Look for gloves that have carefully-placed grippers, so you’ve got full control over the brakes and shifters. They are usually made from a lightweight, moisture-wicking material. Some jerseys also feature a zipper on the front. A clear lens, for example, is good for riding in dull or dark conditions, while tinted lenses are better for reducing glare or increasing contrast. Already have an account with us? The chances of slipping, crashing … Shuttle runs, lift served trails, and mountain bike parks all exist thanks to the downhill (DH) crowd. Helmets used for riding trails typically have excellent coverage around the back and sides of your head like the Sixer helmet by Bell Sports. Those two items suited me fine for two or three years. This cleat typically snaps into a set of spring-loaded “clips” on the face of the pedal. There are a bunch of different styles of helmets for mountain biking. If you are planning to spend a full day on the trails, you may need a bigger pack to carry more. Consider gloves that are not too bulky as this creates a loss of dexterity. Don't miss out on MBUK – get your next 3 issues for just £5, Get the next 3 issues of the UK's number one cycling magazine for just £5. The VPD System Torso is a great option for chest and back protection. If you like to take chairlifts and shuttle rides to the top of your descents and avoid uphill pedaling at all costs, purchasing a full-face helmet should be your priority. These jerseys also come with back pockets for storing your essential items while riding. Cross-country mountain bikers tend to wear a Lycra jersey, along the lines of a road cycling jersey, with rear pockets ideal for stowing spare tubes, tools and snacks. With their 3D padding, fast-drying material, and comfortable fit, these … For more technical riding, there are chunkier pads available. Trail riders wear glasses most of the time, but if the weather is particularly grim and muddy, goggles are an alternative option because they provide sealed weather protection with a wide range of vision. If something were to come in contact with your eyes at high speeds, not only do you run the risk of permanently damaging your vision, it may also cause you to crash. These days, loose-fitting, motocross-style jerseys are much more popular among mountain bikers, especially among the enduro and downhill disciplines. Freewheel.co.uk, New to off-road riding? Featured product: Shimano PD-M8040 XT MTB Flat Pedals. Mountain biking is such a fun way to get outside and explore, plus its great exercise! It is important to understand that when someone says “clipless pedals” they actually mean clip-in pedals. Look for glasses with an interchangeable lens and multiple lens options. Cycling glasses … Finding stylish and functional women’s MTB wear is difficult. A mountain bike helmet can be a vital bit of kit for most mountain bikers. Many downhill mountain bikers prefer this type of pedal paired with a shoe that has a grippy sole. If you are going for a shorter ride close to home, the 50-ounce CamelBak will probably be your best bet. Sure, your road and cross-country helmet will work fine, but the Trail and Enduro oriented … What to wear mountain biking: everything you need to know, Best mountain bike: how to choose the right bike for you, Best mountain bike helmets for cross-country and trail riding, Best sunglasses for mountain biking and road cycling, Bliss Protection ARG Minimalist Knee Pads, How to set up your mountain bike in 7 simple steps, Mountain bike suspension setup: get the most from your bike, Mountain bike wheel sizes: 26in, 650b and 29in explained, Best mountain bike upgrades for your bike, Best winter cycling gloves | Keep your hands warm whatever the conditions, Best clipless and flat mountain bike shoes, Madison Flux Super Light Men’s Waterproof Softshell, Simon's Giant TCR Advanced Pro 2 Disc update #2, Cannondale is giving away Rigoberto Uran’s SystemSix aero bike from the Tour de France, Best mountain bike pedals | 18 of our favourites tried and tested, Best mountain bike helmets | Top-rated helmets for trail riding, Best mountain bike 2020: how to choose the right one for you, The best mountain bikes under £750 reviewed by. POC Sports makes some of the best mountain bike armor in the industry. If you have some spare cash lying around, it is always a good idea to invest in a pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses. Yes, a mountain bike is the most important part of the equation, but you’ll need to acquire a number of other accessories to help you have an enjoyable and safe time out on the trail. The same goes for mountain biking gear. When the weather is warm and the trails (mostly) dry in the middle of summer, you’ll require less protection from the elements than the depths of winter. But, if you are a woman you might not have the confidence to get out there and ride with the boys right away.