What to wear mountain biking

The challenge and thrill is what makes mountain biking so appealing. Off-road routes, different terrains, and changing weather are all for the taking on two wheels. Whether you prefer downhill, cross-country, freeride, or enduro styles, MTB is a whole different cycling experience from clocking up the miles on-road. 

Staying comfortable so you can focus on the trail ahead is a top priority. As with road-riding jerseys and shorts still have a part to play. But for heading out into cold, wet, and tough environments, you need extra layers and support to perform best and stay safe. Here’s some advice on how to pick and wear the right MTB gear.

Which MTB Base Layers are Essential?

Whatever weather conditions you’re riding in, good quality base layers are key to staying comfortable. 

Liner shorts are a must-have item. When worn next to your skin, they’ll keep your hard-working lower half protected from friction or pressure. By wicking away sweat  they’ll keep everything at the right temperature for however long you’re riding. 

Benefits of Base Layers

Acting like a second skin, MTB base layers protect you from the grazes, scratches, and knocks that come from moving fast on rugged terrain. Breathable and moisture-wicking layers will also help you stay dry and maintain a core temperature, even in sudden showers or sunshine. 

After an hour or two of riding, friction and pressure may start to cause discomfort. The right base layers will support you so you don’t suffer from chaffing or numbness. Choosing close-fitting liners or warmers made of durable materials, with minimal seams and secure hems means these layers won’t move or ruck up as you move and cause more problems. 

Wearing bib shorts gives you an extra layer of protection and comfort. Foam padding, breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, and a close fit will help you avoid discomfort from the friction or pressure caused by hours in the saddle.  

Recommended MTB Base Layers

To set the base for better performance, invest in good quality layers including: 

• Liner shorts: choose items with gender-specific padding, minimal seams, breathable, moisture-wicking materials, and secure hem grippers

• Warmers: available to cover the knees, legs, or arms, items with grippers or cuffs and pre-shaped elbows or knees will keep your limbs warm, dry, and comfortable

Mountain Bike Shorts

Tough, comfortable, and lightweight, MTB shorts aren’t just key to keeping riders protected on the trails, they’re a classic part of the mountain biking look. Even if you choose to wear a bib liner, having specially designed shorts on top is recommended. 

Benefits of Shorts 

Roomy enough to let your legs move freely and long enough to reach your knees, MTB shorts give you extra protection against tough trails or weather conditions. The best designs also have adjustable waistbands and extra grips to keep your shorts in place as you move. 

Designed to keep you comfortable, they’re made from lightweight, breathable, and stretchy materials. To keep grazes and scratches at bay, the fabric is also abrasion-resistant and durable. Plus, they’re quick-drying, so can be used for several riding days in a row. 

Recommended Shorts & Bibs

When choosing a pair of MTB shorts or a bib, make sure you look for: 

• Quality fabric: stretchy and lightweight yet durable and robust, choosing shorts with the right fabric will keep you moving comfortably for hours

• Trail-specific design: padding, longer lengths  will keep you supported and protected 

• Extra details: features like reflective elements and multiple secure pockets mean you’re ready for a full day out on the trails

Choosing Mountain Biking Pants

For extra protection on more technical trails or in bad weather, switch out your shorts for pants. Experienced riders might worry about their movement being restricted by the longer length. However, choosing items with the right design features will keep you warm without limiting your freedom of movement

Benefits of Pants

The main benefit of MTB pants is that they give you extra protection against the wind and rain, as well as any puddles or conditions from previous adverse weather. To keep you warm and dry ride after ride, choose pants with wind and waterproof technology. Some pants will also have extra features, like ventilation holes, to stop you from overheating, so you can even wear them for summertime technical sessions. 

Abrasion-resistant and durable fabrics will keep your legs, ankles, and hips protected during falls or knocks, so by wearing pants, you can focus on even the most complex trails without worrying about bumps, or scratches. 

The straight cut and regular fit mean they can be easily layered with base liner shorts without creating extra friction. Added features like pre-shaped knees and adjustable hems are great for enduro or cross-country riders. However, you should consider wearing additional protectors if necessary.

Recommended MTB Pants

When choosing MTB pants, make sure you look for the following features: 

• Quality materials: durable, weatherproofed, and breathable fabrics will help you stay comfortable and protected in any conditions

• Pockets: zipped and secure pockets will keep all your essential items safe as you twist, turn, and jump

• Extra details: seat paneling, reflective details, adjustable hems or waistbands and ankle zippers will give you everything you need for long, all-weather or technical rides

The Best MTB Jackets

Warmth, dryness, and extra storage are all offered by adding this single layer to your MTB outfit. Available with hoods, and reflective details, there are cycling jackets with features to keep you comfortable in any weather. Have one in your backpack ready to throw on as you sit with friends after a long day on the trails. 

Benefits of Jackets

MTB jackets are designed to protect riders from wind, rain, and cold. Loose enough to layer up without limiting movement, they’re the first defense against bad weather. Breathable fabrics that are waterproof and windproof will help you stay dry and at the right temperature, even on hard, rainy rides. 

If you get bumped, knocked, or fall during your ride, your jacket is an extra layer between you and the terrain. Getting a cycling-specific jacket will give you the benefit of features such as, over the helmet hoods, elastic or drawcord hems to stop the wind or rain from getting in as you move. 

Recommended Jackets

To find a jacket that keeps you comfortable on your ride, look for: 

• Wind- and waterproof outers: these will keep you warm and dry no matter how bad the weather gets

• Pockets: a jacket isn’t just a protective layer, it’s a storage solution, so finding a design with multiple pockets is recommended

• Design features: reflective details, adjustable hems, and over-the-helmet hoods are made for trail riders

How to Choose the Right Socks for MTB

As the powerhouse behind your pedals, your feet, ankles, and calves can come into close contact with plenty of hazards. Choosing the right socks will help protect them from rain, mud, and rocks or branches. 

Benefits of Socks

Your lower leg is what drives your mountain bike forward. Having specially designed socks that are water and abrasion-resistant helps this area stay warm and dry. Moisture-wicking materials will stop your feet from rubbing in your shoe, which can cause discomfort and blisters. 

MTB socks are also longer. So everything up to above the ankle will be protected from passing branches, rocks, or your moving pedals. 

Recommended Socks & Overshoes

To find the best socks, make sure you consider: 

• Length: having socks that can protect ankles

• Material: quality fabrics will wick away sweat, protect from wet conditions, and act as a barrier to grazes and cut 

The Best Style of MTB Gloves 

Your hands take on a lot of strain when out on the trails. From gripping and twisting the handlebars to taking the vibrations of any rough terrain. If you’re heading out for a few hours, you’ll start to feel this pressure on your hands. Look for MTB gloves that are thin on the palms and provide protection against blisters to offer perfect handlebar grip at all times during your ride.

Benefits of Gloves

It’s not just in the cold and wet that you need to wear MTB gloves. Your hands are one of the main controls of your bike, so you need to be able to keep a grip and steer accurately for long periods. MTB gloves will help you do this and prevent too much strain from going through your wrists and arms. 

Though everyone should invest in a decent pair, it’s particularly important for beginners. As you get used to controlling the bike, gloves will help you cope with the vibrations and keep a grip without causing too much strain. They’ll also stop your fingers, knuckles, and hands from getting too badly hurt if you fall. 

Recommended Gloves

When looking at the different glove options, be sure to choose a design with: 

• A close fit: trying on your gloves will ensure they don’t slip as you move your hands and arms

• Coverage: full-finger gloves are great for any MTB rider. 

• Grips: these are usually silicone or rubber and stop you slipping on the handlebars or brake levers

Choosing MTB Helmets & Headwear 

Helmets are an essential part of your riding gear. Having the right headwear will also give you extra comfort and protection from the elements on and off the bike. 

Benefits of Headwear and Helmets

Mountain biking is thrilling but falls and bumps do happen, even if you’ve been out on the trails for years. Getting a helmet that fits correctly will keep your head and face fully protected. MTB helmets should sit close to your head (it shouldn’t wobble when secured) and be low over the back and your ears. 

More daring or experienced riders, particularly those who race in downhill and enduro events, should consider a full-face helmet. This will keep you safe as you test out more technical rides. Optional extras include integrated neck braces and peaks. Having a peak is recommended for all, as it keeps the rain out and deflects any low-hanging obstacles. Please reach out to your local retailer to get curated advise for helmets.

When it comes to headwear, the most important feature is that it sits comfortably under your helmet. Headscarves, light beanies or headbands are great for all weathers, as they protect your head from UV rays in the summer and the cold or rain in the winter. Thicker beanies can be worn if you particularly feel the cold and look great when relaxing after a day’s ride, but they are less suitable for helmets.

Recommended Headwear

When it comes to headwear, there are two main options for mountain bikers: 

• Headscarves: a great all-weather protector, they also make a top post-ride accessory

• Beanies: soft enough to be worn under a helmet in winter, they are also handy to pack in spring or autumn, just in case

Tips for Layering for MTB

As an experienced all-weather athlete, you’ll know being prepared is key, and layering is an essential part of this. So here are a few need-to-knows about layering up for a day out on the trails.

• Go lightweight: when riding, you need to be free to move and not feel the strain of your layers, particularly if they get wet. Lightweight, waterproof options will leave you free to move while keeping you warm and dry

• Add extra protection: your knees, elbows, feet, and hands can be vulnerable when tackling tough terrain. Support them with pads, gloves, and reinforced cycling shoes to prevent bumps and falls from ending your day out

• Pack extras: the weather can turn at any moment, so make sure you have a jacket, trousers, and warmers in a backpack or pocket just in case

• Think about post-ride: when relaxing with fellow riders, you’ll cool down quickly, even in summer. Stay comfortable by packing a beanie (also handy for covering helmet hair), a jacket, or just a clean, dry jersey to change into

Clothing Care Advice for MTB Riders

Though MTB clothing is built to last in the toughest environments, taking extra care will keep it looking great and help it last as long as possible. 

How to Clean GORE-TEX Fabric

GORE-TEX can be cleaned in the washing machine on a 40C cycle using a small amount of liquid detergent. It can also be tumble-dried on normal settings. Never use powder detergents, softeners or bleach to clean GORE-TEX Fabric and check the care tag on your item for specific cleaning instructions. 

How do I Wash my Waterproof Gloves?

To keep your gloves in shape and avoid damage, washing them on a cold, low-spin cycle with a mild detergent is recommended. Then let them air dry. Alternatively, just spot-clean them using detergent and a rag before air drying.