Mountain Biking Safety Gear

Mountain biking is an inherently dangerous activity. Variable trail conditions, fast speeds and large jumps translate into great risk for injury. To mitigate this risk a variety of safety equipment is available to protect yourself. Here's a look at the safety gear available and the greater topic of mountain biking safety.

Significance

The most common and important piece of safety gear is a helmet. Every mountain biker should wear a helmet. The risk for head injury is everywhere and features from boulders and rocks to trees and low-hanging branches can easily cause critical head injury. Many parks and mountain biking areas require a helmet for use of their trails. Helmets can be purchased inexpensively and provide a necessary protection.

Types

Helmets vary depending upon type of mountain biking engaged in. More mellow cross country disciplines rely on a common bike helmet that is largely recognizable. More dangerous types of mountain biking including freeride use a full-face helmet that meets stricter safety regulations.

Benefits

For cross country mountain biking, a helmet is the only common piece of safety equipment. However, more dangerous styles of mountain biking like freeride and downhill may inspire the use of additional safety equipment. These disciplines involve higher speeds and larger jumps that can present significant risk of serious injury. Body armor helps to protect other parts of the body and includes items like wrist guards, elbow pads, shin guards and chest protectors. The body armor worn is up to the rider, but obviously more protection will more effectively limit exposure to risk.

Function

In addition to separate pieces of protective body armor, protective clothing is also available. Clothing with padding built into impact areas like the shoulders and thighs can be purchased and worn. Though this won't provide as much protection as separate body armor, it's a more comfortable option. Mountain bike shorts often include a padded insert that protects and cushions your backside from the extended sitting associated with biking.

Features

A couple of accessories that are not necessarily widely referred to as safety equipment but still actively protect your safety are sunglasses and mountain bike gloves. The sun in high alpine and desert environments often involved in mountain biking can be bright and can drastically limit visibility and harm your eyes. Wearing sunglasses is a must on a sunny day. Photochromatic lenses are an excellent option, given the intervals of shade and sun exposure that are possible. Gloves are a necessary part of all types of mountain biking enabling a firmer grip and protecting your hands from blistering.

Considerations

Some of the more important pieces of gear for your safety are also not technically classified as safety equipment; however, these items are extremely important. Packing a sufficient supply of water is key to keeping you hydrated and preventing heat-related illness. Packing an appropriate mountain bike tool kit is an essential provision to prevent becoming stranded out in the wilderness.

Warning

Though mountain bike safety gear offers good protection for unforeseen circumstances, the best way to stay safe is to ride safely. Obey the rules of the trail and remain in control. Take it slow on blind corners and be prepared to encounter other trail users. Don't undertake rides or features that are beyond your ability and walk dangerous, sketchy sections of trail.