Christy Sports – Bike Gear Buying Guide
How To Choose The Right Bike Gear
There are many different disciplines of biking that require different amounts of specialized equipment. For a casual ride on paths around town, all that is needed is a helmet. For a long day out mountain biking, more gear is necessary to stay safe and comfortable. No matter what sort of biking gear you need, Christy Sports has you covered. Consult this buying guide to gain a better understanding of the bike gear that suits your needs.
Helmets
Fit matters most: choose a helmet that is comfortable and suited to your typical riding style.
Construction: thin plastic shell over EPS foam; many include impact-cushioning tech (e.g., MIPS, Giro Spherical).
Helmet types:
- Road helmets: lightweight, sleek, well-ventilated.
- Mountain bike helmets: thicker, heavier, more coverage (back/sides), often include a visor.
- Full-face helmets: maximum protection for downhill/enduro, less ventilation, not ideal for long pedaling.
Additional features:
- Innovative buckles (e.g., Fidlock)
- Sunglass-friendly rim/visor designs
Key takeaway: helmet should fit well, match intended use, and be comfortable.
Tip: try helmets in-store at Christy Sports for best fit and style.
SHOES
Pedal type determines shoe choice:
- Flat pedal shoes: flat, sticky rubber soles for grip on pedal pins.
- Clipless shoes: adjustable t-nuts to mount pedal cleats.
Mountain bike shoe types:
- Downhill shoes: thicker soles, heavier, maximum protection and grip.
- Cross-country shoes: thin, minimalist soles for optimal power transfer.
- Many shoes fall between these extremes.
Lacing systems:
- BOA: snug, optimal fit, more expensive.
- Velcro, ratchet, traditional laces: less expensive, may not fit as precisely.
Sizing tips:
- Often size slightly smaller than street shoes for efficiency.
- Downhill/flat pedal riders may prefer softer, more flexible shoes.
Recommendation: try shoes in-store to find the best fit for your riding style.
PACKS & HYDRATION
A pack is needed to carry trail essentials: food, water, layers, and tools
Types of riding packs:
Hip packs:
- Sizes range from small (few items) to large (water bladder, tools, snacks, light layer).
- Some include bottle sleeves for extra water.
- Pros: avoid sweaty back, less restrictive.
- Cons: may bounce during rides.
- Examples: CamelBak M.U.L.E. 5 Waist Pack, Osprey Talon 6 Waist Pack
Backpacks:
- Can carry more gear and water for all-day adventures.
- Include water bladders, tool pouches, and multiple pockets.
- Pros: more stable due to shoulder/chest straps.
- Cons: less ventilation, can lead to sweaty back.
- Examples: Dakine Shuttle 6L Hydration Backpack, CamelBak Classic Light 70oz Hydration Pack
Tip: Consider ride length and gear needs when selecting your pack; some riders own multiple packs for different purposes.
APPAREL
Mountain biking apparel focuses on comfort, functionality, and style.
Bike-specific clothing is optional but can improve:
- Comfort on trails
- Ease of carrying personal items
- Style and appearance while on the mountain!
Fit:
- Looser than road biking clothes for better movement and comfort.
Jerseys:
- Made of breathable synthetic fabrics.
- Features may include zippered pockets and microfiber wipes for sunglasses.
- Long-sleeve or short-sleeve
Shorts:
- Include zippered pockets to secure items like phones or wallets.
- Often come with a padded chamois liner for extra saddle comfort.
Tip: Check for an included chamois before buying an additional liner.
PROTECTIVE GEAR
Accidents happen: protective gear can reduce injuries from falls.
Knee pads:
- Most common additional padding.
- Range from thin/flexible (comfort) to heavy-duty with plastic shells (maximum protection).
Elbow pads: similar range from light to substantial protection.
Extra protection: aggressive downhill riders may use chest and shoulder pads.
Trade-offs: additional pads can be sweaty and uncomfortable for long climbs.
Eye protection: essential for all riders.
- Sunglasses: block sun, dirt, rocks, mud; some have interchangeable clear lenses for cloudy days.
- Goggles: best for downhill to protect against dirt and debris; less ventilated, less comfortable for long rides.
