Youngsters are entitled to their mountain bike gear too, so they can ride like the big boys! But equipping them properly is not always a simple matter for parents. What are the essential bike clothes to dress your girl or boy? How to find mountain bike clothing for kids that combines safety and comfort? What should you pay attention to? Here are our tips for choosing the right cycling gear for juniors.
Choosing quality mountain bike clothing
Before anything else, it's important to remember that mountain biking requires special gear. If your child is mountain biking with friends or family, a dedicated outfit proves to be essential for him to pedal safely.
The majority of manufacturers have developed ranges specifically designed for children: from mini riders to teenagers. You will thus find junior bike clothing worthy of adult models!
So leave the cotton t-shirts and tracksuits in the closet, and turn to quality pieces constructed from technical and innovative fabrics: breathable jerseys, stretchy components, mesh inserts, waterproof membrane, foam skin, etc.
Choosing the right clothes for your practice
If your child rides a bike for fun, he or she will not have the same expectations as a youngster competing and aiming for performance. Also, mountain biking is a multi-discipline activity so the clothing requirements will be different.
The classic mountain bike outfit is a great way to keep your child safe and comfortable
The classic kids' mountain bike outfit consists of a fitted jersey and mountain bike shorts or shorts with a bike helmet, shoes, goggles and gloves.
Attempting mountain bikers who engage in more extreme disciplines, such as enduro or downhill, need a jersey with a loose fit and reinforced shorts or pants. In addition, protective gear tailored to the body type of young thrill-seekers is highly recommended to ensure their safety.
Choose comfortable bike clothes
Children tend to get impatient quickly if something upsets them, for example if they don't feel comfortable in their clothes. It's best to avoid itchy textiles that can ruin the Sunday outing.
The best way to avoid itchy textiles is to wear them with a good grip
The mountain bike clothes offered in stores or online have features that offer a maximum of comfort so that children can fully enjoy their passion. Comfortable clothing means happy kids and zen parents! Thus, favor clothing:
- without seams or with flat seams;
- adapted to the anatomy of girls or boys;
- soft and comfortable to wear;
- hypoallergenic to preserve the skin from irritation.
In addition, mountain bike shirts and shorts are usually equipped with zippered pockets. Handy for carrying a snack!"
Choose weather-appropriate clothing
Children have boundless energy: they are always ready to pedal even when it rains! So plan to outfit your toddler accordingly to keep them dry. Rain pants and a waterproof, windproof jacket will provide optimal protection from the elements.
To keep biking trips fun in winter, dress your child warmly by following the three-layer rule: technical underwear, a mountain bike jersey and a thermal jacket. Lined with fleece, the latter effectively insulates from the cold to prevent your child from getting sick.
In summer, you should go for a breathable, thin and light fabric with anti-UV treatment to preserve his body from the sun's radiation.
Choosing clothes that suit your taste
Have you found clothes that meet your expectations for safety, quality and comfort for your child? Now, why not give him carte blanche to choose the look of his mountain bike clothes? If he likes his outfit, he's less likely to drag his feet and will instead be thrilled to put it on and go pedaling with you.
Brands have created models aimed at the youngest that they have deliberately declined in a multitude of colors, both male and female. Little cyclists will have the choice between funny designs, plain or patterned, or even with the colors of their favorite mountain bike team, to dress like the pros!
Choose MTB clothing for kids in their size
Of course, you have to be careful to choose the right size for your child. If you don't have the opportunity to try the garment on in the store, a manufacturer's size guide will tell you what measurements to take to find the right model for his age and measurements.
In general, clothing should not generate a feeling of compression or impede movement. Ask your child how they feel in their new bike clothes and listen to their needs if they are not satisfied.
You now have all the information in hand to choose the right mountain bike clothing for your child.
Now how about finding out what are the must-have mountain bike clothes for men and must-have mountain bike clothes for women or how to choose mountain bike clothes in winter?