There are some basic essentials that you need to have with you on any ride. Staying hydrated is key, and the best way to do that is to use a hands-free hydration system like a Camelback or Hydropack. Everyone that rides will need a helmet. Modern helmet designs are lightweight with many vents to keep you cool. We recommend looking at helmets from Giro, Trek and Specialized.

Flatting out in the backcountry can turn a fun ride into an epic survival adventure. Carrying a pump, spare tube, tire levers and a patch kit can prevent this from happening. Lightweight pumps like the "shorty" from Blackburn and the "airstick" from Specialized are the way to go. Another good idea is to carry a bicycle tool with you for any trailside repairs. We recommend the Topeak Alien. With thirty-three functions, this compact tool has everything you need to dial in your bike on the trail like tire levers, a chain tool, allen wrenches and even spoke wrenches.

A good polypro jersey from Pearl Izumi or Sugoi will keep you cool and dry and biking specific shorts are aerodynamic and have padding to protect your rear. Even if it is not sunny out eye protection is essential. Try glasses from Smith, Oakley, Spy or Briko.

Last but not least is the powerfood. Clif bars, Luna bars and Gu give you the energy to power up those steep climbs.  Oh and don't forget, wear sunscreen!