Mountain biking Kit List

Essentials

• If we are providing mountain bikes for you then cycling helmets will come with it, but if you have your own you may want to bring it for your own comfort.
• 2 or 3 pairs of sports socks. (not cotton) - warmer ones for spring and autumn
• Trainers or cycling shoes - if you are using spd pedals make sure you bring your own cycling shoes. The bikes we provide come with flat pedals.
• Waterproof jacket - breathable waterproof materials like goretex are much more comfortable than non-breathable materials which can end up being just as wet inside due to your sweat not escaping!
• At least three layers - thin thermal layer or t-shirt made of wicking material rather than cotton next to the skin, a mid weight fleece and a thicker fleece.
• Extra fleece or sweater to put on during a stop.
• A thin top for when it gets hot cycling. If you burn easily wear a t-shirt rather than a vest as the sun is stronger at altitude - (again not cotton - sports tops work well)
• Cycling shorts or tights for spring and autumn
• Cycling gloves, warmer ones for spring and autumn.
• Rucksack to carry spare sweater, waterproofs, packed lunch, water bottle, and other bits and pieces.
• Good sized water flask or a plastic water bottle. A Platypus or similar water system is also very handy.
• Sun screen - even in winter
• Lip salve with sunscreen - even in winter
• Sun glasses suitable for cycling - interchangeable lenses are good if you have them.
• Sun hat or cap in summer if you use one.
• Towel if staying in a youth hostel or refuge.
• Large plastic bag to put inside your rucksack to keep the contents completely dry. No rucksack is waterproof (too many seams!)

Other useful things

• Tool kit our guides will have one, but if you are going it alone then you will need to bring your own. The hire bikes will come with a basic kit.
• Slippers- so nice for feet in the evening.
• Camera, spare film or memory card and batteries.
• Binoculars
• Map of the areaand compass if you like knowing where you are.
• A small sit mat or bit of old camping mat - not essential but good for a bit of comfort when snacking in the mountains!
• Swim suit maybe.
• Games or cards for evenings
• Torch