Mountain Biking: Top 3 Reasons to Wear a Helmet and Glasses.
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Hey everyone! My cycling journey started on Chicago's lake path, where I first picked up a road bike. What began as a simple hobby quickly became a passion, leading me through triathlons, Cyclocross, and gravel races across Michigan. I’ve raced at Rebecca’s Private Idaho, tackled the Belgium Wafer Ride, and even trained with my team in Tucson, Arizona, where I climbed the infamous Mt. Lemmon.
But it wasn't until two years ago that I discovered mountain biking and fell in love all over again. Growing up in South Georgia, I spent countless hours exploring the woods. Mountain biking brings me back to those adventurous days, riding through varied terrains and reconnecting with nature.
After a few bumps, scratches, and a memorable fall, I'm now confidently riding my S-Works Epic Pro. Mountain biking is exhilarating but comes with unique challenges. One of the most critical aspects of staying safe is wearing the right helmet and glasses. Here are my top three reasons why they’re essential for every ride.
Reason #1: Helmets Protect Your Head for a Reason.
I decided to try downhill riding in beautiful Jackson, WY. My first run was on several green trails, and since I’m still getting used to mountain biking, I quickly learned that braking techniques differ from road or gravel biking. Below are two helmets I rely on for protection, whether I’m trail riding or racing in mountain biking or gravel races.
The video below perfectly illustrates why helmet protection is so important.
Various angles of the Oakley DRT3 helmet in matte black.
Key Features:
Advanced Ventilation: Keeps your head cool with multiple large vents.
MIPS Technology: Reduces rotational forces from angled impacts.
Adjustable Fit: BOA 360° system ensures a secure, comfortable fit.
Eyewear Dock: Securely stores sunglasses when not in use.
Lightweight Design: Durable without compromising safety.
Detachable Visor: Shields your eyes from sun and debris.
See Oakley DRT3 TRAIL I.C.E MIPS
2. Smith Triad MIPS:
The Smith Triad MIPS is another excellent helmet. It is built for road and gravel, but I use it for XC racing and, of course, when I ride gravel.
Various angles of the Smith Triad helmet in matte black.
Key Features:
Lightweight Comfort: Ideal for long rides, reducing fatigue.
MIPS Technology: Offers extra protection against rotational forces.
Superior Ventilation: Optimized to keep you cool and dry.
Adjustable Fit System: Ensures a personalized, secure fit.
Durable Build: Tough enough for the rigors of cycling.
Glasses Compatibility: Works seamlessly with eyewear.
See Smith Triad MIPS
Reason #2: Wear the Right Helmet for Your Type of Ride.
During my visit to Jackson Hole Bike Park, it quickly became obvious to me why mountain bikers sometimes wear full-face helmets.
Initially, we planned to stick to the easier trails and didn’t bother renting additional gear. The rental gear at Jackson Hole is serious—chest plates, full-face helmets, the works—but I figured my regular helmet would be fine. After just one ride, though, our group decided to rent full-face helmets, and I’m so glad we did. That decision likely saved me from severe injuries, like knocked-out teeth or a broken jaw, when I ventured onto a blue trail named Bandit.
The video below perfectly illustrates why choosing the right helmet for your ride is crucial.
Various angles of the Smith Mainline helmet in matte black.
Key Features:
Full Face Protection: Comprehensive coverage for the skull and face.
KOROYD® Coverage: Lightweight, energy-absorbing impact protection.
MIPS Technology: Enhances safety by reducing rotational impact forces.
Superior Ventilation: Keeps you cool during intense downhill rides.
Customizable Fit: Ensures secure comfort on every ride.
Goggle Integration: Designed for seamless use with goggles.
See Smith Mainline MIPS
Reason #3: Glasses Are a Must for Protecting Your Eyes.
Your helmet is only part of the equation—glasses shield your eyes from the sun, debris, and, in my case, even tree branches that could have taken my eyes out.
Glade Ramble cycling glasses in matte black with photochromatic lenses in grey
Photochromic Lenses: Adjust to all lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to dim shadows, ensuring clear vision. I love this feature. There is no need to switch out lenses.
High-Impact Resistance: Protect your eyes from debris and impacts, which is crucial when riding on technical trails or in dense forests.
Enhanced Visibility: The lenses reveal every root, rock, and trail feature, enhancing your ability to navigate rugged terrain safely.
Comfortable Fit: Designed to be worn comfortably for extended periods, reducing fatigue and distraction.
Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of mountain biking, ensuring long-lasting performance.
I love these glasses, and for $99, you cannot beat that when I typically pay $300 or more.
See Glade Ramble
The photo below is an instance where wearing glasses protected my eyes. Even at a slow speed, the trails can catch you off guard—thankfully, my glasses were there to protect my eyes when I didn’t clip out fast enough and found myself up close to a tree.
I am wearing my Oakley DRT 3 helmet and Rapha glasses at Silver Lake in Wisconsin—protection that counts.
Gear Up and Ride On.
I've been cycling for years, but mountain biking is still fairly new. As I continue to grow in the sport, I keep learning and improving at handling my bike, especially regarding falls. No matter how experienced you are, wearing the right cycling gear is crucial. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest cycling news and gear reviews from Overland Girl. Happy trails.
