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Choosing the right mountain bike gear: technical guide

All the useful tips to choose the ideal mountain bike clothing and tackle every route

15 Jan 2025

Choosing the right mountain bike gear: technical guide

Technical mountain bike gear is essential to ensure comfort, safety and performance during every ride and must be chosen carefully, because it can directly affect the performance and riding experience, both for beginners and more experienced cyclists. Each garment has a specific function, designed to address the unique needs of this sport. For example, MTB clothing made with breathable and ultra-light fabrics are essential for summer days, as they help to keep the body cool and dry. On the contrary, during winter or in case of adverse weather conditions, it is essential to opt for insulating and waterproof garments, which effectively protect against cold, rain and wind.

Choosing the right clothing for each season means being prepared to deal with sudden climate changes and temperature changes. Layering is a winning strategy, because it allows you to add or remove clothes according to the conditions of the moment. In addition to seasonality, you will need to consider your personal needs, the quality of the fabrics, your level of experience and other important factors when buying the right clothes for you.

In this short guide we offer you all the useful tips to choose the right technical gear and make every mountain bike adventure a pleasant and comfortable experience.

Main features of MTB clothing

MTB clothing must have specific features, regardless of the type of route, the seasonality or weather conditions. First, breathability is essential: fabrics must be designed to help sweat evaporate from the skin, keeping the body dry even during intense efforts. Breathable synthetic materials, such as polyester, are the best for this function because they are resistant and quick-drying, while mesh panels or openings in strategic points present on some garments can further improve ventilation.

Another key feature that mountain bike clothing should have is abrasion resistance: they must be able to resist scratches, bumps or falls on rough terrain, effectively protecting the rider’s skin. Technical MTB pants, for example, are often made with reinforced materials in the most exposed areas, such as knees and hips.

The ergonomic fit is also another crucial aspect. MTB clothing must follow the natural movements of the body, ensuring freedom of movement without being too wide or too tight. Anti-abrasion stretch inserts and flat seams can further improve comfort, avoiding annoying chafing during the ride.

As far as protection from the elements is concerned, it is important that the garments are waterproof or at least water-resistant, especially for the winter season or for those who often train in humid environments or in variable climatic conditions. Lightweight jackets with waterproof and windproof membranes are essential to protect yourself from the rain or cold without weighing you down.

The functionality of the garments is an aspect not to be underestimated. Details such as back or side pockets in jerseys, or hidden zippers, are designed to make it more convenient to carry useful items, such as energy snacks, keys or other small accessories. Finally, visibility is an important element: bright colours or reflective details can increase the rider’s safety by making him visible in low light conditions or reduced visibility.

To ensure a riding experience that is as comfortable and safe as possible, technical mountain bike clothing must therefore combine breathability, strength and practicality.

Scegliere l’abbigliamento tecnico per la mountain bike: la guida

How to choose the best mountain bike wear

As we have seen, choosing technical MTB gear requires careful assessment of several factors that can affect comfort, safety and performance. It should be borne in mind that each cyclist may have specific needs related to different aspects, including:

type of use and level of experience: those who practice MTB at a professional level will need advanced technical garments, slim and lightweight, specifically designed to maximize performance, both in training and in competition. Aerodynamic jerseys and high quality bottoms are essential. Those who use the MTB for hobby or leisure excursions, can opt for a more versatile and comfortable clothing, which allows freedom of movement without sacrificing resistance and protection;
personal needs and comfort: comfort is a subjective issue and varies from cyclist to cyclist. Some prefer more fitted garments, which reduce the risk of interference with movements, while others may prefer softer fitting garments, ideal for technical routes where flexibility is a priority. Before buying, make sure that the garments fit well to your needs and your physicality;
seasonality and weather: the season and climate strongly influence the choice of clothing. In summer, it is important to focus on lightweight and breathable fabrics that promote ventilation and keep the body cool. In winter, however, thermal and waterproof garments such as wind jackets and insulated trousers are essential to protect against the cold and rain. In the mid-seasons, layering is the best solution: vests, leg and arm warmers can be easily added or removed depending on weather conditions and temperature changes;
type of terrain and route: on particularly demanding, technical or rough routes, it is advisable to opt for more resistant clothing, such as long reinforced trousers, which protect against abrasions, branches and falls. For easier or dirt trails, even light clothing, consisting of a few basic items, may be sufficient;
quality of materials and durability: the quality of materials and fabrics is essential to ensure comfort, protection and long-term durability. Garments made from wear-resistant technical fabrics, reinforced seams and breathable materials are a smart investment, as they offer superior performance and retain their characteristics even after numerous uses.

Carefully evaluating each of these factors will allow you to choose a mountain bike clothing that fully meets your needs, guaranteeing safety, comfort and fun on every ride.

4 MTB garments essential to get started

Those who approach the mountain bike for the first time must opt for practical, durable and versatile garments that can adapt to different weather conditions and routes. Clothing should be designed to provide breathability, freedom of movement and protection without being overly technical. Here are four items to buy to get started:

Technical windproof sweatshirt with hood, an essential garment for cool or windy days. This type of garment is designed to protect from the cold without compromising breathability, while offering comfort and practicality. A good technical sweatshirt should be lightweight, made of windproof fabrics, and have a design that ensures perfect freedom of movement. Wind Sweat Shirt by Nalini is the ideal choice for mountain bike trips in all conditions. Features such as windstopper fabric lining on the front and the adjustable hood, protect against weather without weighing it down. Its relaxed fit ensures maximum comfort, while the reflective inserts increase functionality, making it ideal for both morning and evening outings.
Breathable MTB jersey, the basic garment for those who approach the mountain bike. It must be made with lightweight and breathable fabrics, capable of removing sweat from the skin and keeping the body dry, even in the hottest months. The ideal jersey for beginners should offer a comfortable fit, ensuring maximum freedom of movement and at the same time a good protection. MTB Shirt by Nalini perfectly combines lightness and breathability. The technical anti-abrasive fabric ensures a quick drying, while the ergonomic design offers maximum comfort. The shirt is available in different color variations, modern and trendy, easily matched with any outfit.

3. MTB shorts with padding which must ensure the right level of support, protect against vibrations and reduce pressure on sensitive areas, preventing pain or irritation. Beginners should choose mountain bike shorts that offer a combination of elasticity, strength and breathability, and can adapt to different weather conditions. Nalini AIS Click Short perfectly meets these requirements. Equipped with a high-quality anatomical pad, these shorts guarantee comfort even during the longest rides. The abrasion resistant stretch fabric offers excellent fit and durability to tackle technical trails.

4. Technical MTB gloves: MTB gloves are essential accessories to protect your hands and improve control of the bike. They must offer an excellent grip, absorb the vibrations of the handlebar and protect in case of a fall. For beginners, it is important to choose breathable and comfortable gloves, such as Nalini MTB Gloves, made of anti-abrasion Lycra and with anatomical grip and perforated microfiber palm to ensure breathability and improve grip. Thanks to these features and the anti-sweat insert on the thumb, they ensure optimal comfort and control, even on the most demanding terrain.

These garments are the basis of mountain bike clothing and are indispensable to get off on the right foot. Choosing quality products, made with innovative technical fabrics, such as those proposed by Nalini, means investing in garments that will last over time and guarantee you a comfortable and safe riding experience, from the first rides.

Need more advice on choosing the right mountain bike clothing, or want more information about Nalini products?