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MEN'S MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR BEGINNERS
BUILT FOR YOUR FIRST LAPS.
Fresh air in the lungs, dust on the legs, sweeping landscapes in view - hitting the trail reaps huge physical and mental rewards. But if you're putting rubber to the dirt for the first time, it can be a little intimidating. The right gear can make the transition to mountain biking more enjoyable.
We've outlined the basics to get you out and on the trail for miles of joy.
START HERE
What to buy first
| First ride | First month | First season | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottoms | Trail shorts with a liner | A second liner | Pants for cold and wet |
| Tops | A loose-fitting jersey | A base layer | A thermal jersey |
| Hands and feet | Full finger gloves | Trail shoes and cycling socks | Winter gloves |
| Protection | Nothing extra to start | Knee pads | Elbow pads for rowdier terrain |
Start with trail shorts and a liner. Everything else can wait until you know what kind of trails you actually enjoy riding.
SHORTS
For mountain bikers, shorts provide as much protection from the unpredictability of the trail as they do the saddle. Padded Lycra bike shorts can pass in a pinch, but over time they will take a beating on the trail. Investing in a pair of dedicated mountain bike shorts will prove a better option.
JERSEYS
Hot days on the trail are paid out in liters of sweat. You need a jersey that breathes well and wicks sweat quickly. Mountain bike jerseys fit looser for better airflow and are offered in sleeveless, T-shirt, zip front and tank styles. But don't assume their casual styling means they're any less technical.
GLOVES
Gloves are one part grip, one part protection. Sweat or rain can make your grip slick. Gloves will keep you connected to the handlebars, prevent blisters, and, if you go down, you will appreciate the coverage. Even for sunny summer rides, we like full-finger gloves. A good pair should be lightweight and nimble, allowing you to work the levers without overheating.
SHOES
Mountain bike shoes are tougher than gym shoes and give you a stable, efficient platform. Look for a stiff (yet comfortable) feel and a heel that stays locked in. There are two types: flat and clipless. Flats pair with grippy pedals and have zero learning curve - easy to step off in rocky sections. Clipless shoes use a small cleat that snaps into the pedal; twist to release. They take a little practice but let you push down and pull up each stroke for better power transfer - ideal for cross-country rides or long climbs where you're not constantly dabbing. Choose what matches your terrain and comfort.
JACKETS
Mountain weather flips fast. Carry a lightweight jacket you can stash and throw on when conditions turn. Unless you ride in steady rain, skip heavy waterproof shells. A water-resistant jacket with DWR sheds light showers, blocks wind, and packs down small. It's perfect for sudden storms - and adds welcome warmth on cool descents.
SOCKS
Socks wick moisture away from the feet, offer a bit of cushioning, and can protect the lower legs from flogging by brush. Cycling socks are some of the very best socks you can buy. They stay up, are durable, and they're fashionable enough to cross over into everyday wear. Taller socks can provide a little more protection, support, and warmth.
PROTECTION
Terrain changes quickly when mountain biking, especially on trails you're unfamiliar with. As you start to point the rubber down more technical terrain, consider knee and elbow pads. Protecting your knee and elbow joints ensures you'll be ready to ride another day. A good pad will have some pre-curve to fit around the joint while allowing it to articulate.
Men's Mountain Bike Beginner FAQs
What do I need to start mountain biking?
Trail shorts with a padded liner, a loose-fitting jersey, and full-finger gloves. Trail riding involves brush and the occasional fall, which is why full-finger gloves come earlier here than they do on the road.
Can I wear road cycling clothes on the trail?
Yes, and plenty of people start that way. Road kit is cut closer and offers less abrasion protection, so it works fine on smoother trails. Loose trail shorts over a liner give you more freedom of movement and better protection when you fall.
Do I need padded shorts for mountain biking?
Yes, but as a liner rather than as your outer layer. A padded liner short worn under loose trail shorts gives you chamois comfort with the coverage and durability trail riding demands.
Do I need knee pads?
Not on day one. Once you start riding technical terrain, or anything you have not seen before, knee pads are the highest-value protection you can add. Lightweight sleeve-style pads are comfortable enough to forget you are wearing them.
Flat pedals or clipless when starting out?
Flats. They let you put a foot down instantly, which builds confidence on technical terrain and makes falls less awkward. Move to clipless when you want more control through rough sections and better pedalling efficiency.
What should I wear on a hot trail ride?
A loose, open-knit jersey, trail shorts with a liner, and lightweight socks. A mesh base layer actually helps rather than hurts, because it moves sweat off your skin where it can evaporate.
Why do my hands hurt on rough trails?
Usually grip pressure and vibration. Gloves with light padding help, but so does relaxing your grip, dropping your tire pressure a little, and letting the bike move underneath you rather than holding it rigid.