Bikes may be rented at the MAC and include full-face helmets, chest and arm protectors, and knee and shin protectors. If you have your own bike, you may rent these items separately. Full suspension downhill or freeride bikes are required for all lessons. The MAC is also the main mountain bike retailer and much of the recommended riding gear is available for purchase at this location.
Glasses or goggles with clear lenses (yellow and light amber can also work well) are best for actual trail riding. It can be dark in the woods.
You should always wear gloves when riding. They should be full fingered andflexible with non-padded palms. Gardening gloves could be an acceptable substitute. Unlike road riding gloves, where the point is to pad the palms, DH and FR gloves have thin palms to ensure a good grip on the handlebars, and full fingers to protect the skin from potential impacts.
The style is baggie shorts or moto pants, but jeans would also work as long as they allow free movement. Many riders like to wear padded cycling shorts under their baggies/motos. Shorts or pants made of thin fabric (i.e., basketball style shorts) don’t hold up well to impact and provide little protection. This is also true of cycling shorts worn without an additional layer on top.
A jersey or tee shirt works just fine. Most people don’t like the feel of body armor next to their skin (it’s plastic and can be uncomfortable), so a tee-shirt or tank top underneath is recommended.
Light hiking shoes or boots will work best if you do not have your own downhill or freeride shoes. Skate shoes or running shoes may also work but aren’t usually as sturdy. DH specific shoes are usually “skate” style, but are made of sturdier materials and have stiff soles with a fairly tacky surface for gripping the pedals. Absolutely no sandals.
Whatever works with your shoes is best. Keep in mind that shin guards can be uncomfortable on the skin, especially just above the ankle. Some people wear taller socks for that reason. Socks also tend to get wet (from sweat or the environment), so wicking material is great but not critical.
Depending on the weather and your riding plans, it may be good to bring along some snacks, sun screen, a rain jacket, hydration pack or water bottle.