More extreme styles of mountain biking require additional pads, armour and helmet protection. Here are some examples.
Mountain Bike Helmets
Mountain biking style is the main consideration when choosing a helmet. Riders that exercise more technical skills and have steeper descents will be best suited with more helmet protection and coverage.
Trail Riding Helmets
Due to the technical terrain encountered on trails, trail riders will require more helmet protection than cross-country riders. Trail riding helmets should be longer on the back and sides with plenty of ventilation.
Downhill or Park Helmets
This style of riding requires maximum coverage and protection. In this case, a full-face helmet and eye goggles should be worn.
Cross-Country Helmets
Cross-country riders typically don’t experience high speeds when inclining and descending hills. A helmet that is similar to a road cycling helmet with plenty of ventilation would work well.
Enduro and All-Mountain Helmets
Steep, high-speed, and technical descents are often encountered with this style of riding. A helmet with a detachable chin bar is recommended for this style of cycling. Enduro riders require more protection than trail riders.
Mountain Biking Armour and Pads
As with the general rule of mountain biking helmets, the more extreme rider you are, the more armour and padding you will need.
Trail and Cross-Country Pads and Armour
Newer trail and cross-country riders may require a little more protection than experienced riders. Many experienced trail and cross-country riders may only use knee pads when they are about to decent a steep long downhill stretch. Newer riders will need to wear knee and elbow pads.
Enduro/All-Mountain Pads and Armour
This style of mountain bike riding requires longer, thicker elbow and knee pads.
Downhill and Park Pads and Armour
This riding style requires protection when thicker, and longer knee and elbow pads are worn, along with shin guards for maximum coverage.
