Mountain Bike Clothing 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Staying Comfortable on the Trails

Mountain biking is one of the most exciting sports you can take up. Getting out on the trails is all about adventure and fun, but you need to make sure you stay safe and comfortable while doing it. Having the essential biking protective gear is important, however, choosing the right mountain bike clothing can help you enjoy your ride even more.

How to Choose Mountain Bike Clothes

There are no strict rules on how one should dress for mountain biking, but being equipped with the proper kit can take the whole experience to a higher level. A mountain bike looks different from a road bike, so the rider should, too.

Of course, choosing the right clothes will always depend on where you ride, the weather and the temperature and your personal style. So, before it turns into a daunting task, here is a list and some tips that could help you buy mountain bike clothing that delivers both performance and comfort.

Base Layers

Some will say that a good base is everything. The truth is, it’s one of the most essential pieces to buy before you hit the trails. A good pair of liner shorts or bibs can instantly level up your comfort while taking on those rough terrains.

Base layers are designed to be the first layer of clothing that is closest to your skin. They can effectively wick away moisture and sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable during your ride. They normally come in two options: short sleeve or long sleeve and are typically made from polyester, merino wool, or a combination of both.

Shorts and Pants

It’s always a good idea to choose a pair of sturdy mountain bike shorts, no matter your style of riding. This type of shorts offers some advantages over casual or other athletic shorts as they are designed to stand up to crashes, work well with knee pads and feature waterproof fabrics and vented panels. If you plan to ride in cold weather, then you might consider a pair of durable mountain bike pants that will keep you dry and warm.

Jerseys

When choosing the right MTB clothing, picking the top might seem less important than picking the bottoms. But keep in mind that you’re going to get sweaty, so it’s better to make sure you choose high-quality mountain bike jerseys that can help you regulate your body temperature.

A jersey pocket is not essential, but it’s useful and convenient if you are not wearing your pack. It’s a great solution for keeping your everyday essentials, such as mobile phones and car keys safe and protected.

Jackets

Riding will keep you warm, so it’s always better to avoid layering up too warm. Not saying that you shouldn’t buy a mountain bike jacket, since it is a necessity for some rides, just make sure it’s waterproof and breathable. A cycling-specific, or even better, mountain bike-specific design can offer better wind protection and comfort.

Gloves

You may not be a fan of wearing gloves on your MTB rides, however, they are highly recommended, especially if you are a beginner. A good pair of gloves can give you a better grip on your handlebars and brake levers but also can help you reduce hand and arm fatigue.

They differ from the gloves of road cyclists mainly in the padding and finger coverage. A mountain bike has padded grips, but having padding in your MTB gloves is a great solution for longer rides thanks to the increased comfort it provides. However, for doing fast, steep or technical descents, gloves with no padding might be your preferred choice.

When it comes to finger coverage, full-fingered gloves are almost always the go-to solution for mountain bike riders. They can keep your knuckles protected, so you can enjoy your ride to the fullest. Some riders might prefer fingerless gloves for warmer weather, given their increased breathability. However, keep in mind that they do not offer as much protection as full-fingered gloves and can leave your hands exposed to scratches and scrapes.

Shoes and Socks

Wearing the right mountain bike shoes can offer a great and secure connection to your bike, so you can enjoy your rides for longer. When it comes to socks, it’s important to look for a good wicking material and maybe a pair (or more) of socks that are a little bit longer to protect you from pedal slips.

Final Thoughts

If you are just starting the perfect kit might be the one you already have. For recreational use, focus on versatility and comfort and having a lot of fun in the saddle. But as you progress you may want and need specifically designed mountain bike clothing that is both light and durable and will meet your performance goals.

On the market, there are designs for all disciplines and styles, so you can feel free to mix and match the clothing pieces you like to create your own, signature look. Most brands offer a variety of sizes and colours, so you can easily find the pieces that meet your personal preferences.