What to Wear on an Arizona ATV or Sand-Buggy Tour

Short answer: wear closed-toe shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting dusty, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Dress for the temperature that day, and bring a light layer if you’re riding early or at sunset. That’s most of it — the desert does the rest.

Here’s the full rundown so you show up ready to grab the wheel.

Start with your feet

Closed-toe shoes are the one non-negotiable. Sneakers, trail runners, or hiking shoes all work. Skip sandals and flip-flops — you’re operating pedals and walking over rocky ground at the trailhead. If your shoes are brand new and white, expect them to come home a shade of Sonoran tan.

Clothes you don’t mind getting dusty

This is an off-road desert tour, so fine trail dust is part of the deal. Wear comfortable, casual clothes: shorts or pants and a t-shirt in warmer months, or layers when it’s cool. Darker colors hide the dust better than white. Leave anything you’d be upset to stain at the hotel.

Sun protection matters more than you think

Arizona sun is no joke, even in winter and even when it’s overcast.

• Sunglasses — the ride kicks up glare and dust, so bring a pair (we provide goggles over your helmet, but sunglasses help on the drive out).
• Sunscreen — put it on before you arrive and bring some to reapply.
• A neck gaiter or bandana — optional, but nice for keeping dust off your face on a fast stretch.

Dress for the season

Scottsdale and Phoenix span a big temperature range across the year, so let the forecast guide you:

• Summer (June–August): It’s hot. Light, breathable clothing and extra water. Our summer tours run early morning and around sunset, so you’re out in the best part of the day. See our sunset ATV tours.
• Spring and fall: Close to perfect. A t-shirt during the day, maybe a light layer for a morning or evening ride.
• Winter (December–February): Warm days, cool mornings and nights. Bring a jacket or hoodie — the desert loses heat fast once the sun drops.

Not sure which season fits your trip? Our guide to the best time to visit Scottsdale breaks it down.

What we provide

You don’t need to bring gear. Every rider gets a helmet, goggles, and a full safety briefing, and we hand out bottled water on the trail. We also take free adventure photos, so you don’t have to worry about protecting a camera — though most people keep a phone handy in a zipped pocket.

What to leave at home

• Loose scarves or anything that can catch the wind
• Expensive jewelry and watches (dust and vibration aren’t kind to them)
• Open-toe anything

Quick answers

Do I need long sleeves or pants? Not required. Wear what’s comfortable for the weather. Some riders prefer long sleeves in summer for sun protection.

Can I wear contacts? Yes — the goggles keep dust out. Bring your sunglasses for the drive.

What about kids? Same rules: closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and a layer if it’s cool. Passengers must be at least 8 years old to ride.

Ready to ride?

Now that you’re packed, all that’s left is to pick a date. Book a U-Drive guided ATV/UTV tour in Scottsdale, or if you’re coming from the west side, check our Phoenix ATV tours — just 35 minutes out. Questions? Call us at (480) 837-3966.