2019 is shaping up to be a banner year for mountainous two-wheelers. The enduring march of "lighter, faster, stronger" continues--which is always a good thing--but MTB has been expanded the tent to include even more ways to have your own fun. The gear has mellowed out a bit, and while you can still get kitted in full-on flashy race gear, muted earth tones are on the rise. Trailheads are getting more diverse in every way: participants, bike configurations, and gear. There's never been a better time to join the ride!
Lightweight and durable is the name of the game. MTB-specific clothing is made to breathe, move, and let you fully concentrate on piloting your bike. Whether you're wearing padded shorts for a longer pedal, a fast-looking jersey for the bike park, or gear that's as likely to see a mustard drip in a restaurant as a mud splatter on-trail, there are tons of versatile options.
From simple wearable mudflap you don't mind giving a post-ride hose-down, to fully waterproof and breathable technical fabrics, some sort of riding jacket is essential. Lightweight and stowable, throw one of these in your pack and never get caught out by the elements again. This year's crop features bike-specific features like helmet-compatible hoods, easy-access storage, and smart ventilation so you can keep them on during long climbs.
It's been proven: the day you decide not to put on your pads is the day you'll slide out doing something silly and scrape your knee, ruining at least three showers. Today's pads and gloves are designed to be worn your whole ride long, not just for throwing on before dropping in up top. 2019's protective gear breathes, pedals, and stays where you want it.
