These six gear godsends will make your life better on the trail.
Helmet
Sweet Protection Dissenter MIPS
Lightweight at just 11.6 ounces and airy but built with enough tech (including concussion-preventing MIPS) to keep you safe in case the worst happens, this brain bucket won’t cramp your style on a long, hot ride. $150; sweetprotection.com
Shoes
Time OSMOS 10
Back in the shoe biz for the first time since 2013, Italian pedal-crafter Time has created a sleek cycling shoe with a composite sole and simple BOA system that’s supple yet provides enough rigidity to give you pedalling confidence when you dig in for a big climb. $250; time-sport.com
Jacket
Columbia Montrail F.K.T. Wind Jacket
Light and tough enough to be race-kit legal, this wispy shell is a lifesaver when the weather changes on a bike ride or a trail run. Don’t be fooled by its airiness: While the windbreaker can’t endure a downpour, it’s just protective enough to keep out a stiff, wet breeze. $99; columbia.com
Shirt
Flylow Nash
Our favorite dirtbag friends at Flylow told us that this shirt won’t stink thanks to bacteria-killing Polygiene incorporated into the stretchy, quick-drying polyester fabric. It’s worked for us, at least, and become our go-to for rides, runs, dog walks and even après dates afterwards. $55; flylowgear.com
Shorts
Stio OPR
With options for men and women, this technical bike short from Jackson Wyoming-based Stio gives us all we want out on the trail: stretch, some ventilation and a tad of padding. But it’s not so techy that we won’t wear it around town. $139; stio.com
Socks
Darn Tough Chain Micro Crew Ultra-light
Socks complete the mountain-biking kit package and this light merino wool women’s model feels comfy when you are out churning. Plus, it’s got just enough style to make luvahs stare at you calfward. $19; darntough.com
