1. A well-tuned mountain bike

This is very important.  Please swing by a bike shop and have a mechanic take a look just to make sure everything is tuned and running smoothly. For more info on the best bike to bring, see below. Check out our bicycle sponsor Liv: www.liv-cycling.com

2. Pedals

Please bring pedals that you are comfortable on. If you usually use flat pedals, bring flat pedals. If you usually use clipless pedals, but are unsure about learning new skills while you are clipped into your pedals, we highly recommend you bring a pair of flat pedals (these are not clipless pedals with a platform, they are made specifically for use with flat-soled shoes).  In most cases flat pedals will make it safer to learn and practice during the skills sessions.  If you prefer to be clipped in, you are free to use whatever pedals you are comfortable with. You can also consider starting the morning on flat pedals and switching to clipless pedals in the afternoon.  We have a few demo flat pedals, please let us know if you are interested in trying a pair of Crankbrothers 50/50s. More info about their pedals at www.crankbrothers.com

3. Shoes that are compatible with the pedals

Clipless pedals require shoes with cleats.  Flat pedals require flat shoes without cleats (such as tennis shoes or skate shoes). Note: shoes with tons of traction and lots of cushioning are not suggested. If you have questions about this please contact us before the clinic.  It’s very important that your pedals and shoes work together when you arrive at the clinic. Check out Liv’s shoes at www.liv-cycling.com

4. Check the weather

Please check prior to your clinic and pack accordingly.

5. Helmet

For all downhill camps, Grand Targhee, WY, Big Sky, MT, and Thunder Mountain, we require participants to wear a full-face helmet and pads when riding the lift-accessed trails. When practicing skills and using the xc trails participants can choose to wear their regular half shell helmet. We offer a limited number of full face demo helmets to use for the weekend that you can reserve HERE. If we do not have your size left you can rent a helmet and pads directly from the resort. You will want to reserve these items in advance to ensure the resort has them ready for you. All other camps do not require full-face helmets. Check out our favorite helmets: www.smithoptics.com

6. cycling gloves

If you do not have a pair please consider getting some, your fingers will thank you. We love our Wild Rye gloves: www.wild-rye.com

7. Padded shorts

If you do not have a pair please consider getting some, your rear will thank you. Check out what Wild Rye has: www.wild-rye.com

8. Hydration vessel

Hydration pack, water bottles, or a backpack filled with lots of water for the day. Osprey has the best packs! www.osprey.com

9. Water bottle or reusable cup

10. Snacks

We are working to reduce waste at our camps so please bring a cup or water bottle to fill up with Skratch Hydration, water, and coffee at camp. www.hydroflask.com

Like energy bars, gels, or chews. We will have some but you should always ride with a well stocked pack.

11. Sunscreen!

Your skin will thank you!

12. A spare tube

Yes, we can teach you how to use it.

13. Basic riding tools

But don't worry if you don't have them yet, our coaches will have them. We love our Crankbrothers tools: www.crankbrothers.com

14. A set of leg and arm pads

If you do not own body armor we have plenty you can demo.  This is not mandatory, but some women feel more confident and daring with this extra bit of protection.  Shin guards are encouraged when using flat pedals. Check out what G-Form has: www.g-form.com

15. Mosquito spray

Especially in particular locations!

The best bike to bring to the clinic

A good mountain bike can make all of the difference in learning new skills and feeling more confident on the trails.  Make sure your bike is the proper size for you and is well maintained (schedule a tune-up a few days prior to the camp).  We suggest a dual suspension cross country or all-mountain bike for a more comfortable ride, but front suspension only bikes work fine. 

Seat post information: To maximize your fun and safe learning during the camp we highly recommend that you can lower your seat post to get your saddle at least 3" out of your way while learning certain skills.  We think the best option for this is a dropper post (like a Rockshox Reverb) which can move up and down with a button or lever at your fingertips. Another acceptable option is to have a quick release seat collar (as opposed to bolt-on) that allows you to easily and quickly drop and raise your seat. If you do not have a quick release seat post, please carry a multi-tool so you can lower/raise your seat throughout the clinic.

 
Downhill bikes, cross bikes, e-bikes and road bikes are not suitable for our clinics. And your bike should not have a kickstand on it.

If you don’t already have a bike, we have an awesome fleet of Liv demo bikes or local shops have rentals. If you have further questions, please contact us!