List of recommended clothing to wear for mountain biking
- Cycling jersey or wicking base layer
- Padded bike shorts or wicking underwear
- Shorts, trousers or leggings
- Gloves
- Bike helmet (included with hired bike) (H)
- Eye protection
- Bike shoes or trainers
- Thin walking socks
- Thin mid layer
- Shell jacket
- Waterproof trousers or shorts (in really wet conditions)
- Body protection (eg: knee/elbow pads, back protector, impact top)
H = Hire locally? (Check availability)
L = Group leader
NOT ALL ITEMS ALWAYS NEEDED!
Leading and coaching near Aviemore and beyond
Tips on what to wear for mountain biking
An MTB jersey offers good protection from wind, sun and scratches, although any synthetic base layer will also work. Padded cycling shorts offer lots of comfort, but again, any baselayer undies are fine. Now, decide on shorts or trousers depending on the weather and how much protection you want (check if tick bites are likely in the area). Full-finger gloves are a good idea, but some people prefer to ride without. Your bike helmet is compulsory and needs to be fit for purpose (ie: 5 years old or less and EN1078 certified). Sunglasses are also a good shout for riding, giving UV protection and guarding against debris. Grippy trainers or bike shoes are recommended and you may also need a lightweight waterproof, breathable shell jacket (ideally, with vents to help you keep cool). Thicker socks might be a good idea if you get cold feet when cycling. Finally, a lightweight fleece and waterproof trousers may be needed if it’s very cold and/or wet.
Are you a guest on an Arc Guiding trip?
Check with the guide when deciding what to wear/pack. Choose items from the list depending on the weather, route and type of group.
Also see:
MTB wear FAQ
Invest in specific bike shorts and wear a wicking, lightweight top layer. Add lighweight layers and protection as needed. And always wear an appropriate helmet.
It is a personal choice, and depends on preference and aims. If you are jumping, racing, or riding aggressively in rocky, steep, or densely-wooded terrain, a full face helmet may be sensible.
If you are riding hard on singletrack or at bikeparks, then kneepads may be a good idea.
If you are racing, jumping, or riding aggressively in technical terrain, then body armour may be worth considering.
Regular trainers are OK, but bike-specific shoes offer better grip and more stability. Some riders opt for lightweight walking boots when in remote areas. Clipless shoes (eg: SPD) are very secure, but take some getting used to.
These shoes are stiffened and have a special metal ‘cleat’ in the sole which clips securely to compatible pedals. They are called ‘clipless’ because they do not use the old-fashioned toe clips that used to be fitted to pedals.