Holiday booked, excuse to start shopping.

[GuinnessMK]

I've just booked a holiday cottage in North Wales for the October half term.

We'll be based in Betws-y-coed, but looking to ride some mountainbike trails further west.

First order of business, where to ride. http://www.anturstiniog.com/DownhillTrails/Downhil... popped up in the first round of googling. Anyone been? Or are there any other good mountain bike tracks nearby?

Second order of business, shopping. I'm of a certain age where I'm more aware of my mortality / frailty that when I raced in lycra and a foam helmet, when I was 18 - 20. So I'm looking for something like a full face helmet, water proof trousers / jacket and some body armour. Any recommendations?

[Flood]

Stiniog is a fairly hairy downhill track, if you're happy with that then its good, i dont think revolution bike park is all that far away from there? There are a series of really good dh tracks, fun when its wet too.