Best Mountain Bike Gear: A Guide

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned mountain biker, having the right gear can make all the difference. When you set out to explore the natural world, you want to ensure you're prepared for whatever it brings. From having proper breathable apparel to finding the right safety gear, let's review the best gear for mountain biking so you can make your next ride a success.

Proper Apparel for Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is a challenging sport, so if you're looking to hit the trails, you need the proper apparel. Let's take a look at what you need to dress for a comfortable, safe ride.

The Top: Wearing a comfortable and durable biking jersey is essential. Your jersey should be breathable and moisture-wicking to keep you cool and dry and provide ample coverage to prevent exposure to the sun. A long-sleeved jersey is the preferred choice for most mountain bikers since it offers extra protection against bushes, trees and rocks along the trail.
The Shorts: Your biking shorts must be the right length to avoid entanglement while riding. It is best to choose shorts that are above the knee and made from stretchable, breathable fabric. The shorts should fit well and offer excellent mobility since you'll need to be flexible while mountain biking. Shorts with chamois padding provide protection and comfort while riding for long hours.
The Shoes: Proper mountain biking shoes are essential for comfort, grip and safety. Flat pedal shoes have a sticky sole to provide a good grip on the pedal, while clipless shoes help to transfer power from the foot to the pedal. Ensure you get shoes that fit properly to avoid discomfort during the ride. If possible, try on different pairs before making your selection.
The Socks: Choose breathable and moisture-wicking socks that fit well for comfort and to keep your feet dry during the ride. Ensure your socks stay in place so they don't bunch up inside your shoes and cause discomfort.
The Gloves: Gloves are necessary for grip and to protect your hands from blisters and abrasions. Choose gloves with good padding for the palm and a comfortable fit for maximum grip.
The Glasses: Protect your eyes from dust, debris and UV rays by wearing suitable eyewear. Glasses with lenses that adjust to different light conditions are ideal since they provide clarity and visibility in different environments.

Essential Mountain Biking Equipment

Mountain biking requires more than just proper apparel to have the best experience. So, when you're gearing up for your next excursion, make sure to have the following items:

The Bike: Of course, a good mountain bike is the foundation of a great ride. Ensure you select a bike that suits your size, skill level and the type of terrain you will be riding on. There are various types of mountain bikes to choose from, including trail bikes, cross-country bikes and downhill bikes. Ensure your bike has good suspension for stability and comfort. Because choosing and purchasing a mountain bike is a significant undertaking, talk to bike store owners or seasoned riders about what works for them, and do your research before deciding. You can also demo different types of bikes before buying, to make sure you get the best bike for the riding your will do.
Bike Repair and Maintenance Kit: Mountain biking can be rough on your bike. It is essential to carry basic bike tools like a tire pump, wrench, spare tubes and multi-tools for emergency repairs. Knowing how to handle basic repairs is a useful skill to have while mountain biking, since you never know where you'll be when a problem arises.
The Helmet: One of the most crucial pieces of safety gear, mountain bike helmets, should always be worn while mountain biking. A good helmet should have adjustable straps to fit snugly and comfortably on the head. Your helmet should also have proper ventilation to keep you cool and dry.
Knee and Elbow Pads: To avoid injury, protect the elbows and knees with suitable pads. Pads should fit correctly with no mobility restrictions and should be made of durable materials for protection. Mountain biking often involves moving over uneven terrain, so take steps to protect yourself against a potential fall with proper pads.
The Backpack: A backpack can store essential items during a long ride, such as hydration packs, extra clothes and snacks. Ensure that the backpack is comfortable to wear and fits well for better mobility.
The Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: Staying hydrated is essential when mountain biking. Always carry a water bottle or hydration pack, depending on the length of the ride. If you're taking a longer ride, invest in a hydration pack that fits comfortably and can carry enough water for the duration of your journey.

Bike Selection and Quality

As mentioned, purchasing the right mountain bike is the most critical aspect of riding. Having a quality bike is essential for a safe, enjoyable experience. Here are some factors to consider when searching for the perfect bike:

Frame Material: The frame is the most important component of the bike. Mountain bike frames come in three materials, namely; steel, aluminum and carbon fiber. Steel is durable and affordable but heavier compared to other materials. Aluminum is lightweight and affordable but not as strong as steel. Carbon fiber is lightweight but expensive, so it is best suited for competitive riders.
Suspension: Mountain bikes have two types of suspension: full suspension and front suspension. Full-suspension bikes provide better control by absorbing shock from the front and rear wheels. Front suspension bikes are less bulky and more affordable.
Wheel size: The wheel size determines how smooth or rough your ride will be. 26-inch wheels give more control and maneuverability, but 27.5-inch wheels are faster and offer more comfort. 29-inch wheels are fast and efficient, making them suitable for cross-country rides.
Brakes: There are two types of brakes on mountain bikes: disc brakes and rim brakes. Disc brakes provide better stopping power and are suitable for wet and muddy conditions. Rim brakes are more affordable but less efficient and less suitable for wet conditions.
Price: High-quality mountain bikes are expensive, but they offer better performance, durability and safety. As a beginner, consider starting with a basic bike and upgrading as you gain more experience and skill.

Helmet and Safety Gear

Mountain biking is a dangerous sport, and various hazards come with it, such as falls, collisions and getting hit by debris. To stay safe as you explore, keep these safety gear points in mind:

The Helmet: The most important safety gear is the helmet. Always wear a helmet that fits correctly, has proper ventilation and is comfortable to wear. The helmet should cover the forehead and the back of the head for maximum protection.
Knee and Elbow Pads: A fall can happen any time when mountain biking. Knee and elbow pads should be durable and comfortable. Ensure the pads cover the knees and elbows properly and have an adjustable strap to keep them in place when riding.
Gloves: Gloves help with grip and protect your hands from blisters and cuts. It is best to use gloves with padding to protect your hands in case of a fall.
Eyewear: Proper eyewear protects your eyes from debris, dust and harmful UV rays. Choose eyewear that fits well, is comfortable to wear and has lenses that adjust to different light conditions.
Bike Lights: If you are riding at night, ensure you have lights on your bike. Choose lights with high lumens to provide adequate visibility in dark areas.
Reflective Gear: When riding at night, reflective gear increases visibility for other riders and motorists. Choose reflective gear that fits well and is comfortable to wear.

Accessories for Improved Mountain Biking Experience

Once you've got the proper bike, apparel and safety gear, it's time to enhance your experience with the right mountain bike accessories.

Hydration Packs and Bottles

Staying hydrated while mountain biking is crucial, especially during hot and humid weather. For long rides, invest in a hydration pack. Hydration packs allow you to carry a significant amount of water while biking. Most of these packs come with a water reservoir, which holds 1-3 liters of water, and a tube that lets you drink on the go. These packs are generally worn as a backpack and come with adjustable straps for a comfortable and secure fit. They also have multiple pockets for storing essentials like snacks, phones and tools.

If you prefer to carry just a water bottle, there are plenty of options available, including insulated bottles that can keep your drinks cold for hours. Some water bottles have a cage that attaches to your bike frame, allowing you to access the bottle while riding. Whichever option you choose, be sure to stay hydrated to keep your energy levels up during your ride.

Bike Tools and Repair Kits

When you're out on the trail, you never know what could happen; a flat tire, broken chain or loose bolts can quickly take the fun out of your ride. That's where bike tools and repair kits come in.

Every mountain biker should have a basic toolkit that includes a multi-tool, tire levers and a pump or CO2 inflator. These tools allow you to make quick repairs and adjustments on the go. You should also carry spare tubes, patches and a chain tool so you're prepared for more significant repairs. If you're going on a long, multi-day ride, consider carrying a more extensive toolkit with extra parts and pieces. You never know what you might need when you're miles and miles into the wilderness.

GPS Devices and Trail Navigation

Getting lost on a mountain bike trail can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. That's why a good GPS device and trail navigation system is crucial.

There are plenty of GPS options available, ranging from smartphone apps to dedicated GPS devices. These apps and devices can provide information on trail difficulty, elevation and distance traveled and real-time navigation. However, keep in mind that technology isn't foolproof. It's always a good idea to bring a paper map and compass as a backup and be aware of your surroundings. Just made sure you know how to read the map and use the compass before you head out on your next adventure.

Selecting the Right Mountain Biking Gear for You

With so many options for mountain biking gear on the market, it can be intimidating to make the right choices for your needs. Here’s what you need to know to select the right mountain biking gear for you.

Assessing Your Skill Level and Riding Style

The first step in selecting the right mountain biking gear is to assess your skill level and riding style. Different gear is designed for different levels of performance and protection. Are you a beginner or an experienced rider? Do you prefer cross-country riding or downhill thrills?

For example, if you’re a beginner, you may want to start with a basic mountain bike helmet and a comfortable pair of cycling mountain bike shorts. As you progress, you may invest in more advanced protective gear such as elbow and knee pads or specialized hydration packs to hold enough water for longer rides.

If you’re an experienced rider who likes to tackle technical terrain or ride at high speeds, you should invest in high-end protective gear such as full-face helmets, chest protectors and body pads. You may also want to consider specialized gear such as clipless mountain bike pedals or suspension forks.

Gear Durability and Maintenance Requirements

Mountain biking gear takes a beating. The trails are rough, the weather is unpredictable and crashes are always possible. That’s why durability should be a top consideration when selecting your gear. Look for gear made from high-quality materials with reinforced seams and durable zippers.

Maintenance is also an important consideration. Remember that most mountain bike gear will require regular cleaning and maintenance to perform at its best. Make sure the gear you select is easy to clean and maintain, with replaceable parts if necessary. For example, a helmet with removable pads or a pair of gloves with washable liners will make your gear last longer and keep you comfortable on the trails.

Budget Considerations for Mountain Biking Gear

Mountain biking can be an expensive sport, with gear costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. However, there are ways to save money without sacrificing quality. The first step is to prioritize your gear needs. Focus on the essentials, such as a helmet and cycling shorts, and build your gear collection over time as you become more experienced and passionate about the sport.

You can also save money by shopping smart. Look for deals on last season’s models or discontinued gear, or shop at discount online retailers. But be aware that cheaper gear may have lower-quality materials or fewer features. Always read reviews before making a purchase, and consider buying from a reputable retailer that offers product warranties and a return policy.

Find Mountain Biking Gear from Stio

At Stio, we're on a mission to provide functional, versatile clothing infused with mountain soul. If you're looking to build up your mountain gear collection, explore our products. From men's biking jerseys to mountain biking backpacks and hip packs, our products are carefully and intentionally crafted for all kinds of bikers and explorers. Shop online today to see what we can offer you.

FAQs Mountain Biking Gear

What gear do I need to go mountain biking?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to what mountain biking gear you need. Depending on your experience and the type of rides you take, you may need more or less gear than other bikers. At the very least, you should invest in a helmet, a water bottle and a pair of gloves. Comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear should also be on your list.

How do I choose the right bike for mountain biking?

Choosing the right bike is crucial to enjoying your mountain biking experience. Mountain bikes come in various types, including cross-country (XC), trail and downhill. Consider what type of trail you'll be riding and what your skill level is when picking your bike. It's important to try out different bikes and get expert advice to help you make an informed choice.

What should I look for when buying mountain biking shoes?

Mountain bike shoes offer better grip and stability, making them an essential part of your gear. When buying shoes, look for stiff soles and comfortable padding to protect your feet and improve your performance. Consider the type of pedals you'll be using and find shoes that are compatible with them.

What should I pack in my mountain biking backpack?

Your backpack should have essentials, such as a first aid kit, a multi-tool, a pump, spare tubes, food and water. You can also pack extra clothing layers, a rain jacket and a map or GPS device. Make sure your backpack is comfortable and fits properly to avoid discomfort and fatigue on the trail.