When you’re bombing down rugged terrain or grinding through a long technical climb, what you wear matters just as much as what you ride. The right mountain bike gear supports your movement, keeps your temperature in check, and helps you ride longer, harder, and safer.
This guide breaks down what to wear while mountain biking, from head to toe, based on trail conditions, ride style, and season. Whether tackling steep singletrack, hitting the bike park, or heading out for a weekend loop on local trails, here’s how to kit up for performance.
What to Wear Mountain Biking: Head to Toe Breakdown
Start at the Top: Helmets for Mountain Bikers
Your helmet isn’t just for crashes. It’s constant protection on the trail, keeping you safe from low-hanging branches, sudden impacts, and flying debris.
Types of MTB Helmets
- Mountain Bike Helmet (Open Face): Ideal for trail riding, XC, and most all-mountain routes. Prioritize airflow, weight, and fit.
- Full Face Helmet: Recommended for downhill riding, enduro stages, or bike park laps. Offers full jaw protection and extra coverage.
Look for helmets with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), adjustable visors for sun and debris deflection, and ample ventilation to help regulate your body temperature.
Eye Protection: A Clear View of the Trail
You never know what’s coming around the next bend—mud, dust, or overgrown brush.
Eyewear Options
- MTB Sunglasses: Wraparound lenses that protect from the sun and trail debris.
- Goggles: For downhill or enduro riders, especially paired with full-face helmets.
For lens choice, go light tint or clear for shaded trails and evening rides. Choose dark or mirrored lenses for bright, open terrain.
Upper Body: Jerseys That Work as Hard as You Do
A good mountain bike jersey keeps you cool on the way up and doesn’t get in the way on the way down.
What to Look for in Mountain Bike Shirts
- Breathable fabric that moves moisture away from your skin.
- Quick-drying materials to avoid chill after effort.
- Relaxed fit for movement and layering.
On chillier rides or variable days, pack an extra layer like a lightweight jacket that can pack down and fit in a hip pack or frame bag. That extra layer can make all the difference.
Ride Comfortable. Ride Thomson.
We make more than just components. Our apparel collection is built for comfort on and off the bike. Check out our apparel and gear up for your next ride.
Gloves: Grip, Protection, and Control
On tough terrain, your hands take a beating. A good pair of mountain bike gloves improves control and protects against crashes, rocks, and blisters.
Types of Gloves
- Full-Finger: Most serious riders use these for trail and enduro.
- Padded Palm: Adds comfort on rough trails and long rides.
- Lightweight Mesh: Ideal for summer or XC rides.
Don’t overlook how much gloves impact handling. Try several pairs until you find the right bar feel for your style.
Lower Body: Mountain Bike Pants, Shorts, and Liners
There’s a reason you don’t see serious riders in gym shorts. The right MTB bottoms help you stay mobile, provide comfort in the saddle, and hold up to abuse from rocks and roots.
Mountain Bike Shorts vs Pants
| Feature | Shorts | Pants |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Warm weather, trail riding | Downhill, cold conditions |
| Material | Lightweight, breathable | Heavier, more durable |
| Fit | Relaxed with stretch panels | Tapered for mobility and coverage |
| Extras | Zippered pockets, adjustable waist | Reinforced knees, weatherproofing |
Add a Liner Short
Worn under baggies or pants, liner shorts include a chamois for comfort on longer rides. Look for liners with multi-density padding, mesh ventilation, and flatlock seams that reduce chafing.
Protective Gear: When to Add Heavy-Duty Gear
Knee pads and elbow pads are common for riders tackling rocky descents, enduro stages, or technical bike park features.
Protection Breakdown
- Lightweight pads: For trail riders who want flexibility and pedal comfort.
- Hard shell pads: For gravity and downhill riders who need maximum protection.
Additional protective gear can include:
- Shin guards (especially for flat pedal riders)
- Elbow pads
- Chest or spine protectors (for DH or freeride)
If you’re riding trails with high speeds, big drops, or high-consequence features, go with extra protection. It’s worth it.
Footwear: Stay Locked or Stay Loose
Footwear is a major part of mountain bike control. Your shoes should match your pedal system and riding style.
Mountain Bike Shoes
- Clipless Shoes: Secure connection to clipless pedals. Efficient power transfer and control.
- Flat Pedal Shoes: Paired with platform pedals. Prioritize grip and pedal feel.
Look for features like reinforced toe boxes for impact resistance, sticky rubber soles for traction, and breathable uppers for hot conditions. Leave gym shoes at home. You’ll lose pedal connection and feel every bump. Good bike shoes are worth the investment.
Socks, Jackets, and Weather Adaptation
Mountain Bike Socks
- Wool or synthetic blends for breathability and odor control.
- Waterproof socks for wet trail days.
- Stay away from cotton—it stays wet, gets cold, and causes blisters.
Jackets for the Trail
Bring a waterproof jacket or lightweight windbreaker to adapt to changing weather. Look for packability, underarm vents, and a fit designed for the riding position (long back, short front).
For colder weather, layer with thermal jerseys, wind vests, or insulated gloves depending on the temperature swing.
Storage on the Trail: Carry Only What You Need
Hip Pack vs Backpack
- Hip Pack: Lower center of gravity, lighter feel. Great for 1–3 hour rides.
- Backpack: More storage, better for all-day adventures or alpine rides.
Pack items like:
- Snacks and water
- Multi-tool and tire plug kit
- Compact jacket
- Phone and ID
Longer, remote rides demand more planning. Be ready, but don’t overpack.
Ride Type & Terrain: How Conditions Affect Your Kit
| Ride Type | Suggested Clothing |
|---|---|
| Local trails | Helmet, short sleeve jersey, liner + baggy shorts, gloves |
| Rugged terrain | Full face helmet, long sleeve jersey, pads, durable pants |
| Bike park | Full armor, downhill-specific clothing, body protection |
| Wet or cold | Waterproof jacket, MTB pants, wool socks, layered tops |
Your gear should adjust to your ride, not the other way around. If your kit works against you, you’re not riding your best.
Built to Ride: Why Quality Gear Matters
Mountain biking demands a lot from both rider and equipment. Choosing the right mountain bike clothing isn’t about looking the part, it’s about wearing gear that performs.
What to prioritize:
- Fit that allows freedom of movement
- Durable materials that can handle abrasion
- Moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry
- Construction that holds up over time
What Not to Wear on the Trail
- Cotton tees and socks: Soak sweat, stay wet.
- Running shorts: No protection or durability.
- Loose jackets: Flap in wind, snag on branches.
- Casual shoes: Poor pedal grip and no protection.
Save those items for post-ride beers.
Thomson Bikes: Precision Gear for Mountain Riders
At Thomson Bikes, we’ve been making seatposts, stems, and handlebars that riders trust on their toughest rides. Built in the USA, every part reflects decades of machining experience, performance testing, and respect for the ride.
Looking to build your bike from the frame out? Explore our mountain bikes to ride with confidence every mile of the way.