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Recommended
for Mtn. Bike Trips
SHORTS:
Padded bike
shorts are strongly recommended. The ones with a quality pad can be
expensive, so if you plan to buy some, shop around. A thicker pad
is better! It may not feel comfortable in the dressing room, but
your precious private parts will appreciate the padding after the
first ride.
TOPS:
Synthetic
material that breathes is preferred. But cotton t-shirts will work
if that’s what you have. Layers are good for changes in temperature
throughout the day. For example, bring a long sleeve shirt or arm
warmers you can carry with you. A windbreaker is essential.
SHOES:
If you will be
riding normal flat pedals, any kind of athletic shoes are fine.
Avoid long laces. People who have pedals that attach to their shoes
will have specific shoes for mtn. biking.
SOCKS:
Thin
performance-type socks are most comfortable after they get sweaty.
Socks made specifically or biking or running will be less likely to
cause blisters.
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HYDRATION
PACK:
A hydration pack with a water bladder is highly recommended.
Having the hydration pack allows convenient and frequent drinking.
Most also have enough room to store extra clothes and snacks.
NUTRITION:
Speaking of snacks…all the exercise and excitement you will
undoubtedly feel will spark your metabolism. You will need to keep
well fueled if you plan to keep going. Have some packable food for
quick fuel. Things like energy gel, Clif Bars, Luna Bars or trail
mix are perfect for the trail.
Also
recommended is some type of electrolyte replacement.
Ingredients to
look for are sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and B-6. These
can be in the form of a powder that you mix in your water bottle or
tablets that you dissolve or swallow. The old standard is Gatorade.
Newer on the market and geared toward supplementing for endurance,
Hammer Nutrition and E-caps sell quality products on-line. Or check
out the selection at your local bike shop or sports store.
SUNGLASSES:
Eye protection
is important, and it is important to have plastic frames. You don’t
want a sharp piece of metal near your eyes in case of a crash.
GLOVES:
For comfort
and function. Pad your hands, protect your hands and improve your
grip.
HELMET:
This is a
no-brainer. Don’t ride without one! |
