All riders must have cycling/mtb specific helmets that fit them well, and haven’t been crashed in. Full faces are not mandatory, but offer the most protection. We highly recommend mountain bike specific knee pads, elbow pads, and riding gloves. Protecting your hands, knees, and elbows will mitigate most abrasions and cuts that can occur from tumbles and falls. 

Riding glasses are also advisable. Even basic safety glasses work fine to keep dust and dirt out. 

We also recommend mtb specific shoes, primarily because they have stiff soles and sturdy toe boxes that can protect your feet in crashes or collisions with roots and rocks. The shoe is your primary connection point to your pedals and bike. Flat soled shoes work the best to create a good contact between your feet and pedals. Skate shoes or Vans can be an alternative to mtb specific shoes. Hikers and blundstones aren’t ideal. 

You should match your clothing to the season you’re riding in. Generally during the spring and summer, shorts and t-shirts work fine. For fall riding you may want to consider pants and long sleeve shirts + jackets. Your clothing should be comfortable and appropriate for athletic activities, and functional for the weather.