Putting up the buggy for the winter and waiting for spring to come is so lame. Yes, it might be cold, wet, and extra muddy, BUT it is some of the best times to get out on the trails! Here me out. No dust, no swamp ass from the summer heat and humidity, no feeling like you’re going to faint from the heat in the cab, no bugs, and no SNAKES!! That’s right, all the creepy crawlies are hibernating! Take a look below at the must have accessories to keep you comfortably out riding longer!
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1. Safety Gear
Why this gear matters: Safety gear (helmet, goggles, gloves, boots) is fundamental for any ATV/UTV ride. Handguards and protection help avoid injuries from brush, branches, flying gravel, or debris. Storage and tools prepare you for breakdowns or long rides — especially useful on more rugged trails in variable seasonal conditions.
DOT-Approved UTV Helmet
Lightweight options with good airflow are perfect for long trail days.
Check out this Omurs unisex helmet bundle including a mask and gloves (goggles sold separately), here.
Or this 1Storm Adult Motorcross Helmet here.
UTV Goggles
Great for dust, cold wind, mud, and late-season low-light conditions. This is an absolute must in fall/winter conditions. There is often a lot of muddy trails and you don’t want that in your eyes.
I like these Ultra Lightweight Anti-Fog Ski Goggles. They are windproof, shatterproof, and come in a variety of colors. Acthose goggles have reinforced lenses, are scratch resistant, and are flexible while also lightweight. Check them out!
This goggle bundle comes with 5 pairs of glasses and 8 skull facemasks. Who doesn’t love skulls?
Padded Riding Gloves
Insulated and waterproof gloves are a must have in fall/winter because fingers freeze fast in wind tunnels.
Handylandy waterproof insulated work gloves would be a great choice. Not only are they insulated and have the touch finger and thumb, there is also a waterproof bag insert between the liner and shell to keep your hands warm and dry.
2. Footwear Trail-Ready & Waterproof
Waterproof Riding/Work Boots for UTV Use
Comfy, warm, and grippy in mud.
Keens are hands-down the best hiking boots. They are comfortable, warm, waterproof, and have excellent grip. Get your pair here.
Wool Socks
Warm socks are a must to go with those warm boots! Here are some of my favorites:
3. Cold-Weather & Layering Essentials
Softshell or Windproof Riding Jacket
Perfect for 40–60 degree trail temps and wind chill. Pick a jacket that is waterproof, windproof, and insulated. Pioneer Camp Women’s Softshell Jacket is a great choice.
Thermal Base Layers
Thermal underwear is a must if you’ll be spending anytime out in the woods. The key to staying warm is layering.
Here’s a set made specifically for ladies. Women Base Layer
Neck Gaiter / Balaclava
Protects from dust + cold wind. If you do any riding in the summer dust, you probably have a few hundred of these already. But if not, here is my choice:
Other Must Haves
- Hand warmers
- Chapstick
- Compact Emergency Pee Kit (yes, trust me)
My Recommendations Based on Your Use Case
- If you ride occasionally or just for fun — start with the essentials: helmet (make sure yours is DOT-certified for UTV/ATV), riding boots, goggles, gloves, and a small bag or hydration pack.
- If you ride a few times a season or expect cooler weather: add insulated gloves, a hydration pack, waterproof boots/boots with good tread, and protective handguards.
- If you ride often, long trails, or in variable weather (mud, cold, dust, rain): consider a full gear set — durable boots, decent gloves, eye/face protection, hydration/gear storage, a tool kit, and even extra clothing layers (thermal base, windproof jacket, water-resistant pants).
