| Mountain biking, as a sport, has been around since the | | | | need strong head protection. Don't skimp when it |
| 1970's. The sport originated when bikers refitted their | | | | comes to your helmet. |
| traditional bikes with stronger brakes and thicker, more | | | | Another important item to have is gloves. A good set |
| durable tires. Groups of riders from around the country | | | | of gloves will make the grip on your bike handles more |
| would gather and race down mountains or hills on | | | | sure and also protect your hands from cuts and |
| these refitted bikes. Hence, the beginning of mountain | | | | scrapes should you take a fall. |
| biking as we know it today. | | | | A good pair of sunglasses is also essential. Your |
| Since the 1970's, the sport has grown tremendously | | | | glasses should protect your eyes from rocks, dirt, mud |
| and there are now different types of mountain biking | | | | or other debris and also make it easier to see in |
| for different terrains and purposes. However, the most | | | | different types of weather and at different times of |
| popular type of mountain biking is still the traditional | | | | day. Consider a set of sunglasses with interchangeable |
| cross country style, where the rider will generally need | | | | lenses so that you can change the lenses depending |
| to climb and descend a variety of hills on different | | | | upon the weather or time of day for maximum |
| terrains including paved and dirt terrains. | | | | contrast and protection from eye fatigue and strain. |
| When mountain biking, there are different types of | | | | Bike tools should be taken along on the trail as well, |
| equipment needed. First and foremost is the right bike | | | | since the heavy strain of off road and off path riding |
| for your body type and riding needs. Going to a store | | | | leads to more mechanical and equipment breakdowns. |
| that specializes in mountain bikes and gear is a good | | | | Essential tools to have with you include a tire pump, |
| idea for anyone just starting out with the sport. In | | | | extra tire tubes or chains and a basic toolkit to allow |
| addition to the bike, there is also some essential | | | | you to repair your bike if needed. |
| equipment every rider should have. Since mountain | | | | Appropriate clothing is also essential for mountain |
| biking takes place on more difficult terrain than | | | | biking. Your clothes should be lightweight and |
| traditional cycling, safety gear is especially important in | | | | comfortable for the weather, but also strong and |
| order to reduce the chances of serious injury. The | | | | durable. Don't forget the shoes, your shoes need to be |
| most important item you need is a helmet. A helmet | | | | comfortable but also practical for the terrain. |
| should be the #1 item you get when getting ready to | | | | Armed with all the mountain biking essential equipment |
| head out on the trail. A helmet will protect your head | | | | and knowledge you need, you'll be ready to take on |
| should you fall in difficult terrain, and since its much | | | | whatever terrain you encounter. |
| easier to fall where the terrain is rough, you absolutely | | | | |