HOW TO GEAR UP FOR ENDURO?
Enduro is a mountain biking discipline that's halfway between trail and downhill . It combines the technical aspects of downhill (speed and riding on a slope) with certain aspects unique to trail or cross-country, where you don't depend on a ski lift to continue your ride .
This hybrid discipline therefore requires specific equipment so you don't head out on an adventure without the right gear! Here's our equipment guide to perfectly prepare you for your next enduro outings, depending on your practice.
Want to learn more about the different disciplines: trail , downhill , cross-country before diving into this guide on enduro ? Check out our guide to the different types of mountain bikes right away!
THE HELMET
The first essential protection, enduro helmets are halfway between trail/cross-country models, which are quite airy, and downhill models, which completely cover the face to ensure perfect protection in case of a fall and high-speed projections. Some brands like Sweet Protection offer versatile helmets that can be very interesting for riders who want to switch between disciplines. The Arbitrator model, for example, offers a removable chin bar to easily switch from downhill to enduro/trail riding.
Sweet Protection Arbitrator Mips Helmet
For those who don't want to go all out on downhill , trail models like the Trailblazer are perfect for a more classic, less committed enduro practice.
Sweet Protection Trailblazer Mips Helmet
CLOTHING
Unlike cross-country and some trail riders, enduro clothing is generally quite loose. As for length, the weather will of course dictate your style! In hot weather, opt for a short-sleeved jersey, as some efforts could be too strenuous with a downhill -style top, with long sleeves and integrated protection. Choose long sleeves when the temperature is below 20 degrees Celsius, at the beginning or end of the season. The same goes for the lower body! In summer and dry weather, choose shorts, and in cooler temperatures, opt for good pants. Crucial on the trails, choose your shorts or pants so that you feel very free in your movements.
GLASSES
Enduro riders often prefer full-face goggles over classic glasses because they offer better eye protection. High speeds and rough trails can throw up all sorts of debris and insects at your face, so it's important to protect your eyes! If you're heading for a less intense practice, closer to trail or cross-country , classic cycling glasses with wide eye coverage are a good alternative.
Sweet Protection Firewall MTB Glasses
PROTECTION GEAR
Engaged mountain biking means protection! With skids on fast descents and steep trails, a fall is never far away, and it is essential to protect sensitive body parts like elbows, knees, and hands. Recent models of elbow and knee pads are very comfortable and allow for such an enjoyable ride that you even forget you're wearing them.
Gloves should not be neglected either! Beyond preventing hand injuries in case of a fall, they will provide additional comfort for riding on very rough trails. For enduro, long-fingered gloves are preferred, but in very hot weather and if the terrain allows (few steep descents), short-fingered gloves will also work for more comfort. In any case, prioritize models with good padding, such as gel.
SHOES AND PEDALS
Enduro shoes are generally slightly high-cut (to protect the ankle). They offer a good compromise between flexibility and rigidity. You can opt for cleats: they will be useful on muddy terrain and will grip the pedals better. In enduro, pedals are sometimes equipped with pins to ensure perfect grip at high speeds on the roughest sections. Enduro pedals are generally quite wide to provide a good support surface on the soft ground of the trails. As with all other disciplines, you have the choice between clipless pedals or flat pedals (in which case cleats and studded pedals are almost mandatory for good practice).
Crankbrothers Mallet E Boa Shoes
You now have the keys to equip yourself and embark on trail adventures. With this gear, a good dose of daring, and practice, you'll have everything you need to progress in enduro!
Looking to shop for an enduro bike? Discover our range of enduro bikes , as well as mountain bikes if you also want to take a look at other practices ;)