Mountain biking is a fantastic outdoor activity for exercise and enjoyment. However, you must make sure you have all the required safety equipment before hitting the trails.
Shin guards are among the most essential items of gear for mountain riding. But what are shin guards, exactly? As a mountain biker, why do you need shin guards?
Read this article to learn how shin guards can help reduce the damage caused by injuries.
Shin guards: What Are They? Why Wear Shin Guards?
Shin guards are designed to guard the lower legs from rocks, branches, and other things that might be on the trail. Additionally, they offer extra padding in case of a fall and aid in preventing bruising and scrapes on your shins.
When biking in cold weather, shin protectors also add a little extra warmth. Not only do they provide a physical layer of protection, but they can also give you peace of mind. Knowing that your shins are shielded from potential injuries.
What Is the Most Common Injury in Mountain Biking?
People who want a rush of adrenaline should never forget the risks that come with riding a bike fast through rough terrain.
So, what are the most common injuries for people who ride mountain bikes?
Let’s explore some of the potential dangers of mountain cycling and how you can stay safe while enjoying your rides.
Contusions occur when muscles or internal organs are bruised due to direct impact or compression. Symptoms may include swelling, redness, tenderness and pain in the affected area.
Lacerations are deep cuts caused by sharp objects such as rocks or twigs. These wounds often require stitches and may take a long time to heal properly.
Fractures happen when bones break due to excessive force or trauma. They can be extremely painful and will usually require surgery to repair them correctly.
Riders should take extra caution when it comes to protecting their heads from injury. Since concussions are some of the most frequently reported head injuries among mountain bikers.
Make sure you always wear a helmet that meets safety standards for your type of ride (downhill versus cross-country).
You should also make sure that your bike is well maintained before each ride. Check brakes, tires, chain tension, etc., so that you don’t end up having an accident due to faulty equipment.
Lastly, don’t forget about hydration! Dehydration can lead to fatigue which increases the risk of falls and other accidents on the trail.
How to Choose the Best Shin Guards for You?
Choosing the right shin guards for your sport is an important decision. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, it is essential to find the perfect pair of shin guards.
That will not only protect your shins from potential injuries and bumps. But also fit comfortably and allow you to move around freely on the field.
With so many different brands, materials, colors, sizes, and styles available on the market. But selecting the best shin guards can be overwhelming.
Here is a quick guide to help you choose the best shin guards for your style of play.
Material:
Shin guards come in a variety of materials such as plastic, foam, polyurethane (PU), and composite.
Plastic shin guards are lightweight and durable and provide basic protection but are also stiffer than other types of material.
Foam shin guards offer great comfort but provide less protection than plastic models.
PU provides more protection than foam while still being lightweight and flexible.
Composite materials offer superior protection over other types of material. Due to their rigid design, they tend to be heavier. Which can make it hard to move around on the field.
Size:
Choosing the right size is important when it comes to finding a good fit for your shin guard.
Always measure from just above your ankle up to mid-shin before purchasing a pair of shin guards. This will ensure that you get one that fits properly without restricting movement.
Additionally, make sure that you select a model with adjustable straps. So that you can customize them for maximum comfort and support throughout your game.
Style:
When it comes to choosing the best style for you, there are two main options available:
- Slip-in style
- Or Ankle-length style.
Slip-in style, shin guards have no straps or fastenings. Instead they simply slide into place inside your socks or shoes. Letting them come off easily at halftime or when the match is over.
The ankle-length style, on the other hand, has straps that wrap around both legs to give more support during active play. But they can be uncomfortable if worn wrong or if they are too tight.
Padding & Color:
For added comfort during long games it is always recommended that you choose a model with built-in padding such as foam or gel. Inserts as these will reduce shock absorption caused by impact during playtime activities like running and kicking.
Additionally, when selecting color always opt for one that contrasts against your uniform. Color scheme in order to stand out clearly from other players on the field. This will help referees spot any infringement faster than if both teams were wearing similar colors!
Price:
Last but not least is price – always consider cost versus quality. When choosing which type of shin guard suits you best as some models may be cheaper in price.
But not provide adequate protection compared with others in their category range. So do some research online before making any purchase decisions!
How to Avoid Shin Injuries While Mountain Biking?
Mountain biking can be a thrilling outdoor experience, but it can also come with some risks.
One of the most common injuries among mountain bikers are shin injuries caused by rocks and other obstacles on the trail.
If you’re an avid mountain biker, knowing how to prevent shin injuries is essential for staying safe and enjoying your ride.
Let’s take a look at some tips for avoiding shin injuries while mountain biking.
Avoiding Rocks and Other Obstacles:
The best way to avoid shin injuries is to watch out for obstacles on the trails. You should always be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to any rocks, logs, or debris that might be in your path.
Knowing what’s ahead can help you adjust your speed and position. So that you don’t hit any objects that could cause injury.
Wearing the Proper Shoes:
Investing in proper footwear is key when it comes to avoiding shin injuries while mountain biking.
Make sure you have shoes that offer good ankle support and cushioning. As well as enough traction to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground when needed.
Good mountain bike shoes will help reduce the impact of hitting rocks or other objects on the trail. Which can help lessen the chances of a shin injury occurring.
Wearing Long Socks:
Another great way to protect your shins from rocks and other obstacles on the trails is to wear long socks.
Long socks provide additional protection from scrapes and cuts. If you do get too close to a rock or log on the trail, they are necessary to keep your shins from getting hurt.
Just make sure you choose breathable material so that your feet stay cool and comfortable throughout your ride!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, wearing shin guards while mountain biking can provide extra protection against bruising and scrapes.
As well as improved performance by reducing fatigue in the lower legs and improving balance during pedaling motions.
Not only that, but it will also give riders more confidence that they can handle hard obstacles without worrying about getting hurt.
Getting a good pair of shin guards could be just what you need to improve your performance on your next ride, whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out.
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