Summer MTB Clothing: a guide to choosing the right one

Are you a fan of off-road cycling? In the Summer, do you struggle to find the right balance between comfort, protection, and breathable, cool products?!
This guide aims to help you with the choice of the right Summer MTB clothing, designed specifically for those scorching days when you don't want to miss out on a workout on your favorite trails!

Cycling in summer on a MTB trail requires not only skill and passion but also careful selection of clothing. Why is it so important to choose the right one?
With high temperatures and the intensity of physical activity, it is essential to wear garments that ensure breathability, lightness, and protection, to tackle every outing safely and with maximum comfort. Summer mountain bike clothing must therefore represent the perfect balance between thermal comfort and protection from impacts and external agents.

The basic equipment for MTB in Summer includes:

• Technical jersey: made of lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying fabric. Some models include mesh inserts to enhance airflow.
• MTB shorts: with ergonomic padding (or to be added separately) for the right comfort in the saddle and tear-resistant fabrics.
• Underwear: a good quality base layer keeps your skin dry and cool, even during the toughest rides!
• Gloves: protect your hands from vibrations, falls, or branches and ensure the right grip on the handlebars.
• MTB shoes: stiff and with a treaded sole, compatible with flat or clipless pedals.
• Helmet: always mandatory, even for the shortest rides. Better if equipped with good ventilation and a visor for sun protection. If you practice gravity disciplines like downhill, it's preferable to choose a full-face helmet with a chin guard.
• Sports glasses: to protect your eyes from sun, dust, insects, and branches.
• Hydration backpack or waist pack: to carry water, tools, a spare inner tube, energy bars, and a lightweight rain jacket in case of a Summer storm.

During the Summer season, it is crucial to choose technical, breathable, and lightweight materials. The moisture produced by sweat must be quickly removed to avoid discomfort and maintain a stable body temperature.

Here are some tips:
- clothing made from synthetic technical fabrics, such as technical polyester, or natural fabrics for those who prefer fibers like wool blends that are highly thermoregulating;
- summer accessories like a cap or sweatband to avoid discomfort in the eyes;
- lightweight and breathable technical socks to prevent overheating of the feet.

What to wear on a bike at 25°C?

We could consider 25°C as the ideal temperature for cycling; however, the intensity of MTB training can often quickly increase body heat and therefore sweating. To prevent this, it is important to prefer brands that use high-quality fabrics and design garments specifically for high temperatures, such as Assos and Gobik, without resorting to second-rate solutions. The right summer MTB clothing can really make a difference in terms of comfort and performance!

Even in Summer, it is important to protect yourself adequately. Besides the helmet, there are other useful safety measures that should not be left at home or in the backpack, even if the temperatures are high. In particular, mtb protections, such as knee pads, elbow pads, and back protectors, are important for the cyclist's protection and should never be forgotten, especially on the most challenging trails! 
We also recommend applying a good sunscreen, especially in areas most exposed to the sun's rays. 

Discover our selection of summer MTB clothing at ciclimattio.com and get ready for your adventures!