Sport / Street Sport -  Textile - Shop The Outfit
Overview

There's something to be said for "looking the part." Still, not every trip on your sportbike is a MotoAmerica race and that means street-worthy sportbike gear that's toned down just a shade. You still get the premium fit and safety features that would work on track, but you're currently fighting with rush hour traffic.

Alpinestars T-GP Plus R v4 Air Jacket

Q5's are the fifth generation of Sportmax tires from Dunlop. That means they've built off years of cutting edge tire technology and design. Enhanced constructions, profiles, compounds and tread patterns, were developed for use as Dunlop's MotoAmerica spec road race tires, making these some of the best DOT approved track day tires available.

Klim K Fifty 2 Jeans

The Klim K Fifty Jeans are incredibly popular and well reviewed riding pants, thanks to their rock solid protection, top notch comfort, and stylish fit. The classic straight-leg cut offers a contemporary look, while Cordura denim and Kevlar backing provide excellent abrasion resistance without adding too much bulk.

Alpinestars Tech-Air 3 Airbag

Airbag protection for the street is well worth the investment, and thanks to the Tech Air 3 Airbag system, sport riders can access this critical piece of kit without spending premium prices. This is the lightest, most affordable, and most convenient system offered by Alpinestars, and no other system comes close at this price. Wear it under or over your sport jacket for full torso protection. It uses the same algorithms and activation systems as the Tech Air 5, so you can ride with confidence in the airbag’s ability to watch your back while enjoying your sport motorcycle’s abilities. The system does not require any external connections or sensors. Six internal sensors are automatically activated when the zipper is closed. Electronics are waterproof and totally enclosed for protection from foul weather. Even better, the internal battery is good for 40 hours of riding on a full chage, and the Tech Air 3 will charge to full in just four hours. There’s simply no reason to leave an airbag out of your street sport protection with an option like this on the market.

REAX Superfly Mesh 2 Gloves

The Reax Superfly Mesh 2 Gloves are a versatile piece of gear, well-suited to a variety of riders and riding styles. From spirited riding through the canyons to spirited commutes through the city, to spirited jaunts down the highway, these gloves provide excellent protection, ventilation, and comfort.

Alpinestars SMX 1 R v2 Vented Shoes

Alpinestars’ SMX 1 R v2 Vented Shoes don’t just wear aggressive sport style. These microfiber riding shoes back up their looks with all the sport essentials, including a streamlined profile, reinforced midsoles, TPR inserts, and plenty of ventilation. Alpinestars also gave the SMX 1 R v2 Vented Shoes some premium features like shift pads, breathable mesh lining, and sport-ready closure straps. Grip is ensured by upgraded rubber soles with plenty of grip. Ride all the way to your limits; the SMX 1 R v2 Vented Shoes draw air where it’s needed so you can focus on the ride. We’re thrilled to see shoes like these at this price point, and the CE Cat 2 certification seals the deal for street sport protection.


Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of gear do I need for a track day?

Most track day organizations will require full leather protection for your torso, arms, and legs. There are one- and two-piece options, so check with your track day organizer before spending big bucks on a suit. Track riders also use leather gauntlet gloves, full-height racing boots with ankle support, and full-face sport helmets. Armor is needed for the elbows, shoulders, back, knees, and hips. Airbags are also a smart investment.

What’s the difference between textile and leather gear for sport riders?

Leather is the traditional choice for sport riding, and for good reason. It is durable, repairable, and strong enough to withstand abrasion after high-speed crashes. Textiles are lighter, more comfortable, and less bulky, but they aren’t as tough as leather. That said, they are a perfectly fine option for most street riders, and you’ll be a lot less sweaty after a hot day riding. Most tracks require leather gear for maximum protection.

Do I need an airbag or a back protector for sport riding?

At a minimum, you should have a back protector tucked under your jacket. There are lots of options and sizes out there, so do some research before ordering for the best fit and protection. Motorcycle airbags are an increasingly popular option for all kinds of riders, but they are an especially common sight at track days and amateur races because they offer a big boost in protection for riders in track environments.

What about knee sliders? Do I need sliders when riding my motorcycle?

Knee sliders are another common piece of sport riding gear. They attach to your riding suit or pants with hook-and-loop fasteners, so you can replace them once you’ve ground down the slider material beyond its limits. As your sport riding form and abilities progress, you’ll have more need for sliders. They are not essential for beginner or street sport riding.

Can I replace the sliders on my sport motorcycle gear?

Often, the answer is yes! Look for small screws that hold the sliders in place. These are usually at the shoulders and toes.

Shop All of the Best Sport Gear
Shop All of the Best Sport Gear