Gear Up: Beginner Tips For Choosing The Right Equipment For Your Trail Adventure

First Things First - Figure Out The Basics

You've decided it's time for a trail ride, whether it's paved or off road, single day short or multi-day long. Careful planning and knowing what you need can make a big difference in the quality of your trip. When deciding on gear, consider factors such as the trail difficulty, weather conditions, how long you'll be out and your tolerance for discomfort. You need gear that is durable and safe.

Your gear list should include items such as quality footwear, a reliable backpack, and proper clothing. If you're hiking in rugged environments, investing in sturdy, waterproof shoes will keep your feet comfortable and dry. A well-fitted backpack will hold all your essentials without causing strain. And don't take clothing for granted, as layering is the technique for dealing with temperature changes on the trail.

Here's a list to consider:

1. Bike & Core Riding Gear

• Gravel bike with wide tubeless tires (38–50 mm recommended) if you are riding gravel

• Bike lights – front (1,000+ lumens if night riding) and rear blinking light

• Cycling computer or smartphone for navigation

• Seat bag for storage. Consider others for your frame or handlebars, depending on how long you will be out.

• Water bottles or hydration pack

• Tubeless tire sealant topped up before departure if you are riding tubeless tires

2. Clothing & Weather Protection

• Padded bib shorts or shorts (2–3 pairs depending on length of trip)

• Lightweight windbreaker or packable rain jacket

• Arm & leg warmers for chilly mornings or evenings

• Cycling gloves – full finger for cold weather

• Cap

• Off-bike clothes – lightweight pants/shorts, shirt, socks

• Lightweight sandals or camp shoes

3. Repair & Maintenance

• Mini pump or CO₂ inflator with cartridges

• 2–3 spare tubes (even if you're riding tubeless)

• Tire plugs

• Tire levers

• Multi-tool with chain breaker

• Spare chain quick links

• Small bottle of chain lube and rag

4. Food & Hydration

• Energy gels, bars,

• Electrolyte drink mix or tablets

• Instant meals (freeze-dried if camping)

• Compact stove & fuel (if cooking)

• Lightweight cookware & utensils

• Snacks

5. Camping & Overnight

• Lightweight tent, bivy, or hammock with tarp

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping pad

• Headlamp with extra batteries

• Dry bags for clothes

6. Navigation & Safety

• Offline maps loaded on GPS or phone (Ride with GPS, Komoot, Gaia)

• Paper map as backup

• Compass

• Emergency whistle

• First-aid kit

• Personal locator beacon or Garmin inReach if riding remote areas

7. Personal Essentials

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF

• Sunglasses

• Toiletries

• Chamois cream

• Small towel

• Cash

• Power bank and charging cables

• Earbuds for music and noisy campsites

Before you leave, do a shakedown ride with your full setup to test handling, gear placement, and comfort. Adjust packing order so frequently used items are easy to grab without unpacking everything.