Biking in the mountains is one of the most exciting sports. An exploration of trails in the forest can be an unforgettable experience, but you need the right gear to make it happen. In addition to choosing a quality bike, you must choose the appropriate clothing. Let’s review what you should wear when mountain biking. While they may be the most affordable option, they may not provide the best performance and comfort while biking. Jean seams will affect sensitive areas more quickly than anything else. The things you wear while biking will depend on your style, but here are some suggested items that can make you more comfortable and help you perform better. Mountain biking can be done in any clothes you like – and some prefer the “less is more” approach when riding. By being prepared with the right gear, you’ll be safer and more comfortable while riding. Mountain biking attire will always depend on where you ride, the weather, and how you ride. This guide will provide you with an overview of the different types of kit you can use while getting sandy on the trails so that you can decide what kit suits you.
The Right Shorts and Trousers Are Key
Great mountain biking outfits begin with great mountain biking shorts. Even though this category offers some variety, you’ll need to find something that has been specifically designed for the job at hand. The fabric of mountain biking shorts is typically made of a strong material, which is important in the event you take a tumble. Many biking shorts come with some kind of padding, which makes for a far more comfortable day on the trails. Mountain shorts may not have as much padding as traditional road shorts; this will make it easier to ride in different positions on the trail.
The best mountain bike shorts are built for all the challenges you’ll encounter while riding. Bicycle shorts can be made with a variety of fabrics and weights, but most are constructed from durable materials that will last a long time and offer protection in case you fall.
Mountain biking jerseys and tops
Jersey or shirt, whichever name you choose, making sure you have the right one is crucial. Most mountain bikers no longer wear cotton t-shirts because once they get one wet, the cotton t-shirt takes a long time to dry. Specially designed moisture-wicking fabrics wick sweat away from your skin and dry much faster than cotton or other non-performance fabrics. The longer sleeves on mountain-biking jerseys provide protection against scrapes caused by branches and other foliage. You will likely find that your jersey is made of synthetic, moisture-wicking materials to keep you cool at all times.
Also, there are different fabrics with different weights. An airy, lighter fabric may be better if it’s really hot outside. In cooler weather, a heavier weight fabric will keep you warm, and moisture-wicking material will still keep you dry.
Put on some gloves
When did the last time your hands were ripped up by a fall? I have, and it hurts. Hands do heal surprisingly quickly in mountain bike gloves, so I always recommend wearing them. You can find many styles of gloves to match your personality, and gloves aren’t extremely expensive. If you start riding a mountain bike for the first time, don’t mistake your road biking gloves for mountain biking gloves. Despite the fact that both road and mountain biking gloves grip handlebars, they differ greatly in other ways. Mountain biking gloves completely cover your fingers, keeping you protected from nasties such as cuts and scrapes while navigating (and perhaps falling on) difficult terrain.
It is necessary to have warming pads and a blanket
Knee warmers and arm warmers should take two things into consideration. First, determine how much protection you need. While lighter options will offer less protection, heavier warmers will provide better protection but make it more difficult to pedal. It’s important to get the right size so you don’t slide down your thigh during the ride. It’s not hard. Use the pad’s size chart or a tape measure to measure your upper thigh.
A pair of bike shoes
The majority of the time, you won’t have to buy mountain bike shoes for your first ride unless you plan to ride clipless. Pedals with clipless technology let you “clip in” with cleats, which means your shoes are attached to the pedals until you let go. I know, a little confusing.)
Clothing for Cold-Weather Mountain Biking
With cold-weather gear, you can extend your riding season into spring and into the fall. Protect yourself from rain and wind all year long. When the forecast calls for a “cold front,” you can be ready.
Wearing cycling jackets
The jacket you choose should be weather-resistant and withstand even the harshest conditions. Having a waterproof phone means you don’t have to worry about it getting wet when carried in your pocket. Generally, outerwear is not designed specifically for mountain biking. Outerwear for mountain biking is typically more durable. Cycling shorts offer better wind protection upfront and will fit your shoulders and provide coverage when you lean forward while riding. There should also be a helmet-compatible hood.
Tights for bicycling
For cold days, you can wear padded bike tights instead of your liner shorts. Similar to bike jackets, if you want to ride in rainy weather, you must have waterproof/breathable pants.
What you experienced
A mountain bike ride can be an exhausting sport, and you will probably be covered in sweat and dirt in no time. If you don’t take care, your favorite biking clothes can start to smell. They might even remain smelly even after washing them. The reason might be that your cycling shorts and jerseys are made of synthetic materials, while your regular detergents are designed for cotton. However, the stink won’t last forever!
Paddled protection is most commonly seen as knee pads and shin pads. When riding on flat pedals that have pins, you might get some nasty cuts if your foot slips and hits the pedal. In the event of a crash or fall on some rocks, your knees could get pretty bruised. So choose your gear wisely, but remember to add some protection.
You can make mountain biking more enjoyable with a variety of gear; a breathable jersey that won’t stick to sweaty skin, knee pads that give you that extra confidence to go a little faster, and MTB-specific shoes that keep your feet from sliding off the pedals. Most importantly, a helmet that keeps you safe. In our What To Wear guide, we have suggested some items of equipment you might consider using. Regardless of your gear, the most important thing about mountain biking is to be active and have fun! If you don’t have a full kit, don’t let that stop you from enjoying this sport!
