So, you’ve got your dream gravel bike all dialed in and ready to roll. But before you hit the trails, make sure you’ve got the right gear to keep you comfortable, safe, and prepared for anything. As someone who’s learned the hard way about the importance of proper equipment, trust me when I say that investing in quality gear is just as important as having a great bike.
In this post, I‘ll share my top picks for essential gravel riding gear, from head to toe. These are the items I never leave home without, whether I’m heading out for a quick after-work spin or a multi-day bikepacking trip.
Key takeaways
- Invest in a MIPS-equipped helmet with extended coverage and ventilation.
- Opt for clipless for efficiency or flat pedals for comfort and ease of use.
- Wear moisture-wicking, breathable layers that you can easily adjust.
- Carry ample water in a hydration pack and pack essentials like a spare tube and tools for trailside repairs.
Helmets: Protect Your Noggin
First and foremost, you need a helmet. And not just any helmet – you want one that’s specifically designed for the rigors of off-road riding. Look for features like:
- Extended rear coverage for added protection
- Adjustable visor to shield your eyes from sun and branches
- Ample ventilation to keep you cool on hot days
- MIPS or similar rotational impact protection system
My top pick: The Giro Manifest Spherical ($260). This top-of-the-line lid offers best-in-class protection, ventilation, and adjustability. The unique Spherical design allows the outer shell to rotate independently of the inner liner, reducing rotational impact forces. Plus, it just looks super pro.
Budget-friendly alternative: The Bontrager Circuit MIPS ($100) is a great value option that doesn’t skimp on protection or features.
Shoes: Put Your Best Foot Forward
When it comes to shoes, you’ve got two main options: clipless or flat pedals. Clipless shoes offer a more secure and efficient connection to the bike, but they take some practice to get used to. Flat pedal shoes are more beginner-friendly and easier to walk in off the bike.
For clipless, I recommend the Shimano RX8 ($250). These gravel-specific shoes offer a perfect blend of stiffness for pedaling efficiency and flexibility for walking comfort. The lightweight, reinforced upper is super durable and the sole has aggressive lugs for scrambling up steep hills.
If you prefer flat pedals, check out the Five Ten Trailcross LT ($130). These shoes have a super sticky Stealth rubber sole that keeps your feet firmly planted on the pedals, even in wet and muddy conditions. The mid-top design provides extra ankle support and protection from trail debris.
Clothing: Dress for Success
The key to staying comfortable on long gravel rides is wearing layers that you can easily add or remove as conditions change. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, then add a breathable jersey and shorts or bibs. Throw a lightweight wind jacket in your jersey pocket for unexpected weather.
My go-to kit:
- Rapha Men’s Explore Powerweave Jersey ($140): This recycled polyester jersey is ultra-breathable and quick-drying, with ample storage pockets for snacks and gear.
- Pearl Izumi Expedition Bib Short ($130): These shorts have a plush chamois for all-day comfort in the saddle, plus handy cargo pockets on the thighs.
- Velocio Recon Micromodal Tee ($69): This super soft and stretchy base layer helps regulate body temp and prevent chafing under your jersey.
Hydration Packs: Stay Thirsty, My Friends
Gravel rides often take you far from reliable water sources, so it’s important to carry enough hydration to last the whole ride. While bottles are fine for shorter outings, a hydration pack is clutch for longer adventures.
I’m a big fan of the Osprey Syncro 5 ($110). This lightweight pack has a 2.5-liter reservoir, plus room for tools, snacks, and an extra layer. The suspended mesh back panel keeps you cool and the hip belt and sternum strap keep the pack stable when the terrain gets rough.
Other Essential Accessories
A few other items I always bring on gravel rides:
- Wahoo ELEMNT ROAM GPS Computer ($380): This rugged, waterproof computer has a large color screen, preloaded maps, and a claimed 17-hour battery life.
- Blackburn Outpost Frame Bag ($70): Keeps all your ride essentials (phone, tools, food) within easy reach. Mounts securely to your top tube.
- Panaracer GravelKing SK Tires ($50): My current favorite tire for mixed-terrain riding. Fast-rolling center tread with aggressive side knobs for cornering bite.
Pro tip: Always pack a spare tube (or two), even if you’re running tubeless. They can be a ride-saver if you tear a sidewall or have a puncture that sealant can’t fix.
Putting It All Together
Building your ideal gravel kit is all about dialing in the right combination of comfort, performance, and durability. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and styles until you find what works best for you. Remember, the more comfortable and prepared you are, the more fun you’ll have out there!
As gravel guru and former pro Ted King puts it:
“Gravel riding is all about expecting the unexpected. You never know what you’re going to encounter out there, so it pays to be prepared for anything. Having the right gear can make all the difference between an epic adventure and a miserable slog.”
So go ahead and geek out on gear – your future self (and riding buddies) will thank you. See you out there!
