>>299458Fit varies between brands (obviously), but also between models. The low-end HJC's don't fit me real great, but the higher-end ones do. Sizing is consistent between models, but fit is important too. So even if you don't find the color/style you want, at least you can try on brands/models and figure out what works better for you. Internet retailers will have the color/style that the local shops don't.
>>299463IMO boots are pretty goddamn important offroad.
On one hand, as a new rider, you're not doing anything insane but you also don't see lines and don't have experience keeping the bike upright in varying terrain, so you end up on the ground a lot.
On the other hand, as you improve as a rider you start tackling more difficult terrain and challenging yourself; while you crash less at this stage, the crashes tend to be more dangerous.
My opinion, the whole "i'm just starting out so i don't need all this gear" excuse is bullshit. It's just as important for a new rider as it is for someone who's been riding for years. But as you grow, and especially in competition, the risk of not wearing something (like a good chest protector) may be acceptable if it improves your performance on the track. More gear can wear you out.
But to start out? Decent helmet, decent chest protector, elbow pads are nice (I like paintball pads, they're light enough to not get in the way but still enough to keep you from getting all scraped up in a tip-over), gloves, decent offroad pants (something that'll hold up to eating dirt better than jeans), good knee guards, and good offroad boots.
Look on craigslist for gear, like I said you'll be going through a few sets before you figure out what works for you. I found a pair of MX boots new-in-box for $80 or so.
Work boots don't offer nearly as much protection as an MX boot does, and broken ankles SUCK. I'm dealing with that right now.
