Mountain biking apparel may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but that’s not the point. Mountain biking isn’t a fashion show, and it is important that the clothing the biker chooses to wear is functional and can meet the demands of riding a mountain bike. Because most mountain bikes are ridden on difficult, off-road terrains, the clothing the rider chooses must be made of durable, strong fabrics and materials, and the rider should not be afraid to get it dirty – because it will get very dirty in the often muddy and dusty conditions that mountain bikers face.
Goggles are essential gear for all mountain bikers. There are different types of goggles for different riding situations. Depending on the conditions, some riders will need sunglass-type goggles, which come in many different colors. However, for riding in lower light conditions, riders can buy clear goggles. Regardless of the choice, goggles and glasses are used to protect the rider’s eyes from debris kicked up by the bike and are one of the most important things a biker can buy when choosing equipment.
Almost all mountain bikers choose to wear gloves. They can buy full-hand gloves or fingerless gloves, depending on their needs. The gloves are essential because they help the rider maintain a better grip on the handlebars of the bike, by providing a barrier between the hand and any sweat on it and the bar. As such, the biker’s hands are less likely to slip off the handlebars, especially on bumpy, slippery, or difficult terrain. Gloves also provide some protection for the hands in case of a fall, and can protect the hands from the elements, when riding in cold or inclement weather.
Many mountain bikers choose to wear padded pants or undergarments to protect vulnerable parts of the body from injury should they fall. Regardless of whether or not the biker chooses padding, it is important that the clothing worn fits well, and is even perhaps a bit clingy, such as something made from Lycra. Loose clothing can get caught on the bicycle itself, or the terrain the cyclist is riding on, creating an unnecessary hazard.
Cycling shoes are important, as well. There are different types of shoes, and a rider should choose what they are comfortable with, as well as what works best with the style of bike they ride. Low-cut cycling shoes – the ones most commonly seen on cyclists – are a good choice for some, though higher cut, boot-like shoes are far more common for mountain bikers because they provide more support and protection to a larger area of the foot as well as the ankles, which could be vulnerable to injury should the bike fall.
While socks aren’t the greatest consideration for a mountain biker, it is a good idea to choose socks that are lightweight and designated for cycling and other sports. Many socks these days are made of special fabrics that are specifically designed to wick sweat away from the skin, keeping the feet dry. This can prevent chafing and other uncomfortable conditions, especially when it comes to longer rides.
And of course, all mountain bikers need a helmet. It is important to find a solid and sturdy helmet, as there are many dangers associated with mountain biking, including head injuries. A helmet needs to fit properly; it if is too big or too small, it will not be nearly as effective as a helmet that is the correct size for the biker’s head. Head injuries are a major risk for mountain bikers, so it is important to have a good, solid helmet.
These are just some guidelines to follow, they’re pretty basic mountain biking gear. The most important thing to remember is to have fun and choose equipment that works well for you, as an individual biker, because there are no universal rules when it comes to mountain biking gear.