What Do You Eat When Out On The Trails?
What Do You Pack to Eat for Mountain Biking?
If you're anything like us, you'll need to frequently eat when riding a mountain bike. Bring along at least two different types of snacks, preferably more if the trip is long or extends into a meal. The options for refueling during a ride are virtually endless, but in this post, we've compiled a list of some of our favorite trail foods to keep you satisfied and fueled. The truth is that the field of nutrition research is ever-evolving. It's also crucial to keep in mind that the majority of nutrition research is done to improve top-level performance, not necessarily your after-work ride with friends to unwind or your weekend ride to explore new trails.
What Constitutes a Quality Mountain Bike Snack?
Snacks are not all made equal. When selecting your trail snacks, keep the following factors in mind:
Simple to Eat
For the majority of us, the finest trail snacks are simple and convenient. Keep it simple, and remember the less you have in your pack the better.
Lightweight
Although delicious and reviving, fresh fruit is weighty because of its high water content. Although I personally don't mind a few more ounces of weight, if you're planning a lengthy backcountry ride, weight (and space) may be an issue. The dehydrated alternative is preferable in the situation.
Healthy Eating
Mountain cyclists require a healthy intake of salt, protein, and carbohydrates in their snacks. Since carbohydrates are what your body needs to function, they are by far the most crucial component. Nobody likes to bonk if their blood sugar levels drop. Carbs are not bad; in fact, they are necessary. Although a small amount of protein is beneficial for muscle function, it truly shines after a ride when your muscles require it for growth and repair. Last but not least, salty snacks can aid stop cramps and electrolyte loss. This is especially true if you sweat a lot, like I do. If you wish to carry trail mix, make sure the nuts are salted. Most packaged energy bars will have some sodium in them.
Surviving The Shaken Pack
We all have a tragic banana story, I'm sure. Bananas make poor trail food. Choose foods that won't turn into a dark, oozing mess and can handle a little abuse and jostling in your pack. No one likes squashed snacks from the depths of your pack.
Minimal Packaging and Waste
Choose mountain bike snacks with minimal additional or untidy packaging for simplicity and convenience. Though I have to pack out the open, oily can of tuna, I really like the concept of those tuna kit snacks that include crackers and olives. It is preferable to choose simplicity.
Pack away your trash before you leave! If you bike it in, you better bike it out! Please and thank you!
Food is incredibly personal, but these are some of our favorite go-to travel snacks:
- Sandwiches
- Energy Bars
- Trail Mix
- Dried Fruit
- Jerky or Meat Bars
- Gels & Chews
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