What equipment is needed for mountain touring cyclists?
The cyclist's equipment for mountain touring
Touring by bike in the mountains is an adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Beyond the choice of bike and panniers, personal equipment plays a crucial role in your comfort, safety and enjoyment throughout the trip.
Whether you're off for a week or several months, tackling the passes of the Alps or the trails of Haute-Provence, here's our comprehensive guide to getting your gear right. We've tested these products in real-life conditions to bring you a reliable selection tailored to the specificities of the mountains.
Clothing : Comfort first
Our clothing advice
- Provide 2 complete outfits to alternate
- 1 windbreaker or waterproof jacket is essential
- In the shoulder seasons, bring thermal under-layers (weather changes quickly in the mountains)
- Prefer bright colors for better visibility
- Cuffs are very practical in the mountains to adapt to temperature variations
Helmets are a more than highly recommended accessory - to be placed right at the top of your list!
Technical textiles
For clothing, opt for breathable, lightweight materials suitable for long hours in the saddle :
- A good pair of shorts is essential to avoid chafing
- A compact sleeveless jacket may suffice for collars
- Specialized brands offer technologies adapted to cyclists
Our clothing favorites
Le French Cyclard
High-tech and retro design for this fine French brand with European manufacturing. Their clothing combines style and performance, perfect for long days in the saddle.
Ekoi - Ultra-Distance range
Ekoi's ultra-distance range is specially designed for long hours in the saddle. Their garments offer an excellent compromise between comfort, breathability and durability.
Origine - Technical Textile
The French brand Origine also offers a range of quality technical clothing, perfect for mountain roaming.
Décathlon - Gravel range
A beautiful range with warm colors and soft prices, ideal for cyclists looking for good value.
Rapha
The current benchmark in cycling textiles. Their clothing combines performance, durability and style for demanding cyclists.
Gloves : Protection and comfort for your hands
Not all of us have the agility of Tadej Pogačar or Mathieu van der Poel, who often ride barehanded. For most of us, a good pair of gloves is essential.
We recommend carrying two pairs of gloves, short and long, to cover any eventuality, especially in the shoulder seasons.
Van Rysel - Summer Gloves
Lightweight, breathable gloves for warm days, with a good grip and effective protection.
Ekoi - Autumn/Winter gloves
Warmer gloves for cooler seasons, with good insulation while retaining good dexterity.
Helmets: Safety and comfort
A good helmet should be light, ventilated and offer optimum protection. Choose models with a MIPS system for increased safety in the event of a fall, without making the helmet heavier.
Ekoi - Perf Gara MIPS Helmet
Lightweight helmet with MIPS system, airy design and elegant styling. Perfect for long days in the saddle.
Giro - Agilis MIPS Helmet
A versatile helmet with MIPS system, optimal ventilation and modern design. Ideal for long outings.
Mavic - Comete Ultimate II MIPS Helmet
High-end helmet with MIPS system, exceptional ventilation and aero design. Perfect for demanding cyclists.
Shoes: Comfort and performance
For touring, opt for hybrid or gravel shoes that will keep you comfortable in all conditions. This will probably involve a change of pedals to SPD, but after a week, you'll thank us!
Mavic - Allroad
Versatile shoes for gravel and touring, offering a good compromise between stiffness and walking comfort.
Fizik - Gravel Shoes
Shoes specially designed for gravel, combining performance and comfort for long days in the saddle.
Sunglasses: Protection and style
Sunglasses are an essential accessory for protecting your eyes from UV rays and splashes, while adding a touch of style to your gear.
Oakley
The benchmark brand for sports eyewear, combining optical performance and modern design.
Julbo
Excellent value for money for these glasses made in France, with optimum UV protection.
Other essential equipment
Waterproof bags
To organize your pack without fear of rain. They compartmentalize your belongings and protect them from humidity.
Sunscreen
In the mountains, where UV rays are more intense, SPF 50 sunscreen is mandatory.
Multifunctional knife
Indispensable for refreshment stops and for emergency repairs. Choose a lightweight, compact model.
Gourd or water pouch
An isothermal gourd or water pouch of at least 2L is essential for staying hydrated.
Tips for managing temperature variations
The 3-layer system
Adopt the 3-layer principle to adapt to temperature changes :
- Base layer (breathable)
- Middle layer (insulation)
- Outer layer (windproof/waterproof)
Adapt to conditions
In the mountains, the weather can change very quickly. Be prepared to:
- Add or remove layers depending on the temperature
- Protect your extremities (hands, feet, head)
- Shelter yourself from the wind with a windbreaker
Rain gear
Even in clear weather, always carry:
- A compact rain jacket
- Waterproof overpants
- Covers for your panniers
Ready to go?
You now have all the information you need to equip yourself for your mountain itinerary.
If you have any questions or need personalized advice, please don't hesitate to contact us.