11 Must-have Mountain Bike Gear and Clothes
Having a mountain bike is not all you need to enjoy riding. You’ll need some of these mountain bike gear and clothes so you can be comfortable and safe.
It’s not a requirement to wear biking-appropriate clothing. But wearing them with the necessary protective gear allow you to enjoy riding more.
Mountain bike specific clothes are made to move with your body.
Here’s a list of the most important gear and clothes you need when going out for a ride.
1 – Helmet
This is one of the most important gear you should get with your mountain bike. A good helmet protects your head by reducing the severity of head injuries.
Plus, some helmets have a visor that shields your eyes from the glaring sun.
2 – Eye Protection
Use sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.
Even without the glaring sunlight, you’ll need to have glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from dirt or branches that might come in contact with your eyes.
3 – Gloves
Gloves offer a lot of service for your hands while riding.
They give you a better grip on your handlebars – especially when you’re riding on rough terrains. And should you fall, it will protect your hands.
Plus, they can keep your hands warm.
4 – Jersey
You’ll be happier if you wear mountain bike specific jerseys. If you do, they’ll prevent rubbing that causes sores.
5 – Mountain Bike Shorts
It’s a good idea for you to wear shorts for mountain bikers. You’ll ride more comfortably for long hours because they’re padded. Also, they are built with abrasion-resistant fabric to withstand the rough trail.
Look for shorts that are well ventilated. They can reduce rubbing in the crotch area and the bike.
Use shorts that reach below your knee so that it meets your knee pads.
6 – Cycling Jacket
The important feature of a cycling jacket is they can accommodate your body in stretched positions. They have longer rear and sleeves.
Also, make sure your jacket is waterproof including the zippers.
7- Knee Pads
Use kneepads that will not only protect your knees but something that’s easy to bike in too. They should be flexible but enough to protect your knees from a fall.
8 – Shoes
Treat your feet to mountain bike shoes. They are stiffer compared to trainer shoes. They not only offer durability but they give better traction on the pedals as well.
Or you can look into cleated bike shoes that lock your feet to the pedal for more efficient cycling.
Use them with cycling socks that make your feet comfortable while they’re in motion.
9 – Bike Repair Kit
Always have a bike repair kit on your bike’s saddle. You never know when you’ll need one.
A bike repair kit should include a multi-tool for bikes, mini pump, an extra tube, tire levers, and a patch kit.
10 – First Aid Kit
When you’re riding you don’t always know where you’ll end up. It’s inevitable to meet some minor accidents along the way. Be prepared always.
Your first aid kit should have antiseptic wipes, bandages, tapes, pain relievers, energy gels, and maybe some stomach medicine.
11 – Hydration Pack
When you’re riding nonstop for hours, it’s important to keep yourself hydrated. And hydration packs make this possible without having to keep your hands off the handlebars.