The New Power Kits: Ride It When it comes to upgrading your spring gear, a few changes can go a long way. Here, we've collected 18 pieces of tech and apparel that will get you to the top of your game—whether it's hiking, paddling, or mountain biking. Text by Steve Casimiro Photograph by Todd Williams
1. Tech Top The body-hugging Pearl Izumi Vertex jersey($90; www.pearlizumi.com) wicks like crazy, has a handy three-quarter zipper, and naturally repels bacteria from its coconut-derived fabric.
2. Ped Power The wide aluminum-composite body of the Crank Brothers Acid 1 platform pedal($120; www.crankbrothers.com) makes it easier for newbies to go clipless and pleases seasoned riders with its nice big base.
3. Savvy Sipper The women's Deuter Race X Air 1 SL hydration pack($99; www.deuterusa.com) uses a mesh suspension to create comfortable air space between back and pack, yet is still stable in rugged terrain.
4. Fly Wheels The 25.1-pound (11-kilogram) Scott Spark 30 bike($3,570; www.scottusa.com) delivers the same four and a half inches of suspension travel as Scott's 21.5-pound (10-kilogram) prize—for half the price.
5. Seat Cover Loose but not baggy, padded but not diaperish, the DNA Newton MTB Short($120; www.descenteathletic.com) is the best all-around short.
6. Foot Armor The world's first heat-molded, personalized mountain bike shoe, the Shimano SH-M300 ($350; www.shimano.com) is also one of the stiffest where it counts, thanks to its rigid carbon fiber sole plate.
