suggested kit list

We've found that many of our guests have been unsure about what to bring so have got together this list for you! If there's anything you're worried about or need help with just give us a call on 020 8123 5654.

Bike Let us know if you need to hire one and we can help you out. You can ride our routes on a rigid single speed if you really want to, but you'd be better off with something with a bit of cushioning. Bikes that call themselves "all mountain" are probably best. It's up to you. Disc brakes are advisable as you'll be doing a lot more descending. If you're not sure you're bike is up to it, check out our range of Santa Cruz bikes available for hire in Morzine.

Helmet Pretty obvious really! 

Protective eye wear Clear lenses are useful as lots of routes go in and out of the forests. Glasses keep dust and mud out of your eyes so can help you see what you're going over more clearly and save any nasty fly/stone in eye incidents!

Knee/shin and elbow protection Many people coming to the Alps like to wear some armour. This can be bought in the UK or hired or bought out here. You may find it helps your confidence and saves you from scrapes and bruises, or worse!This is worth considering on all our Alpine trips and Morocco.

Rucksack To carry food, money, spares, extra clothing, water etc. If you have a camelback or other hydration system, or can get hold of one, bring it as you'll need to drink a lot.

Sunscreen High factor is advisable as the sun can be very strong.

Biking clothing Now this is where people seem to have most trouble deciding what to bring!

• Shorts: we advise at least 2 pairs as they will get dirty! On our Morocco trip baggy clothing will be appreciated by the locals.
  
• Gloves: if you have a spare pair bring them as they will be invaluable if you get wet or have a muddy fall!
• Waterproofs: it does rain in the mountains quite a bit so definitely a jacket, and many people have been glad of having waterproof trousers and socks! We never go out on a ride without a jacket in our packs as the weather can change very quickly
• T-shirts to ride in: again at least 2 is a good idea!
• Warm clothing: the mountains are high and can be very cold high up. Bring a long sleeved base layer and a thin fleece as well as your nice summer gear, just in case there's a cold day or 2!
• Shoes
• And plenty of pairs of socks

Spare inner tubes, tyre levers and pump Again, tubes can be bought here, but its worth carrying at least 2 with you.

Bike specific spares (brake pads, rear mech hangers etc) You can get spares on all Alpine trips, but you should at least carry brake pads as they wear out much faster when you're descending more! It is advisable to also have spare spokes and rear mech hangers to save hunting for the right ones. And bring anything else you have as the mountains can be hard on your bike! For our Morocco trip there are no well stocked bike shops to fall back on so spares are far more important.

Trail tools Whatever you normally carry!

First aid kit

Also don't forget some non-bike clothes for the evening and a swimsuit if you're planning on any watersports or using the pool. Theres a swimming pool in Morzine and sauna/Jacuzzi in town and you can swim in the lake.