Full Biking Gear: What to Wear on a Ride

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or completely new to the world of mountain bikes, having the right equipment is essential. Your clothing is a crucial aspect of your biking gear. From bike shorts to socks and everything in between, the choices you make can have a significant impact on your comfort and performance while riding. This blog will explore the clothing and accessories you need for full mountain biking gear.

Essential Bike Clothing

If you’re looking to get serious about mountain biking, you will need to invest in quality cycling apparel. Quality cycling clothing is designed to keep you comfortable, dry and safe while cycling. It should also make it easier to move and breathe. This section covers important cycling apparel you should consider adding to your wardrobe, including biking jerseys and jackets, bike shorts and tights and socks and shoes.

Biking Jerseys and Jackets

Biking jerseys and jackets are essential for any cyclist, whether you’re riding for fun, fitness, or competition. They’re made to wick away sweat and keep you dry and can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Biking jerseys typically feature a slim fit, a short front zip and three rear pockets for storing your phone, keys, or snacks. A biking jacket is a bit heavier and provides more warmth and protection from the elements. Look for a jacket with reflective detailing for extra visibility during low-light conditions.

Materials and Fit

When choosing biking jerseys and jackets, make sure you pay attention to the materials they are made of. Look for fabrics that are moisture-wicking, quick-drying and breathable. Also look for jerseys that are built with strategically placed mesh vents, to allow for even great comfort during high-intensity bike rides. The fit is also important - you want something that allows you to move freely while cycling, without being too loose or too tight. Jerseys should fit snugly, but not so tightly that they restrict your breathing or movement. Jackets should be a bit looser to allow for layering underneath.

Short Sleeve vs Long Sleeve

Whether you choose a short-sleeve or long-sleeve biking jersey is largely dependent on the weather conditions you’ll be cycling in. Short sleeves are ideal for warmer weather, but for cooler temperatures, long sleeves will provide you with the extra coverage and warmth you’ll need. Make sure to choose a jersey with breathable fabric regardless of the sleeve length.

Mountain Bike Shorts and Tights

Mountain bike shorts and tights are another essential piece of cycling apparel. They’re designed to reduce friction, prevent chafing and improve your comfort and performance while cycling. In general, you can choose between two types of mountain bike shorts: regular shorts and bib shorts. Regular shorts come with an elastic waistband, while bib shorts have suspenders that go over your shoulders and prevent the shorts from moving around while cycling.

Padding and Chamois

Bike shorts and tights also come with padding and chamois to increase comfort and reduce chafing. The padding is strategically placed in the seat area to reduce pressure points and improve your riding experience. Choose a pair of shorts or tights with a chamois that fits you well and offers the appropriate amount of padding for your style of cycling.

Bib Shorts vs Regular Shorts

When choosing between bib shorts and regular shorts, the main factor to consider is your own comfort. If regular shorts tend to slip down or ride up, bib shorts may be a better choice for you. Bib shorts also provide more coverage and support than regular shorts, which can come in handy during long rides.

Socks and Shoes

The right bike shoes and socks can help improve your performance and increase your comfort during long rides. Bike shoes are designed to improve your power transfer to the pedals and to keep your feet secure while cycling. Cycling socks, on the other hand, are designed to wick away moisture and keep your feet comfortable and dry.

Types of Cycling Shoes

There are several types of cycling shoes to choose from, including road bike shoes, mountain bike shoes and triathlon shoes. Road bike shoes are designed for racing and are built with a stiff sole for maximum power transfer. Mountain bike shoes have a grippy sole and are more durable, making them a fitting choice for off-road cycling. Triathlon shoes are designed for triathletes and allow for quick transitions between swimming, cycling and running. 

When choosing cycling shoes, make sure they fit snugly without being too tight. Seek out shoes with a good ventilation system to keep your feet cool and dry.

Proper Sock Selection

Cycling socks should be made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics (like Merino wool, polyester, or nylon) to keep your feet dry during long rides. You should also look for socks that fit well and don’t bunch up or slip down while cycling. Look for cycling specific socks, which feature sport-specific padding, helping your feet stay comfortable even on your longest rides.

Weather-Specific Biking Gear

Biking is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. However, it can be tough to enjoy the ride when the weather conditions aren't ideal. If you're an avid biker who enjoys riding in any weather, then having the right rain gear is essential. Below, we will discuss the weather-specific biking gear you need to stay safe and comfortable.

Wind and Rain Gear

When biking in rainy or windy conditions, having the right gear is crucial. You'll want something that's waterproof, breathable and lightweight. One of the most important pieces of gear is a rain jacket. Look for a jacket that features a breathable inner layer and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. You'll also want to invest in a good pair of rain pants to keep your lower half dry.

Waterproof Jackets and Pants

Two of the most essential pieces of rain gear for wet weather biking are waterproof jackets and pants. A quality rain jacket will keep you dry and comfortable, even in the heaviest downpour. Look for a jacket that features sealed seams and waterproof zippers. A quality pair of rain pants will help keep the water out, and they'll also provide additional warmth on chilly rides.

Cold Weather Gear

When the temperatures drop, it can be tough to get motivated to head out on a bike ride. But with the right gear, you can stay warm and comfortable, no matter how cool it gets. There are a few key pieces of cold-weather gear you'll want to invest in.

Thermal Base and Insulated Mid Layers

Base and mid layers are crucial for cold-weather biking, as they help regulate your body temperature and keep you warm. Look for thermal base layers that are made of moisture-wicking materials, so you stay dry and comfortable. Avoid cotton, as it doesn't wick away sweat and can leave you feeling damp and cold. Wear insulating mid layers that retain body heat to keep you warm.

Insulated Gloves and Shoe Covers

Keeping your hands and feet warm is key when biking in cold weather, as they're the first places to get cold. Invest in a good pair of insulated gloves that are windproof and waterproof. You should also invest in some shoe covers to keep your toes warm and dry.

Hot Weather Gear

Biking in hot and humid weather can be uncomfortable, but with the right gear, you can stay cool and comfortable. The key is to wear moisture-wicking clothing that allows your skin to breathe and helps regulate your body temperature.

Moisture Wicking Clothing

Choose tops and bottoms that are specifically designed for biking and made of moisture-wicking materials. These fabrics pull sweat away from your skin and evaporate it quickly, helping to keep you dry and cool. Look for clothing that features mesh panels or vents to increase breathability and airflow.

Accessories for Full Biking Gear

When it comes to cycling, properly accessorizing can make all the difference in terms of performance, safety and comfort. While a good bike and helmet are essential, many other accessories can enhance your biking experience. Here are some of the most important accessories to consider when assembling your biking gear.

Hydration Systems

Staying hydrated while cycling is crucial, especially on long rides. To ensure that you can access water whenever you need it, there are two main hydration systems to consider: water bottles and hydration packs.

Water Bottles and Bottle Cages

Water bottles are the most common hydration system among cyclists. They are affordable, easy to use and come in a variety of sizes and designs. When choosing a water bottle, look for one that is easy to squeeze and has a secure cap to prevent leaks. Additionally, consider investing in a bottle cage to attach to your bike frame to keep your water bottle within easy reach.

Hydration Packs

Hydration packs are backpack-like systems that contain a bladder filled with water and a tube that runs from the bladder to the cyclist's mouth. Hydration packs are ideal for cyclists who need a large amount of water and don't want to stop to refill a bottle. Additionally, hydration packs often come with extra pockets and compartments to store other items such as snacks, tools, or extra clothing.

Importance of Having Full Biking Gear

A full set of biking gear is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it can protect you from injury in case of an accident. A good helmet can prevent head injuries, and padded shorts can prevent discomfort and chafing during long rides. Additionally, cycling-specific clothing is designed to wick sweat, resist odor and provide maximum comfort for the dynamic movements required during cycling. Full biking gear can also enhance performance on mountain bikes, allowing you to ride longer, faster and more efficiently.

Tips for Choosing and Maintaining Your Gear

When choosing your biking gear, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the fit and comfort of each item. Clothing that is too tight or too loose can cause discomfort and impact your performance. Second, look for items that are designed specifically for mountain bikes, as they will provide the most benefits. Third, consider the climate and terrain you will be biking in and choose gear that will keep you comfortable and safe.

To properly maintain your biking gear, follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Most cycling-specific clothing should be washed in cold water and hung to dry to prevent damage to the fabric and any reflective detailing. Helmets should be replaced every few years, or after any impact to ensure maximum protection. Lastly, keep your mountain bike well-maintained to ensure a safe and smooth ride. Regularly check the tire pressure, brakes and gears, and clean and lubricate the chain as needed.

Gear up for Mountain Biking With Stio Outdoor Apparel

Stio offers a wide selection of high-quality mountain biking apparel and accessories that prioritize functionality and style. No matter what your experience level or destination, we have everything you need to outfit yourself for the trail. From durable bike shorts and jerseys to water bottles and hip packs, our products are designed with the needs of the modern mountain biker in mind.

When you're ready to upgrade your mountain biking gear, check out our men's and women's biking collections.

FAQs on Full Biking Gear

What is full mountain biking gear?

Full mountain biking gear is the equipment you need while cycling for a long period. It includes mountain bike shorts, cycling tops, gloves, helmets and shoes.

What are the benefits of full mountain biking gear?

Full mountain biking gear has numerous benefits. Firstly, bike shorts are padded and breathable to ensure you are comfortable when cycling. Biking tops are made of breathable fabric to help cool you down. Biking gloves protect your hands and provide a better grip on the handlebars. A helmet protects your head, and mountain bike shoes provide a better grip for pedaling.

What should you look for when buying mountain biking gear?

When buying mountain biking gear, you should consider the following factors:

• Comfort: Ensure the gear fits comfortably.
• Breathability: Look for gear made of breathable fabric to help cool you down when cycling.
• Padding: Bike shorts should have sufficient padding to ensure you are comfortable when cycling for long periods.
• Visibility: Look for brightly colored gear to make sure you are visible to other road users.

How should a cycling top fit?

A good cycling top should fit snugly but not feel too tight. The fabric should be stretchy and allow for movement. Make sure the top is long enough to cover your lower back when biking and that the sleeves are not too tight around the arms.