What I Wear Riding in Spring (When the Weather Can’t Make Its Mind Up)

Spring riding is one of my favourite times of year… but also one of the hardest to dress for.

You head out thinking it’s warm, then you’re freezing five minutes in. Or you layer up and end up overheating halfway through the first climb.

If you ride in the UK, you’ll know exactly what I mean.

Over time, I’ve figured out a spring MTB outfit that works for me — something that keeps me comfortable through those in-between conditions without overthinking it too much.

Start With a Good Women’s MTB Jersey

For me, everything starts with a women’s mountain bike jersey.

In spring, I usually go for a lightweight long sleeve. It gives just enough coverage for cooler mornings but still feels breathable once you warm up.

A good MTB jersey for women should:

• wick sweat away on climbs

• dry quickly if you get caught in a shower

• feel light and comfortable all ride.

It’s the one piece you’ll wear on every ride, so it’s worth getting right.

Layers You Can Actually Ride In

Spring is all about MTB layering.

I always take a lightweight outer layer — something I can throw on at the start or if the weather turns.

The key is making sure it’s something you can actually ride in, not just something you stop and put on.

For UK riding, I usually think:

• light layer for the chill

• breathable enough for climbs

• easy to stash if I don’t need it.

Shorts or Trousers?

This one always depends on the day.

If it’s dry, I’ll usually go for women’s MTB shorts. But if the trails are still holding onto winter (which they usually are), I’ll reach for women’s MTB trousers instead.

Trousers are great for:

• muddy trails

• wet conditions

• cooler mornings.

Shorts are perfect when it starts to feel a bit more like summer again.

Don’t Forget the Small Bits

It’s usually the smaller things that make the biggest difference on a spring ride.

I’ll often add:

• gloves (especially on colder mornings)

• slightly thicker socks

• a cap or buff if it’s windy.

Nothing complicated, just small additions that make you more comfortable.

Expect to Get It Slightly Wrong

The reality with spring mountain biking in the UK is that you won’t always get it right.

Some rides you’ll be too warm, others you’ll wish you brought another layer.

But once you find a simple go-to women’s MTB outfit, it takes the stress out of getting ready.

The Main Thing

For me, the most important thing is feeling comfortable and ready to ride.

If your kit fits well and works with you, you stop thinking about what you’re wearing and just enjoy being out on the trails.

And after a long winter, that first proper spring ride feeling is hard to beat.