Mountain biking is a fun way to keep fit, and the sport is more enjoyable and comfortable if you wear sports clothing that has been designed for mountain bikers. There are plenty of different brands and styles available, and a great range of fashion colours so that you can feel and look good. The most important items are helmets, shoes, shorts or trousers and shirts or jerseys. Accessories include eye protection, gloves, and socks. In cooler weather you will need a jacket, and use layering to control your temperature.

Helmet

A helmet will protect you from head injuries. There are lots of bicycle helmets and ones for mountain biking are designed to vent heat at lower speeds to give excellent heat control as well as being lightweight and comfortable. Make sure your helmet fits well.

Shoes

Mountain bike shoes should be comfortable, with a durable sole, and not have laces that could get caught in the bike chain. There are plenty of choices, including ones that look like casual street shoes. Soles should have ample tread to grip the pedals and keep your feet in place.

Shorts

Cycling shorts are very important because an unsuitable pair can make your ride uncomfortable. It is a personal preference whether you prefer a relaxed or a tight fit. Lycra shorts limit wind resistance and lots of shorts have padding to give you comfort. When conditions are not suitable for shorts then cycling trousers are an alternative. Choose a pair with movement round the knee so you can pedal well.

Shirts/Jerseys

Cycling shirts are mainly made of tight fitting lycra that is comfortable and ventilates well. They can be sleeveless, short-sleeved or long-sleeved. Don’t choose one that feels too tight. Consider a long-sleeved jersey with elbow guards if you are worried about coming off the bike.

Eye protection

You need to protect your eyes from sun glare, wind, insects and grit. Good sunglasses or goggles will keep your eyes injury free. Choose plastic lenses that will not shatter in the event of an impact, and try your glasses on with your helmet to make sure they are comfortable.

Gloves

Strong gloves are a great thing to protect your hands, especially if you are riding across rough terrain. Most people instinctively throe thir hands out if they have an accident and gloves will prevent you getting lacerated hands. They should be flexible and have good grip.

Socks

Socks should be well fitting and made from cotton, Gore-Tex or wool. Your feet will sweat if you are working hard and you need a fabric that will wick the perspiration away. In cold, damp conditions wear two pairs with a thicker pair over a thinner pair.

Jackets

There is a huge variety of cycling jackets and it is important to choose one that suits your needs. If you ride in the dark get reflective material. Choose a jacket that will keep you warm or dry or both, depending on the climate where you live. Some have zip-off sleeves that can be converted to a vest.

Trevor Richards writes for Accessoryo (www.accessoryo.com), a UK retailer of outdoor clothing accessories.

Trevor Richards writes for Accessoryo (http://www.accessoryo.com), a UK retailer of outdoor clothing accessories.

Author Bio: Trevor Richards writes for Accessoryo (www.accessoryo.com), a UK retailer of outdoor clothing accessories.

Category: Sports
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