Summer is in full swing and that means only one thing in Morzine – it’s time to get our bikes out and hit the trails! Whether you’re going lift-accessed crossed country, using your leg power to pedal or hitting the downhill tracks, we’ve got some must-have accessories to make your day in the saddle that little bit easier, safer and funner.
Troy Lee A1 Helmet MIPS
It looks good, feels comfortable and protects your brain – the Troy Lee A1 Helmet brings all the goods. Perfect for enduro missions or cruising the Portes du Soleil on a hot day, it’s super lightweight with lots of ventilation to keep your head cool, and includes a life-saving removable, anti-odour, washable lining. It also has an easily customisable fit that you can adjust to your head shape or chosen eyewear. But perhaps the best thing about the A1 helmet is that it comes with MIPS, a revolutionary low-friction layer within the helmet shell that slides in the opposite direction to your head on-impact, which helps to reduce the stress on your brain associated with concussion.
€179
Evoc FR Trail 20L
A pack that provides everything you need for a day on the trails, whether you’re on a long-distance pedal or going on a lift-accessed adventure. The standout feature of the Evoc FR Trail is that is has a built-in (and removable) back protector that’s comfortable and obviously won’t be a massive faff to take off if you get too hot. It’s also got a really handy helmet carry system, is hydration-bladder-compatible and has a designated tool compartment. The twenty-litre volume is the perfect size for storing extra layers, snacks and gear without feeling too bulky on your back, plus it also doubles as a daypack for hiking or ski touring if you’re looking for that all-important multi-use tag.
€190
Marsh Guard 275
A cheap, cheerful and effective solution to keeping mud and spray off your clothes, face and bike, Marsh Guards fit easily on all wheel sizes up to 27.5, and you can order them with or without cable ties if you’re really on a budget. The low-profile, no-frills design is pretty much weightless, easy to unclogg and super-simple to fit or replace – ‘nuff said.
€12 – €15
Dragon Vantage Sunglasses
The ultimate combination of sporty and stylish, the Dragon Vantage sunglasses will expertly see you all the way through a day on the trails to the evening BBQ afterwards. The big frames keep mud and dirt out of your eyes, and the Performance Polarised lenses are scratch-, water- and dirt- resistant, as well as anti-smear. The wrap-around design includes rubber nose-grips for extra security on tricky steeps and for multi-usage points, the Vantage model is included in Dragon’s H20 Floatable range, so they float, bonus! However, if you want something a little cheaper, there is also a non-floating and non-polarised option available.
€180
Topeak Mini 20 Pro
An award-winning mini multi-tool, the Topeak Mini 20 Pro is the ultimate trailside (or roadside) lifesaver. Ultra-light and small enough to fit in your pocket, this small but mighty tool can perform 23 functions (and includes an all-important bottle opener), and features an easy-to-use, simple folding design that means so you can’t lose any parts. Your best pal for on-the-fly repairs, whether you’re on a fast and light enduro mission or spending a day on the singletracks.
€39
