How to Measure Your Kid for Riding Gear
Kids grow fast. Like, “weren’t those pants fine last week?” fast.
That’s why riding gear sizing should not be based on age alone. The best fit comes from real measurements, because properly fitted gear helps young riders move better, ride more comfortably, and stay focused on the fun.
Gear that is too big can shift around. Gear that is too small can feel stiff, tight, or distracting. The sweet spot is gear that feels secure, comfortable, and ready for whatever your little rider gets into next.
This guide walks you through how to measure your child for helmets, gloves, jerseys, chest protection, body armor, and riding pants so you can choose the right size with more confidence.
What You'll Need
- A soft measuring tape
- A wall, if you want to do a quick height check
- A phone or notepad to record measurements
Tip: Measure over light clothing, not bulky layers.
How to measure your child's head for a helmet
Why it matters: Helmets must fit snugly to protect properly. Do not size up "to grow into."
How to measure
- Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your child's head.
- Position it about 1 inch (2–3 cm) above the eyebrows.
- Keep the tape level all the way around.
- Record the measurement in centimeters (most helmet size charts use cm).
Fit check: With the helmet on and strapped, have your child gently shake their head side to side. If the helmet moves independently, it is too big.
How to measure kids' hands for riding gloves
Why it matters: Gloves that are too big reduce grip and control. Gloves that are too small can cause fatigue and blisters.
Measure these two points
- Hand length: From the wrist crease to the tip of the middle finger
- Palm width: Across the widest part of the palm (exclude the thumb)
Fit check: Your child should be able to fully wrap their fingers around the grip with minimal extra fabric at the fingertips and no tight pulling across the palm.
How to measure for youth riding jerseys, chest protectors, and body armor
Why it matters: Chest sizing affects jerseys, chest protectors, and body armor. Fit should be secure without restricting breathing or shoulder movement.
How to measure
- Wrap the tape around the fullest part of the chest.
- Keep it snug, not tight.
- Measure while your child stands relaxed with arms down.
Layering note: If your child wears a chest protector, choose jersey sizing based on whether the jersey is meant to go over protection (many are) or under it (some are).
How to measure for youth riding pants
Waist & Hip
Why it matters: Riding pants should stay in place without pinching. Most riding pants include adjusters, but sizing still matters.
How to measure
- Waist: Around the natural waistline (not where jeans usually sit)
- Hips: Around the widest part of the hips
Fit check: Choose the size that fits closest before using waist adjusters. If the pants only fit after maxing out adjusters, they are usually too big.
Inseam
Why it matters: Pants that are too long can bunch up, interfere with boots, or snag on pegs.
How to measure
- Have your child stand straight in socks or barefoot.
- Measure from the crotch to the ankle bone.
- Record the measurement.
Common Measuring Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Using age instead of measurements: Always measure, then check the product size chart.
- Measuring over bulky clothing: Use light clothing for accurate results.
- Sizing up helmets for growth: Helmets should fit now, not later.
- Assuming every brand fits the same: Use the chart on the specific product.
- Skipping glove measurements: Small hands need the right fit for real control.
How Often Should You Re-Measure?
- Every 6 months for younger riders
- Right before the start of a new season
- Before buying a new helmet
- Anytime gear starts feeling tight or restrictive
Comfort Is Safety
If gear is uncomfortable, kids resist wearing it or ride distracted. Proper fit helps them focus on riding, not adjusting gear.
Ready to Gear Up?
Now that you have your measurements, shop Voltastra's full range of kids' riding gear—sized for young riders, built for real protection.