What to Wear Mountain Biking: A Beginner's Guide to MTB Gear

What to Wear Mountain Biking: A Beginner's Guide to MTB Gear

When you're just getting into mountain biking one of the first things you wonder is what do I actually wear out here? You don't need to spend a ton of money to start, but you also probably don't want to show up at the trailhead in jeans and a tank top either. Here's a practical breakdown of what to wear and what to think about.

This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use or would buy myself."

Helmet — Don't Skip This One

This is the one place you don't want to go too cheap. A helmet is protecting your head so it's worth spending a little more here than anywhere else.

For most trail riders starting out, a half shell helmet is the way to go. It's lighter, more ventilated, and works for the majority of trail riding. If you're getting into jump riding or more aggressive terrain you'll want to look at a full face eventually, but for general trail riding a half shell is fine.

The BATFOX MTB helmet is a solid budget option at around $50, good ratings and it gets the job done.

Also check out my post on half shell vs full face to see which one you think you want or need.

Jersey or T-Shirt

Here's the thing, you don't have to buy an MTB jersey. A lightweight moisture-wicking workout shirt works fine, and you can get a pack of them cheaper than a single jersey. I've ridden plenty of miles in basic athletic shirts.

That said, jerseys are designed for the sport. They're cut longer in the back so they don't ride up, they have pockets, and they breathe well. If you want to go that route a basic MTB jersey runs around $25 and does everything you need.

Wisdom Leaves makes a budget jersey around $26 that works well. [affiliate link]

Pants or Shorts

This comes down to personal preference and what kind of riding you're doing. Shorts are the most common for trail riding. You don't need anything fancy, just something with a little stretch so you can move freely on the bike.

For a budget shorts option the Hiauspor MTB shorts are around $35 and have good reviews.

If you want pants, the Andean Trails MTB pants are around $60 and are a solid option that works in cooler weather too.

Padded Liner — Worth It

If you're going to be spending any real time in the saddle, a padded cycling liner underneath your shorts makes a noticeable difference. You don't wear anything under them, they go directly against your skin. The Baleaf 3D padded liner is around $20 and has over 40,000 reviews for a reason. [affiliate link]

I don't wear lycra and I ride a lot of miles, but if you're doing longer rides or dealing with any saddle discomfort this is one of the cheapest fixes out there.

Socks

Regular athletic socks work but cycling-specific socks are more breathable and tend to hold up better. The ROCKBROS cycling socks are around $20 for a 3-pack, good value. [affiliate link]

Gloves

Gloves protect your hands in a crash and reduce fatigue on longer rides. The ROCKBROS cycling gloves are around $17 and are a good budget starting point. [affiliate link]

Shoes — Clips or Flat Pedals?

This is a whole conversation on its own. Short version: if you're just starting out, flat pedals with a grippy flat pedal shoe is the easier and more forgiving way to go. Clipless pedals have a learning curve and bailing becomes more complicated.

To decide which pedals and shoes are right for you see my post on flats vs clipless

Eye Protection

This one gets overlooked but it matters. A branch, a rock chip, a bug at speed — any of those can end your day or worse. Sunglasses or clear lens glasses depending on the conditions. Don't skip this one.

Hydration

A backpack with a hydration bladder or even just a water bottle cage on your bike. Either works. Staying hydrated on the trail is obvious but easy to underestimate, especially in summer. Gear for longer rides and packs is worth its own post.

The Short Version

You don't need to spend a lot to get started. A decent helmet, some athletic clothes you can move in, gloves, and eye protection gets you on the trail. Add the padded liner if comfort is an issue. Upgrade from there as you figure out what you actually need.