Hit the Gravel with Confidence: Gearing Up for Your Ride

 Gravel biking's versatility is attracting riders from all corners of the cycling world. You might see a seasoned road cyclist kitted out in sleek Lycra next to a mountain biker sporting relaxed gear, both conquering the same gravel path. While your cycling background can influence your initial choices for a helmet and sunglasses, there are key features to keep in mind specifically for gravel adventures.

Gravel rides are notorious for dust, dirt, and sometimes even mud. Your gear needs to be ready to handle the challenge.

Finding the Right Gravel Bike Helmet

The ideal gravel helmet strikes a perfect balance between ventilation and protection. Road helmets can work, but those prioritizing aerodynamics over keeping debris out might leave you wanting. Mountain bike helmets, on the other hand,offer excellent all-around protection, especially on the back of the head. Simply remove the visor and you might have your perfect match.

Take the Rudy Project Venger for example. At first glance, it appears to be a dedicated road helmet with its impressive ventilation. However, it earns its gravel cred with a clever "bug stop net" liner that keeps out insects (and by extension,gravel dust) from your head.

Sunglasses: Your Eyes' Best Friend on Gravel

When it comes to gravel sunglasses, coverage is king. You want lenses that shield your eyes from dust, dirt, and grit. Look for lenses that extend slightly beyond the corner of your eyes and sit just above your cheeks, without touching them. At the same time, good ventilation is crucial to prevent fogging. The Rudy Project Defender addresses this with strategically placed cut-outs in the lenses and frames, promoting airflow that combats fog-inducing heat.

Lense color is another important factor. For open, bright gravel paths like those found in plains, deserts, or western mountains, consider green, copper, or purple lenses. Riders who frequent lush coastal regions or shaded forest trails might prefer Racing Red, 2 Laser Red, or brown lenses.

Photochromic lenses are a game-changer for gravel riders. These lenses automatically adjust their tint based on UV light exposure, transitioning from light to dark as needed. Since gravel riding speeds are typically slower than road cycling or downhill mountain biking, photochromic lenses offer a convenient, all-in-one solution for various lighting conditions.They'll adapt quickly enough to provide the necessary tint for clear vision throughout your ride.

So, whether you're a seasoned roadie or a mountain bike enthusiast venturing onto gravel, with the right helmet and sunglasses, you can tackle your next adventure with confidence and comfort.